It looks like you're using an Ad Blocker.
Please white-list or disable AboveTopSecret.com in your ad-blocking tool.
Thank you.
Some features of ATS will be disabled while you continue to use an ad-blocker.
originally posted by: Aphorism
a reply to: BlueMule
It's an old story.
The metaphorical use of mythology knows no bounds. But it's more a Michael Bay instead of a Kubrick.
Why are you asking me??? Would you believe me?
Why ask me when you can look yourself and know for sure and then you will not have to believe or disbelieve again!!
Some of the data of mystics may not be verifiable for those who doubt them until the experiences they have shared are experienced by the doubters.
originally posted by: Aphorism
a reply to: BlueMule
The literal use chains you to the dominant myth of your culture. The metaphorical use frees you to chose how you want to use it, if at all.
I agree with you. But like you said, it is an old tale. We need a new one.
originally posted by: Aphorism
a reply to: BlueMule
Like I've said earlier, it is all lore. I do not disagree with you on this point. Whether it is a valid source of knowledge is up to the reader. The roots, however, is human creativity. Myself, I avoid any mythology that treats the world and the body as the enemy.
originally posted by: Aphorism
a reply to: Itisnowagain
Why are you asking me??? Would you believe me?
Why ask me when you can look yourself and know for sure and then you will not have to believe or disbelieve again!!
I should look at what is presently arising? I always do. But I'd also like to enjoy my other faculties as well.
originally posted by: Aphorism
a reply to: BlueMule
But then, why aren't you advocating any mythology that treats the world and the body as a friend and teacher?
Do you know of any? I wouldn't mind reading it.
This calamity, in Wolfram's meaning, was symbolic of the dissociation within Christendom of spirit from nature; the denial of nature as corrupt, the imposition of what was supposed to be an authority supernaturally endowed, and the actual demolishment of both nature and truth in consequence. The healing of the maimed king, therefore, could be accomplished only by an uncorrupted youth naturally endowed, who would merit the supreme crown through his own authentic life work and experience, motivated by a spirit of unflinching noble love, enduring loyalty, and spontaneous compassion. Such a one was Parzival.
Out of brahmanism and the Vedas came the caste system and the laws of Manu.
I've thouroughly enjoyed this. It led me to youtube for further research and I came upon Alan Watts, a foremost western authority on this subject matter.
originally posted by: Aphorism
a reply to: scratchmane
Focusing on a set of words is a form of superstition. I know who I am by virtue of the fact that I am he.
I've been pondering what you mean by his for the last couple of days, and I must say I am unable to understand what you mean when you say it is a form of superstition. I would appreciate if you could clarify this for me.
If you have a pile of wood, and want to make fire, you can use a flintstone to make the fire. The flintstone is not the fire, but a tool to make fire. In the same way, focusing on "I Am" is a tool.
You say that you know who you are by the virtue of the fact "that I am he" Why do you so say 'he'? Is it the same as saying "I am him"?
originally posted by: Aphorism
Why then do the mystics even bother coming out of their caves?
Why do YOU bother coming here?
I guess there's some skeptic board somewhere.. oh yeah, it's not even skepticism, just prejudice and assumptions. Some "mystic" stole your girlfriend? Where does this hatred come from?
Oh yeah.. you can explain how to world looks to a blind man, but he still doesn't know. That's the difference between experience and interpretation.