Metaphysical Musings

Whether it is his image in statuary, oil, incense, books … if it bears the name “St. Michael” then it is certain to be a best-selling item at Talisman.  Michael is generally shown with a sword, but is also depicted as holding the scales of justice or bearing a blue flame of protection.  But exactly who is Saint Michael the Archangel - and why does he have such universal spiritual appeal?

It is traditionally believed that angels were created by God on the second day of Creation (Psalm 104).  Angels are awesome and powerful beings – because they are aware of this, the first words an angel says to a human in the Bible are “Do not be afraid.”  Angels are perfect spiritual beings whose purpose is to minister, help, protect, and sustain everything created by the Divine in the Universe.  Everything – even a humble rock, or cooling breeze – has an angelic intelligence behind it to ensure that the Will of the Divine be done.  

People have always argued about the existence of angels, yet there is a large amount of information concerning angels in the ancient religious texts of most traditions.  Archangels are the best known of all the angels – and of these, Michael has always been considered the most important.  He is mentioned by name in the religious texts of Judaism, Islam and the Christian bible.  He is known as Indra in the Indian Rig Veda, Vahman in the Persian Denkard, Marduk in the Babylonian Epic of Creation, and associated with the ancient Egyptian god Anubis, who was the “weigher of souls”. 

In the Jewish tradition, Michael is seen as the keeper of the keys of heaven and the protector of Israel.  In the Islamic tradition, Mika’il (Michael) is in control of the forces of nature and has an army of angels to assist him.  According to the Gnostics, Michael was present at the creation of the universe.  In the Dead Sea Scrolls he is referred to as the Prince of Light, the warrior against darkness.  He is generally seen as the heavenly warrior who tirelessly fights the forces of evil.  

Michael gained popularity in the fourth century, and his appearance at Monte Galgano in 492 c.a. did much to help his reputation.  From the fourth century onward, he became the angel to pray to in times of crisis, especially at the moment of death.  In the fifth century, the Romans created a holiday for Michael – to this day, the Feast of Michaelmas is celebrated on September 29 each year.  During the Middle Ages, that feast became extremely important as Michael was the patron saint of knights.  Michaelmas also marked the start of autumn and the time to let go of anything no longer serving a purpose in your life (relationships, behavioral patterns, bad habits/addictions and negative thoughts).  Joan of Arc (c.1412-1431) began hearing, and eventually seeing, Saint Michael at the age of thirteen.  He constantly encouraged her, and even suggested what flag she should use when leading her troops.  At her trial, she told her judges that Michael had walked on the ground, but they did not believe her.  In 1950, Pope Pius XII proclaimed Michael to be the patron of policemen – an appropriate tribute to the archangel reported to have led the angels of light in a battle against the angels of darkness. 

It is interesting to note that while angels are viewed by many as highly Christianized; Michael the Archangel plays an important role in the spirituality of many modern pagans and new-ageists.  Those who follow the Strega path (Italian witchcraft) call upon the four archangels to watch over and protect their sacred space or circle.  As someone who celebrates Universal Spirituality as a Wiccan, I find it heartening when individuals celebrate (rather than abandon or scorn) aspects of the religion of their upbringing – even as they spiritually evolve and incorporate other Faiths or traditions into their own highly personal version of “worship”.   A formal means to communicate with the archangels is to light a candle.  An unlit candle represents the element Earth, but when it is lit it symbolizes all four elements:  Flame (fire – Michael); Air (smoke – Raphael); Water (melting wax – Gabriel); and Earth (candle – Uriel).  Gold is traditionally linked to Michael, so you might wish to burn a gold candle in his honor.   Rutilated quartz is a wonderful stone to use in angelic meditations (it is sometimes known as “angel hair” stone because the silver and gold inclusions inside the clear quartz look like trapped hair).  Gaze deeply into the stone and follow the strands within – you will clear your mind and center very quickly.  

It always saddens me to sit in a reading and have someone tell me they believe they have done such awful things that they are beyond redemption and undeserving of love – by either God or Mankind.   Even more distressing is the fact that I’ve heard this more than once or twice – addicts are particularly prone to this mindset.   Unscrupulous “psychics” will often take advantage of folks such as these, telling them they are “cursed” and offer to pray and work magick to lift it for them (often for a hefty fee).  But anyone can confidently call on St. Michael for help and strength. 

Perhaps that is why angels are so special – they allow us to remember the innocence and prayers of our childhood.   And Archangel Michael has been forever known for imparting courage, strength, truth, integrity and protection to those who call on him for assistance.

Wishing you all a blessed and joyful Michaelmas! 

Laura Lenhard

As noted in an earlier blog, I want to use conversations or experiences from Talisman (my new-age shop in Monroe) as blog topics in this forum.  And thus, the subject of Kundalini energy - exactly what it is, how to raise it, and why one might wish to make the effort in the first place – all of which were discussed at the shop this past weekend.  

Kundalini is a psycho-spiritual energy, which is thought to reside within the sleeping body, and is aroused either through spiritual discipline or spontaneously to bring new states of consciousness, including mystical illumination.  Kundalini is Sanskrit for “snake” or “serpent power,” so-called because it is believed to lie like a serpent in the root chakrah at the base of the spine.  The power of kundalini is said to be enormous. Those having experienced it claim it to be indescribable. The phenomena associated with it varies from bizarre physical sensations and movements, pain, clairaudience, visions, brilliant lights, superlucidity, psychical powers, ecstasy, bliss, and transcendence of self.  Kundalini has been described as liquid fire and liquid light.

Indian yoga, with its emphasis on the transmutation of energy to higher consciousness, was the chief contributor to the cultivation of kundalini and the preservation of its knowledge prior to present times. Kundalini was a rarity in the West before the 1970s until more attention became centered upon the consciousness. In 1932, for example, psychiatrist Carl G. Jung and others observed that the kundalini experience was seldom seen in the West.

However, an examination of mystical literature and traditions showed that kundalini, called by various names, seems to have been a universal phenomenon in esoteric teachings for perhaps three thousand years. Kundalini-type descriptions or experiences are found in esoteric teachings of the Egyptians, Tibetans, Chinese, some Native Americans, and the !Kung bushmen of Africa. Kundalini has been interpreted from the Bible as “the solar principle in man,” and is referenced in the Koran, the works of Plato and other Greek philosophers, alchemical tracts (the philosopher’s stone), and in Hermetic, Kabbalistic, Rosicrucian, and Masonic writings.

There has been an awakening of kundalini knowledge among the Western populations since the 1970s because of two major reasons: more people who are trained in the spiritual disciplines are likely to release the energy, and the increased number of people that are aware of kundalini are more likely to recognize its symptoms or benefits.

Not all kundalini experiences are identical to those classical awakenings experienced in yoga, but may vary in intensity and duration. Typically an individual would meditate to arouse the kundalini and then to raise it through his or her body. (It should be remembered though, not all types of yoga are devoted to the arousal of kundalini.) First, there is a feeling of  heat at the base of the spine, which may be intensely hot or pleasantly warm. The energy then travels up a psychic pathway parallel to the spinal column.  As it rises the kundalini activates the chakras in succession. The body becomes cold and corpse-like as the kundalini leaves the lower portions and begins to rise. The yogi is likely to shudder, tremble, or rock violently, feel extreme heat and cold, hear strange but not unpleasant sounds, and see various kinds of lights including an inner light. The length of the kundalini may be fleeting or last several minutes. The objective is to raise the kundalini to the crown chakra, where it brings illumination.  One would then attempt to lower the energy to another chakra, but not below the heart chakra because descent to lower chakras is thought to produce ego inflation, rampant sexual desire, and a host of other ills.  Ideally, by repeatedly raising the kundalini to the crown, the energy will permanently stay there.

It is said that kundalini opens new pathways in the nervous system; the pain associated with this apparently is due to the nervous system’s inability to immediately cope with the energy. Yogis assert that the body must be properly attuned for kundalini through yoga, and that a premature or explosive awakening can cause insanity or death.  In the final awakening of the kundalini, it has to move gradually through each chakra, and it has to remain awakened until the union happens at the crown chakra.  However, this cannot (or should not) be achieved until attachment to material things, excessive selfishness, tendency towards passion, ambition and assertiveness, as well as attachment to ego leaves the individual.

This is why all yogis and adepts advocate a long and patient preparatory stage to purify oneself so that the movement upward can be smooth and uneventful. Ultimately, although kundalini can appear to be a wholly physical phenomenon, its progress depends on one’s mastery over one’s emotions, desires and thoughts.  Writes Swami Rama of the Himalayan Institute in an article in the book, Kundalini: Evolution and Enlightenment: “To genuinely awaken kundalini, one must prepare oneself.  Without long and patient practice in purifying oneself and strengthening one’s capacity to tolerate and assimilate such a flood of energy, the awakening of this latent power would deeply disturb, disorient and confuse the student.”

Now, moving back to conversations at the shop:  There was some discrepancy in terms of the process and length of time needed to achieve illumination.  Through the use of chakra-healing meditations, it is generally a two-year process.  However, someone trained in energy manipulation (hopefully working toward the highest good) can almost instantly cause the kundalini to rise.  Because of risks involved in premature or sudden kundalini awakenings, having a guru or teacher to work with you through the process is almost unanimously viewed as being of highest importance.  Once initiated, the process cannot be halted or reversed.  One of Talisman’s readers described to me the first time her kundalini rose – and she experienced a petit mal seizure, and wound up hospitalized!  In other words, this isn’t an experience one would forget or attribute to anything minor – it is a stellar event with long lasting ramifications.

Kundalini is fairly infamous because of yet another way in which it can be raised:  Tantric sexual practices.   Here, copulation takes place up to the point of orgasm – at which time, you cease and immediately move into meditation - channeling the unreleased orgasmic energy through the chakras and clearing the way for the kundalini to rise.   Apparently, this is viewed by many gurus as a less enlightened pathway.  There are also more risks involved because the chakras and nervous system may not be sufficiently prepared for the energy burst.  

Last, there is the question of WHY would one wish to raise their Kundalini?  Well, plainly spoken – for the potential connection to the Universal consciousness and amplified intuitional knowledge.  It is believed that you may become more empathic and sometimes telepathic.  You may also develop a higher IQ, greater sensitivity, occasional psychic abilities, slower aging, superhuman strength, creativity, alpha sexual attraction, charisma, leadership, luck, sense of calm, increased wisdom, and experience of spirituality.  It’s not a bad exchange for regular meditation!

Myself, I have not experienced this state of being.  While I meditate regularly and do my best to ascribe to a fairly spiritual and naturopathic  lifestyle, I am content in the belief that  if or when I am meant for this – then the process will be facilitated.  For anyone  interested in learning more, I would advise cleansing lifestyle changes including diet modifications, time allowances for regular/deliberate meditation, adopting a study of Reiki or other energy-based healing modality – and remember the wise words “When the student is ready, the teacher will appear.”

Fools rush in … !

Gently yours, Laura

Have you ever had that awful feeling in the pit of your stomach that something was about to go terribly wrong?  It reminds me of the feeling I’ve gotten after being strapped into the seat of one of those insane roller coasters.  The feeling of dread begins as it ascends to the top – click, click, click – and with each “click” you realize you are in no way prepared for what is about to occur.  You eventually reach the top and then are summarily dropped, plummeting to the bottom – you’re spun, turned and flipped upside-down … finally returned to the station, completed wrung out and shaking … but still alive.  Barely.

That’s what I’m talking about.

That feeling has been dogging me for some time now.   Apparently with due cause this month – the planetary lineup in September is abysmal for us Pisceans.   My dearest friend Kim alerted me (in typically understated Scorpio manner) by asking if I had ever checked out astrologer Susan Miller’s predictions on her site www.astrologyzone.com – and if not, perhaps I might want to.

So I did.  Oy vey!

Before I open this particularly nasty can of worms, allow me to make note of the fact that the three astrological signs most easily “recognized” by the general public are Leo, Scorpio, and Pisces.  Leos are, in my opinion, a breeze … just look for the guy or gal in charge.  Usually a first born, often a Leo (or vice versa).  Very nearly always a CEO or President, but even if he is a janitor, you can bet Mr. Leo is Head Janitor.  Not just a carpenter – but a Master Carpenter.   You get my drift.  They may be a sucker for a compliment, but please don’t take advantage of the Leos in your life.  They have hearts of gold, and only ask for a little attention in return.  Oh, and can you answer that phone for me?  And hand me the remote?  And maybe fix me a sandwich while you are up – if it’s not too much trouble, of course.  

Did I say a little attention?  I meant the sort of slavish attention that would embarrass anyone else – but not a Leo.  But then why, when they are King or Queen of the jungle, should admiration or attention prove embarrassing?  How silly of you.  Good thing you’re not in charge, huh? 

Most Scorpios keep their sun sign under wraps, but this is no surprise as they like to move amongst the rest of us mortals incognito.   Plus they get pretty sick and tired of all the fuss made about their presumed sexuality – whose business is it of yours, anyway?  Just because this sign rules the genitals is no reason for anyone to get their panties all in a bunch.  But you might want to rethink any off-colored joke or offensive remark made in their general direction.  The Scorpio proclivity toward revenge is legendary … and deserved.  But then, you DID have it coming – and you were in fact warned.  Or did you mistake that half smile and those flashing eyes for a friendly overture?  

In that case, perhaps you are stupid.  At any rate, you won’t remain in a Scorpio’s company for long.  They’ll suffer anything – except a fool.  Or a liar.  Or a cheat.  But then, you’d have to be a fool to try and cheat or lie to a Scorpio, huh?  Buh-bye.

On to Pisces, the last of the twelve zodiac signs.  If, as some believe, an individual incarnates through each of the twelve signs in his/her many lifetimes – then by the time you reach Pisces you have seen and done it all.   And the rest of the populace seems to instinctively know this … and comes running with their problems, worries, vices and addictions – to dump them square in the lap of the hapless (but not helpless) Pisces.   Pisceans combine a generous nature with a warm heart and goofy sense of humor – a mix guaranteed to take the edge off the misery of most.  By all accounts, Jesus was a Pisces – his life’s story fits the bill, plus March DOES mark the lambing season. You do realize that’s why all those shepherds were around, right?    

But I bet HE is glad he died some 2,000 years ago.  Because September 2009 promises to be a lousy time for us fish folk – luckily, one whose planetary lineup won’t repeat until 2036.

Astrologer Susan Miller notes (in summary):

By midmonth, Pisces will get into the most challenging time of the month, extending from September 15 to 23.   On September 15 Saturn in Virgo will oppose Uranus in Pisces at 24 degrees. Pisces who were born on March 15 plus or minus four days will feel this day the most. Saturn is the planet that represents tradition, and Uranus is the planet of innovation and sudden change. Old and new will clash in a powerful way, and it will be up to you to decide what needs to stay and what needs to go.  The wind gusts of the coming cosmic storms will pick up speed on one of the most dramatic and difficult days of the month – possibly of the year – on September 17. Uranus in Pisces will oppose the Sun, and Saturn will conjunct the Sun. These are nerve wrecking, draining aspects and you must do all you can to protect your health. Life events may wear you down, and should you feel overwhelmed, call a friend or a therapist, and do all you can to get more rest.  I don’t remember ever seeing such powerful aspects happening on the very same day. These testing aspects will create a strong desire to separate from a personal or business partner or from a situation, if you feel it has been difficult for a long time and you have lost all hope it will improve. You won’t have any more patience with people who don’t appreciate you, don’t support you, or don’t understand you.

One day after this very troublesome day comes September 18, but rather than provide a soothing sense of calm, Uranus and Saturn will come gunning for the new moon. Your seventh house of partners will be full with planets – Mercury, Saturn, the new moon, and the Sun – and on the other side of the sky Uranus will be staring at each planet. Some sort of situation seems to be reaching a breaking point.  The level of dramatic cosmic energy this month in Virgo and Pisces will be highly unusual, and anything that is not firmly fastened will come flying off the walls of your life. Because Uranus is involved, you may be surprised at what weak link is revealed.

It must be obvious to you by now that you won’t know what part of your life to attend to first. If you can keep your schedule fairly open and elastic, it will be easier for you to attend to all you need to do! On top of all this planetary action, on September 18 or 19, depending on your time zone, transiting Mars will oppose the exact degrees of the July 7 eclipse. This indicates that a friend may suddenly jump to your aid and help you in a very significant way – or become a problem. Again, the situation will present itself in the extreme, for Pluto will be in hard angle to Mercury.

The barrage of angry planetary energy will continue on to only one more day, September 23, when Mercury will oppose Uranus. This too is a very difficult aspect that usually makes one feel as though one’s nerves have been zapped by a sudden, quick little bolt of electricity.  Keep an eye on your home situation and your parents near September 23. Mercury rules your domestic condition, so you may hear unexpected news concerning your residence, other property, or your parents near September 23.  Alternatively, you may find that an unhappy, pressure-filled relationship becomes just too much and suddenly decide to part. With Mercury in retrograde, make sure you are not making a decision based on faulty information or a simple miscommunication. As unlikely as this seems, there is that possibility, so be careful, and resist being impulsive. This month, your only danger is being a bit too hasty.

By time you get to September 24, all the cosmic storms will have passed. I promise nothing like this will come again, not ever. The outcome will be quite positive for you, and you must trust in this. By the time this month is over, you will know what is valuable and what is not. All the weak links in your life will be exposed and either swept away or rooted out by you.

… And there you are, my fellow Pisceans.  You’ve been returned to the station, completed wrung out and shaking … but still alive.  But just in case, I plan on spending my time between now and September 17 looking for a nice safe cave to hide in!

The rest of you – do check out your horoscope at Susan Miller’s site.  I’ve done a quick review and unless you are a Pisces, you’re safe!  But hey, she DID say the outcome would be positive, didn’t she?  Well then, in the words of another dear friend, Jamie (a Capricorn) I say to the Cosmos – “Bring it!”

Onward and Upward!  Laura