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[[Image:Sapta Chakra, 1899.jpg|220px|thumb|right|''The subtle body in Indian mysticism, from a Yoga manuscript in Braj Bhasa language, 1899, now in the British Library.'']]
[[Image:Sapta Chakra, 1899.jpg|220px|thumb|right|''The subtle body in Indian mysticism, from a Yoga manuscript in Braj Bhasa language, 1899, now in the British Library.'']]


According to various [[esotericism|esoteric]], [[occultism|occult]], and [[mysticism|mystical]] teachings, a '''subtle body''' is one of a series of psycho-spiritual constituents of living beings. Each subtle body corresponds to a subtle [[plane of existence]], in a [[hierarchy]] or [[great chain of being]] that culminates in the physical form.
A '''subtle body''' is one of a series of psycho-spiritual constituents of living beings, according to various [[esotericism|esoteric]], [[occultism|occult]], and [[mysticism|mystical]] teachings. Each subtle body corresponds to a subtle [[plane of existence]], in a [[hierarchy]] or [[great chain of being]] that culminates in the physical form.


It is known in different spiritual traditions; "the most sacred body" (''wujud al-aqdas'') and "supracelestial body" (''jism asli haqiqi'') in [[Sufism]], "the diamond body" in [[Taoism]] and [[Vajrayana]], "the light body" or "rainbow body" in [[Tibetan Buddhism]], "the body of bliss" in [[Kriya Yoga]], and "the immortal body" (''soma athanaton'') in [[Hermeticism]].<ref>Enlightenment and the Body of Light by John White.</ref> The various attributes of the subtle body are frequently described in terms of often obscure [[symbol]]ism: Tantra features references to the sun and moon as well as various Indian rivers and deities, while Taoist alchemy speaks of [[dantian|cauldrons]] and cinnabar fields.
It is known in different spiritual traditions; "the most sacred body" (''wujud al-aqdas'') and "supracelestial body" (''jism asli haqiqi'') in [[Sufism]], "the diamond body" in [[Taoism]] and [[Vajrayana]], "the light body" or "rainbow body" in [[Tibetan Buddhism]], "the body of bliss" in [[Kriya Yoga]], and "the immortal body" (''soma athanaton'') in [[Hermeticism]].<ref>White.</ref> The various attributes of the subtle body are frequently described in terms of often obscure [[symbol]]ism: Tantra features references to the sun and moon as well as various Indian rivers and deities, while Taoist alchemy speaks of [[dantian|cauldrons]] and cinnabar fields.


[[Clairvoyance|Clairvoyants]] sometimes say that they can see the subtle bodies as an [[Aura (paranormal)|aura]]. The practice of [[astral projection]], as described in various literature, is supposed to involve the separation of the subtle body from the physical. The theosophical movement was important in spreading such ideas throughout the West in the late 19th century.
[[Clairvoyance|Clairvoyants]] sometimes say that they can see the subtle bodies as an
[[Aura (paranormal)|aura]]. The practice of [[astral projection]], as described in various literature, is supposed to involve the separation of the subtle body from the physical. The theosophical movement was important in spreading such ideas throughout the West in the late 19th century. The existence of subtle bodies is unconfirmed by the mainstream [[scientific community]].{{Citation needed|date=November 2011}}


== Eastern Esotericism ==
== Eastern Esotericism ==
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* [[Kundalini]]
* [[Kundalini]]


The subtle body ('''''Sukshma sarira''''' or ''Sukshma sharira'') in [[Vedanta|Vedantic philosophy]] is composed of five [[Kosas]] or "sheaths". The subtle body is the vehicle of consciousness with which one passes from [[reincarnation|life to life]]. The '''{{IAST|Liṅga Śarīra}}''' is the vehicle of consciousness in later Samkhya, [[Vedanta]], and [[Yoga]], and is propelled by past-life tendencies, or ''[[bhava]]s''.<ref>Larson, Gerald. ''Classical Samkhya'' p.242</ref> Linga can be translated as "characteristic mark" or "impermanence" and the term Sarira as "form" or "mold".<ref>Purucker, Gottfried. ''The Occult Glossary''</ref> ''Karana'' or "instrument" is a synonymous term. In the Classical Samkhya system of [[Isvarakrsna]] (ca. 4th century CE), the ''Lińga'' is the characteristic mark of the transmigrating entity. It consists of twenty-five [[tattva]]s from eternal consciousness down to the five organs of sense, five of activity (''buddindriya'' or ''jñānendriya'', and ''karmendriya'' respectively) and the five subtle elements that are the objects of sense (''tanmatras'') The ''Samkhyakarika'' says:
The subtle body ('''''Sukshma sarira''''' or ''Sukshma sharira'') in [[Vedanta|Vedantic philosophy]] is composed of five [[Kosas]] or "sheaths". The subtle body is the vehicle of consciousness with which one passes from [[reincarnation|life to life]]. The '''{{IAST|Liṅga Śarīra}}''' is the vehicle of consciousness in later Samkhya, [[Vedanta]], and [[Yoga]] , and is propelled by past-life tendencies, or ''[[bhava]]s''.<ref>Larson, Gerald. ''Classical Samkhya'' p.242</ref> Linga can be translated as "characteristic mark" or "impermanence" and the term Sarira as "form" or "mold".<ref>Purucker, Gottfried. ''The Occult Glossary''</ref> ''Karana'' or "instrument" is a synonymous term. In the Classical Samkhya system of [[Isvarakrsna]] (ca. 4th century CE), the ''Lińga'' is the characteristic mark of the transmigrating entity. It consists of twenty-five [[tattva]]s from eternal consciousness down to the five organs of sense, five of activity (''buddindriya'' or ''jñānendriya'', and ''karmendriya'' respectively) and the five subtle elements that are the objects of sense (''tanmatras'') The ''Samkhyakarika'' says:


: ''"The subtle body (''linga''), previously arisen, unconfined, constant, inclusive of the great one (''mahat'') etc , through the subtle elements, not having enjoyment, transmigrates, (because of) being endowed with ''bhavas'' ("conditions" or "dispositions")
: ''"The subtle body (''linga''), previously arisen, unconfined, constant, inclusive of the great one (''mahat'') etc , through the subtle elements, not having enjoyment, transmigrates, (because of) being endowed with ''bhavas'' ("conditions" or "dispositions")
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===Meher Baba's teachings===
===Meher Baba's teachings===
The spiritual teacher [[Meher Baba]] stated that the subtle body "is the vehicle of desires and vital forces,"<ref>[[Meher Baba|Baba, Meher]] (1967). ''Discourses''. '''2'''. San Francisco: Sufism Reoriented. p. 145. ISBN 978-1-880619-09-4.</ref> He held that the subtle body is one of three bodies with which the soul must cease to identify in order to realize God: "At the end of the Path, however, the soul frees itself from all sanskaras and desires connected with the gross, subtle and mental worlds; and it becomes possible for it to free itself from the illusion of being finite, which came into existence owing to its identification with the gross, subtle and mental bodies. At this stage the soul completely transcends the phenomenal world and becomes Self-conscious and Self-realised."<ref>[[Meher Baba|Baba, Meher]] (1967). ''Discourses''. '''2'''. San Francisco: Sufism Reoriented. p. 144. ISBN 978-1-880619-09-4.</ref>
The spiritual teacher [[Meher Baba]] stated that the subtle body "is the vehicle of desires and vital forces,"<ref>[[Meher Baba|Baba, Meher]] (1967). ''Discourses''. '''2'''. San Francisco: Sufism Reoriented. p. 145. ISBN 978-1880619094.</ref> He held that the subtle body is one of three bodies with which the soul must cease to identify in order to realize God: "At the end of the Path, however, the soul frees itself from all sanskaras and desires connected with the gross, subtle and mental worlds; and it becomes possible for it to free itself from the illusion of being finite, which came into existence owing to its identification with the gross, subtle and mental bodies. At this stage the soul completely transcends the phenomenal world and becomes Self-conscious and Self-realised."<ref>[[Meher Baba|Baba, Meher]] (1967). ''Discourses''. '''2'''. San Francisco: Sufism Reoriented. p. 144. ISBN 978-1880619094.</ref>


== Western esotericism ==
== Western esotericism ==
{{See also|Plane (esotericism)}}
=== Theosophy ===
=== Theosophy ===


[[H. P. Blavatsky]]'s [[Theosophy|Theosophical]] teaching represented the convergence of 19th century Western occultism, Eastern philosophy, religion, science, and mysticism. ''The Secret Doctrine'', and ''The Key to Theosophy'' combined the [[vedanta|Vedantic]] concept of five [[kosha]]s with Western esoteric traditions (particularly [[Neoplatonism]]). She refers to three subtle bodies:
[[H. P. Blavatsky]]'s [[Theosophy|Theosophical]] teaching represented the convergence of 19th century Western occultism, Eastern philosophy, religion, science, and mysticism. ''[[The Secret Doctrine]]'', and ''[[The Key to Theosophy]]'' combined the [[vedanta|Vedantic]] concept of five [[kosha]]s with Western esoteric traditions (particularly [[Neoplatonism]]). She refers to three subtle bodies:


* ''[[Linga sarira|Linga Sharira]]'' - the Double or Astral body
* ''[[Linga sarira|Linga Sharira]]'' - the Double or [[Astral body]]
* ''Mayavi-rupa'' - the "Illusion-body."
* ''Mayavi-rupa'' - the "Illusion-body."
* ''Causal Body'' - the vehicle of the higher Mind.
* ''Causal Body'' - the vehicle of the higher Mind.


The ''Linga Sharira'' is the invisible double of the human body, elsewhere referred to as the etheric body, [[doppelgänger]] or bioplasmic body and serves as a model or matrix of the physical body, which conforms to the shape, appearance and condition of his "double". The linga sarira can be separated or projected a limited distance from the body. When separated from the body it can be wounded by sharp objects. When it returns to the physical frame, the wound will be reflected in the physical counterpart, a phenomenon called "repercussion." At death, it is discarded together with the physical body and eventually disintegrates or decomposes.
The ''Linga Sharira'' is the invisible double of the human body, elsewhere referred to as the [[etheric body]], [[doppelgänger]] or bioplasmic body and serves as a model or matrix of the physical body, which conforms to the shape, appearance and condition of his "double". The linga sarira can be separated or projected a limited distance from the body. When separated from the body it can be wounded by sharp objects. When it returns to the physical frame, the wound will be reflected in the physical counterpart, a phenomenon called "repercussion." At death, it is discarded together with the physical body and eventually disintegrates or decomposes.


The mayavi-rupa is dual in its functions, being:
The mayavi-rupa is dual in its functions, being:
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[[File:First Principles of Thesophy 066.jpg|thumb|right|300px|The Vehicles of the Soul according to the Theosophist [[Curuppumullage Jinarajadasa]].]]
[[File:First Principles of Thesophy 066.jpg|thumb|right|300px|The Vehicles of the Soul according to the Theosophist [[Curuppumullage Jinarajadasa]].]]


The Theosophist [[G. R. S. Mead]] wrote the book ''Doctrine of the Subtle Body in Western Tradition'' (1919).<ref>G. R. S. Mead ''The Doctrine of the Subtle Body in Western Tradition'' Watkins, 1919</ref> [[Theosophy]] was further systematized in the writings of [[C.W. Leadbeater]] and [[Annie Besant]]. For example, they divided Blavatsky's dual mayavi-rupa into two different bodies: the emotional and the mental bodies. They also redefined some terms. The Linga Sarira (sometimes called astral body by Blavatsky) was denominated by [[Annie Besant]]<ref>Annie Besant, ''The Ancient Wisdom'', 1898.</ref> as Etheric double. [[C.W. Leadbeater]], regarding the emotional body as the seat of the [[Kama (Theosophy)|kamic]] principle of Blavatsky's constitution, denominated it astral body. Therefore, the subtle bodies in a human being are:
[[Theosophy]] was further systematized in the writings of [[C.W. Leadbeater]] and [[Annie Besant]]. For example, they divided Blavatsky's dual mayavi-rupa into two different bodies: the emotional and the mental bodies. They also redefined some terms. The Linga Sarira (sometimes called astral body by Blavatsky) was denominated by [[Annie Besant]]<ref>Annie Besant, ''The Ancient Wisdom'', 1898.</ref> as [[Etheric Double]]. [[C.W. Leadbeater]], regarding the emotional body as the seat of the [[Kama (Theosophy)|kamic]] principle of Blavatsky's constitution, denominated it [[astral body]]. Therefore, the subtle bodies in a human being are:


* Etheric body (vehicle of [[prana]])
* [[Etheric body]] (vehicle of [[prana]])
* Emotional or Astral body (vehicle of desires and emotions)
* [[Astral body|Emotional or astral body]] (vehicle of desires and emotions)
* Mental body (vehicle of the concrete or lower mind)
* [[Mental body]] (vehicle of the concrete or lower mind)
* Causal body (vehicle of the abstract or higher mind)
* [[Causal body]] (vehicle of the abstract or higher mind)

[[Image:Cosmicman.jpg|thumb|116px|left|The Subtle body and the cosmic man, Nepal 1600s]]


Each "body" has its own [[Aura (paranormal)|aura]] and set of [[chakra]]s, and corresponds to a particular [[Plane (cosmology)|plane of existence]].
Each "body" has its own [[Aura (paranormal)|aura]] and set of [[chakra]]s, and corresponds to a particular [[Plane (cosmology)|plane of existence]].

[[Image:Cosmicman.jpg|thumb|116px|left|The Subtle body and the cosmic man, Nepal 1600s]]


=== Post Theosophists ===
=== Post Theosophists ===


The later Theosophical arrangement was taken up by [[Alice Bailey]], and from there found its way (with variations) into the New Age worldview. It is also associated with the human
The later Theosophical arrangement was taken up by [[Alice Bailey]], and from there found its way (with variations) into the New Age worldview. It is also associated with the human
[[Aura (paranormal)|aura]] observed through [[Kirlian photography]] and [[Walter John Kilner|Kilner screens]]. The [[Anthroposophical view of the human being]]) found in [[Rudolf Steiner]]'s [[Anthroposophical]] teachings usually referred to only the Etheric and Astral Bodies. However, Steiner also used a threefold classification of body, soul, and spirit as well as a sevenfold and a ninefold description .
[[Aura (paranormal)|aura]] observed through [[Kirlian photography]] and [[Walter John Kilner|Kilner screens]]. The [[Anthroposophical view of the human being]]) found in [[Rudolf Steiner]]'s [[Anthroposophical]] teachings usually referred to only the Etheric and Astral Bodies. However, Steiner also used a threefold classification of body,soul,and spirit as well as a sevenfold and a ninefold description .


[[Max Heindel]] divided the subtle body into: Vital Body made of Ether, our instrument for specializing the vital energy of the sun, seen by clairvoyant vision to extend about an inch and a half outside the body); the Desire body, which is our emotional nature and pervades both the vital and dense bodies, seen by clairvoyant vision to extend about 16&nbsp;inches outside our visible body, related to the [[Astral plane|Desire World]]; and the Mental body, which functions like a mirror, reflects the outer world and enables the Ego to transmit its commands as thought, word and action. The human being is seen as a threefold Spirit, possessing a Mind by which he governs the threefold Body that he transmutes into a threefold [[Soul]]. The Human Spirit aspect has emanated from itself the desire body to be transmuted into the Emotional Soul; the Life Spirit aspect has emanated from itself the vital body to be transmuted into the Intellectual Soul; the Divine Spirit aspect has emanated from itself the dense body to be transmuted into the Conscious Soul.
[[Max Heindel]] divided the subtle body into: [[Etheric body|Vital Body]] made of Ether, our instrument for specializing the vital energy of the sun, seen by clairvoyant vision to extend about an inch and a half outside the body); the [[Desire body]], which is our emotional nature and pervades both the vital and dense bodies, seen by clairvoyant vision to extend about 16&nbsp;inches outside our visible body, related to the [[Astral plane|Desire World]]; and the [[Mental body]], which functions like a mirror, reflects the outer world and enables the Ego to transmit its commands as thought, word and action. The human being is seen as a threefold Spirit, possessing a Mind by which he governs the threefold Body that he transmutes into a threefold [[Soul]]. The Human Spirit aspect has emanated from itself the desire body to be transmuted into the Emotional Soul; the Life Spirit aspect has emanated from itself the vital body to be transmuted into the Intellectual Soul; the Divine Spirit aspect has emanated from itself the dense body to be transmuted into the Conscious Soul.


[[Samael Aun Weor]] wrote extensively on the subtle vehicles, organizing them in accordance with the [[kabbalah|kabbalistic]] [[Tree of life (Kabbalah)|Tree of Life]]. The common person only contains the lunar vehicles of emotion astral body, thought mental body, and will causal body, concentrations of the collective animalistic intelligence, the evolution of the Essence through the mineral, plant and animal kingdoms. Becoming human means to have a soul, a Solar Astral Body, Solar Mental Body and Solar Causal Body. These bodies are constructed through a form of [[Tantra]] called [[White tantrism]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Samael Aun Weor |authorlink=Samael Aun Weor |title=Types of Spiritual Schools | url=http://www.gnosticteachings.org/content/view/417/64/}} Note: The "[http://www.gnosticteachings.org/component/option,com_glossary/func,view/Itemid,10077/catid,101/term,Ego/ ego]" referred to by Samael Aun Weor is not used in the same context as it is used other esoteric schools.</ref>
[[Samael Aun Weor]] wrote extensively on the subtle vehicles, organizing them in accordance with the [[kabbalah|kabbalistic]] [[Tree of life (Kabbalah)|Tree of Life]]. The common person only contains the lunar vehicles of emotion ([[astral body]]), thought ([[mental body]]), and will ([[causal body]]), concentrations of the collective animalistic intelligence, the evolution of the Essence through the mineral, plant and animal kingdoms. Becoming human means to have a soul, a Solar Astral Body, Solar Mental Body and Solar Causal Body. These bodies are constructed through a form of [[Tantra]] called [[White tantrism]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Samael Aun Weor |authorlink=Samael Aun Weor |title=Types of Spiritual Schools | url=http://www.gnosticteachings.org/content/view/417/64/}} Note: The "[http://www.gnosticteachings.org/component/option,com_glossary/func,view/Itemid,10077/catid,101/term,Ego/ ego]" referred to by Samael Aun Weor is not used in the same context as it is used other esoteric schools.</ref>


[[Barbara Brennan]]'s account of the subtle bodies in her books ''Hands of Light'' and ''Light Emerging'' refers to the subtle bodies as "layers" in the "Human Energy Field" or aura. Causality proceeds downwards: each of the layers has its own characteristics and can have its own expression of disease, requiring individual healing. As with the Adyar arrangement, each body or aura also has its own complement of chakras, which interrelate to those in the other layers.
[[Barbara Brennan]]'s account of the subtle bodies in her books ''Hands of Light'' and ''Light Emerging'' refers to the subtle bodies as "layers" in the "Human Energy Field" or aura. Causality proceeds downwards: each of the layers has its own characteristics and can have its own expression of disease, requiring individual healing. As with the Adyar arrangement, each body or aura also has its own complement of chakras, which interrelate to those in the other layers.


[[Michal Levin]] describes the relationship between the energy bodies and the chakras in her book ''Meditation: Path to the Deepest Self'' (2002).<ref>Michal Levin ''Meditation: Path to the Deepest Self'' 2002 ISBN 0-7894-8333-5</ref>
[[Michal Levin]] describes the relationship between the energy bodies and the chakras in her book Meditation, Path to the Deepest Self.


=== Fourth Way ===
=== Fourth Way ===
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According to (Rosenthal, 1997) "In Gurdjieffes cosmology our nature is tripartite and is composed of the physical (planetry), emotional (astral) and mental (spiritual) bodies; in each person one of these three bodies ultimately achieves dominance." The Fourth way as taught by [[Gurdjieff]] and [[Ouspensky]] is a philosophy of developing the divine body which is gained when one has complete understanding and self perfection. The ultimate task of the fourth way teachings is to synthesize the four bodies into a single way.<ref>Bernice Glatzer Rosenthal ''The occult in Russian and Soviet culture'' 1997, p. 361</ref>
According to (Rosenthal, 1997) "In Gurdjieffes cosmology our nature is tripartite and is composed of the physical (planetry), emotional (astral) and mental (spiritual) bodies; in each person one of these three bodies ultimately achieves dominance." The Fourth way as taught by [[Gurdjieff]] and [[Ouspensky]] is a philosophy of developing the divine body which is gained when one has complete understanding and self perfection. The ultimate task of the fourth way teachings is to synthesize the four bodies into a single way.<ref>Bernice Glatzer Rosenthal ''The occult in Russian and Soviet culture'' 1997, p. 361</ref>

==Etheric body==
[[Image:Sangreal.jpg|thumb|right|The [[Holy Grail]], illustration by [[Arthur Rackham]], 1917. [[Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood|Pre-Raphaelite]] art at this time often represented contemporary interest in the "spirit body", "aura" or "body of light".]]

The '''etheric body''', '''ether-body''', '''æther body''', a name given by [[neo-Theosophy]] to a '''vital body''' or [[subtle body]] propounded in [[esoteric]] philosophies as the first or lowest layer in the "human energy field" or [[aura (paranormal)|aura]].<ref>Brennan, Barbara, ''Hands of Light : A Guide to Healing Through the Human Energy Field ([http://www.kheper.net/topics/subtlebody/BAB-etheric.htm Etheric body])'', Bantam Books, 1987</ref> It is said to be in immediate contact with the [[Human anatomy|physical body]], to sustain it and connect it with "higher" bodies.

The English term "etheric" in this context seems to derive from the [[Theosophy|Theosophical]] writings of [[Madame Blavatsky]], but its use was formalised by [[Charles Webster Leadbeater|C.W. Leadbeater]]<ref>Leadbeater, C. W., ''Man, Visible and Invisible'', 1902</ref> and [[Annie Besant]]<ref>Besant, Annie, ''Man and His Bodies'', 1911</ref> due to the elimination of Hindu terminology from the system of seven planes and bodies. ([[Theosophical Society Adyar|Adyar School of Theosophy]]).
[[Linga sarira]] is a Sanskrit term for the invisible double of the human body, the etheric body or etheric double (or astral body in some Theosophical concepts). It is one of the seven principles of the human being, according to Theosophical philosophy.

[[Rudolf Steiner]], the founder of [[Anthroposophy]], often referred to the etheric body (''Ätherleib'' or "Life Body") in association with the etheric formative forces and the [[Spiritual evolution|evolution]] of [[Human|man]] and the cosmos.<ref>Steiner, Rudolf, ''Occult science - An Outline''. Trans. George and Mary Adams. London: Rudolf Steiner Press, 1909, 1969</ref> According to him, it can be perceived by a person gifted with clairvoyance as being of "peach-blossom color".

Steiner considered the etheric reality or life principle as quite distinct from the physical material reality, being intermediate between the physical world and the astral or soul world.
The etheric body can be characterised as the life force also present in the plant kingdom. It maintains the physical body's form until death. At that time, it separates from the physical body and the physical reverts to natural disintegration.

According to [[Max Heindel]]'s [[Rosicrucian]] writings,<ref>Heindel, Max, ''The Rosicrucian Mysteries (Chapter IV, [http://www.rosicrucian.com/rms/rmseng02.htm#Chapter_IV The Constitution of Man: Vital Body - Desire Body - Mind])'', 1911, ISBN 0-911274-86-3</ref> the etheric body, composed of four ethers, is called the "Vital Body" since the [[Aether (classical element)|ether]] is the way of ingress for vital force from the [[Sun]] and the field of agencies in nature which promote such vital activities as assimilation, growth, and propagation. It is an exact counterpart of our physical body, molecule for molecule, and organ for organ, but it is of the opposite polarity. It is slightly larger, extending about one and one-half inches beyond the periphery of the physical body.

[[Samael Aun Weor]] teaches that the vital body is the tetra-dimensional part of the physical body and the foundation of organic life.<ref>Samael Aun Weor, ''The Pistis Sophia Unveiled'', Thelema Press, (1983) 2005</ref><ref>Samael Aun Weor, "[http://www.gnosticteachings.org/content/view/230/99/ Death]", ''The Book of the Dead'', 1966</ref> He states that in the second Initiation of Fire, which is reached through working with [[Sex magic#Samael Aun Weor|sexual magic]] with a spouse, the [[Kundalini]] rises in the vital body. Then the initiate learns how to separate the two superior ethers from the others in order for them to serve as a vehicle to travel out of the physical body.<ref>Samael Aun Weor, ''The Three Mountains'', Thelema Press, (1972) 2003</ref>

On the [[Tree of life (Kabbalah)|Tree of Life]] of the [[Kabbalah]], the vital body is often related to the [[Sephirot|sephirah]] [[Yesod (Kabbalah)|Yesod]].<ref>Samael Aun Weor, ''The Initiatic Path in the Arcana of Tarot and Kabbalah'', Thelema Press, (1978) 2007</ref>

Some clairvoyants and occultists have produced drawings and paintings that record their perceptions of the etheric body; see Leadbeater's ''Man Visible and Invisible'' for one example. The images produced by [[Kirlian photography]] bear obvious resemblances to these graphics, showing a spiky-looking energy field extending a few inches around the human body (as well as other biological specimens, like leaves, and objects like coins). The fact that Kirlian photography can capture the [[acupuncture]] points of the body links the technology with concepts of [[prana]], [[qi]], bioplasma, and related ideas and theories. For some believers in the etheric body, Kirlian photography provides important supporting evidence&mdash;though skeptics are generally not swayed.

===Beings that possess only etheric bodies===
{{main|Deva (New Age)}}

A '''deva''' in the [[New Age movement]] refers to any of the spiritual forces or beings behind [[nature]]. In the teachings of [[Theosophy]], Devas are regarded as living either in the [[atmosphere]]s of the [[planet]]s of the [[solar system]] (''Planetary Angels'') or inside the [[Sun]] (''Solar Angels'') (presumably other [[planetary system]]s and [[star]]s have their own angels) and they help to guide the operation of the processes of [[nature]] such as the process of [[evolution]] and the growth of [[plants]]; their appearance is reputedly like colored flames about the size of a human being. The concept of devas as nature-spirits derives from the writings of Theosophist [[Geoffrey Hodson]]. It is believed by Theosophists that there are numerous different types of devas with a population in the millions performing different functions on Earth to help the [[ecology]] function better. It is believed by Theosophists that devas can be observed when the [[third eye]] is activated. Some (but not most) devas originally incarnated as [[human being]]s.<ref>Hodson, Geoffrey, ''Kingdom of the Gods'' ISBN 0-7661-8134-0 &mdash; Has color pictures of what Devas supposedly look like when observed by the [[third eye]] &mdash; their appearance is reputedly like colored flames about the size of a human being. [http://web.archive.org/web/20040820064159/http://www.geocities.com/athens/Olympus/3987/devas2.html Paintings of some of the devas claimed to have been seen by Hodson from his book "Kingdom of the Gods":]</ref>

It is believed by Theosophists that [[nature spirit]]s, [[elementals]] ([[gnome]]s, [[Ondine (mythology)|ondines]], [[sylphs]], and [[Salamander (legendary creature)|salamanders]]), and [[Fairy|fairies]] can be also be observed when the [[third eye]] is activated.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20021121131124/http://geocities.com/athens/Olympus/3987/devas4.html Eskild Tjalve’s paintings of devas, nature spirits, elementals and fairies:]</ref> It is maintained by Theosophists that these less evolutionarily developed beings have never been previously incarnated as human beings; they are regarded as on a separate line of spiritual evolution called the “deva evolution”; eventually, as their [[soul]]s advance as they [[Reincarnation|reincarnate]], it is believed they will incarnate as devas.<ref name="ReferenceA">Powell, A.E. ''The Solar System'' London:1930 The Theosophical Publishing House (A Complete Outline of the Theosophical Scheme of Evolution) See "Lifewave" chart (refer to index)</ref>

It is asserted by Theosophists that all of the above mentioned beings possess etheric bodies (but no physical bodies) that are composed of ''[[Etheric plane|etheric matter]]'', a type of matter finer and more pure that is composed of smaller particles than ordinary [[Matter|physical plane matter]].<ref name="ReferenceA"/> (See the book ''[[Occult Chemistry (book)|Occult Chemistry]]'' by [[C.W. Leadbeater]])

==Astral body==
{{main|Astral body}}
[[Image:The Astral Sleep - by Jeroen van Valkenburg.PNG|thumb|200px|right|''The Astral Sleep - by Jeroen van Valkenburg'']]
The '''astral body''' is a subtle body posited by many religious philosophers, intermediate between the intelligent soul and the physical body, composed of a subtle material.<ref>Arthur A.Powell, ''The Astral Body and other Astral Phenomena'', The Theosophical Publishing House, London, England; Wheaton, Ill, U.S.A.; Adyar, Chennai, India, 1927, reprinted in 1954 and 1965, page 7, online June 2008 at http://www.theosophical.ca/AstralBodyByPowell-A.htm</ref> The concept ultimately derives from the philosophy of [[Plato]]: it is related to an [[astral plane]], which consists of the [[Planets in astrology|planetary heavens of astrology]]. The term was adopted by nineteenth-century [[Theosophy|Theosophists]] and [[Rosicrucianism|neo-Rosicrucians]].

The idea is rooted in common worldwide religious accounts of the [[afterlife]]<ref>Suki Miller, ''After Death: How People around the World Map the Journey after Death'' (1995).</ref> in which the [[Soul (spirit)|soul's]] journey or "ascent" is described in such terms as "an ecstatic.., mystical or out-of body experience, wherein the spiritual traveller leaves the physical body and travels in his/her subtle body (or dreambody or astral body) into ‘higher’ realms".<ref>Dr. Roger J. Woolger, ''Beyond Death: Transition and the Afterlife'', accessed online June 2008 at the website of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, http://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/PDF/RWoolgerTransition.pdf.</ref> Hence "the "many kinds of 'heavens', 'hells' and purgatorial existences believed in by followers of innumerable religions" may also be understood as astral phenomena, as may the various "phenomena of the séance room".<ref>Powell, op.cit.</ref> The phenomenon of [[apparitional experience]] is therefore related, as is made explicit in Cicero's [[Dream of Scipio]].

==Mental body==
{{main|Mental body}}

The '''mental body''' (the [[mind]]) is one of the subtle bodies in [[esoteric]] philosophies, in some [[religious]] teachings and in [[New Age]] thought. It is understood as a sort of body made up of [[thought]]s, just as the [[emotional body]] consists of [[emotions]] and the [[Human anatomy|physical body]] is made up of [[matter]]. In [[Occultism|occult]] understanding, thoughts are not just subjective [[qualia]], but have an existence apart from the associated physical organ, the [[Brain#Mind and brain|brain]].

[[File:Leadbeater Mental body.jpg|thumb|200px|right| The Mental body of the ordinary man according to [[Charles Webster Leadbeater]].]]
Theosophist writers such as [[Charles Webster Leadbeater|C.W. Leadbeater]] <ref>Leadbeater, C. W., ''Man, Visible and Invisible'', 1902</ref> and [[Annie Besant]] <ref>Besant, Annie, ''Man and His Bodies'', 1911</ref> ([[Theosophical Society Adyar|Adyar School of Theosophy]]), and later [[Alice Bailey]], the mental body is equivalent to the "Lower Manas" of [[Helena Petrovna Blavatsky|Blavatsky]]'s original [[Septenary (Theosophy)|seven principles of man]] <ref>Blavatsky, H.P., ''[[The Key to Theosophy]]'', 1889</ref>. But the New Age writer [[Barbara Brennan]] describes the Mental body as intermediate between the Emotional and the Astral body in terms of the layers in the "Human Energy Field" or Aura <ref>Brennan, Barbara Ann, ''Hands of Light : A Guide to Healing Through the Human Energy Field ([http://www.kheper.net/topics/subtlebody/BAB-mental.htm Mental body])'', Bantam Books, 1987</ref>.

The mental body is usually considered in terms of an aura that includes [[thoughtform]]s. In Theosophical and Alice Bailey's teachings, it corresponds to the Mental plane.

[[Max Heindel]]'s [[Rosicrucian]] writings <ref>Heindel, Max, ''The Rosicrucian Mysteries (Chapter IV: [http://www.rosicrucian.com/rms/rmseng02.htm#Chapter_IV The Constitution of Man: Vital Body - Desire Body - Mind])'', 1911, ISBN 0-911274-86-3</ref> says that the mind is the latest acquisition of the human [[soul|spirit]] and is related to the ''Region of Concrete Thought'', which is the lower region of the [[Mental plane|World of Thought]]. It is not yet an organized body and in most people it is still a mere inchoate cloud disposed particularly in the region of the head. It works as the link or focus between the ''threefold'' Spirit and the ''threefold'' body [http://www.rosicrucian.com/images/rccen005.gif], in a reversed reflexion manner [http://www.rosicrucian.com/images/rccen001.gif]: the mind is like the projecting lens of a stereopticon, it projects the image in one of three directions, according to the [[Will (philosophy)|will]] of the thinker, which ensouls the [[thoughtform|thought-form]].

His writings, called [[Western Wisdom Teachings]], give a clear description on how the man's inner Spirit perceives, from the [[Mental plane|world of thought]], the [[Plane (cosmology)|lower worlds]] through the mind: " We ourselves, as Egos, function directly in the subtle substance of the Region of Abstract Thought, which we have specialized within the periphery of our individual aura. Thence we view the impressions made by the outer world upon the vital body through the senses, together with the feelings and emotions generated by them in the desire body, and mirrored in the mind. From these mental images we form our conclusions, in the substance of the Region of Abstract Thought, concerning the subjects with which they deal. Those conclusions are ideas. By the power of will we project an idea through the mind, where it takes concrete shape as a thought-form by drawing mind-stuff around itself from the Region of Concrete Thought. " <ref>Heindel, Max, ''[[The Rosicrucian Cosmo-Conception]] (Chapter III: [http://www.rosicrucian.com/rcc/rcceng03.htm#part2 Man and the Method of Evolution])'', 1909, ISBN 0-911274-34-0</ref>.

He also states that to the trained [[clairvoyance|clairvoyant]] there appears to be an empty space in the center of the forehead just above and between the eyebrows and it looks like the blue part of a gas flame, but not even the most gifted seer can penetrate that veil, also known as "The Veil of Isis".

===Samael Aun Weor===
[[Samael Aun Weor]] stated that only those who have worked consciously to do so have created a mental body. A "solar mind" or "solar mental body" is the quality of mind of a true human, yet, it is stated that this humanity is not composed of true humans, but rather intellectual animals: beings with a mind of an animal, but reasoning superior to that of other animals. According to Samael Aun Weor, the qualifications to being a real human being is identical to the lowest requirements of being a [[Buddhahood|Buddha]]. The process of acquiring the mind of a human in this sense involves the psychological death of the "I" (desire) and the work of practical [[sex magic#Samael_Aun_Weor|sexual alchemy]].<ref name="3factors">{{cite web|last=Samael Aun Weor |authorlink=Samael Aun Weor |title=Three Factors of the Revolution of the Consciousness | url=http://www.gnosticteachings.org/content/view/308/65/ |accessdate=2007-03-23}}</ref> More explicitly stated, the title of Buddha is achieved through the Fourth Initiation of Major Mysteries, when the fourth serpent of fire or [[kundalini]] has risen.<ref name="fourthserpent">{{cite web|last=Samael Aun Weor |authorlink=Samael Aun Weor |title=Jesus' Fourth Serpent | url=http://www.gnosticteachings.org/content/view/490/10142/ |accessdate=2007-03-23}}</ref>

{{cquote|The intellectual animal does not have a Mental Body, but he possesses a subtle, lunar, intellectual animal vehicle, which is very similar to the Mental Body, but of a cold and ghost-like nature.<ref name="3factors" />}}

Whether the lunar or solar aspect, the mental body is stated to exist within the 5th dimension and is represented by [[Netzach]]. With the mental body one can travel through the [[Mental plane|mental world]], the world of thoughts and ideas.<ref>{{cite web|last=Samael Aun Weor |authorlink=Samael Aun Weor |title=Man and the Universe That Surrounds Him | url=http://www.gnosticteachings.org/content/view/141/64/ |accessdate=2007-03-23}}</ref>

In [[Esoteric Christianity]], the mental body is represented by the stubborn yet useful donkey that the Savior (Christ) subdues in order to be used as a vehicle to enter into heavenly Jerusalem (the superior worlds).

==Causal body==
{{main|Causal body}}

The '''Causal body''' - originally '''''Karana-Sarira''''' - is a [[Yoga|Yogic]] and [[Vedanta|Vedantic]] concept that was adopted and modified by [[Theosophy]] and from the latter made its way into the general [[New Age]] movement and contemporary western [[esotericism]]. It generally refers to the highest or innermost subtle body that veils the true [[Soul (spirit)|soul]].

[[File:Leadbeater Causal body.jpg|thumb|200px|left| The Causal body of the ordinary man according to [[Charles Webster Leadbeater]].]]

In Hinduism The [[Mandukya Upanishad]] refers to the [[Atman (Hinduism)|Self]] having four "feet" or states of consciousness. These are: waking, [[dream]]ing, dreamless sleep, and the transcendent (''[[Turiya]]''). Each of these is associated with both an individual state of consciousness and a cosmic state. Dreamless sleep corresponds to ''[[prajna]]''. In [[Advaita Vedanta]], this is associated with the ''[[Anandamaya kosha]]'' or "sheath" (''[[kosha]]'') made of bliss, and with the causal principle or causal body (''karana sarira''). According to Theosophy In [[Blavatsky]]'s synthesis of [[eastern philosophy]] with western [[esotericism]], the union of the higher [[Manas]] with the [[Buddhi]] (i.e. the essential nature of the fifth, along with the sixth, of the seven principles is referred to as the Causal Body (Blavatsky, ''Key to Theosophy'', pp.&nbsp;121, 174). This higher principle is contrasted with the lower, the ''Kama-Manas'', which is the seat of lower passions.
In the Theosophy of [[Annie Besant]] and [[C. W. Leadbeater]], the "Causal Body" refers not to the "Buddhi-Manas" but to Blavatsky's "Higher Manas" alone. This is also referred to as the "Higher Mental", "Abstract Mind" (as opposed to Lower Mental or "Concrete Mind"), or "Causal Body". It is considered the highest subtle body, beyond even the mental body. As with all the vehicles of consciousness, the Causal Body is associated with an objective or cosmic plane, in this case the Causal plane. A detailed definition of the Causal Body, is provided by [[Arthur E. Powell]], who has brought together information in the works of Besant and Leadbeater in a series of books on each of the subtle bodies.

===Samael Aun Weor===
In the tradition of [[Samael Aun Weor]] it is taught that most people have only incarnated a fraction of the causal body or human soul. This fraction is known as the Essence or the [[Buddha-nature|Buddhata]], which in humanity is bottled up in the psychological aggregates that constitute the ego. Samael Aun Weor states:
<blockquote>Thus, the various aggregates that are within ourselves represent different volitional impulses. There are, therefore, several wills within our psyche which fight against each other. The intellectual animal doesn’t have any autonomous, independent and unitotal will. There is no unity in the intellectual animal’s willpower. But when a man has created his Body of Conscious Will [causal body], he has individual willpower he can work with in the whole universe.<ref>{{cite web
| last = Samael Aun Weor
| title = Man and the Universe That Surrounds Him
| url=http://www.gnosticteachings.org/content/view/141/10105/
| accessdate = 2007-03-25 }}</ref></blockquote>
The way to create the causal body is by working in the "Forge of Cyclops", that is, [[Sex magic#Samael Aun Weor|sexual alchemy]] between husband and wife.

==Silver cord==
{{main|Silver cord}}
[[File:Astral body carrington muldoon.jpg|thumb|300px|left| The projection of the Astral body with the Silver cord.]]

The '''silver cord''' in [[metaphysics|metaphysical]] literature, also known as the sutratma or life thread of the antahkarana, refers to a life-giving linkage from the [[higher self]] ([[atman (disambiguation)|atma]]) down to the physical body. It also refers to an extended synthesis of this thread and a second (the consciousness thread, passing from the [[soul]] to the physical body) that connects the physical body to the [[etheric body]], onwards to the [[astral body]] and finally to the [[mental body]].<ref>[http://www.alice.bailey.it/testi-inglese/Education-in-the-New-Age.pdf Education in the New Age], [[Alice Bailey]], p19, p21, p76-79</ref>

During [[astral projection]] and [[out-of-body experiences]], some claim they can (at will or otherwise) see a silver cord linking their astral form to their physical body. This cord mainly appears to a beginning projector as an assurance they will not become lost. However, even experienced projectors find it useful, claiming it is a fast way to return to the body.

The attachment point of the cord to the astral body differs, not only between projectors but also from projection to projection. These points correspond to major [[chakra]] positions. According to the observations of [[Robert Bruce (author)|Robert Bruce]], there is not a single point of connection to the denser body, but rather a locally converging collection of strands leading out of all of the major chakras, and some of the minor ones.<ref>Robert Bruce ''Astral Dynamics'' 1999, p. 398</ref>

The silver cord is mentioned by [[mysticism|mystics]], especially in mystical and [[out-of-body experiences]]. Concerning the length of the silver cord very different observations have been reported. [[Sylvan Muldoon]] wrote that:
"The "cord" is described as relatively short and thick when the "double" is within a few feet of the body and getting thinner and thinner as they separate, until it is like a spider's web."<ref> Muldoon, S.J. and H. Carrington ''The projection of the astral body'' Rider, 1929, p. 29</ref>

Some [[parapsychologists]] have written that during the dying process, the astral or spirit body leaves the physical body and moves further away from it, the silver cord becomes thinner as it is stretched to its limit and will finally become severed. When this occurs, the astral or spirit body is released from being attached to the physical body.<ref>[http://www.near-death.com/experiences/research12.html The NDE and the Silver Cord]</ref> According to the research of [[Robert Crookall]] the astral body separates from its physical counterpart after death and continues on another [[plane of existence]].<ref>Nevill Drury ''The dictionary of the esoteric: 3000 entries on the mystical and occult traditions'' 2004, p. 58</ref>

===Origin of the term===

The term is derived from [[Ecclesiastes]] 12:6-12:7 in the [[Old Testament]], from the [[KJV]]:

: "Or ever the silver cord be loosed, or the golden bowl be broken, or the pitcher be broken at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern. Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it."

Or from the [[NIV]]:

: "Remember him—before the silver cord is severed, or the golden bowl is broken; before the pitcher is shattered at the spring, or the wheel broken at the well, and the dust returns to the ground it came from, and the spirit returns to God who gave it."

This verse, Ecclesiastes 12:6, is [http://bible.cc/ecclesiastes/12-6.htm variously translated], and there is a lack of consensus among Bible commentators as to its meaning. [[Matthew Henry]]'s commentary, for example, states that the silver cord refers simply to the "spinal marrow."<ref>A commentary upon the holy Bible: Job to Salomon's song, Volume 3 By Matthew Henry, Thomas Scott, p. 496 [http://books.google.com/books?id=c3JAAAAAcAAJ&pg=PA527&dq=The+Comprehensive+Commentary+on+the+Holy+Bible+By+Matthew+Henry,+Thomas+Scott&hl=en&ei=-oxFTejDI4eglAf05dEX&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=6&ved=0CF0Q6AEwBQ#v=onepage&q&f=false]</ref>


== Aleister Crowley and the Body of Light ==
== Aleister Crowley and the Body of Light ==
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*[[Anthroposophy]]
*[[Anthroposophy]]
**[[Etheric body]]
**[[Astral body]]
*[[Hermeticism]]
*[[Hermeticism]]
*[[Kundalini]]
*[[Neoplatonism]]
*[[Neoplatonism]]
*[[Rosicrucian]]ism
*[[Rosicrucian]]ism
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**[[Rosicrucian Fellowship#The Ten-fold constitution of Man|Rosicrucian Fellowship]] ("Ten-fold constitution of Man" section)
**[[Rosicrucian Fellowship#The Ten-fold constitution of Man|Rosicrucian Fellowship]] ("Ten-fold constitution of Man" section)
**[[Western Wisdom Teachings]] (philosophy)
**[[Western Wisdom Teachings]] (philosophy)
*[[Chakra]]
*[[Spiritism]]
*[[Spiritism]]
*[[Spiritual science]]
*[[Spiritual science]]
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*[[Thelemic mysticism]]
*[[Thelemic mysticism]]
*[[Theosophy]]
*[[Theosophy]]
**[[Helena Blavatsky#Septenary_systems|Septenary]] (inspired by the five koshas of Vedanta)
**[[Septenary (Theosophy)|Septenary]] (inspired by the five koshas of Vedanta)


'''Other topics'''
'''Other topics'''
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*[[Perispirit]]
*[[Perispirit]]
*[[Reincarnation]]
*[[Reincarnation]]
*[[Septenary (Theosophy)]]
*[[Sex magic]]
*[[Sex magic]]
*[[Silver cord]]
*[[Silver cord]]
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== Further reading ==
== Further reading ==

* Kambhampati, Dr. Parvathi Kumar, ''[http://worldteachertrust.org/bk/ethericbody/index.html The Etheric Body]'', Dhanishta publications, 1997, ISBN 84-88011-29-6
* Alfass, Mirra (The Mother) ''[[The Agenda (Mother)|Mother's Agenda]]''
* Alfass, Mirra (The Mother) ''[[The Agenda (Mother)|Mother's Agenda]]''
* [[Annie Besant|Besant, Annie]], ''Man and His Bodies''
* [[Annie Besant|Besant, Annie]], ''Man and His Bodies''
Line 273: Line 166:
* White, John. [http://www.wie.org/j21/white.asp Enlightenment and the Body of Light] in ''[[What Is Enlightenment? (magazine)|What is Enlightenment?]]'' magazine.
* White, John. [http://www.wie.org/j21/white.asp Enlightenment and the Body of Light] in ''[[What Is Enlightenment? (magazine)|What is Enlightenment?]]'' magazine.
* James L. Oschman. Energy Medicine: The Scientific Basis.
* James L. Oschman. Energy Medicine: The Scientific Basis.
* [[Michal Levin|Levin, Michal]]. ''Meditation, Path to the Deepest Self'', Dorling Kindersley, 2002. ISBN 978-0-7894-8333-1
* [[Michal Levin|Levin, Michal]]. ''Meditation, Path to the Deepest Self'', Dorling Kindersley, 2002. ISBN 978-0789483331
* [[Michal Levin|Levin, Michal]]. ''Spiritual Intelligence: Awakening the Power of Your Spirituality and Intuition''. Hodder & Stoughton, 2000. ISBN 978-0-340-73394-3
* [[Michal Levin|Levin, Michal]]. ''Spiritual Intelligence: Awakening the Power of Your Spirituality and Intuition''. Hodder & Stoughton, 2000. ISBN 978-0340733943
*James Tildes & Olga Frederick : The Silver Cord or Life Here and Hereafter. Christopher Publ. Co., 1946.
*Martha Barham & James Tom Greene : The Silver Cord : Lifeline to the Unobstructed. De Vorss & Co, 1986.


== External links ==
== External links ==
* [http://www.noetic.org The Institute of Noetic Sciences] supporting research into supposed subtle body phenomena
* [http://www.noetic.org The Institute of Noetic Sciences] supporting research into supposed subtle body phenomena
* [http://www.blavatskyarchives.com/thomas/thomasastral.htm Astral Body in Theosophy and Neo-Theosophy (A comparison)]
* [http://www.blavatskyarchives.com/thomas/thomasastral.htm Astral Body in Theosophy and Neo-Theosophy (A comparison)]
* http://sped2work.tripod.com/sarira.html
* [http://www.scimednet.org The Scientific and Medical Network] - events and publications on the subtle body
*[http://www.celtoslavica.de/bibliothek/electricity.html Electricity and Human Consciousness] The Etheric forces of Rudolf Steiner
* What are humans made of? http://www.spiritualresearchfoundation.org/articles/?id=spiritualresearch/spiritualscience/what-are-humans-comprised-of
* What are humans made of? http://www.spiritualresearchfoundation.org/articles/?id=spiritualresearch/spiritualscience/what-are-humans-comprised-of


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[[Category:Esoteric cosmology]]
[[Category:Esoteric cosmology]]
[[Category:Esotericism]]
[[Category:Esotericism]]
[[Category:Paranormal terminology]]
[[Category:Shabd paths]]
[[Category:Shabd paths]]
[[Category:Theosophical philosophical concepts]]
[[Category:Theosophical philosophical concepts]]

Revision as of 03:45, 15 June 2012

The subtle body in Indian mysticism, from a Yoga manuscript in Braj Bhasa language, 1899, now in the British Library.

A subtle body is one of a series of psycho-spiritual constituents of living beings, according to various esoteric, occult, and mystical teachings. Each subtle body corresponds to a subtle plane of existence, in a hierarchy or great chain of being that culminates in the physical form.

It is known in different spiritual traditions; "the most sacred body" (wujud al-aqdas) and "supracelestial body" (jism asli haqiqi) in Sufism, "the diamond body" in Taoism and Vajrayana, "the light body" or "rainbow body" in Tibetan Buddhism, "the body of bliss" in Kriya Yoga, and "the immortal body" (soma athanaton) in Hermeticism.[1] The various attributes of the subtle body are frequently described in terms of often obscure symbolism: Tantra features references to the sun and moon as well as various Indian rivers and deities, while Taoist alchemy speaks of cauldrons and cinnabar fields.

Clairvoyants sometimes say that they can see the subtle bodies as an aura. The practice of astral projection, as described in various literature, is supposed to involve the separation of the subtle body from the physical. The theosophical movement was important in spreading such ideas throughout the West in the late 19th century. The existence of subtle bodies is unconfirmed by the mainstream scientific community.[citation needed]

Eastern Esotericism

Chart showing the circulation of Qi energy, Ming Dynasty
For the body of light in the Tibetan Dzogchen tradition, see Rainbow body.

See also: Taoism

The Yogic, Tantric and other systems of India, the Buddhist psychology of Tibet, as well as Chinese (Taoist alchemy) and Japanese (Shingon) esoterism are examples of doctrines that describe a subtle physiology having a number of focal points (chakras, acupuncture points) connected by a series of channels (nadis, Acupuncture meridians) that convey life-force (prana, vayu, ch'i, ki, lung).

These invisible channels and points are understood to determine the characteristics of the visible physical form. By understanding and mastering the subtlest levels of reality one gains mastery over the physical realm. Through practice of various breathing and visualisation exercises one is able to manipulate and direct the flow of vital force, to achieve superhuman (e.g. in martial arts) or miraculous powers ("siddhis") and attain higher states of consciousness, immortality, or liberation.

Hinduism

See also:

The subtle body (Sukshma sarira or Sukshma sharira) in Vedantic philosophy is composed of five Kosas or "sheaths". The subtle body is the vehicle of consciousness with which one passes from life to life. The Liṅga Śarīra is the vehicle of consciousness in later Samkhya, Vedanta, and Yoga , and is propelled by past-life tendencies, or bhavas.[2] Linga can be translated as "characteristic mark" or "impermanence" and the term Sarira as "form" or "mold".[3] Karana or "instrument" is a synonymous term. In the Classical Samkhya system of Isvarakrsna (ca. 4th century CE), the Lińga is the characteristic mark of the transmigrating entity. It consists of twenty-five tattvas from eternal consciousness down to the five organs of sense, five of activity (buddindriya or jñānendriya, and karmendriya respectively) and the five subtle elements that are the objects of sense (tanmatras) The Samkhyakarika says:

"The subtle body (linga), previously arisen, unconfined, constant, inclusive of the great one (mahat) etc , through the subtle elements, not having enjoyment, transmigrates, (because of) being endowed with bhavas ("conditions" or "dispositions")
As a picture (does) not (exist) without a support, or as a shadow (does) not (exist) without a post and so forth; so too the instrument (linga or karana) does not exist without that which is specific (i.e. a subtle body)."[4]

The idea was adopted by Vedanta and Yoga philosophy, and from there, in the 19th century, the terminology was adopted by the Theosophy of Madame Blavatsky. Subtility-The State Of Being Subtile To Will

Meher Baba's teachings

The spiritual teacher Meher Baba stated that the subtle body "is the vehicle of desires and vital forces,"[5] He held that the subtle body is one of three bodies with which the soul must cease to identify in order to realize God: "At the end of the Path, however, the soul frees itself from all sanskaras and desires connected with the gross, subtle and mental worlds; and it becomes possible for it to free itself from the illusion of being finite, which came into existence owing to its identification with the gross, subtle and mental bodies. At this stage the soul completely transcends the phenomenal world and becomes Self-conscious and Self-realised."[6]

Western esotericism

Theosophy

H. P. Blavatsky's Theosophical teaching represented the convergence of 19th century Western occultism, Eastern philosophy, religion, science, and mysticism. The Secret Doctrine, and The Key to Theosophy combined the Vedantic concept of five koshas with Western esoteric traditions (particularly Neoplatonism). She refers to three subtle bodies:

  • Linga Sharira - the Double or Astral body
  • Mayavi-rupa - the "Illusion-body."
  • Causal Body - the vehicle of the higher Mind.

The Linga Sharira is the invisible double of the human body, elsewhere referred to as the etheric body, doppelgänger or bioplasmic body and serves as a model or matrix of the physical body, which conforms to the shape, appearance and condition of his "double". The linga sarira can be separated or projected a limited distance from the body. When separated from the body it can be wounded by sharp objects. When it returns to the physical frame, the wound will be reflected in the physical counterpart, a phenomenon called "repercussion." At death, it is discarded together with the physical body and eventually disintegrates or decomposes.

The mayavi-rupa is dual in its functions, being: "...the vehicle both of thought and of the animal passions and desires, drawing at one and the same time from the lowest terrestrial manas (mind) and Kama, the element of desire." [7]

The higher part of this body, containing the spiritual elements gathered during life, merges after death entirely into the causal body; while the lower part, containing the animal elements, forms the Kama-rupa, the source of "spooks" or apparitions of the dead.

The Vehicles of the Soul according to the Theosophist Curuppumullage Jinarajadasa.

Theosophy was further systematized in the writings of C.W. Leadbeater and Annie Besant. For example, they divided Blavatsky's dual mayavi-rupa into two different bodies: the emotional and the mental bodies. They also redefined some terms. The Linga Sarira (sometimes called astral body by Blavatsky) was denominated by Annie Besant[8] as Etheric Double. C.W. Leadbeater, regarding the emotional body as the seat of the kamic principle of Blavatsky's constitution, denominated it astral body. Therefore, the subtle bodies in a human being are:

Each "body" has its own aura and set of chakras, and corresponds to a particular plane of existence.

The Subtle body and the cosmic man, Nepal 1600s

Post Theosophists

The later Theosophical arrangement was taken up by Alice Bailey, and from there found its way (with variations) into the New Age worldview. It is also associated with the human aura observed through Kirlian photography and Kilner screens. The Anthroposophical view of the human being) found in Rudolf Steiner's Anthroposophical teachings usually referred to only the Etheric and Astral Bodies. However, Steiner also used a threefold classification of body,soul,and spirit as well as a sevenfold and a ninefold description .

Max Heindel divided the subtle body into: Vital Body made of Ether, our instrument for specializing the vital energy of the sun, seen by clairvoyant vision to extend about an inch and a half outside the body); the Desire body, which is our emotional nature and pervades both the vital and dense bodies, seen by clairvoyant vision to extend about 16 inches outside our visible body, related to the Desire World; and the Mental body, which functions like a mirror, reflects the outer world and enables the Ego to transmit its commands as thought, word and action. The human being is seen as a threefold Spirit, possessing a Mind by which he governs the threefold Body that he transmutes into a threefold Soul. The Human Spirit aspect has emanated from itself the desire body to be transmuted into the Emotional Soul; the Life Spirit aspect has emanated from itself the vital body to be transmuted into the Intellectual Soul; the Divine Spirit aspect has emanated from itself the dense body to be transmuted into the Conscious Soul.

Samael Aun Weor wrote extensively on the subtle vehicles, organizing them in accordance with the kabbalistic Tree of Life. The common person only contains the lunar vehicles of emotion (astral body), thought (mental body), and will (causal body), concentrations of the collective animalistic intelligence, the evolution of the Essence through the mineral, plant and animal kingdoms. Becoming human means to have a soul, a Solar Astral Body, Solar Mental Body and Solar Causal Body. These bodies are constructed through a form of Tantra called White tantrism.[9]

Barbara Brennan's account of the subtle bodies in her books Hands of Light and Light Emerging refers to the subtle bodies as "layers" in the "Human Energy Field" or aura. Causality proceeds downwards: each of the layers has its own characteristics and can have its own expression of disease, requiring individual healing. As with the Adyar arrangement, each body or aura also has its own complement of chakras, which interrelate to those in the other layers.

Michal Levin describes the relationship between the energy bodies and the chakras in her book Meditation, Path to the Deepest Self.

Fourth Way

An interesting variant on the concept of subtle bodies is found in both Alchemical Taoism and the "Fourth Way" teachings of Gurdjieff and Ouspensky, where it is said that one can create a subtle body, and hence achieve post-mortem immortality, through spiritual or yogic exercises. The "soul" then is not something one is born with, but something that one has to develop through esoteric practice.

According to (Rosenthal, 1997) "In Gurdjieffes cosmology our nature is tripartite and is composed of the physical (planetry), emotional (astral) and mental (spiritual) bodies; in each person one of these three bodies ultimately achieves dominance." The Fourth way as taught by Gurdjieff and Ouspensky is a philosophy of developing the divine body which is gained when one has complete understanding and self perfection. The ultimate task of the fourth way teachings is to synthesize the four bodies into a single way.[10]

Aleister Crowley and the Body of Light

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The work of the Body of Light was part of English author and occultist Aleister Crowley's system of magick, saying in his Magick (Book 4) that it must be developed by rigid discipline, including rituals and the "assumption of god-forms", as well as by practice and experience.[11]

From Crowley's Magick Without Tears (Ch. 81):

One passes through the veil of the exterior world (which, as in Yoga, but in another sense, becomes "unreal" by comparison as one passes beyond) one creates a subtle body (instrument is a better term) called the body of Light; this one develops and controls; it gains new powers as one progresses, usually by means of what is called "initiation:" finally, one carries on almost one's whole life in this Body of Light, and achieves in its own way the mastery of the Universe.

See also

Traditions

Other topics

References

  1. ^ White.
  2. ^ Larson, Gerald. Classical Samkhya p.242
  3. ^ Purucker, Gottfried. The Occult Glossary
  4. ^ Samkhyakarika, transl. Gerald Larson, vv 60-81, Classical Samkhya p.268.
  5. ^ Baba, Meher (1967). Discourses. 2. San Francisco: Sufism Reoriented. p. 145. ISBN 978-1880619094.
  6. ^ Baba, Meher (1967). Discourses. 2. San Francisco: Sufism Reoriented. p. 144. ISBN 978-1880619094.
  7. ^ H. P. Blavatsky, Astral Bodies, or Doppelgangers Collected Writings X, pp. 217-220
  8. ^ Annie Besant, The Ancient Wisdom, 1898.
  9. ^ Samael Aun Weor. "Types of Spiritual Schools". Note: The "ego" referred to by Samael Aun Weor is not used in the same context as it is used other esoteric schools.
  10. ^ Bernice Glatzer Rosenthal The occult in Russian and Soviet culture 1997, p. 361
  11. ^ Aleister Crowley Magick (Book 4), Samuel Weiser

Further reading

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