Spiritual Platform

By Gurdev Nageli

Spiritual Platform, within the overall context of Spiritual Science, advances the view that the Spiritual realm is the fundamental source of all energy, and that as human beings we are connected to this source. It is part of Universal Consciousness. We need to understand the laws of Universal Consciousnes

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookTrail Publishing
• Release date: Nov 7, 2022
• ISBN: 9781959082118

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Copyright © 2022 Gurdev Nageli

Paperback: 978-1-959082-10-1

eBook: 978-1-959082-11-8

Library of Congress Control Number: 2022918647

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.

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Contents

Introduction

Intelligent Design Or…?

Who Created Man?

Religion and Faith

Prayer And Meditation

Spiritual Compass

The Origins of the Holy Books

Core Beliefs of Major Religions

Birth, Life, and Death.

Religious Prophecy

Religion, Politics and The State

Evolving Spirituality and Consciousness

A Journey of Three Religious Sights

Brain, Mind and Consciousness

The Arab/Palestine/Israeli Issue

The Business of Leveraging and Greed And Financial Markets

Current Crises of Many Kinds

Bibliography

Dedication

To all those souls that have walked this earth and who by their thoughts and actions have strived to make this planet we call home a better place.

Question everything that lies within you and everything that is outside of you.

It is your birthright... and your destiny.

We are the world

https://youtu.be/qLCu4IXKvvU

Introduction

From birth, I was simultaneously exposed to both Eastern and Western cultures and religions. I was also fortunate to have travelled much in my life and was always curious to understand what came across my path. My personal and professional life brought me into contact with wealthy and poor people, and it was clear that whether rich or poor, people aspired for something more and greater than just materialism. Those who become materially successful come to realise at some point that such materialism and wealth, whilst enabling comforts and a better standard of living (which have their merits), does not guarantee good physical, emotional, and mental health, or ensure lasting happiness, peace, or love. It is your knowledge, your state of inner consciousness, your ability to realise that the material possessions you have been fortunate to acquire are just things that have been lent to you by the Universe. How you value them and what you do with them are much more important than just holding them for the sole purpose of personal acquisition. What you attach yourself to will eventually attach itself to you, and in so doing, you may increasingly define yourself by what you have and not who you are. What you own materially you can never keep eternally. There is even clearly no guarantee that you may not lose them, and in any event, at some point, you will die and will not be able to take material acquisitions with you. Even your human body... it is only lent to you for some time. What you take with you is what you are in your heart and your consciousness, based on what thoughts and actions you have made and what you have ultimately learnt of real value from living a life on this physical level. Nothing and no one can take this away from you, as it is not a material possession; it is your consciousness, and quite simply, it is ‘You’. Yes, of course you can be tortured and killed, but your convictions are yours, and it is these convictions that provide you with your spiritual compass in living in a world full of change and many challenges. Wisdom, which is distinct from intelligence, is by far greater than material possessions; it plays an important role in how you define your beliefs and values on a spiritual level which gives rise to your thoughts and actions on an individual and collective level.

When we talk of heaven, we have certain preconceived ideas depending on our beliefs. Heaven for many is a place where you can find lasting happiness and peace and love. As humans on this physical level, we also primarily and ultimately look likewise to achieving these aspirations. In other words, we can say ‘as above so below’. The heaven I refer to in this book is presented in this broad sense of mankind finding these aspirations. It is precisely because mankind looks for them that, since the beginning of time, he has spiritually looked towards a spiritual dimension to help better understand and achieve these basic desires in this physical world. This originated with superstition, developed into mythology and various mystical cults and associations, and later as society and civilisation developed, religion became the main vehicle to better understanding and connecting to the spiritual realm and its values in guiding mankind towards happiness, hope, peace, and love. All ancient civilisations had their ‘gods’ and belief systems, and there was a mixture of ignorance, superstition, fear. In many cases, these even led to animal and even human sacrifices to gods that needed worshiping and appeasing in order that those believers could be protected from misfortune from various sources, enabling them a more secure and fulfilling life in this life, as well as in several cases also in the afterlife. With respect to heaven Jagadish Jaggi Vasudev better known as Sadhguru is an Indian yoga guru and a proponent of spirituality and he established the Isha Foundation. In his view it is just convenient for mankind to believe in heaven, it is a man-made concept. None of the Eastern religions refer to heaven in the way that the three monotheistic religions do. His view is that mankind created God and religions in order to help cope with life’s challenges and suffering, and to provide hope and strength. But there clearly is a Creator and spirituality enables human wellbeing. God is not the goal; liberation is the goal. Accordingly, he views God more as a steppingstone towards liberation. He also views consciousness as the highest form of intelligence.

But Religions as they have evolved are not the final chapter in being able to fully understand the spiritual world. For the moment, suffice it to say that really ultimately mankind is only truly fulfilled when he achieves lasting happiness, peace, and love. So clearly, simply the very existence of the historical importance of mankind’s need and search for a spiritual connection, witnessed throughout his earthly existence, is the strongest argument which validates its importance and relevance. It is on some very fundamental level part of who we are.

Subjects and questions discussed in this book have already been looked into on many occasions in the past. This book is another look into the big issues affecting all of us in our journey on this earthly realm, and in so doing, it also presents them in its own way, inviting readers also to look at how many of these issues are becoming increasingly relevant in today’s changing world. Each contribution in this regard is one that helps towards elevating our consciousness, both individually and collectively, as part of society and ultimately the human race. It is in this spirit that I put pen to paper in this book.

It is important to recognise that the spiritual dimension, as expressed by mankind throughout the ages up to the present, and this naturally also includes religion as well, has not been just one belief or truth, one set of fixed rules, or one book... but has evolved and developed. It often itself underwent modification and changes as it adapted itself to the evolution of human beings in this physical world, given their context at various times of our history. Another self-evident truth is that there is always change over space and time; nothing stays the same forever. Change is inevitable and is not something we can control as a constant for eternity. The question is how change comes about, and why, and is it for the better or for the worse, and how can we as humans adapt and progress physically and spiritually. This is why religion, or spiritual guidance, has had and still does have different belief systems and forms of expression, and this journey is not yet over. Being closed to this possibility of spiritual evolution would be in my opinion a mistake in our efforts to reach for the sky. Take Martin Luther as a case of many such examples. In 1517, he publicly posted a list of ninety-five grievances against the Catholic Church in Germany, and it led to the Great Reformation that brought about the Church of England and the Protestant movement. The point here is that people were no longer either convinced or happy about the practices of the Catholic Church, whether it was the selling of indulgences, which provided blessings in favor of those who could pay more, or other practices. In other words, the consciousness of religious society was ready for change... a different way forward that one could identify with and believe in, a way in which spiritually, there was more conviction and true meaning. We may very well again today be increasingly getting slowly prepared for another such shift in spiritual consciousness, as people are increasingly feeling frustrated with what is happening and the increasing problems on all fronts. Where are we really going, and what needs to really be done in order to make things better from an ecological, an economic, financial markets, a geopolitical, a social, and a spiritual perspective? We sense a need to better answer these frustrations for a global age that has risen and with the challenges on all these fronts. Even though we may be living in a more multipolar world we are all humans and in spiritual terms there is more that fundamentally unites us than divides us.

On the social level, there is perhaps nothing more powerful than an idea that takes root in the collective consciousness when the time is ripe. It does not then take much to lead to major changes. Look at what happened in Tunisia some 12 years ago. The protests there at that time were sparked by the self-immolation of Mohamed Bouazizi on 17 December 2010 and led to the ousting of President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali twenty-eight days later, on 14 January 2011. He fled to Saudi Arabia after twenty-three years in power. The demonstrations were precipitated by high unemployment, food inflation, and corruption, a lack of freedom of speech and other political freedoms, and poor living conditions. The protests constituted the most dramatic wave of social and political unrest in Tunisia in three decades. Look what then has followed in several other countries like Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Bahrain, Yemen, Syria, Afghanistan, Pakistan and currently also elsewhere. All the demonstrations and related events in these countries were not primarily just a religious revolution, but a social revolution. In many instances it was also religion that clearly played its role in also determining what new social order would result. Some conflicts have been ongoing for years like the whole Israeli and Palestinian/Arab equation. With the current challenges the world is now confronting on so many fronts, there are more countries affected for broadly similar, and other reasons, but more of this later on in this book.

In the process as things unfold, religion as currently practiced, may also adapt to the changing interpretation and evolving consciousness of a younger generation. Certain concepts of what is considered right and wrong in the social context may become modified. This has happened in all religions over time to a greater or lesser extent. And it does raise the question of what right and wrong really are in a religious context, as they have not, and are not, unilaterally fixed for all time. This question of good and bad with respect to the notions of right and wrong will be discussed further.

What is relevant at this point is to recognise that mankind generally always looks to another/higher source or consciousness through which meaning can be derived in order to be truly more fulfilled in a world where change is the order of things and cannot be entirely controlled. A world in which there are always wars, conflicts, inequality, injustice, poverty, food shortages and starvation, economic and financial instability, as well as different trade and security strategic alliances confronting each other. The world today stands at an important crossroads on so many fronts that it is becoming clear it can no longer continue in the same way, and some new order and change will most definitely result. The causes of this path leading us to a new world order are discussed towards the end of this book. We are already on this path.

In this book, I will talk about the ‘Spiritual Platform’, which is looking at spirituality from an all-encompassing perspective. The basic premise is that all things that exist in physical and spiritual creation are energy, and that this energy expresses itself through material and non-material vibration. The type of vibration determines the nature of the object, type of life, ideas, and action. I share the view that the ultimate and prime source of this energy is spirit energy and that other forms of energy and their vibration, on all other levels, all come into being and are born from this spirit source. The prime source of this energy is Divine Universal Consciousness, and it is of vital importance to understand the Laws of Universal Consciousness as all creation at its core is connected to this source. This is part of the belief in Spiritual Science, and I shall explain this in more detail later.

It is in correctly understanding the values that govern the spiritual source that mankind will, with evolution through space and time better understand how to live life in order to establish a better world both individually and collectively. This enables for a better future on all levels in a journey that we are all travelling on, leading to optimising our incredible potential, and where that ultimately leads us. Clearly, no one in their right mind wants unhappiness, fear, hatred, and war... and yet these are also very much part of the human experience and its history to date. It need not always be that way. In better understanding the Spiritual Platform, I believe with the passing of time, we can construct a better world and future in our journey. Relative progress is always possible if we do not ourselves limit its possibility. The fact that something has not yet been achieved does not mean it is not potentially achievable. Neither should it allow for a view that we should not continue to make the effort to create the right conditions, whether it be individually or collectively. History is full of examples of what we believed to be true turning out not to be so, and what was once considered science fiction has become reality. Those who do not, especially now, learn from history will be condemned to repeat it.

Science and the physical world are not the sole exclusive spaces in which consciousness resides and where progress is achievable. But the material and physical world is our current ‘reality’ while we occupy this space. And here it is important to understand that while science enables for a better understanding and knowledge of the physical space this physical space is not the only space, and more importantly, it is not the prime energy space within all existence. The branch of a tree does not exist without the hidden roots of the tree that nourishes and sustains it. Science is but one way to understand the rules of our earthly physical realm, but there also exists a Universal Consciousness which is part of another realm, another part of existence and has its own laws. Your thoughts are not physical they are conscious energy. If one looks to the laws of science to explain all existence it simply is not possible…to be able to unlock the right door you must use the right key.

This book is a philosophical presentation of the big picture covering various topics; it is neither a detailed academic analysis of each religion, but rather discusses how the Spiritual Platform provides for a better understanding of many confusing issues, both within and outside of religion, enabling us to better evaluate what the ‘truth’ that we seek is. Because this book addresses itself to all age groups and all cultures and given that the book addresses some of the big questions about life as well as contemporary issues, by definition, it makes sense to avoid an approach where one finds it more difficult to see the forest because of all the trees. The perspectives of differing political, cultural, and spiritual values cannot all be covered. In today’s world, many are better educated and with the Internet and social media platforms available, people now can look into and inform themselves in greater detail about matters that may be viewed differently given their own relative background and context. An individual may sit around a table with the best theological scholars from all religions and their denominations, and whilst he or she will probably become better informed over time, do you think it will really enable for convincing clarity as to which teacher around the table is the one with the right spiritual path and that the others therefore must be wrong? I believe most people, if really left to freely make their own decision, are likely to look beyond the clear confusion that still prevails in and between religions and move more towards the approach of a Spiritual Platform as we advance into a new era where our spiritual consciousness identifies itself more in keeping with the view shared by Spiritual Science.

This book is not intended, and cannot be, all things to all men. This book addresses religions from the perspective of providing information, context, and relevance. Times and consciousness change and do so within one lifetime, as they do also collectively. There is much relativity in this development, as wheels turn within wheels for an individual as well as for society. Everything and everybody are not at the same point of understanding, reference, and level as we define who we are and what we believe in. But no journey is too long if it leads to the truth.

As spiritual beings, we are not meant to be constrained, but also free, yet we must also be responsible for this freedom and in the choices that we make and their resulting actions. In this ‘search’ and evolutionary process, we face many obstacles and difficulties. It certainly is not easy, but then nothing truly worthwhile ever is. It is within the nature of this responsibility that we will understand, through the effects and results of our choices and actions, how we can find answers and liberation.

Lastly, let me also emphasise that this book does not seek to judge any other belief system or religion. If anything, it is about us ultimately judging ourselves. In the words of Mother Teresa, ‘If you judge people, you have no time to love them.’ No doubt there will be many readers who will find it difficult to take aboard some of the aspects in this book, and frankly this is welcomed, as it is by interaction amongst us that we will progress. Hopefully, this book will assist in part towards an open and honest discernment when coming to your truth, whatever that may be. Religious tolerance that respects the basic values of real human rights is both necessary and part of the journey. The respect towards any individual having their right to find their own path is part of the spirit that is part of Spiritual Platform.

Ultimately, it is not the waves that carry the sea, but rather it is the sea that carries the waves, and therefore we need to focus on the source that brings forth the different waves in our spiritual journey. And what you focus on…grows.

The Spiritual Platform I refer to in this book is not some new spiritual or religious organisation. It has no formal structure. It is quite simply an attitude, a spirit of mind, a philosophical approach within spirituality, a consciousness that each one of us takes into consideration when we address spirituality both personally and collectively. It enables for increasing our understanding of our real inner spiritual identity, leading to more unity and harmony. It calls for an awareness that can assist in raising ourselves beyond division and elevating our inner consciousness in our spiritual journey so that we can evolve, enabling for a better individual and collective appreciation about how we need to focus on what is truly important to all of us as the wheel of our existence continually shifts. It is, if you like, a moral compass.

This book addresses some of the following main questions that inspire us to better understand spirituality and how religions have played their part. What is this sacred path that man walks down? What is its purpose? What knowledge can we gain from it? Why is this knowledge important?

Nat King Cole sang a wonderful song with the lyrics "The greatest thing you’ll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return" - https://youtu.be/lJ75Y6nXKbM

Love is the strongest positive force there is and clearly greater than fear. You can be prepared to live and die for love, but to live and die from fear is something totally different.

If this book is about anything, it is foremost about touching souls.

Intelligent Design Or…?

THERE IS NO BETTER place to start a journey then from the beginning, and there are two issues that we obviously need to address. Firstly, how did the whole universe come into existence, and secondly, how did the existence of life and mankind come about? In this first chapter, we shall look at Science as the world’s major religions and how they believe the universe was created.

Religion, like science, is really one of the main ways that man seeks to give meaning to the world around him. Before proceeding to the world’s major religions, let us briefly explain the main scientific view. The basic premise from the scientific perspective is that the origins of the universe existed some 13,7 billion years ago, at which time, some physicists believe the Big Bang occurred, and they have attempted to substantiate this theory with scientific evidence and observations. The universe began with a tremendous amount of density and temperature. At the outset there existed matter and antimatter, and when they came together, they created Light. The light and remaining matter that existed after all antimatter was removed led to the process from whence all life arose. However, this as yet is not 100% substantiated as an undisputed fact, and even within the scientific community, there are variations in details about this theory. There is also no clear scientific evidence about what existed, or not, before the Big Bang. So, in the absence of absolute scientific certainty, and whilst it may be true that such absence does not in itself invalidate the possibility of the theory, it remains an open question. On a side note, it is relevant that one should be aware that in this scientific view, before the arrival of Light, there must have been darkness, and it was the Force of Light that contributed for the creation of Life.

Likewise, the general view among the scientific community is that as no religion has empirically clearly proved the existence of a Creator, then for a scientist the debate is still very much on the table. It is naturally also worthwhile considering the question whether what may be likely viewed as scientific theory is really true, as something we consider today as a scientific explanation could be modified, because part of the basis of the premise which one takes as a constant (all things being equal) may itself change? Whilst science is a way to understand and measure physical laws, this does not necessarily mean it is the only form of measurement to understanding everything. It is not the appropriate way to understand spirituality or even the importance of human values like ethics, human rights, freedom of speech, and democracy. One has to ask oneself what the role of science for human beings is, and here, I would argue science exists primarily so that man can benefit from its knowledge in understanding better the mechanism and laws relating to the physical realm. Science enables us to understand the way that this physical level functions, and so, its knowledge is extremely useful when applying it correctly to make for a more efficient practical world. But we can also abuse scientific knowledge for destructive