The teachings of the Brotherhood of the White Temple are rooted in esoteric and metaphysical traditions, focusing on spiritual enlightenment, personal transformation, and a deeper understanding of universal laws. Here's a more detailed look at their key teachings:
1. The Emerald Tablets of Thoth the Atlantean
A central text for the Brotherhood is the Emerald Tablets of Thoth, which Dr. Maurice Doreal claimed to have translated from ancient texts during a visit to Egypt. These tablets are attributed to Thoth, an ancient deity of wisdom, who is also thought to have been a king of the lost continent of Atlantis. The teachings from the Emerald Tablets focus on:
-
The Principle of Mentalism: The idea that the universe is mental in nature, and everything is created and influenced by the mind.
-
The Law of Correspondence: "As above, so below," suggesting that there are patterns and correspondences between the microcosm (individual) and macrocosm (universe).
-
The Law of Vibration: Everything in the universe, including thoughts, has a vibration or frequency.
-
The Law of Polarity: Everything has its opposite, and understanding this duality is key to understanding reality.
2. Spiritual Evolution and Ascension
The Brotherhood emphasizes the importance of personal growth, which can be achieved by:
-
Awakening the Inner Power: They teach that each person has latent spiritual abilities that, when activated, can lead to enlightenment and self-mastery. This involves understanding universal laws, cultivating virtues, and harnessing the inner power of the soul.
-
Temple Grades and Initiation: The Brotherhood uses a structured system where members progress through different grades. These grades, including both Neophyte and Temple levels, represent different stages of spiritual development, learning, and mastery. This system serves as a way to measure spiritual progress and guides the individual toward higher states of consciousness.
3. Healing and Energy Work
Another core part of their teachings involves healing through metaphysical means. The Brotherhood focuses on:
-
Energy Healing: Techniques like using the mind to focus energy and heal the body and spirit.
-
Harmonizing with Universal Laws: Understanding and living in harmony with the natural and spiritual laws of the universe, which leads to a balanced life and health.
4. Theosophy and Ancient Wisdom
Their teachings draw heavily from Theosophy, which itself blends elements from many religious and philosophical traditions. Some key concepts include:
-
Reincarnation and Karma: The idea that the soul undergoes multiple lifetimes, learning and evolving through each one. The actions taken in one life influence future lives through the law of karma.
-
Christ Consciousness: The Brotherhood emphasizes understanding and embracing the spiritual principles that Jesus Christ taught, but from an esoteric perspective. This includes recognizing the Gnostic teachings that were allegedly suppressed by traditional Christian orthodoxy.
5. The Role of the Initiate
Members of the Brotherhood are considered initiates, and their role is to study and apply these teachings to become more spiritually enlightened. They are encouraged to:
-
Study the Ancient Wisdom Teachings: Through written lessons and meditations, members learn the deeper meanings of ancient spiritual texts and apply those teachings in daily life.
-
Live According to Universal Principles: They are encouraged to practice compassion, love, humility, and understanding, aligning their actions with spiritual laws and principles.
6. Advanced Mysticism
Some of the more advanced teachings of the Brotherhood delve into mystical practices, including:
-
Astral Projection: The ability to consciously leave the physical body and explore the spiritual dimensions.
-
Alchemy: The transformation of the self, often symbolized by the transformation of base metals into gold, representing the spiritual process of refining and purifying the soul.
7. The Importance of Service and Community
The Brotherhood encourages its members to serve both the spiritual community and humanity at large. They believe that spiritual growth isn't just for individual benefit but should also uplift others.
The Brotherhood of the White Temple teaches that enlightenment is a lifelong journey of learning and transformation, one that requires dedication, self-discipline, and a desire to live in alignment with higher spiritual truths.