Esowiki - Spiritual Terms Simply Explained

Silver Cord

The silver cord (or silver strand) is a term from esotericism, parapsychology, and sometimes also from certain spiritual teachings. It describes an energetic connection between the physical body and the astral body (or soul).

What exactly is the silver cord?
It is said to look like an invisible band or thread made of "silver" – hence the name.

This cord connects the body with consciousness during so-called out-of-body experiences (OBE) or astral travel.

During these experiences, the consciousness (or soul) "leaves" the body but remains connected via the silver cord so that one can "return."

Some say the silver cord is what keeps us alive. When it is severed, physical life ends – hence death.

Where does the idea come from?
The concept originally comes from ancient mystical and religious traditions – e.g., Kabbalah, Hinduism, or Theosophy.

The Bible also contains a reference to this (Ecclesiastes 12:6-7):

"...before the silver cord is broken, and the golden bowl is shattered..." – which is often interpreted symbolically as death.