Agni Yoga - Comprehensive Compilations - 3

Agni Yoga - Comprehensive Compilations
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Second issue, 1994 Third issue, 2002
PRELIMINARY SELECTIONS NEW STUDENTS

References compiled from the Books of the Teachings
for
PRELIMINARY SELECTIONS FOR NEW STUDENTS I. The Teaching II. Living Ethics III. Hierarchy IV. Covenants V. The Teacher VI. Service Epilogue
I. THE TEACHING Foreword Do not listen to the teacher who demands a fee for his teaching. The Teaching cannot be bought or obtained by coercion. Truly, each one gains access to the Teaching only by proving his devotion by deeds. It is actions, not words, that lead to the Community of Knowledge. If a child strives to that Community, will there not be work for him there? Likewise, will anyone who accepts with full consciousness the statutes of the Community find the doors barred? Can one cite an example when the quest of a pure consciousness was not answered? Precisely outlined are the statutes of the Community of Knowledge. No cunning can obscure them. Traveler, pay your debt, and walk tirelessly. Agni Yoga, 93. Each era chooses its new, corresponding Teaching, when all previous Teachings have become distorted. People tend to cling to these twisted distortions of the faith of their forefathers, yet no new Teaching ever excludes preceding ones. Little attention is paid to this fact, for the followers of every Teaching like to build
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their success on denial of the previous Teachings. But it is easy to prove the continuity of what people call religion. In this continuity is sensed a single stream of one energy. Calling it psychic energy, we speak of the Sophia of the Hellenic world or Sarasvati of the Hindus. The Holy Ghost of the Christians manifests signs of psychic energy, just as do the creative Adonai of Israel, and Mithra of Persia, full of solar power. Certainly, no one doubts that the Fire of Zoroaster is the Fire of Space, which you now study. Psychic energy is both Fire and Materia Matrix, and the Teaching of Agni Yoga is nothing other than an explanation of today's application of energy, the stream of which is approaching with Satya Yuga. This is not a new awakening of heretofore dormant possibility, but an enlightenment spread over time. I say, the Teaching cannot be given for money, nor can it be imposed; it heralds the New Era. One can ignore it or deny it, but its heralding is inescapable. The coming era can be understood properly or in a distorted way, but its approach is undeniable. Agni Yoga, 416.
Leaves of Moryas Garden, Book I, The Call, 1924 119. My children, the teaching of life under My Guidance is the straightest path to an understanding of Cosmos. 161. By your everyday life do I teach you. 224. It is better to have stern knowledge than to be moved by sentiment. I teach the truth of life. You must know before you are able. You must be able before you can manifest anything. And you can manifest only what is justified in spirit. 417. I give to you the Teaching, karmic messages, Instructions. The Teaching is intended for the whole world, for all beings. The more broadly you comprehend, the more truly it is yours.
Leaves of Moryas Garden, Book II, Illumination, 1926 II. 11. The Teaching of how to walk upon Earth is revealed to those who consider heaven to be alive. A teacher is one who can walk firmly upon Earth. I repeat that there should not be renunciation of earthly life without full understanding of its manifestation. One should understand with sensitiveness the events of each day. When the date strikes, even an ant may come as a messenger. (p. 44)
Community, 1926 201. Even when the consciousness is being notably deepened, there can be difficult hours. It may seem that the bond with the Teacher does not exist, and that the Teacher does not exist, but he who knows says: "Maya, begone! I know my bond with the Teacher." A great deal may appear in the way of personal ideas apart from the Teaching, and he who knows will say: "Maya, begone! I know the foundations of the Teaching." It may seem
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that one is deprived of all coworkers while obliged to try to take up the burden, and he who knows will say: "Maya, begone! I know that true coworkers are scattered over the face of the Earth!" (p. 178)
Agni Yoga, 1929 413. The Teaching grows spirally, just as does all that exists. Blessed are those who understand the spiral nature of the Fire. The tip of the flame was represented by the ancient ones as a flattened spiral. The element of Fire expresses with special vividness the principle of motion. Can you affirm that you are practicing Agni Yoga if you have not even realized the birth of the inner fire? Pure striving produces flashes of fire. 543. You may meet people who reject the Teaching entirely. Do not try to persuade them. Our Teaching is not a campaigning one; it is an instructive one, intended for those who already desire to perfect themselves. Some may choose a favorite page for themselves, with which they will abide, but not with the full Teaching. Others will pretend that they respect the Teaching, but will just place the book under their pillow while they sleep. And still others will speak of their love for the Teaching, but will not renounce a single bad habit. Nevertheless, the predestined ones will come!
Infinity I, 1930 60. Each one must find the key to the Teaching in his heart. Understanding of the universal Teaching can unfold the creativeness of the spirit. The Image of the Teacher can provide an illumined path into the cosmic expanse. (p. 61)
Infinity II, 1930 95. The Teaching of the East regarding Yoga is incomprehensible to the Western mind, and the heart does not sense its beauty. Hence, the evidence of nonunderstanding bars the approach to the future. It is essential to affirm the new approach by means of the acceptance of the concept of the Teacher. (p. 49) 124. Our Teaching will give the wings to humanity and open the path to Infinity. (p. 63) 158. Our close co-workers, having accepted the beauty of the Teaching, will be strengthened by the magnetic vibration. (p. 79) 334. Those who have understood Our Teaching must approach most cautiously the determination of their own actions. The luminous future is being created under Our Shield. One cannot attain save through pure striving, but the fetters of selfhood encircle the Teaching with misconception. Therefore, it is very important to penetrate into the nature of the striving manifested. Verily, the many broad possibilities will bring a broad understanding. I so affirm. (p. 143)
Hierarchy, 1931 7. The Teaching manifested by Maitreya summons the human spirit to Our creative world; the Teaching of Maitreya ordains the infinite in Cosmos, in life, and in the attainments of the spirit; the Teaching of Maitreya guards the knowledge of the Cosmic Fire as the unfoldment of the heart that embraces the manifestation of the Universe. (p. 13)
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Heart, 1932 17. Unceasingly and during all times, the Teaching of Life is poured upon Earth. One cannot imagine ones earthly existence without this link with the Invisible World. As the anchor of salvation, as the guiding light, the Teaching strengthens our advance in the darkness. But amidst the shower of Beneficence, as with sea waves, one can notice the rhythm, with special definite expansions, then the Teachings appear. Thus, one can explain the rhythm of this entire world by growth and submergence, in other words, inscribing the evolution of existence. (p. 17)
Fiery World I, 1932 79. It may be asked in what relation Our Teaching stands to the one already given by Us through Blavatsky. Answer that each century, after the manifestation of a detailed exposition, a conclusive culmination is given, which actually moves the world, along the line of humanness. Thus, Our Teaching includes the "Secret Doctrine" of Blavatsky. Similarly, Christianity was the culmination of the world wisdom of the classic epoch, and the Commandments of Moses were the culmination of that of ancient Egypt and Babylon. However, the significance of the ramiform Teachings must be understood. It is hoped that people not only read Our books but accept them without delay, for I speak briefly of that which must be remembered. When I speak of the need of fulfilling My Indications, I ask you to fulfill them with complete precision. I can see more clearly, and you must learn to follow the Indication, which has in view your own good. A man fell under a train merely because he stepped upon the rails, but he had been forewarned and should not have done so. (pp. 47-48)
Fiery World II, 1934 285. The Teaching should be read under different conditions, yet the effect will not be always identical. At a time of consternation the Teaching will bring tranquillity, at a time of afflictionconsolation, at a time of doubt affirmation, but in order to absorb the reality of the Teaching, one must repress ones casual sensations by penetration into the treasury of Hierarchy. Not merely as a comfort has the Teaching been given, but for advancement upon the ladder of ascent. Indeed, under the special conditions of the world, a deepening of comprehension is especially difficult. (p. 182)
Fiery World III, 1935 21. The Teaching is given in endless succession, for the purpose of affirmation of fiery revelations and the carrying out of highest laws, and, following the same principle as that governing magnetic poles, can be given only to a fiery spirit that has been aligned with Hierarchy for thousands of years. The intensified fiery action extends for thousands of years. The fusion of consciousness is forged over a span of thousands of years. The united path is carved and paved in thousands of years. Hearts are merged in one Great Service in thousands of years. Immutable is the Cosmic Law, and it should be understood that the succession of the Teaching is affirmed through millenniums. There are many who attempt to infringe upon this great right, but a Cosmic Right is given to a creator in the Fiery World. Therefore humanity must purify consciousness for the understanding of the great Right of succession. (pp. 19-20)
Aum, 1936
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334. I entrust the Teaching to each one who lives in all the worlds. Do not consider such a definition inapplicable. Man actually lives in all the worlds. Each day he visits the worlds, but he cannot be conscious of these momentary absences. Only a few apprehend the sensation of being absent. No extended time is required for the spirit, which exists outside of time. Such sensations are quite characteristic for developed consciousnesses. (p. 163) 569. Is the fragmentary character of these notes accidental? May it not be that in this mosaic there is contained a rhythm and a special design? Let friends sometimes reflect upon why this system has been selected! Does there not lie in it the particular problem of reacting on different centers? Perfecting the ability of perception is a very important attainment. (p. 274)
Brotherhood, 1937 220. Each phase of the Teaching answers a particular need of humanity. The present time is distinguished by the shattering of morality. The help of the Teaching must be directed to the affirmation of moral foundations. The findings of science pursue a path different from the way of life; there results a particular kind of savagery, which is in possession of scientific instruments. A minority of highly enlightened workers stand out as rare islands in an ocean of ignorance. Literacy is by no means enlightenment; therefore, the advice is given to reinforce the heart as the focal point of enlightenment. Scientific and medical indications are given; they ought to help to restore the bodily and spiritual health. The more directly these counsels are accepted, the stronger will be their action. The embryo of enthusiasm grows into a beautiful inspiration. A drop of goodness is transformed into effective good. A grain of love grows into a beautiful garden. Who then would censure a desire to help a neighbor? (pp. 116117)
Letters of Helena Roerich, Volume I 1929-1935 As for the alleged Eastern influence over the Teaching of Living Ethics, let us be objective and ask ourselves if there is any teaching or philosophy that did not originate in the East. Our so-called Western philosophy is a mere reflection of the thought of the East. Christianity itself came from Eastern Hands. Therefore, in order to comprehend the Teaching of Christ completely, it is necessary either to be an Easterner by birth or else to study fundamentally those doctrines upon which the Teaching of Christ is built. It is quite certain that the Christianity of today and the original Teaching of Christ Himself are two entirely different things. Even as the lamaism of the present time and the original Teaching of Gotama Buddha are complete opposites. (p. 234) Seed Thought 460. The Teaching will be revealed to those who have perceived the right path. The Messenger will knock at their door. (Hierarchy, p. 248)
II. LIVING ETHICS Foreword

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188. The nature of things must be taught among the most primary subjects. It must be beautifully described in all reality; the succession of worlds must be demonstrated with all scientific comparisons. Not only will religion not contradict such exposition of the foundations, but on the contrary religion will assist, through its most ancient allusions. The study of the nature of things will serve as the threshold to understanding of Living Ethics. One must realize why honor, dignity and all other high human qualities are indispensable. From the earliest years children should hear about the Subtle and Fiery Worlds; they must understand the principle of Hierarchy and of Good. The sooner they are reminded about Hierarchy and the other Truths, the more easily will they recall former knowledge. The concept of God in all its grandeur is clarified on the basis of Hierarchy. Only thus can the Highest Concept emerge from abstraction and blend with all Existence. It is necessary that the Leader and the Government understand how to increase the realization of the Higher Representation. It is necessary that schools attractively depict Existence in all its grandeur. (Fiery World II, p. 125)
Community, 1926 269. Life will grow stronger not through mechanics but through the ideas of communal life. ... Good relationships must be established, and only cooperation will lead to effective good. ... The Living Ethics enters as a consolidating principle. (p. 246)
Heart, 1932 104. People do not want to observe the manifestations of the Subtle World, which are scattered everywhere. So, also, they cannot imagine that ethics is a practical pharmacopoeia for attracting the spatial energies by the simplest method. You will not tire of repeating about the necessity of realizing the application of the heart for the attraction of the highest possibilities. (p. 69) 155. There are many occult books, but the majority of them cannot be utilized now. The chief reason is that everywhere they take into account only some specially chosen people. But Our Teaching has in mind all, all, all! Only through these calls to all can abstract ethics be replaced by the Teaching of Life. (p. 100) 500. The heart was always regarded as the focal point of life. Then people, in their hearts, become cognizant of the Yoga of Hierarchy, in other words, the link with the Supreme. Now there has been set down the Yoga of the Subtle and Fiery Worlds; such cooperation of the heart appears as a new condition in peoples consciousness. Precisely, we must not remain within the boundaries of abstract ethics. The events and indisputable conditions lead mankind toward new paths; therefore We so greatly advise discarding the yoke of habit, and an understanding of our unique times. (p. 284)
Fiery World II, 1934 87. Not without reason do people recall ancient prophecies about changes in the firmament. In fact, violation of the planets equilibrium will cause many three-fold manifestations. Not only may new heavenly bodies become visible, but the very chemism of the Luminaries may be altered, and of course this will react strongly upon the inhabitants of Earth. Thus, while people are enjoying their bazaars and fairs, ominous events are in the offing. Therefore one must undeferrably reiterate about the Living Ethics. The Sacred Ethics is transformed into a foolish etiquette and has become a printed label. (pp. 61-62) 202. Nowhere do people think about the Living Ethics. They think it possible to pass their lives in the usual way,
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yet with each day it becomes more evident that it is possible to save people only by means of faith, which surpasses all religions. There is not much of such faith, and let us not try to count in thousands where there are only tens. Unusual are such paths of realization of the Highest. (p. 134) 262. Yes, yes, yes, if people do not turn to the Hiero-inspiration, many conflagrations will result. Equilibrium and concordance are violated by the mechanistic concept of the world. Half a century ago We were already concerned about the excessive increase of physical knowledge. Verily, much as been attained in this direction, but at the same time the spiritual consciousness was lagging behind the physical. Ethics were lost amidst accumulations of formulas. Machines attracted man away from the art of thinking. Now they are content to be robots! For the equilibrium of the World the heart is needed, and in this Decree is contained undeferrable salvation. Ill-will is pressing upon the earthly aura. (p. 170)
Fiery World III, 1935 135. The Living Ethics discerns all the concepts which are the Fundamentals of Life. In order to apply the Living Ethics to life it is first of all needful to find in oneself the quality of true Service to Hierarchy. ... The Living Ethics must first of all be expressed in ethics of daily actions. The Living Ethics helps to preserve the image of man. ... Useless are all assurances of devotion, useless are professed understandings of the Teacher, useless are honors to the Lord where there is no understanding of the Living Ethics. In the Subtle World one does not depart from ones experiences. As ones own light illumines the surroundings, so too does ones own darkness choke all space. (pp. 108-109) 136. Thus must the Living Ethics enter into everyday life. If the Living Ethics be not accepted, then a series of rigorous consequences will be powerfully manifested. (p. 109) 137. The Living Ethics contains laws for the manifestation of Truth. Life is affirmed in all the higher concepts; thus, the creativeness of the Living Ethics directs thought to the construction of the essential. All strivings in the name of the Living Ethics will direct thought to future constructiveness. Indeed, not by words but by actions will be molded the steps of the future. Each life-giving fire must evoke its own forms. Therefore, the creativeness of the Living Ethics can direct humanity to the Light. The Subtle World affirms its creative power which is manifested for the betterment of Existence. How great is the responsibility of mankind for all the engenderings which have caused such destruction! Each engendering in its turn produces its destruction, and the planet is engulfed in stifling gases. Therefore, it is so important to assume a higher destination of life as a striving toward the true Living Ethics. It is impossible to bring into order the earthly and supermundane spheres without this purification. The present is revealed as the time for introspection and adoption of these great designations, for the battle between Light and darkness is at hand. Thus, on the path to the Fiery World let us intensify our energies in the name of the Living Ethics. (pp. 109-110) 164. It is possible to create, saturating the surroundings, only when the heart energies have been kindled. Without these sacred fires it is impossible to affirm the Higher Ethics. The Living Ethics can be instituted as the goal of striving in life, but for this it is necessary to know and to aspire to the higher and subtler understanding. Only subtle spirits can manifest the Living Ethics. The application of principles in life is accomplished by directed action. The empty word leaves a corresponding stratum, but action of the fiery heart evokes and sets alight fires in surrounding hearts. Thus creates the true Agni Yogi. (pp. 126-127) 261. Who will be a follower, if the Teaching is merely an abstraction? It is possible to trace each deplorable consequence precisely as a neglect of understanding of the Living Ethics. Fiery is the heart which knows the affirmation of Service with the Teaching. I manifest as My Will the installation of the Living Ethics and the purification of the Teaching. Without this there is no path to the Fiery World. The greatest task is to affirm a new subtle consciousness. My Will transmits to the Tara My Covenants. (p. 185)
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579. The Living Ethics is a bridge to all Worlds. Only in its living application is created an invulnerable crossing. Nothing can pierce the fiery armor. One does not have to be disturbed by the weeds of metaphysics when the spirit knows the path of living thought. Only the measure of good manifests the Fire of Light. With such a lamp it is possible to enter firmly upon the great bridge. Only for the distant journey is the Living Ethics given. One must love it as an aid in the journey. (p. 338)
Letters of Helena Roerich, Volume I, 1929-1938 The foundations of Living Ethics offered by the Teaching can be correctly assimilated only by a cultivated and disciplined mind. And how many such intellects are there, even among the so-called educated people? Without a foundation of culture and refinement, how can we expect a person to react to the most subtle vibrations? Is it possible to expect this from one who sees and yet does not see, hears and yet does not hear; whose eyes and ears are closed to the reception of the finest vibrations of nature; for whom earth is always black and mountains always green or gray; to whom all Hindus and all Chinese look alike, and all the sounds of waterfalls, rivers and forests are just noise! Can one expect from such a person the cognition of higher vibrations? The first requisite for each reception is an expanded consciousness. The consciousness is the only magnet that will attract and assemble our treasury. That is why in the books of Living Ethics the opening, purifying and broadening of the consciousness is so much insisted upon. The Teaching stays with those who strive toward it. (p. 323) Seed Thought 585. The Teaching of Living Ethics must set the direction in which the mind of man is to be propelled. Let us not violate free will, let each one make haste in his own rhythm, let each one sense the great vibrations in his own way, but let him sense it and make haste. (Fiery World III, pp. 340-341)
III. HIERARCHY
Foreword Today, I write using the words of the Great Teacher about the Sacrament of Hierarchy. Truly, this is a sacrament because it is based upon the immutable and exact law of the Cosmic Magnet which leads all beings to perfection. It is necessary to realize the Hierarchy clearly, precisely, and broadly as the only way toward progress. We must realize the whole chain of Hierarchy, holding strongly to our nearest link. Woe to the one who tries to skip this link and thus loses his connection. It is impossible to catch up again, as the rhythm of the movement of the whole chain will carry away the saving link. Grave indeed is this error! How much time will be lost in trying to recover the vibrating link which responds to the call. But the new link will be different in sequence and tension because the previous one has been carried away in the rhythmic striving of the whole Hierarchical chain. "Subordination of the lower to the higher represents the foundation of the whole Cosmos. Subordination of the lower to the higher will bring purification. But humanity subordinates to the lower that which should lead. When the higher leads, the transmutation of the lower occurs. This transmutation creates a valuable sequence
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which grows infinitely. By transmutation we mean the subordination of the lower to the higher, and we want to confirm the consciousness of mankind in the process of infinite progress." Therefore, let us not delay the transmutation of our consciousness. Let us remember the leading Hierarch, and let us honor the nearest, the earthly Guru. "The earthly Guru is given for reverence, for progress, for unity, for construction." By neglecting the Guru, by depreciating the Guru, one neglects and demeans the Great Teacher who confirmed the Guru because the Guru is the representative of the Great Teacher. Let us remember how the Lords of Light hold sacred the Sacrament of Hierarchy. The Hierarch carries the Synthesis of the Chalice and, therefore, He holds both obedience and command. The one who does not know the art of obeying will not attain the art of commanding. Beautiful are these two concepts. Conscious subordination approaches command. After the firm realization of Hierarchy, we shall with all our heart begin a deeper understanding of the Teaching of Life. (Letters of Helena Roerich, Volume I, p. 10)
Leaves of Moryas Garden, Book I, The Call, 1924 395. Respect the principle of Hierarchy. In Brotherhoods great and small, all actions are given through the Elders. There may be teachings and inspirations, but actions originate from One Source. Await not gifts but gather treasures. I can give you all the pearls of the world, But what will you do with this treasure? You will find the most iron-bound, the most musty, the most tomb-like vault, and the gift will die. But it will be different if under My Hand you will by yourself string from human souls a necklace of pearls, And will judge their size and value.
Leaves of Moryas Garden, Book II, Illumination, 1925 VIII. 12. By the Will of the Hierarchy you can preserve the entrusted treasure. (p. 21) VIII. 2. What I will say now is very important. The canon, "By thy God," is the higher, and this canon is the basis of the New World. Formerly one said: "And my spirit rejoiceth in God, my Savior." Now you will say: "And my spirit rejoiceth in God thy savior." Solemnly do I say that therein is salvation. "Long live thy God!" So you will say to everyone; and exchanging Gods, you will walk to the One. There where one might otherwise sink one can tread softly, if without negation. There where one could suffocate one can pass, by pronouncing "Thy God." There where matter is revered one can pass only by elevating the earthly matter into the Cosmos. Essentially, one should not have any attachment to Earth. Why is there a legend about the descent of Christ into hell? The Teacher addressed the lower strata of the astral world, saying: "Why, by cherishing earthly thoughts, bind oneself eternally to Earth?" And many revolted in spirit and rose higher.
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Thus, find the God of each one and exalt Him. One can understand it in mind, but it is more important that it be accepted in the smile of the spirit. When the most difficult becomes easy, like the flight of birds, then the stones themselves unite into a Dome, and Christ the Mason will appear to each one. (pp. 124-125) IX. 10. Friends! Place four stones into the foundation of your actions: FirstReverence of Hierarchy. Second Realization of unity. ThirdRealization of co-measurement. FourthApplication of the canon, "By thy God." (p. 144)
Agni Yoga, 1925 94. Some may be unable to reconcile the idea of equality with that of Hierarchy. Equality lies in the potentiality of spirit that all possess. Hierarchy is based on the uniqueness of one's accumulated experience. Therefore it is just to say that a complex of knowledge will be the gate of Hierarchy. Mark the expression "complex," because narrow specialization cannot define the breadth of a Hierarch. Striving for knowledge, gain the realization of the Teacher. Truly, reverence for the Teacher is the panacea, even for physical ailments. 186. I, by the justice of Hierarchy, decree that the achievement of introducing the new Yoga is superior to all other missions! 431. The recognition of Hierarchy is not a formal discipline, but a conscious cooperation. Once the spirit realizes that it has joined an endless chain of "dynamos," it receives a special right to move onward. However, just as oarsmen must follow the directions of the helmsman, so must the admitted co-workers follow the call of the Teacher. One must think in every way about economy of energy. Our own Leaders have entrusted to Us the vessel to quench the conflagrations of evil, and We relay this mission to chosen emissaries, entrusting to them the task of further transmission. Recognition of Hierarchy facilitates movement into the Infinite. 652. It is wise to become accustomed to there being no rest or end. But the realization alone of Hierarchy and Our Brotherhood already directs the traveler along the shortest path in the Infinite. 661. The Chain of Hierarchy is built by fulfillment of the Higher Will. 662. Certainly the power of Hierarchy is the most vital, and only by this bridge can one build. Thus, in the foundation of each great beginning is laid the energy imbued by the law of Hierarchy. Only upon the principle of harmony and unification can one build. Only upon the basis of affirmation of the principle of Hierarchy can higher possibilities be affirmed. The Creative Will proclaims that a united consciousness leads to harmonious decisions. 663. How, then, does the Hierarch create on Earth? By uplifting all the surroundings. Thus, all spheres are uplifted by the pure flame of the Hierarch. 664. Certainly creative thought will regenerate the world. He who masters thought creates evolution. Thus We can move human consciousness toward progress. We create by thought. Humanity, truly, must realize the significance of thought! The Teaching, truly, must be embraced by sensitive thoughts! Each striving thought can impel the spirit to achievement. Hence We value so highly the ability to shape one's thoughts. Each great thought is joined to the Chain of Hierarchy. 665. Subtlety of receptivity is necessary for an understanding of the Teacher. In the realization that the Teacher imbues the disciple's spirit with higher understanding is contained the entire progress of the disciple. The
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creativeness of the spirit can be impelled upward only when thought ascends. The link between the Teacher and disciple is forged by spiritual striving. Truly, who will uplift the spirit of the disciple if not his Teacher? Only the Higher can uplift the lower. Without this understanding it is impossible to advance. 666. Hierarchy is affirmed in the Universe by cosmic law. The Cosmic Magnet has placed the Highest Might above everything; thus this law is based on cosmic affirmation. The evolutionary step of the human spirit determined; the Cosmic Magnet intensifies the quality of the spirit, leading it into the Infinite. 667. In Cosmos the center of striving rests upon the principle of Hierarchy. Cosmos acts by means of attraction to the manifested powerful center. Thus the cosmic seed is manifested in each action of Hierarchy by the quality of the striving, which ascends through realization of the predominant principle. Cosmic creativeness brings together the harmonious energies. This principle is so important that it is an undeniable necessity, which is truly affirmed by the principle of Hierarchy. The entire Universe is saturated with this principle. This spirit, which imbues all cosmic manifestations on the planet, is affirmed by the Highest Reason. Therefore, man, being a part of Cosmos, cannot separate himself from this principle. When cosmic creativeness is imbued with Reason, each manifestation of the Infinite is affirmed by the same principle. 668. Of all principles leading to the broadening of consciousness, the principle of Hierarchy is the most powerful. Each manifested change is based upon it. Whither can the spirit direct itself without the Guiding Hand? Where can the eye and the heart turn without Hierarchy, when the Giving Hand of the Hierarch affirms the flow of destiny, and when the Hand of the Hierarch directs one to the best manifested date, and one becomes familiar with even the highest energies? Therefore, the seed of the spirit becomes imbued with the Cosmic Ray of the Hierarch. Since the most powerful principle contains in itself the potentiality of fire, the pure Fire of the spirit of the Hierarch is affirmed as the highest principle. Thus shall we remember our spiritual Leaders. Thus shall we revere the Law of Hierarchy.
Infinity, I, 1930 383. The Hierarchy impels humanity to boundless affirmation. When the spirit in its growth is imbued with this realization, then its path is determined as a near one. Therefore, so much is assigned to the spirit to whom a place in the highest flight is accorded. The spirit who stands on the highest rung in the Hierarchy penetrates the most distant worlds. But We have to speak of those who discern only a partial truth. Hence, We, Brothers of Humanity, measure the progress in proportion to its proximity to Truth. Thus, the spirit striving toward the faroff worlds is the bearer of the full Truth. (pp. 276-277)
Hierarchy, 1931 101. How majestic is the law of Hierarchy! How constructive are all laws of Hierarchy! Verily, the ladder reaches Heaven. Thus, each one striving to Hierarchy can fulfill the Higher Will through a task given from Above. Thus, We build through Hierarchy; hence each Indication should be fulfilled as given by the Hierarch. Only thus can one fulfill the Higher Will. Therefore one should truly guard the wish of the Hierarch. As pearls of the spirit one should guard the entire affirmed Source. (p. 65) 228. How, then, can one be affirmed in the Chain of Hierarchy? Only through the heart and endless striving toward Service, only by complete assimilation of the Plan of the Lords and through creativeness of the spirit. Thus, verily, each one on the path must accept the Service of the heart. Thus the immutability of the Chain of Hierarchy is verily affirmed. (p. 127) 239. Only through a spiritual approach can one come closer to Hierarchy. Consonance of the heart and
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understanding of the power of Service must underlie the foundation of all beginnings. Each deviation from the focus will become a target for a hostile arrow. Therefore one can become a co-worker only by defending the great Focus. Verily, only thus can one attain! (p. 133) 273. Only gratitude to the Teacher can reveal the entrance to the Gates. Each one who has chosen his own path must realize the loneliness of his orbit, because only love and devotion for Hierarchy include the spirit in the Chain of Light. Thus, each one determines his own karma. Only through Light do we approach Light. (p. 150) 281. Unbearable is the Almighty Light, but Hierarchy is the link to that dazzling Summit. The Hierarchy leads an illumined spirit to that point where one might even be blinded. Love is the crown of Light. (p. 155) 338. How does humanity expect to approach the Highest without acknowledging the entrusted earthly representatives of Hierarchy? How can a link be established if humanity does not admit the greatness of the Chain of Hierarchy? Thinking is infected so extensively by the poison of conceit that the entire cosmic balance is disturbed. Thus, on the way to Us one should adopt all the affirmations concerning Hierarchy as an anchor of salvation. Verily, Hierarchy is like a wondrous Light for humanity! As a mighty Shield, Hierarchy stands on watch! Hierarchy is affirmed as the link between the worlds! (pp. 184-185) 397. When I speak of harmony, I do not have in mind only sensitiveness; I point out a useful construction. Hierarchy stands upon exact laws. We, who have realized them, take upon Ourselves the responsibility of protecting this ladder of Light. One must repeat this untiringly in order that the structure of Hierarchy may be impressed as a design upon the brain. (p. 216) 399. When a new race is assembled, the Assembler is a Hierarch. When a new step for humanity is built, the Builder is a Hierarch. When the step preordained by the Cosmic Magnet is constructed upon the vital rhythm, a Hierarch stands at its head. There is no manifestation of life which does not contain in its seed its Hierarch. The more powerful the step, the more powerful the Hierarch. (p. 217) 401. The superiority of the spirit will not come if we do not strive toward it. One must assimilate the thought about the transitoriness of the earthly hour and the immutability of the Infinite. Thus Agni Yoga is linked inseparably with Infinity and Hierarchy. Likewise, one can transport oneself to the microcosm of the heart, which contains the reflexes of the far-off worlds. How enticing it is to understand within oneself the rhythms that guide the planet! Certainly, at the time of disturbances it is difficult, but how wondrous it is to adhere to the Cosmic Magnet. (p. 218)
Fiery World I, 1933 614. One should follow the Hierarch in full trust, just as the Hierarch follows his own Hierarch. This path of devotion should be loved. One must cleave to it whole-heartedly, so that any other mode of thought becomes impossible. Verily, by such devotion are worlds built. One may read about most beautiful examples of devotion, and thus will be narrated a story about heroes. One should even learn to live like the heroes. One should love the Fiery Sphere. (pp. 339-340) Seed Thought 296. Neither concentration , nor command of the will, but love for Hierarchy produces direct communication. (Fiery World II, p. 188)
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IV. COVENANTS Foreword 311. Let the Puranas of India, the fragments of the Teachings of Egypt, Chaldea, China, Persia, and absolutely all teachings of the classic philosophy not be overlooked. Of course, the Bible, the Kabbalah, and the Teachings of Christ, all will yield plentiful material. Likewise, the assertions of the most recent times will add to the valuable definitions of Agni. Such a compilation has never been made. Yet can one advance toward the future without gathering the signs of millennia? (Fiery World I, p. 169) 360. We especially advise the attentive reading of these Books of the Covenants. We constantly direct the attention of people to the need of familiarizing themselves with the Book of Genesis. Is not the Fiery World mentioned therein? Furthermore, how beautiful and concise "We shall not die, but change" and "As in heaven, so on earth." Such Covenants could only be pronounced by an Initiate. These Sacred Books can provide a wealth of information about the manifestations of Fire. Hence, one should urge the assiduous reading of these Covenants. So, too, the chronicles of the lives of the saints can bring an understanding of the Fiery World. The affirmation of these manifestations after many centuries must inspire the questing scientists. I repeat, it is sad to observe the separation of science from the highest foundations of Existence. In connection with history, at least, scientists are duty-bound to pay attention and respect to the Tablets of the past. Yet, not only scientists but even artists nurtured upon imagination avoid concentrating on the treasures of the Scriptures. As if such knowledge were inferior to other knowledge! But one thing is amazingthat those who question Us about the Sacred Books find no time to read them despite Our advice. He who is aflame in heart will not tarry because of an unsolved question. (Fiery World I, pp. 194-195)
Leaves of Moryas Garden, Book I, The Call, 1924 156. In safeguarding My Instructions will you find protection. Need shall not afflict My Manifestations. Calm is found in the light of Truth. The mountain before you is not a test, but a task. 359. We carry affirmation of the teachings of the prophets. With pure steps do We lead, and no one feels regret at drawing near to the new race. The first requirement of the race is to carry the spirit into life. And the fragments, accumulated through the ages, will fall into place. The ray of understanding of the wondrous life will flash out in its simplicity. In new flight will the spirit encircle the world. The time, though difficult, is unprecedented.
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Dark clouds surround you, but My Ray is with you. 426. In order that My new disciples be able to assimilate My Teaching, what has been given before must be sternly repeated. Each stone cast at you raises your tower. 428. You have been admitted to the task of building the New World. I say to you: Strengthen your eyes, that you be not blinded when I raise the hem of the veil of the Future. Should confusion arise in you, raise the shield of devotion; For by it you will be saved. And repeat My Instructions-I say to you-repeat. I have said it. ... Do not fail to see the cloudsLife is joyful for him who has wings. My Smile shields you.
Leaves of Moryas Garden, Book II, Illumination, 1925 IV. 3. Christ said: "Not in a temple, but in spirit shalt thou pray." Verily, religious prejudice is the worst vulgarity Often even religious ecstasies result in more harm than good. Out of them the crowd has made a vulgar spectacle. Therefore, it is important to show the vitality of Those Who stand upon all rungs of the Ladder. It is time to cast off the diamonds which desecrate the holy Images. It is time to burn the relics, following the covenant of Christ. It is time to enter into the Temple of Spirit-understanding, consecrating ones forces which perfect the knowledge of the true power of spirit. (pp. 59-60) II. 4. If we long for an undeferred Advent, then the ways should be cleared without delay. Day and night must one be accustomed to fulfilling the Decrees and being imbued with the Covenants. (p. 164) II. 5. Many of Our historic records are taken for inscriptions of ancient lawgivers. Often the name of Christ or Buddha even impedes the ease of acceptance, but characters on an unknown stone more readily attract serious attention. Must one explain that the best result is when the spark of the spirit flashes out? Therefore, know when it is better to remind of the Name and when more useful to give the substance of the Covenant. Remember, when you will be upon different paths. (p. 165) V. 13. Two signs of the authenticity of the Teaching are: first, striving for the Common Weal; second, acceptance of all previous Teachings which are congruous with the first sign. It must be noted that the primary form of a Teaching does not contain negative postulates. But superstitious followers begin to fence in the Covenants with negations, obstructing the good. There results the ruinous formula: "Our creed is the best," or, "We are the true believers; all others are infidels." From this point it is a single step to the Crusades, to the Inquisition, and to seas of blood in the name of Those Who condemned killing. There is no worse occupation than forcible imposition of ones creed. (pp. 211-212)
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Community, 1926 40. The New Teaching respects the Bearers of the earlier Covenants, but it proceeds without the baggage of times which have been ended. Otherwise the load of text-books would take on unwieldy dimensions. (pp. 29-30) 95. Once a woman stopped between images of the Blessed Buddha and Maitreya, not knowing to Whom to offer her reverence. And the image of the Blessed Buddha uttered these words: "According to My Covenant, revere the future. Standing in defense of the past, direct your gaze toward the dawn." (pp. 67-68) 215. In Asia the Teacher is manifested as a lawful concept. By the covenant of Buddha each future Teacher is especially reverenced. In this revelation of possibility is the whole pledge of the future. (p. 192)
Agni Yoga, 1929 8. One can point out why the Teachers of Knowledge experienced such suffering on departing Earth. Of course, this suffering was conscious and voluntarily chosen. Just as the host fills the guest's cup to the brim, so does the Teacher desire to impress this last sign of His Teaching. The poisoning of Buddha spared Him from deification. The suffering and resurrectionor the transformation of matterby Christ provided the attainment of the supreme earthly achievement. 90. The Teacher advises that knowledge be set as the basis for developing the consciousness. Point out that knowledge builds the path to the One Teaching. Is it possible that humanity cannot comprehend that knowledge emanates from the One Source? Therefore, the dividing line between knowledge and ignorance is the dividing line between light and darkness. We are easily able to bring together the Torah with the hymns of the Vedas, or the precepts of Buddha with the words of Christ, for We do not discern differences between Teachings emanating from the One Source. 92. Note the times of great events. Already the Vedas are coming together with the Tripitaka and the Kabbala. The teachings of Buddha and the words of Christ and of the Teachers are dispelling ignorance. Carefully observe the growth of knowledge in diverse parts of the world. Both the affirming and the denying ones walk in one direction. The time is unrepeatable, like a gate into the preordained. Dead are those who see the determined hour as an ordinary one. 374. He who follows the Teaching loses the passivity so cherished by people. But he who does not follow receives the full downpour of karma. Judge for yourselves who has chosen the right path. When you follow the Teaching, can there be failure? The Teaching brings refinement of consciousness as a great happiness. Where, then, to find a power equal to that which results from the Teaching? Thus, follow Our Teaching with great care.
Infinity, I, 1930 227. The time is complex, but great! In tension, amidst humanitys monstrous noncomprehension of the principle of Be-ness, We give a new Covenant. We summon humanity to that Covenant. In the great Covenant lies the principle of Be-ness. We say to humanity, "Venerate the Origins; venerate the Mother of the World, venerate the awesome Covenant of the Cosmic Magnet!" Yes, yes, yes! Thus speaks Maitreya! (p. 184)
Hierarchy, 1931
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42. Therefore Our Plan is so mighty. Therefore Our Mandate is so powerful, because words enter into life as wondrous affirmations. Therefore Our Word lives, since the impulse of creativeness is so saturated by the might of Fire. Only when Our Mandate is adopted in life, can the higher step be affirmed. Why, then, is each of your missions so vital? Because it carries in itself the warrant of Our cooperation. Thus We affirm Hierarchy upon the law of succession. Therefore, when the Cosmic Law is realized, the understanding of the Chain of Hierarchy is established. Thus, the best executor will be the closest to the Hierarch. The Hierarchy of Service is but the fulfillment of the Higher Will. (pp. 32-33) 344. Those who seek the New World must strive to the confirmation of the Decree of Hierarchy, which directs through the appointed Hierarchy. Only thus can balance be established in the world. Only a flamingly guiding Heart will manifest salvation. Thus, the world is in need of the affirmation of the law of Hierarchy! (p. 188) 373. "Labor, create good, reverence the Hierarchy of Light"this, Our Commandment, can be inscribed even upon the palm of a newly born child. Thus simple is the Commandment leading to Light. In order to adopt it one must only be pure in heart. (p. 204)
Heart, 1932 405. Events are bearing away the corrupted world. This period was indicated in all scriptures. Nevertheless, people do not think of what is taking place. They cannot even begin to think of the future. Thus, one should not produce a book without indicating the Teaching of the time which has come. One cannot assume that something will still alter the direction of the current created by people. On the far-off worlds there is already a horror of the fiery inevitability, yet Earth continues to shroud itself in a dark cover. That which necessitated a century now occurs in five yearsthe progression of acceleration acts according to law. Therefore, when I speak of the heart it means that salvation can be found along this channel. Do you hear? I repeat about salvation! Not arguments, not doubt, not uncertainty, but salvation will be the sign of that hour. One must understand still more firmly how unfit by now are the old measures. Only one bridge remains from the highest worldsthe heart. Let us approach the source of the sensing of Light. Let us understand that even in the fiery furnace the youths were not consumed when they ascended by way of the heart. The time is a difficult one! Thus shall we repeat, fearless of the derision of the ignorant. They do not have even an idea of the significance of the heart. (pp. 233-234) 519. Verily, the fixing of an impression upon the third eye is the foundation of creativeness. Not only the old Buddhists, but the most ancient scriptures demanded the training of observation. (p. 294)
Fiery World I, 1933 From the covenants of the past let us transport ourselves into future attainments. (Foreword) 15. "Surround yourself with Fire and become immune," is a most ancient Covenant. But, having grown more callous, people began to forget what Fire was indicated by the Wise. ... Only the fiery, illumined consciousness can restore the broken bridge of ascent. (p. 15) 470. One can note in all the covenants that under common terrestrial symbols are concealed the great concepts of the Fiery World. Must a city be necessarily terrestrial? Or must a cow necessarily call to mind only terrestrial herds? Or need milk be only from earthly kine and serpents only of Earth? One can find a great many such reminders in all Teachings. The reason for this lies both in the indescribability of concepts of the Fiery World and in the fact that writers and readers knew the stipulated definitions, which have been forgotten in the course of time. (p. 254)
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616. Much persuasion will be required to remind humanity that in all the promulgated Covenants the Era of Fire was foretold. (p. 342)
Fiery World II, 1933 84. The manifestation of the Highest Covenants is never recorded in writingtherefore the lips whisper from heart to heart the Highest Ordainments. (p. 60) 179. The wise one will not seek a precise counterpart of God in an earthly body, for only the fiery body will preserve the same sparks as the Higher Beings. Should it not be pointed out in schools wherein we are like God, so as to justify the ancient Covenants of which people have made a laughing stock? (p. 119) 192. The thoughts of the ancient philosophers penetrated into religions. Clement of Alexandria knew how people themselves debase the great Creation. ... Each leader may be advised not to forget the covenants of the ancient philosophers. (pp. 127-128) 249. Not magic but God-inspiredness was ordained in the ancient Covenants. When Higher Communion began to be interrupted, people themselves compiled magic from the earthly world, as a means of forced communion. But, as everything which is forced, magic ends up in the darkest manifestations. The very boundary line between black and white magic becomes elusive in its intricacy. Therefore, on the path to the future one should eschew all magic. (p. 162) 290. In truth, Egypt was great in attainments up into the time of Solomon. And Buddha, in a certain sense, received the chalice from Egypt. Thus the foundations of Wisdom have been harmoniously molded. Certainly, the Vedas too had a connecting link with former races. Often the Covenants grow in an evolutionary manner, but sometimes due to the depth of Karma the process becomes involutionary. But, withal, there has been an order of succession, and it precisely was a manifest equilibrium of the peoples. Denial of succession is ignorance. The very quality of life, the actual realization of the path, have been founded on successiveness, as an extension into Infinity. Quite often Hierarchy is represented as being finite, and from this issue all limitations and belittlements. The magnitude of Hierarchy extends into Infinity. (p. 185) 315. On the steps of ascent, the first condition will be self-help and resourcefulness. One should depend upon the assistance of Hierarchy when all ones self-acting ability has been intensified. Each one knows that according to the extent of acquisition of knowledge the approaches of the Teacher become less frequent, because the man is raised to the step of co-worker. It must be understood that the Covenant of self-activity is already a sign of trust. Besides, the trusted co-worker can show reverence for Hierarchy precisely by his complete awareness. Thus, we can assist the Highest Ones through our offerings of self-activity. Failing to understand this Covenant, people also have been known to begin to offer blood-sacrifices. But could shed blood possibly be of use to Hierarchy? The exchange of heart energy is a strengthening of cooperation, therefore the manifestation of Hierarchy through self-activity will be the proper ascent to the Fiery World. (pp. 196-197)
Fiery World III, 1935 334. The most frightful bane of humanity is its narrow world outlook. The best people think that the adoption of their horizon is the principle key to the salvation of the World, but their world outlook goes no farther than the boundaries of the physical world. Representatives of the church promise people salvation of the soul, but beyond the physical world they do not go. National leaders direct the thinking of their peoples toward reorganization, but further than the lower spheres they do not lead. Thus one can enumerate all the degrees of human leadership, and become horrified at the blind alley into which humanity has entered. Verily, only the reconstruction of the World
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and the regeneration of consciousness can awaken the energies needed for the maintenance of the planet. We untiringly repeat about the vital necessity of purifying the consciousness, for the last hour has come for the cleansing of that which has been created by mankind. Let us apprehend in the heart the Fiery Covenant to assist the reconstruction of the World. (pp. 230-231)
Aum, 1936 31. No faith has ever demanded the building of temples. They have arisen gradually, as a manifestation of reverence. The original Covenant has always been spiritual and full of directness. Only later has the law of spirit been subordinated to earthly codes. How many of the best wings have been singed by earthly fires! One should surmount all codes in order to fly upwards strivingly. Therefore, let the sacred consonance, Aum, fill the heart with Grace as in the best days of humanity. (pp. 21-22) 139. In the world treasury are many covenants and legends which affirm the Higher World. People cannot justify themselves by pleading a lack of indications guiding them to knowledge. (p. 70) 199. It has been said, "Many mothers, fathers, wives, sisters and brothers, will be given," yet even such a clear indication does not compel people to reflect as to where this will take place. They do not wish to meditate about earthly lives! The wisest covenants do not reach ears that are closed. (pp. 95-96) 563. The Agni-Puranas, the Upanishads, and other ancient Covenants, in their basic portions, transmit with absolute exactness the laws of Being. One must not reject but harken very attentively to the sparks of Truth. (pp. 271-272)
Brotherhood, 1937 1. If even in the narrow domain of domestic life people do not find within themselves the affirmation of brotherhood, then in the wider sense it may seem to them to be impractical. Besides, people read carelessly the ancient covenants, which speak about great numbers of Brothers and Sisters. (p. 5)
Letters of Helena Roerich, Volume I 1929-1938 Only thought and a great consciousness will conquer everything. Therefore, use all means to broaden your consciousness by absorbing with all your essence every line of the Teaching. A profound and many-sided consciousness and the application of the Covenants of the Teaching into life will give you the key to everything because you will possess a synthesis. (p. 44) The Teaching of Life is exactly the right and all embracing answer to all the questions of the spirit! Not a single domain, not one problem of life is neglected in these Covenants. On the contrary, every situation is treated from many angles and many points of view, and advice is given for most practical application. (p. 246) The great Covenant "When the disciple is ready the Teacher appears" is seldom understood. There are not many who ask themselves what this readiness actually is. Should not this readiness consist of certain qualities? The trouble is that people do not want to realize that at the foundation of this readiness, and of all the achievements, there is the following of a great ideal, involving a fiery transmutation of all our feelings, of our whole character. ...
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After accepting a disciple, the Teacher creates an unseen union with him and includes him in his consciousness. In other words, from that very moment the Teacher knows everything about the disciple. He can know every thought and feeling, even the most transient, and accordingly He can guide his disciple. As for the disciple, his life, from the moment of his acceptance, becomes entirely new. His dormant energies are awakened and their development and transmutation are accelerated. ... Also, there are destined disciples, those who were disciples in many of their previous lives; and in this present incarnation such a disciple, from very birth, is under the high guidance of his Teacher. The conditions of his birth are determined by the Teacher, and from early childhood he knows his Teacher. Therefore, for such spirits there is no deviation, and the events of their lives, as an unrestrainable torrent, carry them toward the predestined shore. (pp. 247-249) Seed Thought 5. Simplicity, beauty, and fearlessness Christ and Buddha spoke of nothing more. And it is a blessing if the spirit vibrates to these Covenants. (Leaves of Moryas Garden II, p. 61)
V. THE TEACHER
Foreword According to tradition, the Blessed One preordained the Bodhisattva Maitreya as his successor. "And the Blessed One said to Ananda, I am not the first Buddha who has come upon Earth, nor shall I be the last. In due time another Buddha will arise in the world, a Holy One, a supremely enlightened One, endowed with wisdom, in conduct, embracing the Universe, an incomparable leader of men, a ruler of devas and mortals. He will reveal to you the same eternal truths, that I have taught you. He will establish his Law, glorious in its origin, glorious at the climax, and glorious at the goal, in the spirit and in the letter. He will proclaim a righteous life, wholly perfect and pure, such as I now proclaim. His disciples will number many thousands while mine number many hundreds. "Ananda said, How shall we know him? "The Blessed One said, He will be known as Maitreya." The future Buddha, Maitreya, as his name indicates, is the Buddha of compassion and love. This Bodhisattva, according to the power of his qualities, is often named Ajitathe Invincible. *** What qualities must Bodhisattvas possess? In the Teaching of Gotama Buddha and in the Teaching of Bodhisattva Maitreya, given by him to Asanga according to tradition in the fourth century (MahayanaSutralankara), the maximum development of energy, courage, patience, constancy of striving and fearlessness was underlined first of all. Energy is the basis of everything, as it alone contains all possibilities.
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*** "Mighty, valiant, firm in his step, not rejecting the burden of an achievement for the General Good." (Foundations of Buddhism, by Helena Roerich, pp 140-142)
Leaves of Moryas Garden, Book I, The Call, 1924 1. By holiness in life, guard the precious Gem of Gems. Aum Tat Sat Aum! I am thou, thou art I-parts of the Divine Self. My Warriors! Life thunders-be watchful. Danger! The soul hearkens to its warning! The world is in turmoil-strive for salvation. I invoke blessings unto you. Salvation will be yours! Life nourishes the soul. Strive for the life glorified, and for the realization of purity. Put aside all prejudices-think freely. Be not downcast but full of hope. Flee not from life, but walk the path of salvation. 92. In the Universe all things are but a reflection of the Divine, and in each spark of light the Divine Energy is at play. Light unto all of you! 95. I have called you for a great task. The Teacher has entrusted its success unto you. The strength needed to follow Me is bestowed upon you. 96. The Teacher is near you at every moment of your creative labor. 97. Let your flame be steady and brightM. is ever with you. 98. Knowledge will help you to avoid danger. Knowledge of My Manifestations will multiply your strength. Fearless is the Apostle! 142. I will grant you power to see and hear. The first essentials are purity of air and clarity of spirit. 151. Messages come more readily through dry channels. Smiletears interrupt the current. Only certain glands may be used,
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and these as long as they are not irritated. With cloudbursts of tears, humanity obstructs the beneficial currents. 159. Stay firm in My constant Guidance and Love for you. Through the cumulative labor of centuries is happiness built. 304. I am summoning the wise ones. New and useful ones will gather.
Leaves of Moryas Garden, Book II, Illumination, 1925 XII. 1. Your power will grow, but if you smother the flame you will burn your hands. Let the flame of faith shine freely. The Teacher watches each thought, ready to select the best seeds of the spirit. (p. 30) XII. 2. M.^. and the understanding of Buddhas Teaching lead one to the vital understanding of law, conceived upon the Mount of Light. His Law will be of much help on the way to knowledge. His Teaching is My joy. My Hand leads to knowledge. (p. 30) XIII. 1. Maitreya sends courage. Maitreya will accept the gift. Maitreya feels its love. Maitreya sends blessings upon the joyous labor. Maitreya bestows labor upon Earth in the name of miracle. Walk joyfully. It is a joy to Me to lead the smiling ones. Discern the Teaching of Light in each manifestation. Resourcefulness is a quality of My pupils. (p. 37)
Community, 1926 187. How is it possible to feel oneself protected to the utmost? Only by establishing the closest bond with the Teacher. Only in active cooperation and in reverence is concealed the best possibility of passing through the dangerous spheres. The bond with the Teacher is a living penetration into the future. There are earthly ancestors and cosmic ancestors; sometimes these concepts coincide, but because of imperfection they are often separated. Thus, there is a chain of earthly ancestors and also a rainbow of cosmic ancestors. It is not difficult to discern which manifestation will be the path of evolution. Indeed, each Teacher has His own Guide, and the evaluation of thought ascends into the far-off worlds. Reverence to the Teacher and the constructiveness of striving to the far-off worlds are as a rainbow unified by the essence of light. Learn to understand how lofty is the concept of the Teacher. Draw this line from horizon to horizon, from arrival to departure. Know how the Teaching of Light has been revealed to you, and remember the silvery thread of the bond. The bond with the Teacher is light as the eagles wing, and the eagles eye looks ahead. What else could you prefer, if your consciousness has been opened? The building of the community can help in gathering thoughts. Of course, not caravan donkeys but eagles have been indicated in the comparison. The hand of the Teacher summons to the threshold of the community. And from the mountain We see where the wheel of necessity is flying. (pp. 163-164)
Agni Yoga, 1929
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183. I entrust you to extol the Name of the Teacher so highly that nothing debasing may touch this link uniting the worlds. I entrust you also to offer your help to those who knock untiringly. I entrust you to speak of the purpose of life on Earth. I entrust you to reject all that demeans communion with Us. I entrust you to affirm the fact of Our Existence. The understanding of Our Teaching will essentially transform the lives of those who accept it. It opens new possibilities; otherwise why assume the burden?
Infinity II, 1930 360. The subtleness of assimilation holds the key to the understanding of the Teacher. In the disciples realization that the Teacher imbues his spirit with the higher understanding is contained the entire progress of the disciple. The creativeness of the spirit can inspire one onward only when the thought ascends and the chain linking the Teacher and the disciple consists of spiritual aspirations. Verily, who will uplift the spirit of the disciple if not his Teacher? Only the higher can give progressive impetus to the lower. Without this understanding it is impossible to advance. Let us conclude thus about refinement of receptivity. (pp. 152-153)
Hierarchy, 1931 149. It was never said to rely upon the Lord. On the contrary, it was repeated, "Be imbued with the Lord!" There is a great difference between timid and inactive reliance and imbuing the entire being with the consciousness of the Lord. As an invincible sword, the consciousness identified with the Lord smites all obstacles! Doubt cannot find shelter where a flaming consciousness is kindled. There will be no fatigue where the inexhaustible Source of Forces is admitted. Fear cannot penetrate into the temple of invulnerable armor. Thus, I advise acceptance of My Shields, not through recourse to a saving protection, but by conquering through the blending of consciousness. (p. 87) 156. The most wondrous thread is the silver one uniting the heart of the Hierarch with his disciple. The light of the spirit is nurtured by this might. Therefore, when We speak of a united aura, We have in mind the actuality of the bond! ... A wondrous step is built by a blended heart! (pp. 90-91)
Heart, 1932 150. If I say that I am always with you, will many believe it? They would even fear to believe in the united consciousness. For them, each such union is an intrusion upon their selfhood, and as such is entirely intolerable. They will never appreciate the tenfold multiplication of energy born of the cooperation of consciousnesses. But without such cooperation the entire Teaching of the Heart would be impossible. ... The summons to a unity of consciousnesses is necessary everywhere, because this is the simplest introduction into the life of the heart. (pp. 96-97)
Fiery World I, 1933 288. The Teacher rejoices when collective labor is possible. Rejection of collective labor is ignorance. Only a lofty individuality finds within itself the measure of collective concepts. So long as the personality fears collective work, it is not yet individualized; it still remains in the stifling atmosphere of selfhood. Only true discernment of the indestructibility of freedom permits adherence to collective labor. Only through such true mutual respect can we attain the realization of harmonious laborin other words, attain active good. In this good is kindled the fire of the heart; hence each manifestation of harmonious labor is so joyous. Such labor augments
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the psychic energy unusually. Let the work be carried out at least in short united labor; even if for brief periods at first, it must be in complete accord and intent upon success. In the beginning, fatigue because of disunity is unavoidable, but later the coordinated collective force will multiply the energy tenfold. Thus, even in small nuclei one can thrust forward the prototype of world progress. (pp. 155-156)
Fiery World II, 1934 161. Reverence of the Teacher is a remedy against all ailments. When very ill, turn to the Lord. (p. 106) 240. The consciousness directed to Us is continually being refined. The process of refinement becomes a code of every day. Could it be admissible that the subtlest energy be turned into chaos? Everywhere it has been said, "Whoever comes unto Me shall also abide in Me." This must be understood literally. (p. 156)
Fiery World III, 1935 106. To be affirmed in the heart upon the Lord is the first condition on the path to the Fiery World. It is impossible to arrive at the ordained Gates without this fiery requirement. Of course, Guidance must be recognized in spirit and heart, for the acceptance of the Hand of the Lord is alone insufficient without devoting the heart to the Lord. One must understand that law which unites the Teacher with the disciple, because without the manifestation of complete attachment to the Lord there can be no bond. A full acceptance of Guidance means a conscious relationship, for one must understand and feel in the heart the warmth which arises from the depths of the spirit. It is especially necessary to feel and to learn to discern that by which the nature of the Lord is linked with that of the disciple. Thus, one must remember that vibrations and Karma are as connecting links on the path to the Fiery World. (p. 87)
Aum, 1936 492. Teacher and disciple are indissoluble. Each Teacher remains also a disciple, for amid Hierarchy he will be a link in the Chain of Eternity. Likewise in the descending line, each disciple will also be a teacher. It is a mistake to think that certain initiations elevate one to the step of absolute Teachership; only continuous discipline of cognition can be the living source of perfectment. Let us not look for limits in Infinity. Let us not understand cognition as something finite; in this limitation we lose the joy of Be-ness. (p. 239) 493. "It is not I who give, but you who accept." The Guide very rarely says that He gives. Only in the case of necessity will He confirm His pledge and give a manifestation of His "I." Throughout life the Guide says, "Accept." He affirms that a gift through Him proceeds from Hierarchy. One should keep these formulae in mind, for in them is contained the joy of Hierarchy which labors for Good. One must not refer unreasoningly to words; in them is contained the imprint of limitation, as it were. There is no reason for forgetting the salutary bond of Hierarchy! Therefore "It is not I who give, but you who accept." (pp. 239-240) Seed Thought Every pupil is dear to the Teacher. Every movement of your heart echoes to the Great Heart. Not always can the projected rays reach our physical consciousness, but every minute they dispel and annihilate many hostile sparks. (Letters of Helena Roerich, Volume I, p. 18)
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VI. SERVICE Foreword 175. Great Service has called forth everywhere much misunderstanding. To people it usually has the aspect of something unattainable. They hope that responsibility for such Service will pass them by. But let us reflect upon certain great Servitors. Let us see if They were unapproachable supermen. Pythagoras and Plato and Boehme and Paracelsus and Thomas Vaughan were men who bore their lamps amidst their fellowmen in life under a hail of nonunderstanding and abuse. Anyone could approach them, but only a few were able to discern the superearthly radiance behind the earthly face. It is possible to name great Servitors of East and West, North and South. It is possible to peruse their biographies; yet everywhere we feel that the superearthly radiance appears rarely in the course of centuries. One should learn from reality. Let us not link ourselves with the vilifiers of Plato and the persecutors of Confucius. They were oppressed by citizens who were considered the pride of the country. Thus has the world raised its hand against the great Servitors. Be assured that the Brotherhood formed by Pythagoras appeared dangerous in the eyes of the city guard. Paracelsus was a target for mockery and malignance. Thomas Vaughan seemed to be an outcast, and few wished to meet with him. Thus was the reign of darkness manifested. Of course darkness, too, has its own laws. The dark ones watch intently a "dangerous" Great Service. Let us apply examples of the past to all days of life. (Brotherhood, pp. 93-94)
VI. SERVICE
Leaves of Moryas Garden, Book I, The Call, 1924 54. Friends, look forward, forget the past, think about creation for the future, and I shall come to give you Counsel. Exalt others in spirit, and look ahead. 126. Austerely and pure in thought commence My Work. Remember the obstacles at the beginning of every great task. 153. Smile-I grant you the joy of spreading the Teaching of Christ. The joy of conceiving the Greatness of the Universe, The joy of manifested labor, The joyous fatigue of accomplishment. 232. The path of virtue is not a singing of psalms, but labor and service. 255. Dim is the light of the world.
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Thus each desire to serve is especially precious to Us. But know one thing, that good will and active work help Us best. Not for miracles but for service did I summon you. Fire is no danger to your wings. 355. Thus it is, when the spirit comes to realize service: New wings grow, and the surrounding air sings at night. The pathway of light is revealed to the amazed sight. And the mind's resolution builds the steps of the temple of the One Truth. 356. Teach My Path. Help people to develop an understanding of man's nature. They will understand the nature of Service. They will understand the joy of the Beautiful. They will understand the simple truths that transform life into a miracle.
Leaves of Moryas Garden, Book II, Illumination, 1925 I. 3. Our Front Line stands as a wall, and a smile flashes as lightning over all faces at each of your successful moves. As a gardener sees that the garden be covered with buds, uprooting the weeds, so We watch the movements of the chosen hands. Joyous is each resourcefulness, because the shield is forged on both sides. Broad is My Work; to everyone a place ordained. By the broadness of your vision will you allot your own part. The manifestation of unprecedented possibilities is behind the door. Give Us reason to rejoice! (pp. 31-32) IV. 1. In simplicity of life, in realization of the dignity of service to the New World, love for the worthy opens the Gates. (p. 58) IX. 1. The manifestation of labor for the future will transform the present. If people would understand that only the future exists, cooperation would approach. (p. 136) V. 15. Some say that work can be fatiguing and even injurious to the health. Thus say lazy and inert people. Understand that work properly apportioned cannot in itself be fatiguing. One should understand how to effect a proper change of the group of working nerves, and then no fatigue can find access. Do not try to find rest in idleness. Idleness is but the microbe of indolence. Muscles may ache after tension, but you have but to plunge into idleness to begin to feel the full pain. Whereas, by calling into action the opposite centers one can completely avoid the reflex of the previous tension. Indeed, implicit herein is a great mobility, which is developed by conscious experience. (pp. 215-216)
Community, 1926 184. Guard both My signsthe sign of Service and the sign of Community. One is breaking away from the old, the other is evolution. (p. 161)
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Agni Yoga, 1929 175. One particular quality distinguishes the yogihe knows not death, for the awakened consciousness experiences no interruption of existence. Thus, not for a moment does the yogi interrupt his service to Truth. Gradually does he who attains Yoga ascend upon the ladder of the worlds. Unceasingly do his mission and his service flow. The retention of consciousness in his varied sheaths makes the yogi's achievement vital to life. 452. I do not speak casually about the full understanding of service, which dispels the atmosphere of the commonplace and leads to the harmony necessary for the fulfillment of one's tasks. One can cure nervousness through outward discipline, but embracing service in the consciousness is the best discipline. 591. I rejoice when you realize the harm of false spirituality. Often a sickly distortion of psychic energy becomes a substitute for a properly expanded consciousness. Where there is fear, where there is self-pity, where there is conceit, where there is passivity, where there is avoidance of self-sacrifice, where there is lack of comeasurement, where there is irresponsibility, can there be service to evolution? Those who avoid the labor of the harvest should be made to understand that their groans are less than the rustling of one blade of grass. Also, those who venture into the astral world without an understanding of ascent must know how responsible they are for the polluting of space. Only the consciousness can lead, and permit the discerning of the right direction. Also, those who consider service to evolution as an effort deserving reward may be repaid in coin, but not by expansion of consciousness. Affirm that the refining of consciousness is the magnet that attracts all beneficial energies. The consciousness, an inexhaustible treasure, will lead to the summits, where victory is found.
Infinity II, 1930 14. The aspects of self-sacrifice are so varied in human understanding that only the highest measurement must be used in everything. He who in self-sacrifice dedicates himself to Service is confirmed as the co-worker of Light. He who serves Cosmic Fire sacrifices himself. He who serves evolution is affirmed as a bearer of the law. He who serves, he who is devoted to the General Good, is confirmed as a co-worker of Cosmos. (pp. 9-10) 41. The cosmic pulsation that is sensed by the heart is the most wondrous vibration. All complex problems of Cosmos can be solved by the heart. ... The Mother of Agni Yoga, having given herself to the Cosmic Service, verily cooperates cosmically. (p. 25) 170. How important it is to realize impartially the intentions of the spirit! Three traits of character will help to cognize the potentiality of motive; the trait of honesty, the trait of self-abnegation, and the trait of service. The manifestation of each trait will give the spirit the sword against egotism. Not the hand of karmic tension but the hand of self-exertion will hold for the spirit that gleaming sword. (p. 84) 381. When the spirit understands that Service to Cosmos means bringing into life the higher principles, it strains its best levers. An aimless existence is the result of the slumber of all the higher centers. When the thought of a great spirit awakens the consciousness toward a higher understanding of Service, it can be affirmed that cosmic striving is being conferred upon humanity. Therefore, it is most important that the thought of Service should permeate humanity. The carriers of the higher thoughts of evolution affirm Our Will. Thus is being established the higher cosmic cooperation. Thus, We carry the Cosmic Service together. (p. 160) 502. Those in Our Service who have realized the power of sacrifice know the beauty of achievement. Therefore, they will achieve who have realized the Service in their hearts. Thus, Service, in the name of a powerful achievement, bestows beauty upon existence. All karmic effects are forged from the blendings of spirit strivings,
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and all strivings are inscribed in the Book of Life. Thus, lives are being built and the beauty of Be-ness is defined. (p. 206)
Hierarchy, 1931 196. You may be asked how the entrance upon the path of Service is defined. Certainly the first sign will be renunciation of the past and full striving to the future. The second sign will be the realization of the Teacher within ones heart, not because it is necessary thus, but because it is impossible otherwise. The third sign will be the rejection of fear, for being armed by the Lord one is invulnerable. The fourth will be non-condemnation, because he who strives into the future has no time to occupy himself with the refuse of yesterday. The fifth will be the filling of the entire time with labor for the future. The sixth will be the joy of Service and completely offering oneself for the good of the world. The seventh will be spiritual striving to the far-off worlds as a predestined path. According to these signs you will discern a spirit ready and manifested for Service. He will understand where to raise the sword for the Lord, and his word will be from within his heart. (p. 111) 460. Willing Service, a heartfelt veneration, and conscious ascent will bring one to the threshold of Light. (p. 248)
Heart, 1932 57. It is necessary to instill an understanding of the Great Service. Pure hearts can exert themselves for the Great Service without fatigue or neglect. (p. 39) 211. Let everything be done for the sake of Good. Let each action unfold new achievements. Let the thought of service accompany each deed. (p. 131) 423. The energy for Service must be intensified; it increases with intensification. (p. 242) 446. One should firmly realize that the forces of the spirit which heretofore demanded decades, now, through the way of the heart, are accelerated to the highest degree. One can accept Agni Yoga as precipitating the evolution of the forces. Where for whole years one exercised refinement and tempering of the body, the heart can move the spirit almost immediately. Of course, the education of the heart is needed, but this lies in the sphere of feelings, not of mechanics. Thus, let us hasten to invoke the heart for service to the New World. (pp. 254-255)
Fiery World I, 1933 560. It must be remembered that Great Service brings one closer to cognition of the Great Goal. Comprehend it in its entire scope, to the best of your ability, in complete tension of the spirit. Beautiful is such tension when invisible co-workers gather around it. They strengthen the armor, protect from arrows, and illumine the path. Man can advance as if winged; he has gained numberless co-workers, and they are obedient to Hierarchy. Thus, above all physical considerations, let us at times lift our spirit toward the loftiest strongholds. This must be affirmed as the shield of the Great Service. (pp. 306-307)
Fiery World II, 1934 14. The saints of Great Service have no psychism, because they are always striving in spirit towards Hierarchy, and their heart resounds to the anguish of the World. Psychism is a window into the Subtle World, but the
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teacher tells the pupil, "Do not turn so often to the window, look into the book of life." Often psychism proves to be a weakening influence, but the Great Service is in straight-knowledge. Therefore We warn against psychism, against turning ones gaze backwards without a definite object for the future. .. Verily, in the Great Service is the feeling of great responsibility. (pp. 19-20) 81. Everyone must act according to his capacity, keeping in mind the Great Service. (p. 58) 136. Blessings to those who even once have reflected over the fact that possibilities are being given them for Service. One such thought already opens the initial Gates to the Fiery World. Whoever thinks in his pride "Only I myself will attain," makes use of possibilities of serving his own ego. What an isolation resounds in boasting to oneself! What solitude is the prison of egoism! But it is joyful to think "Yet I can bring to Thee, Lord!" There are no limits to such heart offerings! Is not the heart being exalted in trying to find the treasure of the offerings? The subtlest thoughts surround such supplications. Of course, the offering of the heart is really a prayer. It opens many gates. (pp. 89-90)
Fiery World III, 1935 127. As to how to apply ones qualities in Service, it is not enough to say, "I have come and I wish to serve," for readiness to serve obliges the disciple to acquire discipline of spirit. It is insufficient to say that all indications of the Teaching have been accepted, for only in life is it possible to manifest acceptance of the Indications. If the earthly plane imposes hard and fast rules, the world of the spirit demands the manifestation of striving in life towards acceptance of the Covenant of Hierarchy. Firm striving compresses the spirit and tempers it for true Service. One must merit the affirmation of the Call, one must understand the Call, one must free oneself from many burdens; thus, should one understand the truth of approach to the Teaching. One must understand the beauty of giving, for merely earthly givings do not affirm the "chalice." Thus, on the path to the Fiery World let the co-workers apprehend the Call to Service. (pp. 102-103)
AUM, 1936 81. Great Service can be the lot of every man. New life is poured into him who dares to toil in Great Service. The measures of his entrance will be determined by each one himself. Each one may pledge himself, not to small but to Great Service, and thus irrevocably dedicate himself to the Higher World. Thus Great Service is a duty and an honor. (p. 41) 116. Great Service has all humanity in view. Neither nationality nor any other divisions should place limits on Service for the Good. ... It is difficult to evaluate an individual over and above all conventionalities, but devotion to Service will open ones eyes and enable one to perceive very clearly the seed of the spirit. (p. 60)
Brotherhood, 1937 27. By acting attentively in their earthly relations, people will accustom themselves also to attentiveness in the Higher Service. (p. 21) 102. Service is not in furthering ordinary felicity but in bringing benefit to humanity. (p. 55)
Letters of Helena Roerich, Volume I, 1929-1938
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Hard is the path of Service. Nevertheless, those who receive the possibility to join the path of Service while in life will not give up this crown for any of the treasures of the world. For no other joys can be compared with those spiritual exaltations which are experienced by the true disciple. The richer were his former accumulations, the more beautiful is his achievement. (p. 495) Seed Thought
374. Each one must keep in mind that he it has been entrusted to serve for the progress of the world. (AUM, p. 183)
EPILOGUE
Reader, if thou hast not grasped read again, after a while. (Leaves of Moryas Garden, Volume I, Foreword)
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Agni Yoga - Comprehensive Compilations

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