The journey from life to death and the subsequent existence in the afterlife has long been a subject of fascination and speculation. According to metaphysical teachings, particularly those of Emanuel Swedenborg, the transition from the physical to the spiritual realm is a complex process involving the release of the soul from the body, guided by the Higher Self. This article delves into the intricate metaphysical view of death and the experiences that await in the astral and heavenly worlds.
The moment of death, as per metaphysical beliefs, is orchestrated by the Higher Self, which triggers the release of the soul from the physical body. Earlyne Chaney describes the release of a "death hormone" by the endocrine glands, which facilitates the separation of the mental, astral, and etheric bodies from the physical form. This hormone is said to anesthetize the body, preventing any sensation of pain during the transition.
The process begins with the mental seed-atom departing, carrying with it the soul's consciousness and memories. This marks the start of the bardo, an unavoidable experience for all souls, regardless of the nature of death. Following this, the astral seed-atom is released, leaving the physical body inert. The final step is the departure of the physical seed-atom, signifying clinical death and the start of the body's dissolution.
Upon transition, the seed-atoms are transferred to the astral form, and the soul awakens to the astral state. It is believed that advanced beings and deceased relatives often greet the soul, offering peace and guidance. This reception is a common theme across various cultures, including the ancient Egyptians, who held that divine guides assist the newly deceased.
After the bardo and the completion of soul-transference, the astral form moves to a region in the astral or mental world that aligns with its vibrational frequency. The etheric body remains connected to the physical form until it fully dissolves.
The etheric body, now devoid of higher principles, can be manipulated by astral entities, leading to phenomena such as vampirism and the appearance of phantoms. This has led to the occult practice of cremation, which is seen as a way to prevent negative spiritual occurrences.
Swedenborg's "Heaven and Hell" (1958) and Cornelius Agrippa's "Three Books of Occult Philosophy" (1995) both discuss the idea that souls gravitate to realms that reflect their inner nature. Souls with lower vibrations may find themselves in lower astral regions, while those with higher natures ascend to more elevated planes.
Purgatory serves as a transitional plane where souls work to rid themselves of moral, mental, and emotional defects. This concept is echoed in Hindu and Buddhist traditions, where souls in purgatory are referred to as Pretas or "hungry ghosts."
The astral body's appearance reflects the soul's nature, with negative traits manifesting as grotesque forms and positive traits as angelic. Swedenborg notes that in the higher realms, one's true character is revealed, and virtues confer beauty.
In the afterlife, souls engage in introspection, learning, and service. They absorb life energy from the astral ethers and can travel using various modes, including flight. Communication is primarily telepathic, transcending language barriers.
The metaphysical view of death and the afterlife offers a rich tapestry of beliefs and experiences that transcend the physical world. It provides a framework for understanding the soul's journey and its continued evolution in the spiritual realms.
For further reading on Swedenborg's teachings, visit the Swedenborg Foundation. To explore more about the concept of the bardo, refer to the Tibetan Book of the Dead.
A General Look at Alchemy Part 4
Steps in Alchemy: Sanctification, Purification, Putrefaction, Fermentation, Combustion, Regeneration, Atonement. Conclusion.
A General Look at Alchemy Part 2
Physical Alchemy, Biological Alchemy, Psychological Alchemy, Transcendental Alchemy. Themes of Alchemy. Symbols of Alchemy.
A General Look at Alchemy Part 3
The Philosopher's Stone; The First Matter,; The Seed; Mercury-Sulphur-Salt; The Seven Metals. The Universal Panacea.
