Here are some thought-provoking parallels between the Illuminationist philosophy of Suhrawardi and the Law of One.
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Light as a Symbol of Knowledge and Enlightenment:
- Suhrawardi’s philosophy is often centered around the symbolism of light, which represents knowledge, enlightenment, and spiritual awakening. He introduced the concept of “al-ishraq” or illumination, emphasizing the role of inner illumination in attaining true understanding.
- Similarly, in the Ra Material, the concept of light is central to understanding the nature of reality and spiritual evolution. The One Infinite Creator is described as a source of infinite light and love, which illuminates the path of spiritual seekers and guides them toward higher levels of consciousness.
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Hierarchy of Existence and Levels of Reality:
- Suhrawardi proposed a hierarchical model of existence, known as the “cosmic hierarchy,” which consists of various levels of reality ranging from the material world to the divine realm. He emphasized the importance of transcending lower levels of reality to attain higher forms of knowledge and union with the divine.
- Similarly, the Ra Material presents a metaphysical framework that includes multiple levels or densities of existence, each characterized by different degrees of consciousness and spiritual evolution. Beings evolve through these densities towards reunion with the One Infinite Creator, reflecting a similar emphasis on transcending lower levels of reality to attain higher states of consciousness.
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Intuitive Knowledge and Direct Experience:
- Suhrawardi emphasized the importance of intuitive knowledge and direct spiritual experience as a means of attaining truth and enlightenment. He advocated for the cultivation of inner vision and mystical insight to perceive higher realities beyond the material world.
- In the Ra Material, the importance of direct experience and inner knowing is also emphasized. Spiritual seekers are encouraged to develop their intuition and inner guidance to discern truth and navigate their spiritual journey.
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Unity of Existence and Divine Oneness:
- Both Suhrawardi and the Ra Material affirm the unity of existence and the ultimate oneness of all creation. Suhrawardi spoke of the “Unity of Being” (wahdat al-wujud), which posits that all phenomena are manifestations of the divine essence.
- Similarly, the Ra Material teaches the Law of One, which asserts that all beings are interconnected expressions of the One Infinite Creator. This concept emphasizes the fundamental unity and interconnectedness of all existence."
Although the congruency isn’t perfect, the two spiritual doctrines both touch upon the importance of Light (aka Love/Light in the Law of One) to our understanding of fundamental reality.