“The divorce between science and art, between philosophy and mysticism has provoked the wear and tear of this generation. We no longer appreciate the poetry of nature, the harmony which is inferred from the entire Universe and , thereby, human relations have become cold, our heart is not moved by human pain.”
-Samael Aun Weor
“Life is empty if it does not pursue transcendence, the realization of the Being. This would not be possible without developing superior emotion, which humanizes science, sublimates art, elevate philosophy and crystallizes mysticism.”
-Samael Aun Weor
The temple of gnosis, from the Greek term meaning experiential knowledge, has its foundation in the four pillars: philosophy, science, mysticism, and art.
These four pillars support the harmonious development of humanity so that each person may reach his or her greatest potential.
At one time in history there was no conflict between religion and science, art and philosophy. These four pillars were taught together as complementary so that a balanced understanding of the world could be reached.
With an open heart, a yearning for the divine, and a respect for the mysterious, we can allow these four pillars of gnosis to guide us on the path of inspiration.
Philosophy
The word philosophy is from the Greek philo, love + soph, wisdom.
Philosophy asks the big questions: Who am I? Where did I come from and where am I going? What is my purpose?
Philosophy moves away from relativistic thinking where we only know in relation to what we already know, and into the realm of possibility.
Sophia is often represented in ancient scriptures as an innocent soul that has fallen into duality and confusion but yearns to return to a state of unity in the divine light. Philosophy at its highest potential yearns to investigate into the unknown to discover the light of wisdom and understanding.
Science
“Science itself is contained within all the Cosmos; science exists even when the study of sciences does not exist.”
-Samael Aun Weor, The Initiatic Path of the Arcana of Tarot and Kabbalah
A scientific approach involves verification, investigation, methodology. Scientific knowledge must be true and demonstrable, also complete in and of itself.
Scientific knowledge should be objective and not based upon incomplete facts. Science that is separated from a work with the consciousness, from an internal work, will always be subject to the lowest aspects of human nature. For example the discovery of subatomic particles was used for one of the most destructive weapons in human history.
Science based on a higher intelligence is balanced and humane. In ancient times science was never separate from religion, objective understanding of nature was another aspect of understanding our relationship with the Divine.
Mysticism and Religion
“Religion is Magic sanctioned by authority. The Wise understand what true religion is- the eternal necessity that is. For debased souls, religion is a yoke imposed by the vagaries of fear and follies of hope. For exalted souls, religion is a force, springing from an intensified love of God and humanity.”
–Eliphas Levi
Knowing the inner being, through the perfume of prayer, meditation and love. Mysticism truly connected to God is simplicity itself, clear, perfect and humble. The term mystic is from the Greek mystikos, the mystery of God, of life, of our own minds. Mystical experience, which is the revelation of the prophets, eventually becomes religion.
The word religion is from the Greek religare to re-unite, or return, to God. All true religions contain different levels and depths of teachings, some appropriate for those just wishing to lead a good life and follow a faith, and some appropriate for those yearning with all their heart to know God directly. Mystical experience is the sweetness and the light that guides the soul back to its divine origin.
Art
The pillar that expresses philosophy, science and mysticism through music, dance, painting, sculpture, poetry, literature, theater etc.
Art strikes sublime emotional states that inspire us along the path, and the creation of art becomes a gospel that can guide future generations of seekers.
Musical piece: So Ro, Godt Barn (Rest Now, Sweet Child) by Trio Medieval.