Whatever The Soul Touches

Ever since primitive man began to think, the words of our ancestors and of the gods, supported by the actions and spirit of our forefathers, have constantly impressed on us that life is the calamity for man, not death. Death gives freedom to our souls and lets them depart to their own pure home where they will know nothing of any calamity; but while they are confined within a mortal body and its share of miseries, in strict truth they are dead. For association of the divine with the mortal is most improper. Certainly the soul can do a great deal even when imprisoned in the body: it makes the body its own organ of sense, moving it invisibly and impelling it in its actions further than mortal nature can reach. But when, freed from the weight that drags it down to earth and is hung about it, the soul returns to its own place, then in truth it partakes of a blessed power and an utterly unfettered strength, remaining as invisible to human eyes as God Himself. Not even while it is in the body can it be viewed; it enters undetected and departs unseen, having itself one imperishable nature, but causing change in the body; for whatever the soul touches lives and blossoms, whatever it deserts withers and dies: such a superabundance it has of immortality.

(Words of Eleazar, Commander of Masada Garrison, 74 CE).

Namaste, these insights from long ago are written in powerful and, for me, compelling words. Although I wanted to share them, I do not agree with all of the sentiments expressed; for life is the opportunity, and karma will not be bribed for an indulgence. Neither is the divine capable of impropriety. However, these words, said to be spoken by Eleazar,  stand for me as a shining testament to the strength of ancestral beliefs. I do also feel a certain sense of relief knowing that in this time of revelations, many elements of the story of the siege of Masada has been archaeologically discredited.

The art is a variation on yesterday’s post, its name is “Can You Feel Me Loving You?” I hope you like.

Art ©Francis Moloney: 2009-2012.

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