1) This is a different kind of spirituality and it requires a different approach. of course it feels like just going through the motions; at first, that's all it can be. Over time, with regular practice, you establish connections that go deeper.
2) It's important to do the rituals exactly as written. That way you tap into the egregor (consciousness-form) that's been established by past practitioners; this accelerates your progress and keeps you on track.
Have you ever heard the Zen parable about the teacup? The Zen master Nan-in received a university professor who came to inquire about Zen, but mostly wanted to talk about his own ideas of what it was. Nan-in served tea. He poured his visitor’s cup full, and then kept on pouring. The professor watched the overflow until he no longer could restrain himself. 'It is overfull. No more will go in!'
'Like this cup,' Nan-in said, 'you are so full of your own opinions and speculations that you cannot taste my tea. How can I show you Zen unless you first empty your cup?'
Empty your cup a little and you can get a taste of the tea that I'm serving...
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
branchandroot
Re: Questions for a beginner with New Agey past experience
Date: 2025-03-03 09:26 pm (UTC)2) It's important to do the rituals exactly as written. That way you tap into the egregor (consciousness-form) that's been established by past practitioners; this accelerates your progress and keeps you on track.
Have you ever heard the Zen parable about the teacup? The Zen master Nan-in received a university professor who came to inquire about Zen, but mostly wanted to talk about his own ideas of what it was. Nan-in served tea. He poured his visitor’s cup full, and then kept on pouring. The professor watched the overflow until he no longer could restrain himself. 'It is overfull. No more will go in!'
'Like this cup,' Nan-in said, 'you are so full of your own opinions and speculations that you cannot taste my tea. How can I show you Zen unless you first empty your cup?'
Empty your cup a little and you can get a taste of the tea that I'm serving...