The Rose Sufi Crescent

The Seasons of our Life

2012-01-29T09:20:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wondered at the miracle of how our life unfolds? Did you know that our spirits unfold within our bodies in cycles of seven years and enfolded within the four seasons of spring, summer, autumn and winter? Let us look at the narrative of human life here on earth:

Each season has three divisions of seven years within it.

Spring (birth to 21). This is the time of budding, play, exploration, development, imagination, learning, etc. This is the time of the child, maiden, page

Birth to age 7 = early spring (circa March)

7 - 14 = mid-spring (circa April)

14 - 21 = late spring (circa May)

Summer (21 - 42). This is the time where the human develops his/her purpose, strength, creates a family. This is the time of the mother, father, warrior/warrioress. This is the time of building, gathering, hunting, cultivating.

21 - 28 = early summer (circa June)

28 - 35 = mid summer (circa July)

35 - 42 = late summer (circa August)

Autumn (42 - 62). This is the time for wisdom, kingship / queenship, mentoring of others, passing on knowledge, service to others. It is the time of harvesting, helping new "trees and plants" take root, creating an infrastructure that can last for generations to come. This is the time of the elder.

42 - 49 = early autumn (circa Sept)

49 - 56 = mid autumn (circa Oct)

56 - 62 = late autumn (circa Nov)

Winter (62 - 84). This is the time of the hermit, the priest/priestess, the artist, the storyteller, the keeper of knowledge. It is the time of wisdom and reflection. It is the time for the great preparation to transition from the body to the Kingdom of Light.

62 - 69 = early winter (circa Dec)

69 - 76 = mid winter (circa Jan)

76 - 84 = late winter (circa Feb)

Several things should be pointed out. First, from a numerological study, we should take notice of both the number 7 and the number 12. Our bodies are designed to completely replace every cell every 7 years. We do not have the same body in one period as we do in another. Just as there are seven days in a week, so too there are seven chakras. The total number allotted by Allah for the human life span is 84 years (or 7 x 12). Note that Jesus had 12 disciples, there were 12 tribes of Israel, the Zodiac has 12 houses.

Secondly, many people wonder about the unfolding of their own lives. A good method of reflection is to review your life to this point. See how it compares to the seasons. Ask yourself what lessons you have learned during each season. Bring yourself today into harmony with your chart? Are you living in accord with the "truth" of your present season? Plan for your future by considering the season before you.

Finally, take time to observe each month and to correlate the outer world of nature and its movements to your own inner world.

Quran III: 101 - 102 "The Rope" of Light

2011-12-04T11:54:00.000-08:00

"O you who believe!
Fear God as S/he should be feared
And do not die except in a state of surrender.

And together hold tight to the Rope
Which Allah stretches out to you..."

What is the "Rope" that Allah stretches out? Is this merely a simile or is there an actual rope? The truth is that there is, in fact, a cord that stretches from the Kingdom of Light to us, passing from our crown chackra down through all seven chackras and out from each chackra. The cord keeps us continually tied to the Light as well as the seven heavenly spheres. Moreover, this cord grows off shoots that tie into each other's astral bodies.

Through careful practice Sufis come to feel the cord that runs from the Light through our bodies and out. Sufis also feel how they have cords running to everyone else. We grow cords (in reality there is just one cord) to everyone we know. These cords form attachments. We can also send feelings of love, or healing, to others by channeling them through the cord.

Evil wizards also use the cord to send malicious thoughts of hate, anger, illness, etc. through their cords to others.

It is important that we watch, with our inner vision, how our spiritual cord (Rope) is entangling with others and being entangled. It is a good practice to draw your cord in from others that you may have a problem with so as not to send them your animosity. Then, when you are ready, send out a cord of light with positive thoughts.

One exercise we can do is to lie down quietly, imagine our heart chackra as a beautiful rose, and then see a dazzling white thin light (the Rope) extending to someone you care about, sending love, peace and healing. Know that you channeling the Light from above. Feel how the Rope of Light descends down into your crown chackra and out your heart chackra to the person you wish to contact. Then, feel the cord that runs between the normally runs between the two of you. Follow your emotions as they travel between you. Ask yourself: Where is the cord located in your astral body? What emotions have gone back and forth between you and the other person? Are they healthy? Then send light down through the cord.

Hold fast, together, to the Rope of Light. When Death approaches you, shift your attention to your crown chackra, focus on the Rope of Light leading into the Kingdom of Light and repeat the shahada, greeting the Angel of Light.

So mote it be!

Eid Mubarak

2011-08-30T09:32:00.000-07:00

The fellowship of the Rose Sufi Crescent prays that all blessings from Allah will be upon you during this wonderful day. Eid Mubarak.

The Night of Power - Laylat al-Qadr

2011-08-25T16:24:00.001-07:00

The Night of Power, Laylat al-Qadr, is coming upon us like a meteor. This is the night to remain vigilant. On the night of Laylat al-Qadr we must remain in prayer. This is the night that our fate for the next year will be decided. But our prayers cannot be just for ourselves, for every fiend prays for himself. They must also include those we love, for everyone human prays for those they love. But our prayers must also be for those we are acquainted with. And for those we have never met - all humans. But we must go beyond our own species. We must love all creatures. And we must love all plants and all minerals. We must love the entire planet. Laylat al-Qadr, the night the angels hand our fate to us, is the night we send prayers up on behalf of all of creation.

Meditation for Laylat al-Qadr

*Begin by counting down from 13 to 1
*Slow your breathing to 4 breaths per minute
*Repeat Ar-Rahman (in breath) Ar-Rahim (out breath)
*In your mind's eye
- See yourself lying in a cave
- Feel the cold, damp, dark cave under your skin
- Before you suddenly appears the Arch-angel Gabriel
- You see a Book - the script within the book is on fire
- Take the Book and place it on your heart
- Feel the warmth from the Book and its fire script

Now

*Bring your attention to your heart
*Call up feelings of thankfulness
- Remember a time that made you very happy
*Hold that feeling of thankfulness
*Picture
- those you love - give them the thankfulness and love
- See a giant mass of humans - give them the thankfulness and love
- See animals and plants - give them the gift of thankfulness and love
- See the earth from space - give it thankfulness and love

Before you stands the angels bringing you your fate.

Surrender before your fate

Thank the angels for the dispensation of Allah that they bring to you

Be grateful

Count back from 1 to 13

When you open your eyes praise Allah

So mote it be!

Ramadan moon cycles and Sufi practice

2011-08-23T16:06:00.000-07:00

According to the Rose Sufi Crescent tradition as taught by Al-Khidr, each of the four phases of the moon during Ramadan correspond to the 4 stages of Sufism:

Stage 1: From the crescent through the waxing period is the time of the sharia (or law). This is why Muslims pay special attention to the rules of conduct during Ramadan. However, sharia, or religious law, is actually summed up in good works, in conduct and behavior towards others. It is the path of love, compassion, forgiveness, tolerance. During this moon cycle we become aware of, draw out, challenge, battle and overcome that in our inner world (the false self) that battles against the law of love. This year (Ramadan in Leo) we are called to overcome our own egotistical false selves.

Stage 2: The full moon is the time of tariqah, the camel's path through the desert and the spiritual oasis is reflected in the cosmic moon. During full moon tariqah we celebrate the power that the power of the particular gift that the Ramadan for the year provides. This year during the full moon of Ramadan we are called to celebrate the gifts of Ramadan, which are centered in leadership and nobility.

Stage 3: When the moon enters is wanning period we are called to surrender and be purified by experiencing haqiqah, which is the knowledge of the heart. Like a tired horse, we have left our rationale tethered at the oasis and now we proceed with the heart. haqiqah is the way of Truth - a truth that can only be known by the purified heart.

Today the moon is at 30% visibility. Now is the time to purify the heart. According to the Rose Crescent tradition, this is the day that the Prophet (PBUH) had his heart taken out and washed by the angels. We must do the same. To do so -

a. Recite La ilaha illa Allah 99 times

b. Bring your breathing down to 4 breaths per minute

c. Call upon the angels. Ask them to come to you.

d. See yourself lying prone upon the rocks as Ismail did.

e. See the knife in the angels hands.

d. Ask the angels to cut your heart out and wash it

e. See how they remove your heart. See them wash it. Feel how they replace it.

f. Turn your minds eye to the heavens. Behold the throne of God. Thank Allah for his gifts.

g. Focus your attention on your heart.

h. Allow the Love and Light of the cosmos to enter you. Feel your heart bathed in Love and Light.

I. Thank the angels. Thank Allah.

J. Return to a waking state.

Stage 4. During the new moon cycle, when the world is quiet and at peace, and the stars are intensely overhead, we will travel on a pilgrimage to the cosmic Bakkah and there we will receive marifah (gnosis).

So mote it be.

Abdulaziz Sachedina

2011-08-18T06:59:00.000-07:00

Rose Crescent friends may benefit from the ideas and works of brother Abdulaziz Sachedina. Listen to brother Abdulaziz Sachedina discuss his work on Islam and pluralism here.

Questions he takes up:

How can we allow for an individual citizen to be both religious and separate from religion?

Is Islam and democracy reconcilable?

What are the methods of democracy and how do we define it?

How do we reconcile modern notions of human rights, and women's rights, and Islam?

Can religion define the boundaries of national identity?

Is Islam and pluralism compatible?

View his publications at Amazon here.

Approaching Full Moon in Ramadan

2011-08-08T06:52:00.000-07:00

At this time you may want to call in the energies of spiritual leadership while at the same time guarding against the possible onslaught of the False Self's ultimate self-aggrandizement. To so so:

* Count from 13 to 1

* With each breath say "Ya Allah" (pronounced "Ya All-haaaaa")

* Say "Ya All" on the inward breath

* Say "haaaaa" on the outward breath

* You should limit your breaths to 5 per minute

After several minutes move your attention to your heart region

Breath Love and compassion into the Heart

Connect with the colors green and gold

Bathe your heart region with green and gold

Ask the Light that your Inner Leader awaken, bringing goodness to all and harming none

Draw your attention to the East - the realm of the sun. Draw in the energies of the sun. Allow them to bathe your entire energetic field. With your mind's eye take up your scimitar. Feel the scimitar in your hand. Say:

With this scimitar I discern Truth from Falsehood. With this scimitar I serve the Earth and Humanity. With this scimitar I banish all forms of shirk. With this scimitar I banish the False Self. With this scimitar I serve the Light.

Now return your attention to your heart area. Bring appreciation into the heart. Allow your mind to remember what you are thankful for. Hold thoughts of thankfulness. Remember how you felt when you were happy, loved, cared for and cared for others. Thank Allah for the life on earth you have been given and the chance to serve the Light.

When you are ready open your eyes and say "Bismallah - So mote it be!"

Ramadan in Leo Greetings

2011-08-03T16:09:00.000-07:00

We would like to send out our sincerest greetings of joy and love to all of our Rose Crescent friends and brothers at this time.

Ramadan this year occurs during the month of August, ruled by the sun and the sign of Leo. As the moon begins to wax we take in its power. Ramadan in Leo can be a time where the energies of success are strongest. Spiritual seekers should beware, though, because Ramadan in Leo light could be used by the False Self to sway us that we are more spiritual than we are, that we are closer to the Light than we are. The False Self is especially beguiling during Ramadan in Leo. Because Leo shines through strongly, be on guard against megalomania whether it is in the political or spiritual arena.

Ramadan in Leo is an excellent time for us to wake up out of our slumber. Because the False Self is stronger, it is a time for us to become aware of it as it will not be sitting back behind the curtains of the deeper layers of the unconscious in hiding as it usually does.

A useful exercise for spiritual development: If you are a more extroverted person, catch yourself in a conversation or situation attempting to take center stage. Watch how you feel. Then the next time refuse to step forward into the center. Watch how the False Self trembles.

If you are an introverted person, let the power of Ramadan in Leo carry you into the center. Watch the False Self as it trembles either from fear of entering the center, and thus being exposed for the fraud that it is, or as it secretively enjoys the attention it usually foregoes.

Again - RAMADAN MUBARAK!

So mote it be

Sister Rabi'ah and her mystical experience in Chile

2011-07-17T07:45:00.000-07:00

We'd like to take this time to introduce the community to Sister Rabi'ah.

Q: Tell us about yourself and your walk in life.

Sister Rabi'ah: First, all praise and thanks goes to Allah, the All Compassionate and Merciful. Thank you for interviewing me. Well, as you know I'm originally from Iraq. I grew up in a large family just outside of Basra. My father was a very devout man who read Qur'an with us everyday, prayed five times a day, and avoided everything that is forbidden. I was betrothed when the war broke out and my husband to be, may he be granted a high level in paradise, was killed during the invasion.

Q: So what happened to you?

Sister Rabi'ah: It's a long story. My brother and I decided to leave Iraq. We paid a fee and were smuggled into Syria. From there we went to Lebanon. We have some family in Canada so we were able to get permission to immigrate. It took several years, though. And we still don't have work visas.

Q: And how did you hear about the Rose Sufi Crescent?

Sister Rabi'ah: I went to a khanqah in Beirut. It is a gathering place of sufi, Christian and Druze who want to worship together. As you know, they meet on the first new moon of every quarter. Several sisters there introduced us to working with the rose and the crescent.

Q: And what happened after you went to Canada?

Sister Rabi'ah: I came into contact with a Rose Crescent ambassador in Toronto who told me about the work of Peace Pilgrim. I started reading her thoughts and learning about her ideas. I was really fascinated by this great woman. So then I decided to go somewhere I had never been before. I told my family about my dreams. I felt I needed to do what something like -though of course not so great - as what Peace Pilgrim had done. I flew to Santiago, Chile and then went by bus down further south. Now my plan is to walk to the tip where you can see the Antarctica.

Q: Did you say walk?

Sister Rabi'ah: Yes. That is what Peace Pilgrim did. She walked across the United States teaching people about non-violence. I'm doing the same. I've been learning Spanish. And I've met so many wonderful people who have taken me for the night. They offer me food and a place to stay.

Q: Isn't that an odd thing for an Iraqi woman to be doing?

Sister Rabi'ah: Of course it is. If my cousins saw me going about now with just a backpack and no male to protect me they would be shocked. But I'm protected by Allah. I place myself in the Light and Trust that the Cosmos will provide me with the safety I need.

Q: Do you ever plan on going back to Iraq?

Sister Rabi'ah: God willing. If it is in Allah's plans I will return to Iraq and help spread the message of Peace and non-violence.

Q: And what about Peace Pilgrim?

Sister Rabi'ah: There was one night I want to tell you about. I was walking and it was getting really late. I didn't have anywhere to stay and it didn't look like I was going to find a place that night. So I just kept walking down this dirt road. As I was walking I was meditating on the rose and the crescent. My breath and gate had fallen in step for quite so time and with my inner eye I was looking at the moon as it waxed, transformed into a beautiful red rose, and then waned. Suddenly I felt her walking next to me. I could see her out of the periphery of my vision. The stars just started getting so bright. I felt her love surrounding me. I saw her hand reach out and touch my shoulder. The next thing I knew I woke up in a barn covered with straw and there were cows around me. So I did my prayers, got up and got back on the road. Somehow I had been transported about 20 miles further down the road. Later I learned that the area I would have gone into was notorious for gangs and that several women had disappeared there.

Q: So somehow Peace Pilgrim had transported you to safety beyond that place on the road?

Sister Rabi'ah: By Allah. It is the most miraculous thing that has happened to me. But I felt her love and care for me. It was so strong. And through her I felt the love of Fatimah, Aisha and Khadija. When I woke up I saw, just for a split second, the three of them before me.

Q: Is that the first experience you have had with the Three Holy Swans of Allah?

Sister Rabi'ah: I was introduced to them first in Lebanon through some of the sisters there and then also in Toronto. But that was the first mystical experience I've had of them.

Q: May you have many more as our faith is taken to the next step when we embrace the Divine and holy Feminine. Thank you so much for allowing us to share your testimony. May you always be in the Light. May your path be blessed.

Sister Rabi'ah: Thank you. May Allah be with you and with all of the members of the Rose Crescent.

Q: May the fragrance of the rose carry your soul onto the divine realms; may the rays of the moon cause illuminate your body and cause your very cells to dance and whirl in praise of Allah.

Sister Rabi'ah: So mote it be!

Q: So mote it be

Spiritual Unity and the Cave of Treasures

2011-07-14T10:06:00.000-07:00

Q: In our previous post, we discussed the issue of the unity of the world's religions. Doesn't this seem counter-intuitive considering that Islam claims to be the True Religion?

Habib Ullah: The Qur'an never claims that Islam is the only path to God. Instead, God has sent out revelations to all people everywhere. No people, not even islanders in the Pacific, have not been reached and blessed by the Revelation.

Q: Are you saying that this is because Christian and Muslim missionaries have spread the Book?

Habib Ullah: No, no, no. Often times what missionaries bring with them is counter to the Message of the Book. What we are saying is that even Paleolithic Man had received divine messages from the Light. Ancient Shamans traveled into the Divine realms where they contacted Jinn, angels, and the Message itself. Artists connected with Being. One need only view ancient cave art to understand this. The Book is actually written on our hearts. We need only journey inwards to find the Revelation.

Q: The verse we discussed in our last post tells us that we, who think we have the Truth, may actually have just the one coin of silver whereas the "pagan" may have the abundance of gold.

Habib Ullah: Precisely. Unfortunately, in Orthodox Islamic circles this ayat is given very little thought. To connect with this verse:

Sit quietly

Stop the chatter in your brain (or at least don't latch onto it)

Tune into your breath

Try to reduce your breath to six breaths per minute

Now -

Imagine you are in a cave (just as the Prophet entered many times)

In the cave there is a torch blazing

Shadows dance upon the walls

Not far from where you are sitting the floor opens into a deeper cavern

Listen

Below you hear water

Listen

Feel the Depth

Allow it to bubble up towards you

Know that from within this Depth the Revelations given unto all Humans everywhere has sprung

Sit quiet

Breath

Allow It to Speak to You if It wishes

Qur'an Surah III: 75-76 Argument for Religious Unity

2011-07-04T09:39:00.000-07:00

Whereas in the New Testament Jesus tells his disciples to go forth and preach (Mathew 24:15), setting in motion an entire millennium of missions (and all the atrocities that followed in the wake of the Church's attempt to conquer with the cross and sword), the Qur'an presents a corrective note. There is no reason to convert others to your faith. True exoteric Islam is not one of dogma, but one of deeds.

In popular Christianity one cannot be saved unless one converts. Thus, millions and millions of heathen are condemned, despite that "God is Love," to eternal hell fire.

The Qur'an tells us:

"Among the People of the Book are some who, if entrusted with a hoard of gold, will quickly pay it back while others, given only a single silver coin will hoard it unless you stand over them and demand repayment. They will say, 'There is no duty for us to faith with the ignorant.' But they tell a lie against the Light."

The verse begins with an allegory similar to Jesus' story of the steward. However, the text quickly makes sure that we, the hearers, know that this concerns the question of religious unity. Is there a duty on us to practice faith together?

When we perform good deeds we repay that which has been entrusted to us. But we cannot do this only within our own religious traditions. We must do it united with all Peoples of the Book. Verse 75 is a call for all people of all faiths to practice their faith together. In case there is any doubt about the meaning, verse 76 tells us:

"Nay - Those that keep their plighted faith and perform meritorious deeds - verily, Allah loves those who act aright."

By "plighted faith" the Qur'an points us back to our perspective of the Other. We believe the Other's faith is plighted. We believe we are right and their beliefs are wrong. In the moment the dark spot in our heart wishes to condemn the "ignorant" and demand that he or she converts, the Qur'an turns it back onto us. Perhaps we are the one with the silver coin refusing to repay Allah for we have lost sight of our calling to act aright, performing charity, taking care of the poor, being good stewards of the earth.

Let us put conversion and missions behind us. Let us serve the poor and the suffering without thought of converting them. Let us practice faith together. Let us repay the silver and gold we have been given as one.

Quran Surah III: 67 The True Religion of Abraham

2011-06-18T12:06:00.000-07:00

It has become popular in some circles to use the term "Abrahamic Faith" to describe the religions that sprang forth from the impulse that was directed through Abraham. Although the patriarch pre-dates the three great Near Eastern religions, a central question has always lingered as to what religious forms he practiced. Was he a practicing Jew? In other words, was his way of worshiping God and carrying out his religious daily practices something that Jews would recognize and say, "he is one of us"? Since Christians have, in large part, claimed the Hebrew scriptures as their own, and have historically believed that much of the Old Testament foreshadowed their own history, than Christians are also likely to ask, "Was Abraham a proto-Christian? Did he already recognize and know that Jesus would descend from him?" In fact, the Gospels spend a bit of time trying to draw out Jesus' lineage. Muslims, too, have entered into the debate by insisting that Abraham's practices were similar - or the same - as Muslim practices. So, what religion was Abraham?

The Qur'an offers tremendous and radical insight:

"Abraham was not a Jew,

Nor was he a Christian;

But he was true in faith;

And surrendered his will to Allah's,

And he joined not gods with God.

Among humans, the nearest relatives are those

that, like Abraham, surrender their will to Allah."

The point is that Abraham was neither Jew, nor Christian, nor Muslim. Instead, he was one who practiced a deep existential surrender.

This, in deed, is a dividing line between fundamentalist Muslims, who claim that Abraham literally practiced the rituals of Islam and that Muslims restored what was lost and Sufis, who understand that the verse points to a deeper state of being within oneself.

If one follows the logic of the verse than one finds the miracle of unity within it. One doesn't reach Abraham through the rituals or beliefs of any of the three great Near Eastern faiths. One only approaches Abraham through an inner state of surrendering one's will to Allah (the Light).

Quran III:61 - Prayer Unto the Curse of Allah

2011-05-22T15:57:00.000-07:00

If anyone resorts to abusive disputations with you after Deep Knowledge has indwelt you, say to them: "Come! Let us gather together - our sons and your sons, our women and your women, Ourselves and yourselves. Then let us pray with all earnestness, from the depths of our heart, and invoke the curse of Allah on those who are lying."

The Curse of Allah is a terrible thing to come upon someone. It is like a dark storm with severe winds that will blow over you. The one who is caught in it will have to lay flat on the ground, in terror and trembling. Boils will cover their whole body. Their fortune will be taken from them. Ruin will haunt them until the curse is lifted. Death would be a welcome release from the curse.

We do not enter lightly into such a prayer unto the Curse of Allah. It can only be undertaken with all seriousness and only after one has attained the station of Deep Knowledge. During the period that the prayers are engaged in, nothing in one's heart can be hidden. If there is any doubt body will begin to shake. If one is insincere pains will begin to hit them throughout their body. Only the pure in heart and intention can withstand this trial. One is following the path of Job here. There will be warnings to turn back before it is too late. Strange birds will come to the window. As the prayers precede there will be ever more strange sounds. The very ground beneath you will tremble. Finally, the one who is lying (note: not the one who is wrong but the one who is lying) will have the curse fall upon them. It is a terrible thing to fall into the hands of Allah!

The key to unlocking this amazing passage is that the curse falls in the end upon the one who is intentionally lying. Since the Revelation has been disbursed to all Mankind through 133,000 prophets and countless more minor prophets, and then misunderstood by generations, we all hold false beliefs and have errors in our thinking, depending on the station upon which we are. However, the curse will fall upon the one who maliciously accuses, who engages in abuse over theological ideas.

Note that the Revelation does not sanction fighting each other over beliefs and ideas. Not does it endorse using the prayer onto the curse to solve differences that might exist between our ideas, whether we are Muslims, Christians, Jews, Buddhists, etc. It is only to be used when their is abuse in order to draw out the malicious lier. It can also only be initiated by one who has received the indwelling of the Deep Knowledge of the Depth, Light, Truth.

If you decide to proceed, then allow a 144 days following the conclusion of the prayer gathering, which itself should be 48 hours (note the numerological significance). Within the 144 days the curse will manifest. If it doesn't, then it is safe to conclude that no one was lying.

We are Mirrors One to Another

2011-05-10T07:21:00.001-07:00

According to the venerable Rumi, "The Prophet [PBUH], said: 'You are mirrors to each other." This is a very powerful statement. What do you see when you look in the mirror? We, all of humanity, are mirrors to each other. We see ourselves when we see the Other.

We need to understand that the cosmos is a place of both individuation and unity. Although there are billions and billions of human souls, ultimately there is only one Anthropos. The Earth Being Adam was brought into existence. From the Earth Being all other human spirits, like sparks, were sent off. We are collectively One Being. All thoughts we think are imprinted into that One Earth Being.

On the earth plane, we help ourselves when we help others (our mirror). What you see in others that you don't like, or like, is exactly what is within you. If you hate something, it is because that thing is lurking in the shadows of your inner world.

A word to legalists: the sin which you hate in others is the very sin that is tormenting you in your own soul. Instead of persecuting the other, look within and change yourself. Allow light, good and beauty to fill you. Surrender your ego. Only then will you find the beauty in the other - the mirror.

Qur'an III: 64 Call for Inter-religious Dialogue

2011-05-06T05:42:00.000-07:00

[And Allah Saith for you to] Say [to those who would fight with each other amongst you] "O People of the Book! Let us agree upon the following - We all worship none other than Creator; we do not associate any created being with Creator; we do not elevate humans as Lords and Patrons as replacement for God."

Bismallah! The Light has Revealed itself in these golden verses of unity brought down amongst us.

Friends, brothers, sisters - this is testimony to the central message of the Holy Qur'an: Let us all agree upon a core set of principles and let us allow each other differences of opinion based on our traditions. It is time that we allow these beautiful pearls to enter into our auric field and seep deep into our hearts. For too long now the People of the Book have torn each other asunder. Christian crusades, Sunni versus Shia, Jews attacking Palestinians, Muslims retaliating. The hour is late. The earth is crying out. Now is the time to join hands.

This should serve as a warning to those who profess belief during the day and then deny it at night! Allah has no tolerance for disrespecting each other's faith!

May you have a blessed and wonderful sabbath - be it Friday, Saturday or Sunday.

Qur'an Surah III: 51-53 True Christians are Muslims

2011-04-20T06:22:00.000-07:00

Jesus said: "It is Allah who is my Lord and your Lord; Then worship Allah. This is a way that is straight."

We find in the words of the Prophet Jesus, PBUH, clear testimony that all beings, no matter how exalted in the universe, or how divergent in their paths, have the same One Lord. The Apostle Jesus testifies that Allah is "my Lord and your Lord." It is a statement that is not based on the views or opinions of humans, or the particular religious affiliation. There is only One Lord, and that One Lord is the Lord of All.

After finding unbelief in them (meaning a rejection of the the Oneness of God who is God of All), he said: "Who will be my helpers to do God's work? [Some in the crowd answered]: "We are God's helpers. We believe in God and bear witness that we are Muslims."

There are a couple of interesting points here that we should meditate on: First, God (the Light) invites us to serve as helpers. To be a disciple of Jesus is to help the Light to manifest in this dense world of matter. Our duty as disciples of Jesus is to pull Spirit down into Matter while raising matter up towards Spirit. This is the work of a helper. Second, by progressing on this path of being a helper, one becomes a Muslim, namely: one who has entered into a state of surrender. To be a Muslim is a totalizing existential state.

Both mainstream Christians and Muslims should take heed from these sections of the Holy Qur'an. Both groups make the mistake of how one becomes a "disciple." Evangelical Christians mistakenly believe it is a matter of simple belief in the work of Christ on the cross, when in fact it is about becoming a co-worker with Jesus. Most Muslims today mistakenly believe that one is a Muslim if one adopts a certain dress code, performs prayers in a certain way, keeps the law, customs. In fact, being a Muslim is to be in a state of complete surrender from within the heart. We Muslims must move from the exterior to the interior; we Christians must move from simple phrases that excuse oneself to acts or deeds of kindness and compassion in this world.

Christians and Muslims yoked together could prove to be a powerful force against the forces of darkness.

Iran to ban dogs

2011-04-19T12:44:00.000-07:00

Question: It has come to the public eye that the government of Iran may attempt to ban people from owning dogs. Apparently stray dogs are often rounded up from the streets and then killed. What is the Rose Crescent position on the ownership of dogs?

Habib Ullah: The killing of God's creatures is a horrible act and is contrary to Islam.

Question: Many Iranian Mullah's claim it is because dogs are considered "unclean."

Habib Ullah: That is why they shouldn't eat them. Many things are unclean, but it doesn't give anyone permission to kill them or forbid people from owning them.

Question: So Islam allows you to own a dog?

Habib Ullah: Of course. The Prophet, Peace Be Upon Him, loved all animals. As humans we are caretakers of what belongs to Allah. We are on this earth to provide care and compassion. If you care for a dog, or cat, it is counted as a great blessing for you and is written down.

Question: You said the Prophet loved all animals.

Habib Ullah: According to very reliable tradition, the Prophet, PBUH, once said: "A prostitute was forgiven her sins because when she passed by a tired and thirsty dog who was panting heavily at a well, and who was about to die from dehydration, removed her shoe, and fastening it to her veil, drew some water out of the well for the dog. And because of this act she was forgiven."

Imagine that. Years of prostitution forgiven by a single act of rescuing a thirsty dog!

Question: What do you say to the clerics who persist in their hate of dogs?

Habib Ullah: I would tell them that years of keeping their beards at proper length will not save them from the hellfire of hurting a single dog. If saving a dog gains you forgiveness, then hurting a dog incurs wrath.

Qur'an Surah III:55 Jesus and Interfaith

2011-04-15T11:39:00.000-07:00

Behold! Allah has said: "O Jesus! I will raise you to myself and cleanse you of all false doctrines of those who blaspheme; I will make those who follow you above those who reject you, until the Day of Resurrection. Then shall all people (of all faiths) Return to me, and I will judge between you about the matters that you dispute."

In this ayat is a powerful message. First, it is a call for unity among the peoples of this world (specifically in the context the children of Abraham). Secondly, Allah sets out a covenant with Jesus that will last until the Day of Resurrection. Thirdly, all doctrinal disputes that lead to strife are to be handed over to Allah.

We at the Rose Sufi Crescent encourage all of our Muslim, Christian, Jewish brethren to join together in peace. This Easter let us celebrate together the mission of the great teacher and prophet, Jesus of Nazareth.

The Jinn - Alien connection

2010-09-20T18:38:00.000-07:00

Do you believe in the existence of Jinn? Many people claim to be good Muslims, but they do not believe in the existence of our cousins. The earth is on the brink of collapse. Destruction and evil are in human hearts. The Holiest of Books, the Qur'an, plainly tells us that humans and Jinn are to form an assembly. The Prophet, Peace Be Upon Him, brought the Book not just to humans but also to the Jinn.

We must endeavor to understand that it is possible to have contact with Jinn. We can work with them just as we work with other humans - to accomplish good on this earth.

John E. Mack, the late Harvard Professor of Psychology, did a brilliant study of Alien-Human encounters, entitled "Abductions." Everyone should read this book and then seriously study the UFO phenomena. If you open your heart you will come to discover that what are called Aliens are in reality Jinn.

Mack explains that Aliens are attempting to help raise the consciousness level of humanity to prevent global destruction. Of course, all of this is by the Will of Allah.

Our Hearts go out to Lahore Sufis

2010-07-05T11:09:00.000-07:00

The Rose Sufi Crescent - We send our prayers and heartfelt sorrow to all our Sufi brothers and sisters in Pakistan. May those killed be granted paradise. May those wounded be granted speedy recovery. May the perpetrators be brought to justice. May those who have a desire to commit violent religious crimes come to a right understanding and change of heart.

So mote it be

Quran Surah III: 14-15

2010-07-05T10:19:00.000-07:00

Fair in the eyes of men is the love of things of this world that they covet...

Say: Here are glad tidings far better than the things of this world:

For those in nearness to the Light: Gardens, with rivers flowing beneath. Therein is their Eternal home, with Companions pure and holy. And they dwell therein for the good pleasure of God.

The key to understanding this profound passage is the contrast between this world in which our lower selves are drawn to and the eternal abode which is far better. We should avoid falling into the modern trap of imagining these gardens are only figurative. They are real and they can be experienced now while we are in our bodies. The second point to pull out is that our Companions are there waiting for us. These Companions serve as our spirit guides while we walk in dense matter. And finally, our access to the garden is not something we earn, but it is through the grace of Allah.

To experience the garden, perform a ritual ablution and recite a prayer, asking for forgiveness (recite ayat 16: "Our Lord, we have believed. Forgive us our sins, and save us from the Fire"). Then get comfortable and close your eyes. Begin counting down. Pay special attention to your breaths as you count down from 13 to 1. Imagine yourself going down a flight of stairs. In your mind you will see a door with Quranic inscriptions. Next to the door is a niche with a flame burning. In your hand is a stick. Go to the niche, say Allah Akbar, and light your stick. Then enter through the door into the garden. Experience the garden. See the trees. Feel the breeze. Hear the water bubbling up from underneath. There in the gardens will be your Companions. Go to them. Sit with them. Do you have questions you need answered? Feel free to ask them. Do you need guidance? They will help you as a friend helps a friend. Do you need them to pray for you, ask them to pray for you or a loved one for a specific condition. Or just sit quietly with them, enjoying their presence.

When you are ready, return through the door, walk back up the stairs and open your eyes, finding yourself in your body.

USA wants Russia to Help in Afghanistan!

2009-03-05T11:57:00.000-08:00

In a bizarre twist, the USA is now seeking Russian aid in the war in Afghanistan (apparently since Britain, France and Germany all are backing away from the insanity). What could be more Orwellian than Russian and American troops fighting side by side against Afghanis (insurgents, mujahideen, Taliban, village boys and old men)?

Before we forget, let's recall the horrors of the Soviet War:

1 million Afghans dead
5 million displaced as refugees
2 million displaced within the country
1.2 million disabled
Mass environmental damage
Mass carpet bombing of cities such as Kandahar
10-15 million landmines left as a "gift" for Afghanis
High child mortality (30%)
67% of surving children malnurished

So, now Obama/Clinton are seeking Russian participation. Certainly, this isn't to woo the hearts and minds of Afghanis. Many of the young men the proposed coalition army will engage were no doubt young children during the Soviet occupation (or at least born in the horrific aftermath).

The Rose Crescent House of Peace asks that countries engage the peoples of Afghanistan in such a way that suffering to humans, animals and the environment is minimized and general happiness for the Afghan people is maximized.

It should be understood that the Taliban, however repugnant, is not al-Qaeda. This is the mistake that the Bush administration made and that the Obama administration is beginning to make.

Afghanistan is not the major security threat facing the West or America. The real threats are: global inequality, poverty, environmental damage and collapse, water shortages, global food prices, species extinction, human traffiking, organized crime, proliferation of small arms, oppression of women, corporate greed, etc.

Is terrorism a danger? Of course it is - as is piracy. But it pales in comparison to the real issues facing the world. The War against Afghanistan is a distraction from what the real issues are.

We pray that the world's leaders realize this.

So mote it be!

If you are a member of the Rose Crescent, here is the latest recommendation of what you can do:

1. Enter the celestial temple
2. Hold an image of a world leader in your mind
3. Place that person in Afghanistan
4. Send him/her thoughts of peace
5. Send her/him an image of the scale of balance

Rethink Afghanistan

2009-03-03T11:55:00.000-08:00

The Rose Crescent House of Peace endorses much of the new film by Brave New films on Afghanistan. The recent position paper circulated by the House of Peace calls on the USA to immediately cease all unmanned drone attacks inside of Pakistan.

Moreover, the Rose Crescent position on Afghanistan is that further military escalation will push thousands more into the Taleban camp.

We put forward that the Taleban theology is un-Islamic. However, its defeat must take place within the realm of theology and not bullets.

We categorically assert that the USA is in danger of starting down a road of genocide against the Pashtun people. As more Pashtuns take up arms in defense of their villages, the war will continue to escalate.

We do not call on the USA to cease operations because, as some believe, the war cannot be won by the Americans. Whether or not the USA can defeat the Taleban is irrelevant. Our call is based on the cost of human life, the destruction of what is left in Afghanistan, and the destruction of the environment that will result from operations that will quickly move from fighting the Taleban to fighting Pashtuns.

If the Obama administration moves forward with its operations, we predict that the "surge" will continue upwards to 100,000 USA troops; we predict that over a million Pashtuns will be killed or severely injured; that alternatives to the Taleban will be completely destroyed; and that the environment will be further degraded (through uranium munitions, aerial spraying of opium crops, etc), further eroding life in Afghanistan - and thus fueling extremist groups such as the Taleban.

Interview with Ambassador Zia:

Question: You say that the Taliban cannot be defeated.

Zia: That is not what I said. Of course, anyone can be defeated. Drop enough bombs and they are dead. No. That is not the point at all. That is what those people who are caught up in machoism, on both sides, want to say.

Question: Why?

Zia: Why? They want to romantize the Taleban and the Afghan people as warriors for their own ends. They will portray them as "Indians" who were then beaten by an even more fierce people, the Americans, something the Soviets couldn't do. So, in the end, the Pashtuns are used by everyone for chest pounding purposes.

Question: What about the House of Peace's recent call for America to cease the military expansion.

Zia: Yes. That was the right call, I believe. Inschallah, it will be heeded.

Question: Do you think more people will go over to the Taliban if the war escalates?

Zia: Of course. Who are the Taliban? If you are Pashtun, they are your cousins. You speak the same language. You grew up with them. Look, when the warlords were all killing each other after the Russians left, everyone was happy the Taleban came in. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/144382.stm

Question: So what should people do? Just give up and embrace them?

Zia: No. No one is saying that. But no one in the West is listening to us either. That is why I came to this meeting of the Rose Crescent here in London. So that I could tell you what we are thinking.

Question: Thank you Mr. Zia. And may the blessings of Allah be upon you and your family.

Zia: And upon you.

Comet Lulin and the New Teacher

2009-03-01T08:57:00.001-08:00

There has been much recent excitement regarding the new teacher that has been born and the omen of her/his appearance by the comet.

We need to clarify that the new teacher is not a new prophet, but will serve as an exalted world Imam or mufti. S/he is an apostle of the Prophet.

Born this month, s/he will make her/his debut on the world stage around the year 2038 at the age of 30.

S/he will provide the right medicine needed for the world at that time.

USA Drone Attacks Inside Pakistan

2009-02-26T08:45:00.000-08:00

The Rose Crescent's international House of Peace has completed its draft position paper on the American attacks inside Pakistan. The paper is currently availbe to all khaniqah members, and should not be distributed to the public at large until it has been approved at the district levels.

For those new to the Rose Crescent, the process is as follows:

1. The House of Peace receives testimony from eye witnesses, scholars, and others.
2. The members of the HP deliberate on the testimony.
3. A draft position paper is developed.
4. The paper is distributed to the international assembly of khanaqahs.
5. Comments are solicited.
6. The districts vote on it.
7. If it is approved at the district level, a motion is sent to the House of Peace.
8. It is further reviewed by the ulama present at the House of Peace.
9. A recommendation is made to issue one of the following: (a) a formal position; or (b) a fatwa is issued.

In short, though, the House of Peace has privately called on the U.S. to halt all attacks. Civilian life must be safeguarded.

Comet Lulin

2009-02-24T18:15:00.000-08:00

The appearance of a new comet usually signifies both a paradigm shift and the coming of a new Teacher.

In 100 years from now earth's survivors may very well look back and mark Lulin's coming as marking the start of the New Paradigm of Spirit.

Lulin arrises out of water. The New Age is one of mystery. The comet comes in backwards, powerfully undoing all of the previous paradigms. Now begins the Age of Spirit. During this time a child has been born. In time S/he will manifest to lead the world. The color green is significant because of its connection to both the Prophet Mohamad and to the heart chakra.

New York

2009-02-23T16:43:00.001-08:00

The New York khanaqah will be hosting a special lecture tonight at midnight, following prayers. Those in the area are invited to join. Our special guest brother from the valley of Swat will explain the situation in Pakistan and the work of the Rose Sufi Crescent there. This meeting will precede a discussion of the House of Peace's proposal on Pakistan. Join us for a lively question and answer session following the presentation.

Questions we will consider:

What should the Rose Crescent's position be with regards to USA actions?
What is the best way to curtail the growing influence of the Taliban?
Is Pakistan on the brink of collapse (again)?

How You Can Help Gaza

2009-01-24T15:50:00.000-08:00

What can I do to assist the residents of Gaza?

Let us follow the 3 principles of helping others. Real help must take place in the three planes: the divine, the mainfest and the hidden.

First - the divine realm: Pray that Allah intervenes and creates the conditions for peace and justice. Ask the archangels to block the work of all malicious creatures, both human and jinn.

Second - the manifest: 1. donate money. Good places include

DEC at http://www.dec.org.uk/item/317

International Red Crescent: http://www.ifrc.org/index.asp?navid=01

2. Disinvest - encourage everyone you know to boycott products associated with the occupation. Share this link: http://www.whoprofits.org/

3. Read and spread the word to your local papers and representatives.

Oxfam call: Open the borders - http://www.oxfam.org/en/pressroom/pressrelease/2009-01-21/eu-ministers-should-tell-israels-livni-open-gaza-borders

Amnesty International: http://www.amnesty.org/en/region/israel-and-occupied-territories

Human Rights Watch: http://www.hrw.org/en/middle-eastn-africa/israel-and-occupied-territories

Common Ground News Service: http://www.commongroundnews.org/index.php

The Electronic Intifada
http://electronicintifada.net/

MIFTAH - Palestinian Initiative for Democracy: http://www.miftah.org/

Applied Research Institute - Jerusalem: http://www.poica.org/index.php

The Hidden Realm:

Perform spirit-work in Palestine.

* Begin by using water to purify yourself, splashing it onto your face, neck and feet
* Place yourself in a relaxed meditative condition
* Ask the Light for protection
* Use google earth to zoom in on Occupied Palestine
* Close your eyes
* Breathe
* See yourself leaving your body, with your house growing ever smaller
* See Palestine before you
* Enter
* Move at ground level
* See the living and the dead
* Minister to the living - providing comfort
* Use your "magic mirror" to shine the Divine Light about
* Provide "magic water" to those who are suffering
* Use your "magic sword" - as did Al Khadr, may all Peace and Blessings be Upon Him, to cut the ties of evil, pain, resentment and revenge
* Plant "magic roses" in the ground, calling on the fragrances of our thousand year order to fill the land
* Call on your astral horse, camel or donkey for aid
* Assist the dead to mount onto your spirit animal who will take them to the light
* Count from 10 to 1
* Return to your body
* Say salat and drink water

Amnesty International on Gaza

2009-01-16T11:42:00.000-08:00

Tell Congress to help humanitarian workers get into Gaza and to suspend all transfers of weapons to Israel

Gaza Emergency

2009-01-16T11:38:00.000-08:00

Since the start of the invasion, the Rose Crescent House of Peace is currently working in emergency strategy on the situation in Gaza. Members should check the following links or contact your local House.

Stop the Genocide in Gaza!

2009-01-16T07:39:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

We call on people of all faiths, especially the children of Abraham, to demand a stop to the atrocities in Gaza. We call on the world media to hear their cries, and to release news of Jewish voices for peace.

We ask that you watch these videos and distribute them further.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dlfhoU66s4Y

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALbzwAkfdUg&NR=1

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ONitH-Ffdg

Qur'an Surah 2:115 God is Everywhere

2008-11-19T19:02:00.000-08:00

To Allah belongs the East and the West

Wherever you turn

You find the Presence of Spirit

For Being is -

omnipresent

and

omniscient

Meditation with Qur'an Surah 2:74

2008-11-18T07:08:00.000-08:00

Take a deep breath. close your eyes. repeat Bismallah ar-Rahman ar-Rahim with each breath. Count from 13 to 1.

Now:

See yourself in the divine realms.
See the throne before you.
Feel how light you are.
Move freely about in the celestial atmosphere.
Enjoy the Throne of God.
See angels ascending and descending.
Experience the light that is everywhere.
See the Light that is in your breast.
Feel the warmth and glow.
Your are light.

Descend downwards towards the world of matter.
Feel the density around you.
Feel yourself become heavier.
Feel how you can barely move.
Feel how slow you are.
You are becoming denser.
You can barely breath.
You just lie there, immobile.
Heavy - inert matter.

A bolt of light strikes you.

You crack open.

Within you is holy water. You didn't even realize that it was there.
It rushes forth.
Feel love and compassion streaming towards All.

Again - be aware that You are as dense as a rock.
Holy water bubbles up.
Feel the joy.
Become aware of All being around you.
Listen.
All is sentient. All is alive.
Joy overwhelms you.

Again - be aware that You are in the realm of matter.
You feel heavy.
You are inert.
There is an ocean before you.
You sink into it.
Downward you sink.
All is quiet.
You are in the Depths.
You are still.
You sense something.
You feel fear before the enormity of the Depth.
You are very still.
Then
Before you...
You are struck by
The Beauty and the Terror if Existence.

Count upwards from 1 to 13
Open your eyes.
Say: Bimallah ar-Rahman ar-Rahim - In the name of All Compassion All Mercy
Say: There is no existence but Spirit

Now read the verse (scroll down to previous blog entry)

So Mote it Be!

Quran Surah 2:74 The Opening of the Rocks

2008-11-13T06:52:00.000-08:00

Surah 2: 74

"Thenceforth were your hearts Hardened: they became even harder than a rock. From among these hearts of stone there are some from which rivers gush forth; others which when split asunder bubble forth water; and still others that sink into the depths for fear and awe of the Depth. And the Spirit is not Unmindful of what you do."

The revelation of Surah 2:74 should cause pause and reflection in us. It is a revelation of our existential reality. These are 3 possible reactions when the Spirit splits us asunder - the 3 ways of being on the path.

The first manner is the way of the river. This refers to our action in the world. Our engagement. Here our focus is on addressing social injustice, promoting peace, overcoming poverty.

The second manner is the way of bubbling forth. This refers to dialogue and discourse. Here we engage in the world of ideas, we listen to each other, we consider each other's opinions, we state and evaluate our own views. Individuals who follow this path often engage in conversations, conferences, write papers, etc.

The third manner is the way of the deep. This refers to meditation, contemplation, deep prayer. Here we often meet both Love and find ourselves adrift in a "dark night of the soul." This is the way of the mystic. The mystical moment is often one of apprehending beauty - it is the moment of "awe". Moreover, to stand before the abyss of the divine is to stand in fear and trembling.

Different individuals have proclivities towards different paths, but each of us finds ourselves at different times on one of these manners.

The verse ends by assuring us that God does not favor any one way over the other, but is mindful of our "jihad" or struggle as we each traverse "the path."

Question: You mention that there are three paths.

Watchman: There is actually only one path, but different ways of navigating that path.

Question: Could you say a few words about how this relates to interfaith dialogue? As you know, King Abdullah has recently initiated a conference on this theme.

Watchman: We would like to congratulate his Highness on this first step. However, we need to also be aware that the Qur'an clearly moves deeper than just thinking about interfaith within the Abrahamic Faith. This verse is an excellent example of that depth. Although all three manners are found within the People of the Book, so too in Buddhism, Hinduism or various forms of polytheism. We must remember that God has sent a Messenger to All Peoples, tribes and nations.

Question: You spoke of the metaphor of water in the verse...

Watchman: Yes, water is one of the key elemental substances (along with fire, air and earth). It is often associated with spiritual significance...

Question: Christian baptism, for example.

Watchman: Exactly.

Question: What of the first verse: "Thenceforth were your hearts Hardened: they became even harder than a rock"?

Watchman: In the Rose Sufi Crescent tradition, we understand this verse as referring to the moment of hardening - the moments are spirits reenter the world of matter. In our pre-existence we are spirit but when we re-incarnate we become dense matter.

Question: Are there any other possible interpretations?

Watchman: The Glorious Qur'an is the revealed Word, delivered unto the 18,000 dimensions of reality. Wherever one is in this cosmos (both physically, mentally or spiritually) one will interpret it differently. It has a very different interpretation depending on if the "reader" perceives him or herself to be within or outside of Grace. Our RSC interpretation is for those who understand that they are within Grace.

Question: And others?

Watchman: Well, a legalist would naturally interpret "hardening" as turning away from Spirit. That is unfortunate, though. They would also probably "misread" the ending as something such as "God is watching you and will punish you."

We can also interpret the verse as speaking directly to the prophets and angels as follows:

Prophets:
Rushing water = call the world to a new paradigm of Love, Peace and Compassion
Bubbling water = dispensing new ethical teachings of Truth
Sinking into deep water = providing instructions on contemplation and union with Beauty

Angels:
Rushing water = serving to intervene in earthly affairs to promote love, peace and compassion
Bubbling water = providing comfort to the afflicted
Sinking into deep water = singing praises before Beauty

Sufis and Rosicrucians Congratulate Barack Obama

2008-11-06T11:52:00.000-08:00

The Rose Sufi Crescent, an international Muslim-Sufi-Rosicrucian organization, extends its heartfelt congratulations to President-elect Obama. We believe that his nomination was by Divine Guidance and an answer to many hours spent in prayer. Muslims all over the world celebrate his nomination as the Sword of Allah, the Cup of Grace, the Wand of Spirit and the Coins of the Tao move upon our globe.

True Muslims, Sufis and Rosicrucians rejoice in this paradigm shifting event. May this planet earth come to realize the Kingdom on Earth. May we all unite in working towards peace, unity, justice, tolerance, appreciation of each other. May people of all faiths as well as atheists join together to lift the poor out of poverty, to reverse global warming and to protect the environment, safeguard animals, plants and humans.

May we become stewards of earth in this most beautiful day.

Happenings in the Rose Sufi Crescent order

2008-04-17T16:51:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends of the Rose Crescent,

As many of you know, for over one year the Rose Crescent has been silent. Our fraters we're secluded in contemplation, praying for an end to the war in Iraq, a peaceful resolution to the troubles in Palestine, an end to the tragedy in Darfur, a transformation of humanity's relation to the earth, etc.

Yet, the world continues to worsen. How long shall it continue so?

Moreover, as some of our brothers fell to the sword while on pilgrimage to the Holy Land of Ali we have been much grieved and using other means to remain in communication.

May Allah bless all of you now and forever.

Yours faithfully

Islam, Sufism and Reincarnation

2007-02-19T09:28:00.000-08:00

Many Muslims mistakenly believe that after death the soul resides at the place where the body has been buried, awaiting the resurrection. What does the Qur'an teach?

The Archangel Gabriel in Surah 2: 28 revealed:

"How can you reject faith in God? Do you not recall that you were once without life, and Allah gave you life; then God will cause you to die, and will again bring you to life; and finally to Allah will you return."

The above passage speaks clearly to the reality of reincarnation. Life and death are given to us as gifts from Allah. The cycle is continual. We are born, we die and then we are born again. Eventually we return to the Source.

According to the Rose Crescent the following outlines our cosmic journey:

(1) We (our higher self - Ruh/Spirit) were originally with the Light (Allah, the Divine Source) in the Throne of Allah;
(2) We descended from the Throne into the Cosmos (with the first station being Bakka);
(3) We incarnated into the world of matter (with our spirits- Ruh - being joined by the soul - nafs);
(4) Our dual selves (Spirit and Soul) now take on a body;
(5) Our bodies die. The soul and spirit now divide. The sould re-enters the astral planes, living with other spirits (wherein we learn, progress, heal, etc); The spirit returns to Bakka;
(6) The soul now descends again into the worlds of matter, reincarnating (numerous times);
(7) Eventually our soul(s) ascend to ever higher (or lower) states of vibration (heavens, paradise, hells);
(8) At the End of Time we will finally be drawn back to the Source (the Throne) and reunited/commingled with the Light.

One of the things we should note here is that the final act at the End of Time of reuniting with the Source is an act of grace. No one can earn reunification. It is a gift of Allah. However, our stations both in the worlds of matter and on the astral planes depend on our own efforts. The cosmos operates like music. We go to that which we resonate with.

Quran Suran 18: 45 is another passage that hints at reincarnation:

"Set forth to them the similitude of the life of this world: It is like the rain which we send down from the skies: the earth's vegetation absorbs it, but soon it becomes dry stuble, which the winds do scatter: It is Allah Who prevails over all things.

The image here is powerful. The "rain" symbolizes the descent of our higher self (Ruh - sparks of light) to the earth. We are absorb here in the world of matter. Like the vegetation, where some are roses, others lillies, others trees, we all reach up towards the heavens, the sun, the moon and the stars. We blossom. We give off fragrances (manifesting good/ill deeds and accumulating Karma). Each has his/her place in the eco-system (the divine plan and cosmic structure). Then we die. The wind (the Spirit) scatters our souls (referring to both the scattering of our karma into the world and the reincarnation of our lower souls - nafs - into other bodies). And the process begins again, with the rain (Ruh) descending to the earth. Eventually the Source (Allah) "prevails" over the cycle of reincarnation by drawing all things back to Itself.

Jesus and the Imam Mahdi

2007-01-30T18:54:00.000-08:00

The other day we received reports that an individual claiming to be the Imam Mahdi had plans to attack the ulama in Najaf.

Yes. This was very unfortunate and sad. There were even women and children amongst those who were killed.

It was a real tragedy. The House of Peace issued a fatwa that all people claiming to be the Imam Mahdi are impostors.

Yes. We are expecting the return of Jesus Christ. When he returns he will be universally recognized as the Messiah, Christ and Imam Mahdi by Jews, Christians and Muslims. He will bring the entire Abrahamic Faith together, and then reach out in peace and love to Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, atheists, agnostics, pagans and others, uniting the entire world.

Will he accomplish this through violence?

The Bible says that “he will lead the nations with an iron rod,” implying an element of violence. However, our own Rose Crescent tradition states that he will overcome through non-violence and peace (much as Gandhi and Badsha Khan overcame the British).

Weren't these two great men foreshadowings of the Imam Mahdi?

One could say that.

Many Shiite ulama claim that the Imam Mahdi will be accompanied by Jesus, but is in actuality the 12th Imam.

We disagree. According to our understanding the Mahdi and Jesus (who is, in fact, Michael the Archangel) is the same being. In reality, it is the Archangel Michael that will descend.

You mentioned that we are currently living under the spiritual direction of Fatimah Um Abi Ha, the manifestation of the Spirit of Wisdom.

The Spirit of Wisdom (and everyone should read Proverbs 8 to get a little better insight into her) has always been with humanity in various incarnations. Generally, we divide her manifestations into pre-Mohammedan and post- Mohammedan.

Could you give us some examples?

Pre-Mohammedan manifestations included Eve, Isis, Sheba, Kuan Yin, Miriam (the mother of Moses), Mary (the mother of Jesus), Mary (the lover of Jesus) and Khadija (the wife of the Prophet).

And post- Mohammedan?

Our present period has included Fatimah (who assumed the function as Queen of Heaven, standing at the gates of paradise), Aisha (who currently sits as the right hand of the Prophet), Rabia (who walks the earth as a spiritual ambassador of Fatimah, helping those (human, animal or jinn who call upon the Spirit of Wisdom for assistance, care and guidance), Zaynab bint 'Ali (who prays and cares for those who suffer injustice, malice and torture), Hildegard von Bingen, Teresa of Avila, Tahirih Qurratu'l-'Ayn and most recently Peace Pilgrim.

Iraqi cult leader killed in Najaf battle

2007-01-29T09:22:00.000-08:00

Fatwa:

The Rose Crescent House of Peace denounces all individuals claiming to be the Imam Mahdi as impostors. Muslims and Sufis (along with Christians and Jews) joyously await the triumphant return of Jesus Christ, the Messiah and Spirit of God, who was taken into heaven from Golgotha. Imam Jesus, who is currently in occultation in Bakka, will declare himself to be the Mahdi in Damascus (not Najaf).

Anyone claiming to be the Mahdi is either deluded or has evil intentions.

According to the Rose Crescent tradition Imam Mahdi (aka Jesus) will not carry the sword, or slay the ulama, but instead will return with the palm branch, overcoming through non-violence and pacifism. Through the power of Love and Peace he will quicken the hearts and lead all peoples (Jews, Christians, Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, atheists, pagans, polytheists) to recognize the Kingdom on earth.

So mote it be!

For those unfamiliar with Islam, Muslims recognize that we are currently living in the time between the Manifestation of the Logos-Rasul in the person of the Prophet Muhammad and the return of Jesus Christ as Imam Mahdi. According to the Rose Crescent tradition, this period is under the spiritual direction of Queen of Heaven, Fatimah Um Abi Ha, physical daughter and Spiritual Mother of the Prophet (PBUH).

Manifestations of the Spirit of Wisdom (read Proverbs 8) are divided into their pre and post Muhammad incarnations (including but not limited to):

Prior to Muhammad (PBUH): Eve, Isis, Kuan Yin, Queen Sheba, Miriam (mother of Moses), Mary (mother of Jesus), Mary (lover of Jesus) and Khadija (wife and lover of Muhammad).

After Muhammad (PBUH): Fatimah, Aisha, Rabia Al-Adiwiyya, Hildegard von Bingen, Teresa of Avila and Tahirih Qurratu'l-'Ayn.

Quran Surah 2:26 - Sufism and Shapeshifting

2007-01-29T06:57:00.000-08:00

In Surah 2:26 the Archangel Gabriel revealed that:

"The Light disdains not to use the similitude of things Lowest as well as things Highest."

The passage reveals the fact that God (the Light, Source, Depth, Being) appears in ALL things, be they the "lowest" (an insect) or the "highest" (the sun, moon, earth, stars, wind, mountain, etc). The Light manifests in all things, as Baha'u'llah further tells us: "there is not even an atom in which God is not."

Sufis understand this. When we encounter the world (e.g. a flower, insect or behold the magnificience of the sunrise) we know, and tremble with awe and respect, before those things - for they are the manifestation of Allah.

The ultimate shapeshifter is Allah, appearing in all things. But the Sufi too, like the shaman, may master the technique of shapeshifting, discovering the essence of a thing (plant, animal, element, star, planet, etc) and then, shedding her or his body, take on that similitude.

The historical accounts reveal that many Sufis could turn into animals, birds or the wind at will.

How is this accomplished?

Say "Bismallah ar-Rahman ar-Rahim"
Perform ablutions
Light a candle on your alter
Cover your eyes
Breathe deeply and count backwards

When you are ready

1. Know that all things are connected.
2. Know that at the ultimate level there is only the Source.
3. Form a clear mental image of the thing you intend to shapeshift into (e.g. a bird, tiger, water)
4. Focus on the One - the unity and Source of All things
5. Imagine the blue sky or the blackness of space
6. Feel yourself rising out of your body and moving into that space
7. Allow yourself to "shed" all your images of yourself and the things you believe yourself to be
8. Go deeper into that void
9. Suddenly recall the image of the thing you intend to become
10. Feel yourself shifting into that shape
11. Now you are that!

Aisha and the Karkadann

2007-01-21T09:34:00.000-08:00

From the Secret Sayings:

1. “And it came to pass in those days that the mighty Karkadann roamed through the hills and deserts of Arabia.”

The Karkadann is a magickal beast with the body and horn of a rhinoceros and the tail and mouth of a lion. It is known to live several thousand years. The Karkadann has a variety of magickal powers, including an ability to fly, to swiftly leap leagues within the blink of an eye, to appear or disappear at will and to savagely defeat any foe – physical or astral.

With its crescent shaped horn it is able to destroy evil wizards and pernicious monsters of the infernal regions.

Yet the Karkadann is no natural friend to man. Enraged to anger by human inclination towards the destruction of the environment and abuse of animals, the Karkadann seeks vengeance by destroying crops, villages and wayward wanders.

2. “So it came to pass that one day an enraged Karkadann, angered by the people’s insolence and reckless killing of wild camel herds, ferociously wandered the land, trampling wanderers and destroying villages.”

3. “And the people cried out in fear. Bedouin turned to their old sorcerers for spells that might ward off the Karkadann. The followers of Moses called upon those who had been trained in the secret arts for help. The followers of Jesus prayed for his protection. And the ummah circled about Muhammad, fearing to leave the vicinity of the House, lest the Karkadann catch them."

4. "And Abu Bakr placed strong armed guards around the village, ordering the women not go out – not even to tend the crops. Nor were the boys allowed to tend the herds."

5. "And the People of the Book, along with those who worshipped the Old Ones, fell into a deep despair."

6. "And during the night the angry wild bellows of the Karkadann could be heard."

7. "And the People gathered in their houses of worship, fearful, calling upon the Almighty for aid. But no one could turn the Karkadann away."

8. "One morning, as the sun had risen, and with the morning prayers completed, the young Aisha, on her 10th birthday, took her flute in hand and stole out of the village, wandering away from the Prophet and her father, who were locked in disputation."

9. "And she passed by the guards unseen."

10. "Running into the hills, she sat upon a cliff. And lo, an old man, a wizened man, with long beard and flowing gowns, holding a staff in his hand, appeared behind her."

“Fear not,” he said.

“Who are you?”

“I am Al Khidr. Come girl. Over that hill is a pool of water. Go to it and drink deeply,” he ordered, and then vanished.

11. "Having heard tales of jinn and angels, Aisha was thrilled by her vision and quickly climbed to the top of the hill, making her way through the large boulders until she saw the pool of water below."

12. "Having climbed down, Aisha drank from the cool waters of the pool. Wild rabbits soon joined her, allowing her to pet their smooth coats. A young camel and its mother wandered close to the pool. Aisha tip toed to the baby and gently stroked its head."

13. "And then she heard the terrifying call. It cracked the heavens in half. Birds leapt in fright from their perches. Rabbits scuttled away. A serpent slithered past her. The young camel and its mother rushed off. The sky darkened."

14. "At the top of the hill the Karkadann appeared, bellowing, smoke rising from its nostrils, its hooves pounding the ground, its fierce teeth snapping at the air."

15. "The Prophet was the first to sense the Karkadann’s appearance. Suddenly a cry went up in the village. No one had seen Aisha. Panic swept the people. The Prophet looked deeply within and saw where Aisha had gone, and saw the Karkadann charging down the path towards her, its crescent shaped horn menacing."

16. "Abu Bakr looked deeply into the Prophet’s eyes and saw the vision of danger. Grabbing their swords, they ran out of the house, but knew that there was no time to save her."

17. "Suddenly Aisha heard the old one’s whisper in the wind, telling her to take her flute and play."

18. "And Aisha began to play as the Karkadann charged towards her."

19. "Hearing the music, the magickal beast stopped in front of her. And Aisha had no fear."

20. "And the young girl began to dance before him, enchanting him. And the beast lay down before her."

21. "And after some time the young girl mounted the beast, and the Karkadann lept into the air and flew off to distant realms, where those of fire, air, water and earth do reside."

22. "And when the Prophet, Abu Bakr and the other companions, armed and ready for battle arrived at the pool there was neither a sign of Aisha nor of the Karkadann."

23. "That evening Aisha returned to the house of the Prophet. She was aglow with new powers. She told him what had happened, and that the Karkadann had been befriended."

24. "And the Prophet marveled at the young Aisha, and her new powers."

25. "Later, when the Prophet and the men went off to battle, leaving the women and elderly alone in the camps, Aisha had only to pick up her flute and play and the Karkadann would appear, ready to defend her against all raiders and enemies."

26. "And thereafter many a night Aisha, for the rest of her life, when the moon is full, Aisha would walk to the pool, play her flute, and then mount the Karkadann, riding off into distant nether lands, where she would commune with angels, jinn and spirits."

Today Aisha can be seen with spiritual eyes, dancing before the throne, riding the Karkadann and playing the flute. Those of innocent heart who would invoke her and the Karkadann for protection may do so by focusing on them and calling them into their circle.

1. Begin by lighting a candle on your alter
2. Say "Bismallah ar-Rahman ar-Rahim" in the seven directions: North, East, South, West, Bakka, World Above, World Below
3. Perform your ablutions
4. Close (cover) your eyes, breath slowly and count backwards
5. Imagine a dark screen before you
6. See a pool of water in a valley - projected onto the screen
7. Enter the screen and stand next to the pool
8. See Aisha riding the Karkadann
9. See Them ride up before you
10. Greet Aisha and the Karkadann
11. Ask them for assistance, guidance and protection
12. Listen, observe and feel their message to you
13. Thank them for their help
14. Count up to 10
15. Open you eyes
16. Perform a prayer of thanksgiving - turning to the seven directions
17. Snuff out the candle
18. In the following hours feel Aisha and Karkadann's presence about you

Rose Crescent and Traditional Sufism

2007-01-16T11:06:00.000-08:00

How is the Rose Crescent different from Traditional Sufism?

There are a number of ways that we differ. First, and most importantly, traditional Sufism places a heavy emphasis on reliance and adoration of the Shaykh. We disagree. All of us have a Spark of the Light within us. Our goal is to clean the dross from our mirrors so that we realize that Spark, e.g. our Higher Selves. The best guide is the Shaykh (or Teacher). But this is not a human (as misunderstood by most Sufi groups). Every individual has a Shaykh that exists as a Spirit Guide in the Higher Realms. Our goal is to meet that person, commune with him/her and gain guidance.

In addition to our personal spirit Shaykh, we also teach that each of us must enter into a personal relationship with one of the great Prophets and Manifestations of the Spirit of Wisdom (especially Fatimah). Moreover, those wishing to deepen their understanding of Sufism as it arose from ancient Egypt are encouraged to directly work with the Great Teacher Al Khidr.

Second, we reject the patrilineal elements of most Sufi groups. We do not agree with the way in which most sufi groups pass on spiritual leadership from one generation to the next.

Third, we reject the paternalistic elements, the often male dominated leadership of most groups.

Fourth, we trace our own heritage (and in fact the entire world's hidden spiritual evolution) through the Three Swans of Heaven, the Heavenly Mothers, Khadija, Aisha and Fatima back to the Prophet and then even further back to Al Khidr - and beyond him to Osiris and Isis.

Fifth, unlike some neo-Sufi groups, we draw inspiration and value the spiritual authority of the Glorious Quran (along with all of the world's sacred and revealed scriptures).

Finally, we do recognize that the Spirit of Wisdom is at work in the cosmos today, having most recently Manifested herself (in varying degrees) in a variety of male and female persons, including: Tahirih Qurratu'l-'Ayn, Baha'u'llah, Annie Besant, Rudolf Steiner, Hazrat Inayat Khan, Khail Gibran, Abdul Ghaffar Khan, Krishnamurti, Peace Pilgrim, and many others.

Bahai Persecution in Egypt

2007-01-12T12:10:00.000-08:00

Because of the overwhelming importantce of this appeal for tolerance of the Baha'i community in Egypt, we have mirrored the Following article, a translation. The author, Mr. Is'haq El-Sheikh, who is a regular columnist in AlAyam daily (a newspaper published in Bahrain), elucidates both the true spirit of Islam (which is rapidly under attack by fundamentalists and extremists of both Sunni and Shiite persuasion) as well as the true spirit of the Baha'i Faith.

It should be noted that this journalist is not a Baha'i.

"The sublimity of this divine Bahá [glory] was reacting with and reflected by the spirit and conscience of people as a joyfulness based on the principle of the unity of humanity, aimed at creating eternal happiness in their lives and consecrating them towards establishing a just peace on the face of the globe. From light, bursts forth Al-Bahá [the glory] in an exalted illumination, ennobling the souls [of people], calling to truth in beauty, loveliness and splendour.

From the dawn of history the heavenly [Divine] and non-heavenly religions have called for love and peace for the sake of salvation and good deeds among the people...and if the three heavenly religions call for love, Al-Baha’iyyah [Baha'i Faith], as a new religion, considers that it summarises and develops the achievement [essence] of these religious ideologies and elevates them to the spirit of the age and its feature of rapidly shrinking distances between nations and peoples, placing them in a home in one small village.

Not once--since its inception--has the Bahá’í religion taken one stand against the three heavenly religions: Judaism, Christianity and Islam, or any other religion. Rather, it started to spread its splendour in Bahá’u’lláh and the justice of His light, calling, reiterating and blessing--uncovering [throwing light on] the Bahá of glory of God in the heavens and on earth, through peace, love and the spreading of good-will among people.... It is as if he is repeating the Christian “Glory to God on high, peace on earth and love for all,” or the Judaic call: “Love one another, be in fellowship...thus will God love you,” or the Muhammadan call: “The doctrine of God lieth in loving people” [all paraphrased by translator]. This is what Al-Baha’iyyah means by: “This is that which hath descended from the realm of glory, uttered by the tongue of power and might, and revealed unto the Prophets of old. We have taken the inner essence thereof and clothed it in the garment of brevity, as a token of grace unto the righteous, that they may stand faithful unto the Covenant of God, may fulfill in their lives His trust, and in the realm of spirit obtain the gem of Divine virtue.”

Al-Bahaiyyah did not litter our paths with ugliness [indecency]; it did not declare hatred and enmity against our religion nor did it refute its spirit of true forbearance and tolerance; rather it has enshrined its luminous station, and cast the splendour of its enlightenment on the face of the earth in justice, love, peace and human solidarity and unity.

It was the International Declaration of Human Rights, perfected through earthly volition, promising all countries, including the Arab nations--with their customary apprehensive mistrust [sentence not completed]--that called for freedom of religion and the right of all nations to embrace a religion and a belief or not to have a belief. This, we see, is in harmony with the Muhammadan religion’s call for the right of religious freedom, and which the Holy Qur’an affirms: “You have your religion and I have mine” [paraphrased].

The purport of all of the above is to explain what has caused the indignation of all human rights proponents on the face of the earth when the sad and distressing news were reported about an oppressive and inhumane persecution of the [Egyptian] Bahá’í minority as it was deprived of the most basic of citizenship rights, following their natural right to belong to the Bahá’í religion--a right that is affirmed by all countries that are signatory to the Human Rights Convention. This has resulted in a big disappointment in the fairness of the Egyptian judiciary which has deprived them of citizenship rights. The justification for the court ruling was that the Egyptian constitution does not recognise any [religion] except the three heavenly religions: Islam, Christianity and Judaism; as though laws and constitutions, that have been superseded by life and worn out by the passage of time, are holy and irrevocable scriptures that cannot be changed for the better.

It is known that the Egyptian Bahá’í minority did not ask for the Bahá’í Faith to be recognized, even though it is one of the rights of citizenship.... Its wish was simply to be free to carry out the requirement of the civil law that they must obtain identification cards without lying about their religious beliefs. Possessing such a card is a common right to which every native born Egyptian is entitled. It is indeed very strange that the custodians of the law would themselves enforce the violation of a government policy that all citizens without exception are expected to observe.... This has been pointed out by the Bahá’í Universal House of Justice in referring to the ordeal of the Egyptian Bahá’í minority; and the Universal House of Justice rightly poses this question in this regard, saying: “But to what purpose were these three religions invoked? Was it to justify the exclusion of certain citizens from exercising their civil rights? Would this not amount to a misuse of the authority of these faiths to perpetrate an injustice that offends the high standard of justice to which they hold their adherents?” [a direct quote from the Arabic translation]. The Universal House of Justice further affirms that the ruling issued against the Egyptian Bahá’í minority in not granting the personal ID was “unreasonable not only because it is contrary to prescriptions set forth in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which Egypt is a signatory, but more especially because the sacred scriptures of Islam extol tolerance as a precept of social stability.”

All the democratic, enlightened and forward-thinking forces that care about the application of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights raise their voices, in solidarity and support of all religious minorities alike--those within the Judaic, Christian and Muslim religions and those without--calling for the lifting of oppression from these minorities and the integration of their citizenship in the political, social, cultural and religious life of society, the same as all citizens whose rights are upheld by the observed laws and constitutions.

The Bahá’í order is a religious, world-wide, humane, peaceful and tolerant order in its principles, rites and daily observances as well as its attitude to other religions. To wage war against it and harass it is an unethical act that contradicts the spirit of Islam and its lofty ideals of treating other religions with tolerance and humane Islamic virtues, encapsulated in the spirit of [this verse]: “Wherefore have you enslaved people when their mothers have birthed them free?” The age of slavery has gone for ever; let the hands and minds and consciences of all the religions on earth be raised up in dialogue, love and brotherly solidarity for the sake of human justice and against tyranny, persecution and enslaving other rights and religions."

The Rose Crescent House of Peace calls on the government of Egypt and the Muslim peoples of Egypt to defend the rights of the minority Baha'i community.

Fatimah (Toward the Eternal One)

2007-01-09T13:13:00.000-08:00

Oh Fatimah Um Abi Ha

Turn us towards the One
- The Eternal One
- The Source
- The Depth
- The Being
- The Light
- The maker of all worlds, visible and invisible

Guide us, Oh Fatimah, daughter and mother of the Prophet, open our hearts to the Light
- You who are Queen of Paradise
- You who care for the weak, poor and suffering
- You who shelter animals
- You who tend to flowers, meadows and streams

Guide us on the Straight Path
- The Path of Peace
- The Path of Compassion
- The Path of Love

The Only Path leading to the One

So mote it be!

Idd-e Gadir Mubarak!

2007-01-07T10:30:00.000-08:00

The Rose Crescent joins the Ismaili worldwide community in celebrating the appointment of Ali bin Abu Talib (PBUH) by the Prophet Mohammad (PBUH).

Ali, born in the Kaaba (cir. 600 A.D.), was virtually raised by the Prophet. Ali recalls that:

"The Prophet brought me up in his own arms and fed me with his own morsel. I followed him, wherever he went, like a baby-camel which follows its mother. Each day a new aspect of his character would beam out of his noble person and I would accept it and follow it as commanded."

Following his wife Khadija (PBUH), Ali was the second person to profess faith in Mohammad as Prophet. In his early twenties Ali took Muhammad's place in bed, risking assasination, and allowing the Prophet to escape to what is now called Medina.

Ali is remembered and praised by us for his loyalty and friendship to the Prophet, for having married Fatima Um Abi Ha, the Manifestation of the Spirit of Wisdom, for his great warrior attributes and for his spiritual insights. the only mistake Ali made during his career on earth is that he failed to recognize that the administrative torch had been passed to Aisha, which unfortunately (but mashallah), led to the tragic "Battle of the Elephant."

Those who make the spiritual journey to Bakka will find that today Ali sits at the right hand of the Prophet (PBUH), fellowships with the various Manifestations of the Logos-Rasul (e.g. Adam, Ibrahim, Moses, Zoroaster, Krishna, Buddha, Jesus, Muhammad), dines at the head of the Saints, and remains eternally married to the Queen of Paradise, Fatima Um Abi Ha.

Together, Ali and Fatima are the eternally blessed divine couple. May all people everywhere recognize them, pay homage to them and call upon them for assistance in their own marriages - that love, peace and harmony may begin at home and extend in ever wider circles outward until the entire planet is redeemed, Inschallah.

So mote it be!

Baha'u'llah

2007-01-04T10:32:00.000-08:00

Table of Contents

Rose Crescent tradition on Baha'u'llah

1. Relation to Islam
2. Baha'u'llah's writing as way to better understand the Message of the Quran
3. Relation to the Daughter of the Prophet's Book and the Hidden Words
4. More information on the relationship of the Hidden Words to Um Abi Ha

The Book of Fatimah

2007-01-04T08:11:00.000-08:00

Fatima Um Abi Ha*, the daughter of the Prophet Mohammad (PBUH)* and Saint Khadija at Tahira*, communicated on an almost daily basis with angels, spirits and jinn. As she walked about angels hovered around her. The Prophet himself recognized her position and respectfully called her “Um Abi Ha.”

Unlike Moses, Fatima* is not a law or code giver. She speaks to us through the heart. She appears to us when we have are most broken, and thus most receptive to the Spirit. She stands at the gates of paradise, welcoming sinner and saint alike. She is not one to hurl dispersions and judgments. Instead, with the gentle stroke of her hand, felt as a breeze over the heart, and the tingling upon the skin, she whispers compassion, love, peace, forgiveness and mercy.

As has been stated previously, Fatima was given a book by the angels. This was widely recognized by the Shiite, but falsely feared by the Sunnis. The book was eventually placed in occultation, and only sections of it have been slowly released over time. Those few pure saints who have connected with the Spirit of Wisdom, and opened their hearts to Fatima, have allowed her to speak through them.

A partial list of sections of the book that has been revealed as a blessing unto all mankind includes (but is not limited to):

1. “Kitab Sirr al-Asar” orally transmitted from Fatima to her companions

2. “Sayings” transmitted through Rabia

3. “Perfect Harmony” transmitted through Ibn Arabi

4. Poetry of Tahirih Qurratu'l-'Ayn

5. “The Hidden Words” transmitted through Baha’u’llah

6. "How to Know Higher Worlds" transmitted through Rudolf Steiner

7. “The Prophet” transmitted through Khalil Gibran

8. Aphorisms of Hazrat Inayat Khan

8. “The Way of Peace” transmitted through Morihei Ueshiba

9. “Steps towards Inner Peace” transmitted through Peace Pilgrim

By reading and meditating on these seven works, the disciple on the straight path of Fatimah, the true and pure path of Islam and Sufism, will find a continuity of thought and purpose, thus gaining an understanding of the message of Fatima. By reflecting deeply on each passage of each of these works the follower of Fatima will draw closer to her.

Before you read these works, light a candle, take the passage in your hand, call on Fatima to come to you, feel her loving presence, hold an image of her in your inner eye, see her, feel her presence next to you, thank her, read the passage slowly and deeply. Know that Fatima is with you.

Baha'u'llah, Fatimah and the Hidden Words

2007-01-03T13:20:00.000-08:00

"This is that which hath descended from the realm of glory, uttered by the tongue of power and might, and revealed unto the Prophets of old. We have taken the inner essence thereof and clothed it in the garment of brevity, as a token of grace unto righteousness, that they may stand faithful unto the Covenant of God,* may fulfill in their lives his Trust, and in the realm of spirit obtain the gem of Divine virtue."

Baha'u'llah had originally entitled his short book of meditations "The Book of Fatimah." He later decided to retitle it the "Hidden Words." Baha'u'llah recognized that if he had called it "The Book of Fatimah" people might think it was the complete sayings of Fatima. He knew that he was transmitting only a portion, and the Book of Fatimah, in its entirety, would be deciminated through many trusted and chosen servants.

According to the Rose Crescent tradition, Baha'u'llah received the Spirit of Wisdom and became a Manifestation thereof (but not of the Logos-Rasul). The spirit that came to possess Baha'u'llah was essentially feminine - or "yin" - (whereas the Rasul-Logos is masculine - or "yang").

As a manifestation of the Spirit of Wisdom Baha'u'llah shared a unique and special relationship with Fatimah ('alayhi 's-salam), the daughter of the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH), allowing him to recieve much of the "Book of Fatimah," which is the hidden book of the Prophet's daughter. Baha'u'llah retitled it the "Hidden Words" so that those who are initiated into the mysteries of Fatimah would recognize it as being hers, while those of the blind orthodox would remain alienated from its splendour.

*Covenant of God refers to the covenant that each of us made with Allah prior to our incarnation.

Book of Fatima, the Kitab Sirr al-Asar and Baha'u'llah

2007-01-03T07:51:00.000-08:00

According to Sufi esoteric knowledge, Fatima Um Abi Ha spoke with angels and received divine revelations from the Archangel Gabriel. The Archangel Gabriel began revealing the "Book of Fatimah" to the blessed daughter of Muhammad and Khadijah when she was just a child. Of the two main branches of Islam, only the Shiite have historically recognized the "Book of Fatimah" as valid.

Much of the "Book of Fatimah" has been kept hidden from the world and will be revealed slowly throughout Time as the world becomes ready for it. The "Book of Fatimah" is said to be three times as large as the Qur'an.

According to the Rose Crescent tradition several releases of sections from the "Book of Fatimah" include the "Kitab Sirr al-Asar" and the "Hidden Words":

The Kitab Sirr al-Asar, also known as the "Emerald Tablet of Hermes," is a divinely inspired treatise, and forms the first section of the "Book of Fatima."

The Kitab Sirr al-Asar was secretly passed from Fatima Um Abi HA to her closest friends and allies until it became widely dispersed by the end of the Muhammadan Dispensation of Light.* Our understanding is that the Kitab Sirr al-Asar was revealed to Fatima prior to her marriage to Ali.

A more recent release of sections of the "Book of Fatimah" came from Baha'u'llah where, under divine guidance, he reiterated sections of the book in what is now called "The Hidden Words."

Through our own records and spiritual research the Rose Crescent has validated that the above two works are authentic releases from the "Book of Fatimah."

*Approximately 180 years following the purification** of the Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) **The purification took place when the Prophet's (PBUH) heart was removed by angels and washed.

Quran Surah 2:23 (Rumi, Ibn Arabi and Baha'ullah)

2006-12-31T13:14:00.000-08:00

"And if you are in doubt as what we have occasionally revealed to our Servant, then produce a Surah like it. Call your witnesses and gods besides the Spirit. But if you cannot - and certainly you cannot - then fear the Fire, whose fuel is men and stones, prepared for those who reject faith."

The Glorious Qur’an dramatically broke upon the Arab world. The Arab people were proficient at poetry and ballads. There were poetry competitions, and poets from warring tribes often composed in honor of their own tribes and against the enemy. For a clan to have great poets was a mark of honor. But these poetical people(s) were unprepared for the power of the Qur’an. Even today crowds become almost hypnotized when it is recited. No translation, including ours, can do it justice.

Muhammad was already in his 40s when he received the revelation. He was known for being a just, honest and discerning man. But he was unknown as a poet. In fact, he was often poked fun at because of the fact that he couldn’t rhyme. When the Qur’an passed his lips people knew that something extraordinary had happened.

The passage speaks to the Arabs of Muhammad’s day. In all the land, with its many poets, it challenges anyone anywhere to approximate it. And no one could. As Jesus’ (pbuh) proof of being the Messiah was in his miracles (for his book has been lost), Muhammad’s proof as the Seal of the Prophets is in the miracle of the Recital.

But what of today? Has another Surah been found?

We say no! But what we would like to suggest is that three post-Qur’anic divine inspirations have taken portions of the Message and clarified them. Perhaps one can compare this to homeopathy, where the original substance becomes more powerful each time it is whirled. So too with the divine message of the Qur’an. If one were to read only these two works alone, one would gain a clearer understanding of the Truth than if one were to read only the Qur’an, even though these works are “commentaries” on the Qur’an.

How many sincere people read the Qur’an every day, completing it several times each year, but do not grasp its light? How many scholars and mullahs stand blind before it?

What are these works?

The first is the Mathnawi, by the Sufi Saint Rumi, in its entirety. The second includes the writings of Ibn Arabi. And the third is the entire corpus of writings of Baha’ullah. Taken together these works take us deep into the ocean of the Qur’anic Light – where we ourselves, unguided, could not hope to journey. After having read the above one can then return to the Qur’an, eyes opened, and behold its magnificence.

For more Rose Crescent commentary on the Glorious Qur'an click here.

Quran Surah 3:96 (Bakka - First House of Worship)

2006-12-30T18:16:00.000-08:00

Surah 3:96 states:

“The first House appointed for humans was at Bakka. It is a place full of blessings and guidance for all beings.”

What is Bakka?

Bakka is a place where all beings (angels, jinn, humans, animal spirits and spirits of every sort) from time immemorial have gathered. It is a place of grand mosques, gardens, fountains, cathedrals, temples and synagogues. Each great incarnation of the Rasul-Logos has later built a house of worship there. All of the Manifestations of the Spirit of Wisdom have houses and gardens there.

Where is Bakka located?

Bakka is located at both the center of the universe and at what is today called Mecca. In reality, Bakka is located on each of the various levels of the universe. To understand this one should contemplate on the significance of the Pythagorean tetractys. Each dot represents an emanation from the Source (the One – hence Allah). The first dot at the top represents the Source. The next row has two dots (The Throne and Bakka), which face each other. As one moves away from the Source one eventually arrives at this earthly plane (where we find Mecca).

How can one travel to Bakka?

Yesterday we explained that to make the Hajj one must do it out of body. To enter Bakka one should follow the same directions, calling upon ones Shaykh and Rabia (‘alayhi ‘s-salam) for assistance. You must realize, though, that which Bakka you go to will depend entirely on your own spiritual station. The techniques of astral travel can be learned by anyone. However, a righteous person will ascend upwards towards a heavenly Bakka. An evil person will descend towards a hellish Bakka. Since the universe is infinite, the levels of Bakka are also infinite.

What can I do in Bakka?

One can spend an eternity in Bakka conversing with all of the Saints and Prophets. The founders of all of the world’s religions are often there. You may also meet spirits and angels.

Is there any danger to this type of out of body travel?

As long as you are with your Shaykh (and/or a Saint such as Rabia) your journey is safe. Once in Bakka the only danger is that there is so much to do and learn you may not want to return. Thus, we suggest you use a drumming tape with a built in call back to ensure that you do not stay there.

For more Rose Crescent commentary on the Glorious Qur'an click here.

For more information on Islamic/Sufi gnosticism click here.

Rabia, Sufism and the Hajj

2006-12-29T12:01:00.000-08:00

How does Sufism view the yearly pilgrimage (the Hajj) to Mecca?

According to the Rose Crescent Sufi tradition, Sufis follow the guidance of Rabia Al-Adiwiyya (pbuh). Before proceeding, though, let us highlight her authority.

It is reliably reported that Allah spoke to her and revealed that:

"On the Day of Resurrection your rank will be above even the closest companions of Allah."

According to the Rose Crescent tradition, Rabia ('alayi 's-salam) was a manifestation of the Spirit of Wisdom (like Kuan Yin, Mary and Fatima before her).

With regards to the Hajj:

Rabia never physically made it to Mecca. Instead, the House of the Spirit, the Kaaba, traveled to her. Chastising Ibn Adhan, who following a 14 year journey to Mecca found the Kaaba had magically been transported to meet Rabia, said: "You were crazy enough to take 14 years to get to the Kaaba with your ritual prayer, wile I, with my inner prayer, am already here."

Although most Muslims (and many Sufis) desire to physically travel to Mecca, Rose Crescent Sufis follow her admonition and mystically and shamanically journey to the Kaaba.

Rabia taught us the following ritual:

1. Say: "Bismallah ar-rahman ar-rahim"
2. Perform ablutions
3. Enter into a deep state of meditation (bring your body just to the edge of sleep but do not fall asleep)
4. Move your soul out of your body*
5. Travel to your personal shaykh (spirit teacher)
6. Perform prayers at the upper world mosque that your Shaykh is associated with
7. Call upon Rabia Al-Adiwiyya (pbuh) to join you and your Shaykh
8. Take the hands of both your Shaykh and Rabia and let them bring you to Bakka
9. Once in you are in Bakka perform the rituals as directed by your Shaykh and Rabia Al-Adiwiyya
10. Return to your body

*Out of body travel can be easily mastered. There are many techniques available to learn this. Simply learn to see with your eyes closed. In spirit, walk around geographic locations that are familiar to you. Then choose a place that is unfamiliar. Feel your soul lifting out of your body.

Quran Surah 41:53 (Yes to Matter and Spirit)

2006-12-21T16:46:00.000-08:00

"We demonstrate our signs in both the universe and within their own souls. And it should be apparent to all that this is the Truth. Is it not enough that the Spirit is manifested in all things?"

In this passage the Archangel Gabriel reveals both the exoteric and esoteric nature of the revelation.

41:53 of the Glorious Qur'an, as interpreted by the Rose Crescent, begins by pointing us towards the world of matter. Correcting the previous gnostic faiths, which had denigrated the world of matter as opposed to the realm of spirit, the Qur'an teaches that God is manifest within matter. All things are permeated with the Spirit.

Like the alchemists (which descend from Islam) we are asked to explore the world of matter in order to apprehend the Light. And like the Buddha and Yogis, we are asked to explore the inner world of ourselves to discover the Source of All Being.

Thus, True Islam/Sufism attempts to achieve a direct connection to the Spirit without denying the physical world. True Islam/Sufism embraces both life and the world of the Spirit.

Reconciling Nietzsche and Plato, we say both "Yes to Life" and "Yes to Death"!

For more Rose Crescent commentary on the Glorious Qur'an click here.

Quran Surah 39:53 (Sufism and Grace)

2006-12-21T16:40:00.000-08:00

"Say: Oh my servants who have transgressed against their souls! Despair not about the Grace of Allah for Allah forgives All sins. The Spirit is Forgiving and All Merciful."

How does Sufism approach the question of forgiveness, grace and legalism?

Let's begin by stating that Grace cannot be earned. It is a free gift from God to undeserving humans. The Abrahamic Faiths notoriously miss the mark when they posit either a necessary intermediary who serves as redeemer (such as Jesus) or a strict legalism (such as following the law as in popular Islam and Judaism). 39:53 clearly confirms what Sufis have been teaching for centuries, namely that forgiveness is for all humans/Jinn/spirits for any and ALL sins.

Just the very realization of the ultimate love of the Spirit should be enough to draw all beings back to the Source.

One of the strategies of Satan is drive people from the Light. Satan attempts to accomplish this by turning individuals against themselves. Guilt and shame acts, then, as a vehicle by which humans flee the Light. It is guilt and shame that become the prisons of our eternal hell.

If we embrace the Light and the Love of the Ultimate Source, realizing that grace is free to all, we will find ourselves drawn ever closer to Being.

So mote it be!

For more Rose Crescent commentary on the Noble Qur'an click here.

Quran Surah 16:44 Mysticism and Magic in the Quran

2006-12-20T08:06:00.000-08:00

"We sent Messengers before you with Signs of Light, and we sent Books of Shadows. And unto you, Oh Mohammed, we have also sent the Message that you may explain clearly to humans what we have sent to them previously, and that they may recollect."

In 16:44 we discover two means by which the Spirit has revealed itself unto humans. The first, "Signs of Light," points towards those many esoteric Gnostic books delivered by mystics and prophets. The second points towards secret "books of shadows" developed by sorcerers. The first is designed to guide the disciples towards the inner world; the latter towards the outer world. The first reveals the means by which one may overcome the lower self (nafs) and move towards union with the Light. The latter presents the means by which one may produce magical spells to affect change in the world of matter for the furtherance of the Kingdom.

The Glorious Qur’an has both functions. Many passages guide one towards union with Light (as taught by the Prophets Jesus, Buddha, Krishna, Lao Tsu, etc). Other passages are designed to be used as spells to thwart evil and encourage good (as taught by Al Khidr).

By studying the Qur’an and mastering both mysticism and magic the Sufi recollects his/her True nature.

For more Rose Crescent commentary on the Glorious Qur'an click here.

Quran Surah 2:22 The Earth and the Caliph

2006-12-20T08:00:00.000-08:00

In Surah 2: ayah 22 of the Holy Recital the Archangel Gabriel revealed:

"Allah has made the earth your couch and the heavens your canopy, and Allah sends down rain from the heavens; And brings fruits from out of the earth for your sustenance. Then set not up rivals unto Allah after you have achieved gnosis."

This passage seems simple enough, but actually creates a number of difficulties. First, does the passage imply that humans are the center of the universe? Has God really created all things for mankind? Who are "the rivals" that we are warned not to set up?

Let us begin by recalling that all humans are the Kalifat Allah, or the representatives of Allah on earth. The title we bear upon our crowns gives us the sacred trust (33:72), the duty, to care for the earth and all of its inhabitants. We are the guardians of what belongs to Allah. It is our highest duty while on earth to protect the environment, the animals and other humans (especially the poor and the orphans).

Yet, 2:22 seems to privilege humans over the earth, placing us at the center. Throuhout the centuries Ahriman has attempted to convince us that we are, in fact, the Lords of the earth and that everything belongs to us. Ahriman’s ultimate goal is to destroy the earth. Judging from the state of the environment, global warming, pollution, over population, and the loss of species it becomes obvious that most people have fallen for Ahriman’s perspective.

So does the Qur’an support Ahriman’s worldview? On the contrary!

The key to interpreting the passage is God’s declaration that we not set up rivals? Who are the rivals? They are, in fact, ourselves!

Not only do humans have the power to affect changes on the earth, but our very thoughts can create forms that later manifest. By thinking positive or negative thoughts we can create harmony or disharmony. By giving someone the “evil eye” we can create illness. By wishing them peace we can benefit others. The passage reveals the powerful position of humans, both in the physical plane and in the astral world. However, it reminds us that, despite our position as “caliph,” we are not God. We are called to act as the representative of Spirit for the good of all and the furtherance of peace (the Kingdom), but to refrain from the error of privileging ourselves over others (e.g. the environment, animals and humans).

Perhaps this is an opportune time to comment on the difference between Islam/Sufism and certain New Age philosophies (particularly the Course in Miracles). Many New Age thinkers (and Hindu thought) would erroneously have us believe that all things are a manifestation of our own minds, and that you are God. Islam/Sufism takes issue with this. As stated above, we believe in the plurality of beings, that the Light is within all things, and that, as caliphs, we have a sacred duty towards the Other and the power to affect our surroundings. However, we reject the solipsism of the Course in Miracles. There are many factors, powers and influences in the universe beyond yourself and your ability to manifest events, including angels, demons, humans, jinn. Yes, we have magickal powers. But so do others. There is, in fact, a reality outside of yourself. Ultimately, nothing happens without the permission of Allah. Thus, it is not you but the Spirit that is All.

For more Rose Crescent commentary on the Glorious Qur'an click here.

Islam: Rightful Succession to the Prophet

2006-12-19T15:36:00.000-08:00

One of the perenial questions facing Islam is who is the rightful successor to the Prophet (pbuh). The great divide split Islam into several camps. Most Sunnis believe that there was no successor, but that Abu Bakr rightfully took over the administrative management. The Shia, however, believe that Ali ibn Abi Talib was The successor. Shia view Ali as the gate and the Prophet as the city. In order to come to the Prophet one must pass through the gate.

The Rose Crescent position differs from both Sunni and Shia. We believe that the Prophet's wife Aisha (pbuh) was chosen as the rightful earthly administrator of the Prophet (rather than Abu Bakr) and that the Prophet's daughter Fatima Umm Abi Ha (pbuh) is the gate by which one comes to the Prophet. As the Prophet was the incarnation of the Logos-Rasul (as was Jesus before him) so Fatima is the incarnation of the Spirit of Wisdom (as was Mary before her).

The Prophet himself is reliably reported to have said: "Take your religion from the words of Aisah." A further proof is that the Prophet removed himself from the others and died alone with Aisha, his head upon her lap. Moreover, Fatima ascended into the heavens where she sits upon a throne at the gate of paradise. One should carefully consider that the Prophet died just six months after Fatima (ppuh), allowing Fatima to prepare paradise before his ascension.

Whoever today recognizes Aisha and Fatima is among the rightly guided Muslims.

Quran Surah 2: 21 (Islam, Pantheism and Spiritism)

2006-12-12T10:37:00.000-08:00

Oh People! Worship, revere and praise Allah, Who created you, and adore those who came before you that you may be counted among the Al-Muttaqun.

Islam is traditionally misunderstood as being a strict monotheistic religion. This misinterpretation occurred when Islam came into contact with the Hellenic-Christian civilization and had to make apologetic adjustments in its public image.

The truth is that Islam (like early Judaism and esoteric "gnostic" Christianity) has been far more accomodating of a spiritual hierarchy of beings. Surah 2: 21 creates an equality of reverance of both Allah and "those who came before." This is because the doctrine of unity has us understand that ultimately we can only know Allah through creation, which is imprinted with the Spirit of Allah. In other words, rather than reject worship of the golden calf as opposed to worship of YHWH, Islam asks us to see Allah in the calf. Thus, we worship and revere Allah by adoring nature, viewing creation as sacred.

Theologically, Islam and Sufism maintain that Allah is both transcendent (and thus beyond comprehension) and eminent (knowable through creation - both physical and metaphysical).

Who are ‘those who came before’? They are the entire hierarchy of beings, including Elohim, Rasul-Logos, Spirit of Wisdom, Archangels, angels, spirits, elementals, ancestors, good Jinn, power animals and spirits of nature.

If we come to understand that the entire universe is impregnated with Allah, then we avoid setting up rivals to Allah. However, if we believe that Allah is strictly separate from creation (as many “fundamentalists” believe) than we make the mistake of setting up rivals. This is dangerous and leads to shirk. For example, every time a fundamentalist beholds an aesthetic moment (e.g. a sunset), s/he is in danger of creating a rival (e.g. the beautiful sunset) to Allah’s beauty. However, if we come to behold the sunset as imbued with Allah, providing us with a glimpse of the eternal Source, than there is no rivalry. There is only unity – that which Islam and Sufism strive to reveal.

The "fundamentalist" (viz. the Wahhabi), though, like Iblis (who refused to understand this and bow down before Adam), foolishly rebukes Allah for asking humans to adore “those who came before.”

The Rose Crescent advocates that in order for the individual human to move closer towards God one must establish a relationship with "those who came before" (i.e. angels, spirits and spirits of nature).

To learn more about Rose Crescent commentary on the Qur'an click here.
To learn more about Islamic Gnosticism click here.

Quran Surah 2:20 (To banish Satan and Tyrants)

2006-12-09T09:25:00.000-08:00

Surah 2:20 is historically used by Sufi masters to bind both Satan and Tyrants of all types. It is a powerful verse and should only be invoked by one pure of heart and skilled in the Sufi-Islamic magickal-martial arts. Aya 20 completes the entire passage dealing with mischiefmakers (human, jinn and demonic).

Begin by lighting a candle on your alter.
Perform your ablutions.
Clear your mind.

Say: Bismallah ar-Rahman ar-Rahim

Imagine the Throne of Allah.
In your mind, go before it (shamanically journey to it).
Prostrate before the Throne.
Ask that Al Kadir stand beside you.
See the mighty Archangels as they surround the Throne.
See the wings of Gabriel stretching.

Say: “Allah, may you protect me. I call upon the Light to surround me and keep me safe as I call upon YOUR POWER to vanquish the enemy. May only good result. May this be done in the service of the Kingdom of Light. May the enemy repent and be brought back to the Kingdom.”

When you are ready, take your sword in hand and banish the enemy by repeating Surah 2 verse 20 as follows and then strike at the image of the enemy:

We call upon the Power of the Lightning to snatch away your sight
And when the Light appears, may you turn and walk therein
[But if you fail to turn]
Then we call upon the Powers of the darkness to grow around you
Stand still!

For if Allah wills, Allah could take away your faculty of hearing and seeing [forever]
For Allah has power over all things!

So mote it be!

For more Rose Crescent uses and commentary on the Glorious Qur'an click here.

Quran Surah 2:19 (As used by Al-Khidr)

2006-11-24T15:24:00.000-08:00

The Prophet Al-Khidr (pbuh) instructed his Sufi disciples (particularly those members associated in what we today call the Rose Crescent) on how to use Surah 2:19 to defeat mischiefmakers and other enemies. Now, before we reveal this, let us warn that this is extremely dangerous for anyone to try who is not proficient in the Islamic martial-magical arts (or the "Lesser Jihad" as it was taught by the Prophet - bhup - to be practiced). Unless it is performed properly, and most importantly, with the right intention (namely, to further the path of peace), the thought form that is released into the ether could boomerang back onto the invoker.

The following ceremony and invocation may be used to defeat the actions of the mischiefmaker, destroying them in the ethereal realm before they manifest on earth.

Step One - Preparation

First, begin by lighting a candle on your alter.
Second, carefully perform ablutions
Third, hold an image of the person(s) in your mind
- know that they were once an innocent child
- know that Allah longs for them to return to the light
- know that it is not the individual, but the act, that must be stopped
- know that you too commit trespasses against the Kingdom of Light

Step Two - Reflection

Consider if there isn’t some other non-violent means to dissuade the individual from committing his/her actions.

Reflect on the bigger picture. Could it be that the Spirit is using this person’s actions, however evil it may seem, for some greater good? Consider the consequences your invocation will have on the earthly plane.

Step Three – The Invocation

(1) As you kneel in front of the alter, gazing upon the candle, imagine a strong white light encircling you.
(2) Call upon Al-Khdir to join you in spirit as you bind and dissolve the evil actions
(3) Stand and take up your sword
(4) Draw a circle around yourself with your sword
(5) Call upon the archangels Gabriel and Michael to aid you as you approach the Throne
(6) Imagine the Throne of Allah
(7) Allow the Light to fill you
(8) Call upon Allah
(9) Hold an image of the individual(s) and the evil actions in your mind (seeing them from the perspective of the heavens – a “bird’s eyes view”)
(10) Recite Surah 2:19 in its invocative form as taught by Al-Khidr

Bismallah ar-Rahman ar-Rahim

“I draw upon the Spirit of the rain-laden cloud
I draw upon the power of the darkness within
Thunder and lightning issues from it towards you
Pressing your fingers in your ears
NOW you feel the stunning thunder clap
NOW you feel the terror of death!

Bismallah - your power is broken!
Bismallah - your evil is undone!

Know – God is ever encompassing, ever forgiving, ever merciful

So mote it be if, and only if, it serve the purposes of the Light!

Then, take your “magical” sword in hand and strike at the mental image of shafts of darkness that issue from the individual(s).

To learn more about the Quran as interpreted by the Rose Crescent, click here.

Quran Surah 2:17

2006-11-19T10:15:00.000-08:00

Quran Surah 2: 17:

"Their similitude is that of a man,
Who kindled a fire.
When it illuminated all around him,
God took away their light
And left them in utter darkness
So they could not see."

In this passage (Surah 2:17) the Holy Recital continues the discussion of the Mischiefmakers. The point is that those who may have had an understanding of the Light are in danger of losing it if they follow the path of "mischief," leaving themselves in utter alienation from God.

Quran 2:18

"Deaf, dumb and blind,
They will not return to the path of Light, Love and Peace."

This should be a strong warning to all Muslims and Sufis, Jews and Christians, and anyone else on the path. If we stray from the Path and engage in mischief we will be cut off from the Kingdom.

Thus, those Muslims who engage in terrorism under the banner of Holy Jihad, or those Christians and Jews who practice colonialism and imperialism, or those mischiefmakers who engage in global exploitation and environmental degradation under any banner (e.g. capitalism) are warned.

Protests Force Israel to Halt Airstrikes

2006-11-19T09:21:00.000-08:00

Q: We’ve recently received reports that individual civilians have surrounded several buildings, and have defiantly taken up positions on several rooftops, in Gaza to prevent Israeli air strikes – ("protests force Israel to halt airstrikes")...

A: …what we, of course, view as State sponsored terrorism.

Q: What is the Rose Crescent’s position on Palestinians acting as human shields to protect homes?

A: First, let me say that our hearts go out to our Muslim brothers and sisters in the Gaza Strip. As you know, we do have a number of Rose Crescent members in Palestine who are working amongst the people to promote non-violence resistance.

We hope that this coming together as human shields will be the first act towards an awakening of consciousness in the Palestinian people towards the power of what Gandhi called Satyagraha.

Q: Do you think the strategy of humans shielding homes will work?

A: Work to dissuade the Israelis, you mean? Only if this kernel follows Gandhi’s path and the Palestinian people take the moral high road. But to do so they’ll have to give up decades of the ingrained “Kalashnikov mentality.”

Q: That won’t be easy.

A: No, it won’t.

Q: Some of them have even taken their AKs up onto the rooftop with them.

A: What the Palestinian people need to realize, and both the entire Arab world and the Israelis for that matter, is that they won’t be safe until the Israelis feel safe.

Muslims need to realize that we are dealing with a people who have been so deeply scarred by the Holocaust that they react to Arabs as if they are fighting Nazis. For many of them, they are still in the Warsaw Ghetto. To fight the Palestinians is to do battle with the Gestapo.

We need to transform the Israeli psychology. But if all the Palestinians do is shield militants, who then carry out more bombings, than the entire human shield will be as pathetic as the Second Infitadah has become.

Q: So what do you propose?

A: What we propose is that peace in the Middle East must begin by healing the trauma of the “Shoa.” As Muslims and Sufis, it is our obligation to assist our Jewish brothers and sisters towards that goal. By pursuing non-violence we can rescue them from reality – which is that they are in grave danger of becoming the very monster they have been flailing against.

Q: How is that connected to our understanding of the “divine plan”?

A: We are all awaiting the return of the same Messiah. We know that. This is not a Messiah for one religion, race, and nation only. When the Messiah (the Mahdi) comes, he or she will be for the entire earth, uniting all peoples, tribes and religions in peace.

Our failing, as Muslims, is simple, and for that Palestinians are paying the consequences.

Q: What do you mean?

A: When the Holocaust happened, it was our duty to open our hearts to the Jewish people and welcome them into the abode of peace. We did this after the Inquisition. And Jews and Muslims lived, for the most part, in a dynamic symbiosis. We can all benefit from each other in terms of learning, trade, medicine, etc.

Q: Do you think that God is punishing us for not having welcomed the Jews?

A: Of course, it is impossible to say. Our understanding, though, is that Allah is love.

Let's go back to history, Muslims at the time were dealing with their own problems, namely, centuries of European colonialism. Jewish immigration, coupled with the Zionist agenda, prevented more than just a handful of us from seeing what our duty was. This has been our failing. This has been our tragedy.

Q: So, by taking the path of Satyagraha, you think the Palestinian people will benefit?

A: Both in this life and in the life to come.

Q: But what if the Israelis don't respond?

A: How can they not? If they wanted to destroy every Palestinian in Gaza they could easily do it. They have the weapons. They could drop chemical, or even nuclear, weapons and kill every man, woman and child in less than 48 hours. There are only three things preventing that from happening: First, the will of Allah; second, the Jewish people's beliefs about themselves (their calling as the chosen people); and third, international outcry. The Nazis would have had no problems exterminating the Palestinians.

Q: So what your saying is that, essentially, Palestinian resistance, the lone bomber and the few militants with a rifle, depends on Israeli mercy.

A: The Palestinian armed resistance is both pathetic and useless. The only way to "win" is for everyone to win. The only way to be safe is for everyone to be safe. The Jews can't do this. They're too stuck in the past. This really depends on the Palestinian people.

Q: Let's pray they gain the insight and wisdom.

Wife beating in Islam

2006-11-08T09:46:00.000-08:00

Q: In a recent talk you stated that Surah 4:34 doesn’t support the beating, even if lightly, of women.

A: That’s right.

Q: Unfortunately, wife beating is wide spread in the Islamic world, and 4:34 is often used to justify it.

A: Yes. This is a matter that brings shame on the entire ummah. Our viewpoint is that the Recital from Allah speaks to us at the level we are at. Those who are in spiritual hell will mistakenly believe that the Qur’an justifies spousal abuse and other sorts of violence.

Q: I’ve always found it interesting that the Taliban, and other Wahhabis, are so concerned to follow the Prophet (PBUH) in the way they cut their beards, fast, pray, reject alcohol, but mistreat women –

A: Something the Prophet never did. In order to unpack the entire aggression against women in Islam we have to locate it in its proper historical-cultural unfolding, namely: (a) the lingering pre-Islamic violation of women; (b) an attempt to insert a mental image of a male patriarchal god onto Islam (an act of shirk) – instead of accepting the new revelation of God as Light; and (c) misunderstood struggle against polytheism, where the most prominent gods were female; and finally, (d) the struggle for power and control of the new religion between the male companions and family of the Prophet (PBUH) and the female companions and family (particularly Fatima and Aisha), wherein the males won the battle. All of that is complicated, but we do plan on working through those issues for our readers.

Q: Let’s go back to Surah 4:34.

A: I think what is often missed is that the verse begins by stating that men are the protectors of women. For someone in hell this is read as power over, as control. But the verse was actually intended to speak to the hearts of Arab men who had no problems beating, controlling, trading and even killing women. The verse reaches down into hell and tells men to rethink their role with women. Instead of privileging men as owners, it obligates men to protect women against other predatory men. To protect means to risk one’s own life, welfare, wealth, etc.

Q: But are men and women really equal?

A: Notice that later on in the passage, when divorce is looming, an equal number of arbiters from both sides are called in. I seriously doubt that would be the case if men were privileged over women.

Q: What else can you tell us about the passage?

A: Only that the reader of the Qur’an must always do two things: place it in its historical context; and attempt to view it from various spiritual stations.

For more information on the Rose Crescent, click here.

Quran Surah 4:34

2006-10-27T20:49:00.000-07:00

Surah 4-34: A Sufi Interpretation.

"As to those women on whose part you fear disloyalty and ill-conduct: First, admonish them; second, refuse to share their beds, and finally, beat them lightly."

Does the Qur’an encourage wife beating? Do men have the right to inflict physical violence upon their wives?

We put forward that Surah 4:34 does not condone wife beating. On the contrary! Unfortunately, this verse has been used by men for centuries to validate domestic violence.

According to the Rose Crescent tradition, Surah 4:34 has various meanings, depending on the station of the soul the reader is on (or from what particular chakra it is being refracted through).

Let us recall that the Qur’an has at least 18,000 interpretations, and is interpreted differently in different worlds, at different stations, and differently when read by angels, jinn, wali (saints), sinners, demons and devils. In the Glorious Qur'an Allah speaks to all beings, reaching them at their levels, attempting to provide them with the means to advance to higher stations. Thus, the Qur'an is like a ladder, extending from the highest heavens to the deepest pits of hell.

The Station of Hell

If a man is in hell, and his life is consumed with power, violence, anger and hate, and the devil has his soul in his clutches, then he will no doubt read this verse and believe that it has given him permission to beat his wife. If you are reading this right now, and you belong to those who think you have the right to beat your wife, then, dear friend, you should wake-up and realize that you are spiritually in hell. And if you wish to crawl out of that position and towards the light, then reflect on the following:

First – Surah 4:128 gives the wife who fears ill-treatment from her husband the right to divorce him. Why would Allah grant the man the right to beat his wife and then grant the wife the right to divorce him?

Second – if you follow the Sunnah, even to the point of how you clip your beard, then why haven’t you realized that the Prophet (PBUH) never beat or mistreated his wives?

Oh, you Taliban man! Do you not recall how the Prophet (PBUH) acted when He suspected Aisha’s (may all of the angels of heaven sing her praises) betrayal? How dare you who scourge your wife/wives claim to follow the sunnah, you despicable fool! You, oh Taliban man, you who are more concerned with the length of your beard and the times of your prayer than the manner in which you treat your wife/wives, you should know that even now the serpents of hell have wound themselves around your ankles and are drawing you deeper into the abyss of which you are blind to. Those who persist in beating their wife/wives are the true hypocrites, and should take Surah 4:145 to heart. But even in hell there is hope, oh man. Reach out and grasp the ladder that the Light has provided, move to the next station.

The Station of Egotism (Maqam an-Nafs):

At this station the verse actually sets boundaries and a process of reconciliation. Let us recall that it was delivered in a culture in which killing your wife for adultery (which is what is implied here) would have been quite common. In such an environment, the Qur’an encourages men to first speak with their wives and then withhold sexual favors. The final rule is to withdraw for a period of time from your wife. This is supported by verse 35 in which the break is on the verge of being permanent, and arbiters must be called in before the divorce. Thus, at the Station of Egotism, the passage reads:

“As to those women on whose part you fear disloyalty and ill-conduct: First, admonish them; second, refuse to share their beds, and finally, retreat from them for a time. (35) But if you fear a permanent break, appoint arbiters, one from his family and the other from hers. If they wish for peace, God will cause their reconciliation. For God has full knowledge of all things.”

(Note also the gender equality as the arbiters are called from each family). Of course, one could argue that there are problems here. The text seems to position men above women. Let us review the opening to the passage:

"Men are the protectors and maintainers of women..."

For the man in hell, the text is understood to mean his superiority. He reads it as positioning his power over women. However, when he moves to the Station of Ego he finds that the verse calls for him to use his strength, not to beat but to protect. Let us recall that the Recital was introduced in a culture where women were routinely beaten, killed, and traded like cattle. The Qur'an, at the Station of Ego, thus attempts to have men see themselves as protectors (both physically and economically) of women. In that society and in that era, this thought, coupled with the process of reconcilliation outlined above, was truly revolutionary for the common man!

But what of the person who is spiritually advancing?

The Station of the Heart (Maqam ar-Ruh):

At this Station the passage encourages the man to overcome his own self, his hurt, anger, resentment and, leaving himself, to fly to his beloved wife, abandoning his egotistical self in the process:

"As to those women on whose part you fear disloyalty and ill-conduct: First, admonish them; second, refuse to share their beds, and finally, (fly from yourself and) beat a path back to her. But if you still fear that a permanent break is inevitable (after you have forgiven and loved), then call arbiters…"

The Station of the Pure Spirit (Maqam-ar-Ruh):

At this station the passage is no longer about marital problems, but is about the relationship between the Spirit (Ruh) [– the higher self] and the Soul (naf) [– and lower terrestrial self]. Here the text reads:

"The Spirit (Ruh) is the protector and maintainer of the Soul (Naf)...As to the Soul which is prone to disobedience and ill-conduct: First, apply reason (logos) to yourself [in other words, be mentally grounded in the law, ethics, etc.]; second, follow the path of abstinence (including fasting); and finally scourge yourself with ordeals [in order to gain mastery over your flesh]. But if you fear that your soul and spirit are irreconcilable, then call counselors to assist you, individuals of wisdom drawn from both those versed in the law and those of the emotions (e.g. poetry, art, music, etc)."

Because the Holy Qur’an has 18,000 known interpretations, each spiraling deeper and deeper towards the Divine Center we could continue. For those who would like, we suggest that you take this verse and do a shamanic journey (Surah 6:35) to your personal Sufi master in the higher spiritual realms to uncover deeper interpretations.

So mote it be!

For more Rose Crescent commentary on the Qur’an, click here.

Qur'an Surah 2:11-15 The Mischiefmakers (A Sufi Interpretation)

2006-10-01T20:53:00.000-07:00

Surah 2:11 profoundly reveals that:

11.When it is said to them: Make not mischief on the earth" They reply: "Why, we want to make peace." 12. Surely, they are the ones who make mischief, but they do not realize it.

Who are those who make mischief on the earth? What has been there role in the unfolding drama on this planet?

According to the Rose Crescent, Surah 2:11 should be interpreted on a number of levels. First, it speaks directly to a deep truth regarding the world of the spirit. Secondly, it provides us with insight into the history of humanity. Thirdly, it beckons us to examine contemporary affairs. And finally, it calls for us to examine ourselves. Let’s take a look at these four levels of interpretation:

(1) This verse alludes to one of the greatest mischief makers in the universe – the evil spirit Ahriman.

For more information on him, click here and here.

(2) Not long after the fall from the Garden of Eden, humans began a quest of domination of the earth and others. Deep in the heart of civilization is the seed planted by the fruit of dominion. Under the guidance of Ahriman, “civilization” has attempted to capture the resources of others, take the land of others, to war against others, to subjugate and enslave others. One of the earliest great kings of Ahriman was none other than Nimrod, “The Mighty Hunter” (Genesis 10:9). For the past 8,000 years “Ahrimanic civilization” has had one singular goal: the will to dominion.

Ahrimanic civilization is characterized by its emphasis on competition (rather than cooperation), domination and control of resources, and the conquest and control of the environment. It is based on a paradigm that in order for there to be “winners” there must be “losers.” It views the earth as a hostile enemy that must be controlled.

What we find, however, is that the house that Nimrod built is quickly collapsing from the fallacies of its own paradigm. Wars, global warming, pandemics will bring Nimrod down.

(3) With regards to contemporary affairs, it is not difficult to spot the mischief makers. They are all those politicians and “actors” (regardless of their religious or political affiliation/persuasion) who promote war(s), pollution, the destruction of the environment, etc.

Who are the mischief makers? They are the global corporations that pollute, that promote exploitation, poverty, that traffic in weapons, etc. They are the global politicians, soldiers and spectators who bask in war and war rhetoric. They are the corporations and their heads that actively oppose biodiversity.

What most people don’t realize is that in almost all situations the combatants on both sides are under the spell of Ahriman.

This, of course, leads us to the present conflicts in the Middle East, particularly the land of Iraq. There are many innocent people - innocent victims. Sadly, non-combatants are being killed every day. But the fact is that ALL of the combatants in Iraq (Sunni "insurgents", Shite militias, foreign jihadist fighters, Iraq democratic government, Mujahideen, Americans and allies) are acting as mischief makers. The same should be said about Lebanon as well, where clearly both Israelies and Hezbollah acted as mischief makers.

(4) According to the Rose Crescent, in order to be a Muslim (one who surrenders) one must follow the path of peace. Here is a short list:

To avoid being a mischief maker “thou shalt not”:

Kill...Hate...Willfully injure...Commit atrocities...Pollute...Torture...Seek thy profit at other's expense...Exploit others and the environment.

To be a peacemaker “thou shalt”:

Love thy enemies
Cultivate compassion
Promote peace
Protect the environment
Protect all species (human, animal and plant)
Encourage the well being of others

14. When it is said to them: "Believe as the others [i.e. the peacemakers] believe," they say: "We believe." But when they are by themselves with the evil ones [i.e. Ahriman, Shytan, the enemies], they say: "We're really with you. We were only joking."

Verse 14 points to the extreme duplicitous nature of the mischief makers. Peacemakers must be on guard and be not fooled. Today w find that the mischief makers have taken over the entire Abrahamic Faith and rule with little opposition within the religions of Judaism, Christianity and Islam.

15. But the Spirit will boomerang their mockery on them, and give them rope in their tresspasses. Thus, they will continue to wander like blind ones (to and fro).

Verse 15 explains the patience of Allah in dealing with the mockery of the mischief makers as they pretend to love the Light, but in fact destroy the earth.

Thus, they will continue to wander like blind ones (to and fro).

The latter part of verse 15 points to the penalty that the mischief makers are under. The wandering to and fro is in fact the penalty of reincarnation. The more they destroy the earth in their self-interests, the more they are returned to it. They cannot escape it. The short-term profits that the use of fossil fuels brings over renewable energies will eventually catch-up to them personally. There is no where to hide. They will return to the very earth they destroyed until they either transform into peacemakers or become extinct as a civilization.

However, since we are all here (we have incarnated in this dimension), verse 15 convicts us all (unless we are of the Muttaqun - what the Buddhists call Bodhisattva - and have come incarnated to assist all sentient beings and promote the path of peace). We are, in fact, the mischief makers. We are the children of Nimrod. We have been destroying the earth. We are wandering to and fro, sentenced to the penalty of transmigration, with a seal placed upon our hearts.

What can I do?

The first and fastest thing you can do is to become a vegetarian. By not killing you immediately rebuke Nimrod, the mighty hunter. Then, choose to purchase organic fair trade produce whenever possible. Help animals and humans whenever possible. Plant trees, if possible. Clean trash. If you drive, buy an economy car. Reuse, recycle and buy recycled products. Support peace movements. Learn everything you can about non-violence.

For more Rose Crescent commentary on the Qur'an please click here.

For more information on the enemies click here.

Ramadan Mubarak!

2006-09-24T10:53:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends, Sufis and Watchers:

The Rose Crescent House of Peace wishes everyone a blessed Ramadan Mubarak!

Those of you who are open to the Spirit no doubt felt the quiet that fell upon the world in anticipation of the sighting of the crescent. These last few days have been special times of retreat, contemplation and anticipation of the crescent.

We celebrate Ramadan in honor of the revealing of the Glorious Qur'an to the Prophet through the agency of the Archangel Gabriel. As is commonly known, during Ramadan Muslims who are able traditionally refrain during the daylight from food, drink, intercourse and negative thoughts. It is the last point that we wish to address. How can someone claim they are keeping Ramadan but they engage in warfare, killing, anger and hate? By Allah, this is impossible! In fact, it is ridiculous. Those who commit acts of violence should refrain from calling themselves a Muslim (one who surrenders to the path of peace).

So mote it be!

Why do we fast?

We fast for two reasons: (1) in solidarity with those whose economic situation is such that they are living without food or water. For example, we fast in solidarity with those in Darfur. (And a shame on anyone who calls him/herself a Muslim and then injures the innocent farmers of Darfur!); (2) We fast to cleanse the body of toxins that have accumulated throughout the year.

Let's look at the second point more closely. The Rose Crescent takes issue with the glutony that takes place in the evening. Why fast throughout the day and then eat all night? That defeats the purpose of the second reason for fasting.

Because Rose Crescent Watchers are outside of the Shari'a, as Al-Khidr was not under the Mosaic law, the Rose Crescent has modified the terms of fasting. Rose Crescent members rise before sunrise, pray, and then juice and water fast throughout the day. This is followed by a light meal of fresh vegetables in the evening. Evenings are typically spent in prayer, meditation and contemplation.

Fatima & The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse

2006-09-07T19:13:00.000-07:00

The following is a Rose Crescent meditation to bring the Practitioner of Sufism in alignment with Fatima Umm Abi Ha, Queen of Heaven, (and beloved daughter of the Prophet - pbuh):

Begin by lighting a candle on your alter.
Say, "Bismallah ar-Rahman ar-Rahim"
Close your eyes and count from 13 to 1, focusing on your breathing.
Envision the following:

You are in an open field.
Off in the distance you see the four fearsome horsemen of the Apocalypse, dressed in flowing garments of white and red, riding four terrible horses.
You know that they are after you.
You begin to run, stumbling.
A beautiful horse, a comrade, a trusted friend and ally appears, inviting you to spring on his/her back.
The two of you gallop towards a tree line.
You hear the four horsemen behind you.
They are relentless in their pursuit.
Your trusted equine friend brings you into the woods.
You know that you are safe – for now.
You dismount.
Other animals appear.
You have gifts for them. You feed them.
Beyond the animals there is a being in the forest.
She, Fatima Umm Abi Ha, the Spirit of Wisdom, is waiting for you.
Go to her.
Listen to her.
Be with her.
Finish by saying, "Allahu Akbar"

Sufism: human purpose on earth

2006-09-07T12:54:00.000-07:00

According to Sufism, what is the purpose of humans on earth?

Human beings are closely akin to plants. On the physical plane we inhale "air" (which has been purified by plants) and exhale "pollution." Likewise, we eat living plant matter and extrude waste.

From infancy on we spiritually "inhale" the atmosphere around us and "exhale" our transformed air, which others than breathe in. If we were in paradise, we would "inhale" pure light and "exhale" pure love. However, on this earthly plane we are forced to "inhale" all sorts of spiritual pollution from the environment (e.g. anger, hate, fear, etc.). The higher our spiritual development the more our ability to transform this pollution into compassion, love, joy and peace. If our spiritual state is very low we will find ourselves immediately "exhaling" the pollution (e.g. anger). Thus, a highly evolved individual will often have a wonderful effect on others (calming them, bringing peace and harmony). An individual operating at a low level will often immediately exhale the surrounding atmosphere. Thus, if someone is very angry in a room there will be others who will become angry as well.

According to the Rose Crescent, Sufism teaches that our goal as Sufis is to simply transform (on a spiritual level) whatever environment we find ourselves in at any given moment, just as a plant quietly and silently does its work of purefying the air.

There is one great challenge to this, though. The spiritual environment we inhabit is also populated by demonic creatures. These beings "eat" the negative energy that humans exhale. Thus, their strategy is to prompt humans towards producing negative thoughts (i.e. anger, hate, etc.). This is why Sufis often find themselves working against demonic elements in order to promote harmony.

The only way to transform human evolution is to have more and more individuals transforming the spiritual atmosphere until either the demonic beings themselves transform (because they are forced to change their "dietary" intake) or they depart this planet in search of other food sources.

Thus, our purpose on earth (as Sufis) is to promote healthy energetic environments, tranforming polluted spaces into harmonic zones of love, joy, peace and compassion. It is in this way that the Kingdom will grow from a small mustard seed.

Al-Khidr: The Spider

2006-09-03T10:15:00.000-07:00

From the Secret Sayings (Book III. 5. v.

(1) And Al-Khidr gained the power of remote viewing. Without ever leaving his cave he could envision any place or person on the earth, beholding its past, its present and its future.

(2) And as he sat in his cave, deep in contemplation, a large black spider crept slowly towards him. And it drew closer and closer until it crawled onto his arm and made its way to his throat, where it stung him terribly.

(3) And the spider venom entered Al-Khidr’s veins and raced through his body.

(4) And he fell into a deep numbness spreading through his body.

(5) And fever, convulsions and paralysis quickly overtook him. And Al-Khidr, believing he would die, said Shahada and prepared to depart this earth.

(6) And then suddenly he found himself standing in the back of the cave, watching his petrified body, and the black spider that sat atop him.

(7) And slowly he began to grow legs. And his body transformed. And he found himself climbing up the wall and onto the ceiling. And he made his way to the mouth of the cave.

(8) And Al-Khidr learned the secrets of the spider. He learned its insights, ways, secrets and powers. He learned how to spin webs, how to catch good energy or how to trap evil. He learned how to draw illnesses out of others. And he learned the song of the spider, the worship offered to the Great Spirit (Allah).

(9) Then he crawled back towards his now lifeless body and stung himself again.

(10) When he awoke he saw the world anew, having gained a powerful new ally and learned the secret of spider medicine.

For more information on the legendary Al-Khidr click here.

Interested in the Rose Crescent? Click here.

The Moth and the Fire

2006-08-29T10:56:00.000-07:00

From afar I see the light
The light through the woods
I am the moth

Although all is dark
She draws me towards her
I do not resist
She is the flame

I circle about her
She crackles
Sparks fly
Her warmth --
Ah, her fiery warmth!
She reaches upwards
Leaping
Dancing

My wings are scorched
Her beauty
Her peace
Her tranquility and repose

Sparks shoot off
Shall I dodge them?
Circling…circling…circling

I hesitate for a moment
The outer circle
Darkness
Strange beings
Shadows leap

I focus on the flame
Circling…circling…circling
Now there is no hesitation
I feel the love of her being
I surrender to us

Let me fly into that Love
No more circling
Let me dive into her flames
Let only our Love remain

Sunflower Queen and Consort Bumble Bee

2006-08-26T16:47:00.000-07:00

I dance with my friends about the barn
Darting in and out
Playing in the first summer light
I am the mighty Bumble Bee

Mid-summer light emerges
I notice a beautiful green plant rising from the earth
She reaches up towards heaven
Stretching everyday with amazing speed
I soar about her, wondering
Could it be?
I have heard legends of her
Tales told by those now gone

She reaches up
Higher and higher
Her leaves broaden
I watch her unfold – morning, noon and twilight
Her gorgeous head begins to open
Beautiful giant yellow petals
She turns towards the sun
She is the Queen of the summer garden
She is the faerie of the Sunflower

I dance about her
Her fragrance intoxicates me
Her yellow leaves enchant me
At night I must return to my hive, waiting
Waiting for the morning sun
Knowing that she shall be there next to the old barn
Smiling
Bewitching me
I dare not be without her – even for a moment

I tell her tales
I sample her nectar
She delights me
I rest upon her crown, guarding her

This morning I see no sun
Spirits of the Thunderbeings beat their drums
Flashes of lightning
Dark sky
In such weather even mighty Bumble Bees dare not fly

There she stands
Regal
Gorgeous

The storm begins
The first rain

The wind begins to beat against her
Oh my Queen
What happened to the mighty Bumble Bee?

What’s that?
Trumpet vine has taken hold of her

The wind continues to whip
Rain
Dark clouds

Where is she now?
Who has taken my lady of the garden?

I buzz about
Does anyone hear my shout?
Our cry
Our pain
I fly to her – holding on to her crown
The wind and rain whips us

The wind stops
There she is
Still
Head bent
Cocoon like

Ants march upon her
Where did they come from?
Friend or foe?
I do not know

It seems the storm has passed
Or has it?

My Lady, Queen, Sunflower
Ever beautiful
The sun shines again

But what of the summer

Legends tell that the summer must one day come to an end
Winter’s coming
But when?

The world appears anew
I dance about her
-whirling -- whirling -- whirling
Hold her crown
Breathe her fragrance
Intoxicated even more than before

But what of the winter?

Legends say…The old ones now gone
We shall one day walk their way
- Together
- Near or far
- Who's to say?

But now the sun doth shine
And she
Oh she
My Lady
She is mine

Qur'an Surah 2: 1-7

2006-08-23T16:40:00.000-07:00

It has often been said that the first six verses of Surah II serve as a “confessional statement” of sorts in the Glorious Qur’an. How does the Rose Crescent interpret these verses?

According to the Rose Crescent tradition, Surah II: 1-7 presents the core basic teachings of Islam. Islam has only one confessional statement - the Shahada. Let’s go through them together:

1. A.L.M (Click here)

2. "This is the Book. It is a reliable guidance for those who are initiated into the Love of Allah."

The passage begins by telling us that The Qur'an is a reliable reflection of the Umm al-Kitab. It is, however, closed to those outside of the initiates, the mystics, gnostics and Sufi Masters, the so-called "Al-Muttaqun."

3. "They (the Muttaqun) are the ones who know the reality of the Unseen worlds, who enter into direct connection with the Spirit through salat and give of what we have provided for them."

There are several keys here: First, the Muttaqun are ones who know that the other worlds exist through salat, which, for us, includes prayer, meditation, contemplation, Sufi dancing, chanting (e.g. zhikr), mystical singing and art, recollection and shamanic journeying. Second, all of our bounties, the material and spiritual gifts we enjoy, originate with the Spirit (Allah). The Muttaqun use these heavenly gifts for the service of others. Service to others varies on the individual Muttaqun, his/her spiritual gifts, the specific needs placed before him/her by the Spirit. Examples may include, but are not limited to, the following: healing an ill person (without pay or exchange); giving of one's wealth to the poor; advocating on behalf of those who are experiencing injustice; caring for animals; counseling; planting trees; cleaning the earth of toxins (etc.).

4. "And they are the ones who trust in the Revelation given unto Muhammad as well as to those before his time, and in their hearts they have the assurance of the Hereafter."

The revelation given to Muhammad through the Archangel Gabriel is laid upon the earlier foundations. As such, Islam is a universal religion and to follow the revelation given unto Muhammad is to believe in all preceding revelations (e.g. Torah, Gospels, Tao Te Ching, Buddhist scriptures, Vedas, etc.). Through these revelations, and through direct knowledge of the other worlds, the Muttaqun know that the Hereafter is a reality, that this earthly plane is only one universe amongst many, and that death is only the outer shedding of the skin and does not affect the soul. This certain knowledge leads to union with divinity.

5. "They are on the right path, and blessings will be heaped upon them."

Along with their service to humanity, and their respect and study of all of the world’s faith, they will enter the Light as the citizens of the Kingdom.

6. "As for those who reject the Light, it is the same to them whether the Prophet warns them or not. They will not believe. 7. Allah has set a seal on their hearts and on their hearing. And on their eyes is a veil. Great is the penalty they will receive."

Who are those that reject the Faith? At first glance we might suppose the Recital is casting judgment upon the Other. However, according to our Sufi interpretation, we must look within our own hearts. Verses 6 and 7 convict all of us. We are the enemies. We are the ones who have rejected the Light. Unless we are free of anger, hate, judgement, egotism, etc. it is we who have the seal upon our hearts. We cannot hear or see the divine that surrounds. We are cut off from the Spirit, the Source, the Light. How sad is our state.

And what is "the penalty"?

According to the Rose Crescent, the "penalty" is the penalty of transmigration. If we have the seal on our hearts and the veil over our eyes then we have been cut off from the Source. The result is that we are continually reborn in this world of illusion (maya - Surah 6:32). Unless we have come here as a Muttaqun (Bodhisattvas) to help others, then we are under "the penalty." The great secret is that this world is not the place we are led to believe that it is. Being born here again and again is the penalty we have all reaped a thousand times because of our rejection.

Let us endeavor to all enter the Light, to achieve liberation, and become citizens of the Kingdom. So mote it be!

In summary, the six core teachings of Islam as presented in the first seven verses of Surah II include: (a) a contemplative appraoch to the Spirit and the other realms; (b) the recognition of the universality of God's revelation (both the Qur'an and the preceeding revelations); (c) an active engagement with the earth (the middle realm) to promote justice and alleviate suffering; (d) a recognition that all blessings originate with Allah; (e) a recognition of the enemies of Allah (both internal and demonic); and (f) a recognition of the "penalty" (i.e. transmigration of the soul).

For more Rose Crescent commentary on the Qur'an please click here.

Sacred Datura & the Sphinx Moth

2006-08-21T17:11:00.000-07:00

I, Sacred Datura, rise out of the soil
Deep dark green
Few know me
Fewer still dare to approach me
Those with sense fear me
My fruit is sharp and prickly
I stretch forth my arms, giving shade, waiting for the sun to set

I call to the night
I extend my long white flowers towards the night sky
Sweet and fragrant am I
I open my flowers to the moon
Who shines within me, gently

I take Luna’s song within me
Those who would approach – who would dare to sample
I walk in the glow with them
Madness, dreams and death doth await
I await my Queen – for without her I could not be

From out of the land of Egypt
From the bosom of Osiris she doth fly
Tiger striped body has she
She is the Queen of the Sacred Datura
The striped moth of the Sphinx

There is a moment – a second - when the twilight will be no more
I race from the mouth of the Sphinx
And dance among the five petal flowers of my beloved – the Sacred One
Death hath no fear
Nor madness
I have learned the dance of the hummingbird
But have shorn the flight with the sun
I choose the moon and its secrets
Under the nocturnal rule of the owl
The stone path of the underworld
Guarded by my friend the bat
The glowing purple flame
Where the last ray doth shine
Where Luna in her silver dress plays and dances

I am the moth that circles the flowered white pentagram
I am the lover
Sacred Datura my beloved

Bibi Fatima - The Rose Garden

2006-08-20T09:33:00.000-07:00

Tradition tells us that Fatima had a rose garden in Medina. According to the Rose Crescent, the following tale describes the origin of Bibi Fatima's first rose garden.

And when Fatima, beloved daughter of the Prophet (pbuh), was just a young girl she was walking outside upon a sandy rocky field. And her heart ached that the ground was dry and parched. And the Spirit of Wisdom looked with mercy upon her. And the wind began to blow. And suddenly four seeds appeared in her hand. And her heart was filled with joy.

And the young Bibi Fatima carefully placed the four seeds in the ground, digging a small hole with her fingers. And bending close, she watered them with her saliva.

And the spirits of the dew smiled upon her and visited the seeds each morning.

And slowly the seeds began to sprout.

And the ummah gathered about, amazed that four thorn bushes had sprung from that parched earth.

And when the moon was full, and the spirits of the dew had worked their magic, the four bushes bloomed four roses – white, red, blue and gold.

And the young Bibi Fatima sat amongst the flowers.

And the Spirit of Wisdom joined her and said.

“Beloved child:

“The white rose holds the power and secret of intuition, gently spirituality, and the feminine powers. Use this rose to heal those who are injured and in want.”

“The red rose holds the gift of creativity and spontaneity. Use the red rose to temper the patriarchy that you will encounter, where brother shall raise sword upon brother, and men will create dogmas to oppress others.”

“The blue rose holds the secret of discernment. Use the blue rose to teach the people of the earth to guide their intentions in the world – in the service of helping all and harming none.”

“The gold rose holds the force of regeneration. Use the gold rose to restore balance, bringing male and female, enemy and friend, lover and beloved, master and slave, powerful and powerless, human and animal, rich and poor, oppressor and oppressed together as one – united in the common purpose of peace, love and prosperity.”

To learn more about Fatima, click here.

Al Khidr: Remote Viewing

2006-08-20T08:34:00.000-07:00

From the Secret Sayings (Book III. 4. v. 11 – 19)

11. Having drunk the Heavenly Elixir offered to him by Isis, manifestation of the Spirit of Wisdom, Al Khidr returned to his cave. Slowly he felt a powerful sensation in the middle of his forehead. The world as image began to appear to him. First, all appeared in a fog. And then it slowly cleared, appearing black and white. And then the world appeared in various colors and hues.

12. And when he turned his mind upon an object or place he could behold that place, viewing from afar.

13. And the places appeared first in sketch form. And then slowly in detail. And then in color. And finally he could view the energetic streams, the intentions, the history and the future of any distant place he set his mind upon.

14. And Al khidr sat in the cave for what appeared to be years, viewing the world and its spirit.

15. And his mind took in other worlds, worlds parallel to each other. And he saw the worlds of potential and the world’s that had been actualized. And he saw that which was in the mind of Allah and that which was in the will of Allah.

16. And looking out into the universe he came upon a world of records – a giant library of sorts (that some call the Akhasic record). And he entered the library, and there he could browse all that had been, could be or world be.

17. And his spirit was filled with fear at all these things. And the Archangel Gabriel stood by his side, steadying him.

18. And as he gazed out he beheld three spirits, beautiful and powerful were they to behold, descending towards the earth.

“Who art they?” He asked the Angel Gabriel in wonder.

“These three are three powerful manifestations of the Rasul-Logos. The first will teach the people the Law of Being. The second shall teach the Way of Love. And the third shall teach the Path of Peace.

“And how shall they be called?”

“The first shall be called Buddha. The second shall be known as the Christ. And the third shall be revered as The Prophet.”

19. And when he gazed again he saw three more spirits descending towards the earth, as beautiful and powerful as the first three.

“And who art they, and how shall they be called?” He asked in wonder.

“They are just a few of the manifestations of the Spirit of Wisdom. The first shall be called Kuan Yin; the second shall be known as the Virgin Mary; and the third shall be known as Fatima Um Abi Ha. They shall walk the earth with joy and sorrow, ministering to all who are in need, regardless of creed, dogma or belief.”

For more information on the Founder of the Rose Crescent, visit our site on the legendary Al Khidr by clicking here.

Sufism, the Qur’an and Exegesis

2006-08-17T11:46:00.000-07:00

How should one read the Qur’an? Is there a special method of exegesis when searching for an interpretation of the Qur’an?

According to the Rose Crescent, Qur’anic exegesis may be carried out in a number of ways. Before proceeding, though, let us say that in Islam/Sufism it is the responsibility of each individual to read and interpret the Qur’an for him/herself. Relying on what a scholar, Imam, mullah or ayatollah has said will not help you. You must determine what the Quran has said. Now -

The first rule is that you should be aware of what and how other sincere readers and scholars have said. (This doesn’t mean, though, that your own interpretation should be stopped). We recommend Yusuf Ali’s commentary as a starting point.

Second, all interpretations of the Qur’an should be measured by those spiritual saints upon whose shoulder’s we stand, namely: Rumi and Ibn Arabi. These two men of God are the keys that will assist you to unlock the Qur’an.

Third, when reading the Qur’an you must keep in mind the following:

Does the passage have temporal or spatial limitations? In other words, was it intended just for the people of that day (e.g. the Arabs whom Muhammad – pbuh – was dealing with)? Was it just for the specific situation in which Muhammad (pbuh) found himself?

Or, is the passage pointing towards deeper universal spiritual truths?

Fourth, which chakra and/or station is the passage speaking to or from?

Fifth, how does the passage relate to various Hadith and/or other surahs?

And finally, having worked through the above five points, you should take the passage to your individual Shaykh.

Here is the method:

Begin by lighting a candle on your alter
Say, “Bismallah ar-rahman ar-rahim”
Read the passage aloud
Ask Allah (the Light, Source and Depth) for guidance
Ask that your interpretation be for the Good, helping all and hurming none

Then

Lie down
Count from 20 to 1
Do the meditation with the rose crescent
Listen to a drumming CD
Seek your ladder to the heavens (Surah 6:35)
Enter the Celestial Mosque
Your Shaykh* will be waiting for you
Ask your Shaykh to help you interpret the passage
Ask your Shaykh how this passage can be used in your life
Thank your Shaykh
Return down the ladder
Open your eyes
Conclude by saying, “Allahu Akbar”

*If you don't have a Shaykh, when you get to the celestial mosque and you meet a person ask him/her: "Are you my Shaykh?" If yes, go with them. If not, ask him/her: "Can you lead me to my Shaykh?"

For more commentary on the Qur'an click here

For more spiritual exercises click here

The Future World Religion

2006-08-15T13:15:00.000-07:00

What will the future world religion look like?

Many people have asked us what the next world's religion will look like? How will it be structured? Who will be its founder(s)?

The Rose Crescent puts forward that the world's future religion is currently evolving from universal Islam under the spiritual direction of Fatima Um Abi Ha, beloved daughter of the Prophet and now ascended Queen of Heaven.

First, the future religion will value the sacred books and prophets of all religions.

Second, it will seek harmony, healing, love and peace over power and dogma.

Third, although ALL past books will be read and honored, the Spirit will continue to unfold in the community. Once every 10 years people of all faith traditions will open to the Spirit, who will descend upon the community. The event will culminate during the month of Ramadan.

Beginning at the local spiritual assemblies, mosques, temples, synagogues, churches, etc. people will receive revelations, recite poetry, write essays, fiction, dramas, perform new musical pieces, have visions, paint, etc. These works will be collected and published (both print and electronically). They will comprise the New Book for the Age. For the next nine years people will study this collected community revelation, and gain personal proficiency in one or more arts as part of the preparation for the descent of the Spirit. Again, in the 10th year the cycle will begin anew with the opening to the Spirit and the descent of the Holy Spirit into the community.

During the month of Ramadan every 10 years the world community will come together for a month long celebration where the New Book will be revealed.

In addition, a giant library will be constructed every 10 years (in a different country) to house these works from around the world.

Is the new religion already beginning to unfold?

Yes. We have seen manifestations of it. However, it is still in its inception. Two manifestations include:

Universal Awakening

Tikkun Community

So mote it be!

Baha'u'llah and Islam

2006-08-15T09:25:00.000-07:00

Mirza Husayn Ali (1817-1892) was born in Tehran. Later he and his followers came to call him Baha’u’llah, meaning the Glory of God.

In short, Baha’u’llah was a prolific writer, an extraordinary visionary, a saintly man who should easily be viewed as one of the great Sufis masters of Islam. He spent much of his life in exile and prison, where he eventually died. Unlike most other Sufis, he is extremely controversial in Islam because of claims that he was a new prophet.

According to the Rose Crescent, Muhammad (PBUH) was the last prophet. However, as stated in a previous post, we do view Baha’u’llah as an Apostle of Muhammad, and as an Elder of the Rose Crescent.

As a Sufi Master, we believe that Baha’u’llah emptied himself of his own ego. Thus, when he claims equality with the Prophets before him, it is tantamount to Hallaj’s claim that he is God. Moreover, we believe that Baha’u’llah stands in relation to Muhammad as St. Paul’s stood to Jesus Christ. In Galations 2:20 Paul wrote:

“I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me.”

Paul did not replace Jesus Christ. Nor was Paul a Messenger (Rasul) of God. Instead, Paul was a reflection, or a manifestation, of Jesus on earth. His writings do not replace the Gospel. But through his writings we often catch a glimpse of Jesus – and the Spirit - through Paul’s eyes. In the same way, we understand Baha’u’llah’s claims of himself as reflecting the high station he achieved of oneness with the Spirit.

Baha’ullah’s teachings and writings pick up on points in the Glorious Qur’an, clarifying them and empathizing issues that have been overlooked, or down played, by the ulamah. Baha’u’llah’s books can be divided into four categories: apologetics (Kitab-i-Iqan); mystical Sufi writings; social teachings; and Sharia/law (The Kitab-i-Aqdas).

Our view is that Baha’u’llah was inspired by the Light (Allah) and thus we view him as an important spiritual Elder of our global village (along with saints such as Hazrat Inayat Khan, Badshah Khan, Gandhi, Rudolf Steiner, etc). We believe that in each period Allah sends Elders (both male and female) into the world. These guides serve as physicians for our ailing civilizations and planet.

According to the Rose Crescent, Baha’u’llah’s teachings confirm the message of the Quran (and we will explain this in a follow-up post), and we see him as one of the great leaders of the ummah. Baha’u’llah’s writings provide a great insight into understanding the Spirit, and should thus be read by all sincere Muslims and Sufis.

Our hope is that the day is coming when there will be a reconciliation between Islam, the ummah and Baha’u’llah. So mote it be!

Threat of Force versus Use of Force

2006-08-14T09:15:00.000-07:00

Or – why the United States and Israel should bark loudly rather than attempt to bite.

March 19, 2003 U.S. bombs begin to reign down on Baghdad. U.S. Secretary of Defense tells the world that the military force to be brought to bear against Iraq is unprecedented in the annals of history. The world watches in horror, protest and fascination as the world’s only superpower, with a military budget that rivals that of the rest of the world combined, moves against the country of Iraq.

Not far from Baghdad, and looking forward to having the United States as a neighbor, Israel sits securely on the banks of the Mediterranean. Although numerically outnumbered, Israeli firepower is regionally unmatched. Ever since the Six Day War, Israeli military prowess appears invincible.

Fast forward to August 14, 2006. After a month of brutal combat in Lebanon the Israelis were forced by events on the ground to withdraw their objectives (i.e. the disarming of Hizbollah) and accept an immediate cease fire. Likewise, after three years of brutal combat the United States is incapable of securing the six mile stretch of highway from the airport to the “Green Zone.” In fact, the entire country appears to be rapidly sliding towards civil war with local Sunni insurgents, Shiite death squads (who may or may not be part of the Salvadoran Option), local neighborhood street patrols, disaffected youth, foreign Jihadists, and criminal elements all taking aim at each other.

The facts on the ground are simple: Overwhelming military force (i.e. United States and Israel) does not equal military victory. In fact, as recent events in the Middle East have demonstrated, the use of military force in an “asymmetrical environment,” where a military force must oppose the will (or chaos) of a significant percentage of a people, weighs in favor of the local people. Nor is this the first time that overwhelming force sas proven incapable of opposing the local will. The outcome of the Vietnam conflict and the long festering guerrilla wars in Central America have shown the impotence of overwhelming fire power.

Applied military aggression (such as Israel’s invasion of Lebanon or the U.S. occupation of Iraq) may result in the following six post war "blow back" consequences:

(a) Slippery Slope syndrome: An erosion of fear of the military power of either the United States or Israel

(b) The Day After Game Plan: The study of the superpower's failed military tactics by potential enemies (as Hezbollah studied the Vietnam War) and others are studying Hezbollah’s battle with Israel

(c) Bobby Fisher, Kasparov and Big Blue: The maneuvering of potential enemies to checkmate the bogged down power (as North Korea and Iran have sped up their nuclear and ballistic ambitions following the American invasion of Iraq)

(d) The Mouse that Roars: The possible encouragement of a military encounter with the United States by second and third tier leaders in order to decapitate the leadership of their country - through U.S. force - and maneuver themselves into postwar power

(e) David versus Goliath Syndrome: The growing popularity of the opposing group who “stands up” to the "power" by simply surviving the conflict (today Hezbollah is far more popular in both Lebanon and the Muslim world than it was prior to the war), declaring victory after the encounter

(f) The Afghanistan-Somalia *Vacation* Destination: The invaded country becomes a failed state, thus allowing criminal and terrorist elements to use it as a training and staging ground

Given the aforementioned consequences of military action, the best current course of action for regional and super powers to follow is to threaten force rather than pursue force.

True and lasting peace will result, not through force of arms of one nation, but through dialogue and alliance.

The Rose Crescent House of Peace concurs with One of the Apostles of Muhammad (PBUH) for our day, Baha’u’llah, an honorary Elder of the Rose Crescent, who pointed to the next step in our future by revealing that:

“The time must come when the imperative necessity for the holding of a vast, an all-embracing assemblage of men will be universally realized…Such a peace demandeth that the Great Powers should resolve, for the sake of the tranquility of the peoples of the earth, to be fully reconciled among themselves. Should any king take up arms against another, all should unitedly arise and prevent him. If this be done, the nations of the world will no longer require any armaments, except for the purpose of preserving the security of their realms and of maintaining internal order within their territories. This will ensure the peace and composure of every people, government and nation.” (Gleanings, p. 249)

The Rose Crescent promotes a non-violent position towards conflict resolution.

Fellowship with the Rose Crescent

2006-08-07T07:38:00.000-07:00

Is it possible to join the Rose Crescent? How do I contact members of the Rose Crescent?

The Rose Crescent is an international Sufi affiliation stretching back millennia. There is no official membership. There are Rose Crescent Sufis in all of the world’s major religions. And there are Rose Crescent Sufis who practice outside of any spiritual community. It all depends on your interests and personality.

Rose Crescent Sufis meet regularly, joining together to work towards peace and healing on behalf of the planet and its many creatures. Our meetings take place in the astral realm, where we communicate, assist each other and purposefully join together, working towards God's Kingdom.

Here is how you can join the fellowship:

Sit comfortably in a chair or lie down in a quiet area
If possible, listen to a steady drum beat or rattle (purchase here)
If you don’t have a drum CD count slowly backwards from 20 to 1
Say “Bismallah ar-Rahman ar-Rahim”
Imagine yourself standing across the room, looking back at your resting body
Go to your tree
Seek a ladder going up to heaven (Quran Surah 6:35)
As you climb the ladder look down and see your house, the street you live on, and the city you live in slowly recede
Enter the first level of heaven, which is a beautiful city
You will see a large beautiful mosque
Enter the mosque
In the celestial mosque you will find Rose Crescent Sufis
You will be greeted by a guide who will join you as you explore the mosque and its many rooms, chambers, courtyards and gardens (feel free to wander about and see what is going on).
A few examples of ongoing activities include:
*Many of the Sufis will be gathered around a giant ball of energy – there they will be building the “fire” in order to send positive healing and peace back to earth
*In some rooms Sufis will be whirling, and in other rooms they will be sitting in meditation
*Healing rooms for those who are ill
*You will also most likely encounter “power animals” as they wander around, assisting the Sufis
*There are also angelic beings and Jinn allies there who are part of the spiritual assembly
When the drumming stops or when you are ready return down the ladder to the base of the tree and then open your eyes
Say, “Allahu Akbar”

Note: Once you begin to journey regularly to the celestial mosque you will begin to receive communications from the Rose Crescent, entering into fellowship with us as we work towards manifesting peace, health, healing and happiness on earth in the furtherance of God’s Kingdom.

For other spiritual exercises click here.

Meditation with the Rose Crescent

2006-08-06T09:08:00.000-07:00

How can one use the symbols of the crescent and the rose to meditate?

The Rose Crescent meditation is among the most transformative and powerful meditations revealed to mankind by Al-Khidr, the Green Man of Islam.

Before explaining the rose crescent meditation let us reflect on the significance of the two symbols: the moon and the rose.

The moon reflects the light of the sun as creation reflects and reveals the light of the creator.

The moon passes through various powerful and influential cycles on its journey: new moon (when it is in occultation); crescent moon; first quarter waxing moon; full moon; waning moon; and third quarter waning moon. In each of these cycles the moon reflects a different cosmic energy. The crescent has long been a symbol of Islam. Whereas the Prophet Muhammad is the seal of the prophets, the crescent moon points beyond itself, full of hope to a new beginning that is still unrealized and just beginning to dawn.

The rose is the symbol of the soul. Like the development of our own souls in this world, roses bloom amidst thorns. The rose fragrance is the ethereal connection with our Higher Selves. Many Sufis of the Rose Crescent tradition choose to anoint themselves with rose oil prior to performing their daily prayers, dabbing a bit of oil behind the ears, on the back of the hands and in the middle of the forehead. The Prophet Muhammad himself (PBUH) along with his wives and his daughter Fatima loved roses and used them as part of their daily spiritual practices.

The meditation:

Begin by saying “Bismallah ar-Rahman ar-Rahim”
Slowly breathe in deeply and take in the energy of the cosmos
In your minds eye picture a dark sky before you
See the crescent as it emerges
Feel the joy and exhilaration of the crescent
Take its energy in
Watch it slowly wax into a full moon
Hold your breath
Draw the energy of the full moon into your mind
Watch as the full moon transforms into a beautiful rose
In your mind’s eye, zoom slowly in on the rose
Watch as the rose begins to spin, turning back into the full moon
Slowly release your breath and release any negative energy stored in your body
Observe how the full moon wanes
Say, “Allahu Akbar”

For more spiritual exercises click here

Quran Surah 6:35 - Islamic Shamanism

2006-08-05T06:35:00.000-07:00

“If their persecution of you is hard on your mind, and if you are able – then seek a tunnel in the ground or a ladder to the skies and bring them a Sign.”

What is Islamic shamanism and should Muslims and/or Sufis practice it?

The practice of shamanism, a technique, is one of the earliest revelations of Allah (the Source) to the peoples of the earth.

The shaman is one who journeys, either in the physical body or in the astral/soul body, into other realms (the hereafter) in order to gain answers to questions, seek guidance or gain power to heal and help (the “sign”).

According to the indigenous worldview, and supported by the Glorious Qur’an, there are many worlds. The existence we physically inhabit, the earthly plane, is traditionally called the “Middle World.” Surah 6:32 tells challenges us:

“What is the life of this [Middle] World but play and amusement?"

The Middle World, because of its design, is easily confused as the only world. The revelation given unto the Prophet Plato explains that we are trapped within a cave, lost, forlorn, imagining that the information received by our senses tells us where we are. Yet we are deluded. Surah 6:32 modifies Plato’s vision of our existence by telling us that we exist in a world of “amusement and play.” Hazrat Inayat Khan accurately explains this as being in a state of stupor and drunkenness. We are drunk on the senses, and have thus forgotten our true Home. Surah 6:32 continues:

“But best is the home in the other worlds for those who are al-Muttaqun?”

Who are the Muttaqun?

They are the ones whose Home, whose source of identity and power, is in the Hereafter, the other worlds. They are the ones who have remembered their origin in the Light. Throughout the ages, and depending on the culture, the Muttaqun have included shamans, prophets, Gnostics, mystics, saints, Sufis and watchers.

How does one become a Muttaqun?

To become a Muttaqun one should, according to the Rose Crescent, begin by learning to move within the realms of the other worlds. By spending ever more time in the other worlds an individual becomes sober, breaking the spell and delusions associated with the play and amusement of the Middle World.

How do these other worlds appear?

One must experience them first hand to understand. Both the “lower world” and the “upper world” are paradises, but they are of different energies and different beings inhabit them. The Lower World is a place of denser vibratory energy, whereas the upper is of finer vibratory energy. Both worlds are inhabited by beings that appear either in human, animal, imaginative or angelic form. These beings, having permission from Allah to help, serve as friends and allies to the Muttaqun. The Muttaqun is one who, by traveling into both worlds, balances the energy and thus assists the Middle World to evolve towards paradise.

How can one enter the other worlds?

Here we need to return to Surah 6:35:

“Seek a tunnel in the ground or a ladder to the skies and bring them a Sign.”

The following techniques may be of assistance for the Lower World:

Place a candle on your alter
Say “Bismallah ar-Rahman ar-Rahim”
Lie down with your eyes covered
Listen to the rhythmic beat of a drum
Imagine yourself in the countryside
Feel the wind on your skin, notice the trees around you
Seek a tunnel (it will usually be located under a giant tree)
Enter the tunnel
Let yourself slide down into the other world
Look for an animal who wants to approach you and be friends with you and guide you
Allow the animal to assist you to explore the surroundings
When you hear the callback from the drum return up the tunnel to your favorite location in front of the tree
Open your eyes
Say, “Allahu Akbar”

The following techniques may be of assistance for the Upper World:

Place a candle on your alter
Say “Bismallah ar-Rahman ar-Rahim”
Lie down with your eyes covered
Listen to the rhythmic beat of a drum
Imagine yourself in the countryside
Feel the wind on your skin, notice the trees around you
Seek a ladder (it will usually be located under a giant tree) into the sky
Climb up the ladder into the next world
You will probably come out in a beautiful city
Look around for a mosque
Enter the mosque
Within the mosque you will meet a humanlike person who will be your Shaykh
Get to know your Shaykh
Ask him or her any questions you may have
When you hear the callback from the drum return up the tunnel to your favorite location in front of the tree
Open your eyes
Say, “Allahu Akbar”

Where do I get a drum?

You can purchase drumming CDs from the Foundation for Shamanic Studies.

What other resources can I read or study

We recommend beginning with three books:

*The Way of the Shaman* by Michael Harner

*Magic of the Ordinary: Recovering the Shamanic in Judaism* by Gershon Winkler
*Animal-Speak: The Spiritual and Magical Powers of Creatures Great and Small* Ted Andrews

Other resources (books, music and CDs) are available from

The Foundation for Shamanic Studies

Walking Stick Foundation

For more Rose Crescent commentary on the Qur’an click here.

For Rose Crescent spiritual exercises click here.

Sufism: Transform fear

2006-08-01T12:44:00.000-07:00

How can one transform fear?

Stories (hadith) of Fatima Um Abi Ha tell us that while on earth She often walked the countryside and village streets, ministering and caring for those who were ill, sick, poor or distraught.

Following her ascent into heaven she continues to care for the distraught.

Once there was a young girl and her lover who had been severely wounded. Neither was married. Having incurred the wrath of the “righteous” – the so-called learned - they had been brutally stoned. As they lay wounded, with an uncertain future before them, the heavens opened, angelic birds descended, carrying heavenly fruits and a rainbow appeared before them. Then Queen Fatima - she who sparkles with a myriad divine colors, with a crown of brilliance about her head, whose countenance is that of the Spirit of Wisdom - took the lovers in her arms and whispered into their hearts:

“Fear transforms into Love”

According to the Rose Crescent tradition fear can only be transformed by opening our heart charkas to the suffering of the entire cosmos. As fear turns into compassion, love surrounds and engulfs us. Through our own suffering we learn to identify with the sufferings of others (jinn, human, animal and earth).

How can you do this?

Begin by lighting a candle on your alter
Say, "Bismallah ar-Rahman ar-Rahim"
Get into a mediation posture (we suggest lay down with your eyes covered)
Imagine the sky
Feel your heart chackra open
Imagine a beautiful green-gold light ascending into heaven
Feel how this light ascends higher and higher
See bird spirits descending, bringing gifts
See Queen Fatima before you
Let her talk to your heart
Ask her a question
Thank her
End by saying, "Allahu Akbar"

Save Lebanon

2006-07-24T14:38:00.000-07:00

“Who takes vengeance or bears a grudge acts like one who, having cut one hand while handling a knife, avenges himself by stabbing the other hand.” Jerusalem Talmud, Nedarim 9:4

As is well known, the Israeli war against the people of South Lebanon was apparently begun in retaliation of Hezbollah’s crossing of the "blue line" in an attack on Israeli troops. Hezbollah’s actions, apparently, were committed both in solidarity with the people of Gaza (who were under Israeli military attack) and the holding of Lebanese in prison in perpetuity (thus, Hezbollah demanded a prisoner exchange).

So, from the start of hostilities Israel has digressed to the following report:

“At least 381 people have been killed in Lebanon, including 20 soldiers and 11 Hezbollah fighters, according to security officials. At least 600,000 Lebanese have fled their homes, according to the World Health Organization. Lebanon's finance minister put the number at 750,000, nearly 20 percent of the population...Israel's death toll stands at 36, with 17 people killed by Hezbollah rockets and 19 soldiers killed in the fighting, which began when the guerrillas snatched two Israeli soldiers and killed eight others in a brazen cross-border raid July 12.” Click here for the full story.

Meanwhile, the Israeli disregard for civilian life has increased. "They have been hitting civilian cars all over the place," said Peter Bouckart of Human Rights Watch, who had just returned to Beirut from Tyre. "I have been in many war zones, but this is one of the most dangerous places I have seen." Click here for the full story.

The Rose Crescent House of Peace appeals to all Israelis to immediately and unilaterally cease-fire.

Many analysts claim that Israel, who underestimated Hezbollah’s fighting ability, has been following a strategy designed to inflict maximum punishment against the people of Lebanon to turn them against Hezbollah. We believe the policy is both misguided and a violation of human rights.

If Hezbollah were to be utterly destroyed through a long bloody and costly war, the result would be new groups of men bent on avenging the bloodshed (and near genocide) that such a protracted war would inflict. These new groups would probably carryout terrorist operations beyond the immediate zone of conflict. A second, and serious consequence of a protracted “scorched earth” war, we believe, is the collapse of a central Lebanese authority, and the creation of a Lebanese failed state (a “black hole”) of extreme circumstances, suffering and extremist politics.

The best strategy to save Lebanon, we believe, is for Muslim countries, Israel, the USA and the EU to pursue is as follows:

(1) Assist the Lebanese central authority to continue to grow;
(2) Assist the economy of Lebanon to grow
(3) Guarantee the security and integrity of the Lebanese borders
(4) Recognize Hezbollah as it currently is (a state within a state)
(5) Dialogue with Hezbollah (and encourage them to join a broader Lebanese democratic framework) while encouraging it to become a charitable organization only

In addition, we encourage prisoner exchanges and non-partisan international troops along the border (as well as in Gaza and the West Bank).

The logic is simple: if there is no perceived threat to southern Lebanon, than there will be no justification for Hezbollah’s militia. Hezbollah would then slowly disarm within the framework of a democratic Lebanon, and become solely a charitable organization. (In fact, prior to the outbreak of hostitilities Lebanon's parliament was in the process of discussing the disarming of Hezbollah).

In summary, we believe the current war against Hezbollah will probably: (a) strengthen extremists in south Lebanon; (b) undermine the central authority of Lebanon; (c) wreak economic havoc on Lebanon for decades to come; and (d) create far more dangerous terrorist splinter groups, who will break away from Hezbollah.

The Rose Crescent calls on the international community to save Lebanon and to follow a path of sanity. In addition, we call on Hezbollah to follow a path of non-violence. We also endorse the Brussels-headquartered International Crisis Group call for an immediate cease-fire (click here).

What can you do? First, send a letter to your government representative; second, donate to a humanitarian organization of your choice (such as the International Red Crescent), working to assist the people of Lebanon.

(For an ongoing report on the situation visit Juan Cole's blog).

Lebanon - UN Horrified - What you can do to help

2006-07-23T15:58:00.000-07:00

"Mr Egeland, the UN's emergency relief chief, described the destruction as "horrific" as he toured the city...He said the "disproportionate response" by Israel was a 'violation of international humanitarian law'. " Click here for the full story.

What can I do to help?

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies is launching a preliminary appeal for 1.3 million Swiss francs (€ 846,000/1 million US$) to support the assistance programmes set up by National Red Crescent Societies for people fleeing hostilities in Lebanon. Click here to learn more about how you can help.

Oxfam has an excellent site, which includes petitions, real time blogs of events on the ground, and work in progress. Assist Oxfam to help the people of Lebanon by clicking here.

Appeal to Israelis

2006-07-21T15:20:00.000-07:00

"I demand MERCY, not sacrifice." Hosea 6:6

Middle East War: Israel, Lebanon and Gaza

2006-07-15T08:10:00.000-07:00

At this moment the crises in the Middle East is intensifying as Israeli tanks and troops occupy Gaza, Israeli planes bomb Lebanon and Hezbollah forces rocket attack Israel. Innocent civilians are dying and being wounded.

The Rose Crescent House of Peace calls on all sides to cease hostilities. We propose the following plan:

1. 48 hour immediate cease fire.
2. The release of all hostages ceased by either Hezbollah or Palestinian militia groups within 12 hours.
3. The withdrawal of Israel from Gaza and Lebanon within 72 hours.
4. The handover of Palestinian and Hezbollah prisoners to a United Nations court (within fourteen days) where they will be tried and: (a) if guilty sentenced; or (b) if innocent released.
5. A formation of a mediation assembly, including Israelis, Palestinians and Lebanese (including Hezbollah) - with representation of women - to listen to the concerns of the others and express their needs and grievances .
6. The establishment of economic ties to foster stronger links, grow the economies of the region and promote peace.

So mote it be!

Fatwa Alert: Train Bombings in India

2006-07-12T09:55:00.000-07:00

Bismallah ar-Rahman ar-Rahim

The Rose Crescent House of Peace unanimously condemns the train bombings in India that killed close to 150 people and wounded several hundred more (regardless of who committed this heinous act). We call on all Muslims and Sufis to pray for peace in the region, to pray for the souls of those killed, the health and healing of those injured, and that the perpetrators be brought to justice. Islam is a religion of peace, and – according to the Qur’an - if warfare should be engaged in, innocent lives, animals, crops and economies must be safeguarded. We call on all nations, peoples, non-governmental organizations and individuals to refrain from violence and protect the innocent.

So mote it be!

Islamic Fundamentalism

2006-07-12T09:51:00.000-07:00

The Rose Crescent House of Peace states that (so-called fundamentalist) groups that use a literal exegesis of the Qur'an (and other divinely revealed Holy Scriptures), and have made the "Lesser Jihad" the central tenet of Islam (and/or control of land, resources and peoples a central tenet of Judaism or Christianity) are in grave error.

Below we share an article by Karen Armstrong:

===========================

Violent Islamic radicals know they are heretical. Extremists are proud of their deviance, and moderate Muslims can't be held responsible

by Karen Armstrong Saturday July 8, 2000 The Guardian

"A few years ago at a conference in the US, a Christian fundamentalist erupted into the hall and launched a vitriolic attack on me and my fellow panellists. His words were tumbling over one another incoherently, but the note of pain was clear. We had obviously assaulted him at some profound level. For three days my colleagues and I had discussed complex and radical issues in theology, not once at a loss for words; but stunned by the impact of this attack, we could find nothing to say. Dumbfounded, we gazed bleakly at our assailant across an abyss of incomprehension, until he was hustled out.

This type of incident is now common. Increasingly, people find it difficult to communicate with their co-religionists. The divide is as great as that between religious and secular people. Many of the faithful feel threatened by those who interpret their tradition differently; it seems their sacred values are in jeopardy. An apparently impassable gulf yawns between liberal and fundamentalist Christians, reform and orthodox Jews, traditional and extremist Muslims. Because of our preoccupation with the so-called clash of civilisations, this internal tension is often overlooked.
It is a year since the London bombings, an act committed in the name of Islam by a viciously disaffected minority, but which violated the essential principles of any religion. Doubtless with this anniversary in mind, the prime minister has complained that British Muslims are not doing enough to deal with the extremists. The "moderate" Muslims, he said testily, must confront the Islamists; they cannot condemn their methods while tacitly condoning their anger. The extremists' anti-western views are wrong, and mainstream Muslims must tell them that violent jihad "is not the religion of Islam".

This regrettable step will put yet more pressure on a community already under strain. It ignores the fact that the chief problem for most Muslims is not "the west" per se, but the suffering of Muslims in Guantánamo, Abu Ghraib, Iraq and Palestine. Many Britons share this dismay, but the strong emphasis placed by Islam upon justice and community solidarity makes this a religious issue for Muslims. When they see their brothers and sisters systematically oppressed and humiliated, some feel as wounded as a Christian who sees the Bible spat upon or the eucharistic host violated.

It is disingenuous of Tony Blair to separate the rising tide of "Islamism" from his unpopular foreign policy, particularly when Palestinians are being subjected to new dangers in Gaza. He is also mistaken to imagine that law-abiding Muslims could bring the extremists to heel in the same way that he disciplines recalcitrant members of his cabinet. This is just not how religious groups operate.

During the 20th century, a militant piety erupted in almost every major world faith: in Buddhism, Sikhism, Hinduism and Confucianism, as well as in Judaism, Christianity and Islam. It is often called "fundamentalism". Its aim is to bring God and/or religion from the sidelines back to centre stage, though very few fundamentalists commit acts of violence. Coined by American Protestants who wanted a return to Christian "fundamentals", the term is unsatisfactory, not least because it suggests a conservative and backward-looking religiosity. In fact, fundamentalists are rebels who have separated themselves irrevocably and on principle from the main body of the faithful. Fundamentalist movements are nearly always the result of an internal dispute with traditional or liberal co-religionists; fundamentalists regard them as traitors who have made too many concessions to modernity. They withdraw from mainstream religious life to create separatist churches, colleges, study groups, madrasas, yeshivas and training camps. Only later, if at all, do fundamentalists turn their wrath against a foreign foe.

Thus Sayyid Qutb (1906-66), whose ideology is followed by most Sunni fundamentalists, had no love for the west, but his jihad was primarily directed against such Muslim rulers as Jamal Abdul Nasser. In order to replace secularist Fatah, Hamas began by attacking the PLO, and was initially funded by Israel in order to undermine Arafat. Osama bin Laden began by campaigning against the Saudi royal family and secularist rulers such as Saddam Hussein; later, when he discovered the extent of their support for these regimes, he declared war against the US. Even when fundamentalists are engaged in a struggle with an external enemy, this internal hostility remains a potent force.

It is unrealistic to hope that radical Islamists will be chastened by a rebuke from "moderate" imams; they have nothing but contempt for traditional Muslims, who they see as part of the problem. Nor are extremists likely to be dismayed when told that terrorism violates the religion of Islam. We often use the word "fundamentalist" wrongly, as a synonym for "orthodox". In fact, fundamentalists are unorthodox - even anti-orthodox. They may invoke the past, but these are innovative movements that promote entirely new doctrines.

Fundamentalist Christians who claim that every word of the Bible is literally true are reading in an essentially modern way; before the advent of our scientifically oriented culture, Jews, Christians and Muslims all relished highly allegorical interpretations of their holy texts. Religious Zionists who regard Israel as sacred also fly in the face of tradition. A hundred years ago, most orthodox rabbis condemned the idea of a Jewish secular state in the Holy Land. In making the assertion that a cleric should be head of state, Ayatollah Khomeini flouted centuries of Shia orthodoxy, which separated religion and politics as a matter of sacred principle.

The same is true of the new emphasis on violent jihad. Until recently, no Muslim thinker had ever claimed it was the central tenet of Islam. The first to make this controversial, even heretical, claim was the Pakistani ideologue Abu Ala Mawdudi in 1939. Like Qutb, he was well aware that this innovation could only be justified by the godless cruelty of modernity. Informed extremists today do not need to be told that their holy war is unorthodox; they already know.

The extremists believe that mainstream Muslims have failed to respond to the current crisis and are proud of their own deviance. Attempting to shift the blame to the already beleaguered Muslim community could further alienate the disaffected. It will certainly not prevent another London bombing."

· Karen Armstrong is the author of The Battle for God, A History of Fundamentalism

Qur'an Surah 33:72 - Sufis, the Earth and the Trust

2006-07-11T08:13:00.000-07:00

“We did indeed offer The Trust to the Heavens, the Earth and the Mountains. But they refused to undertake it, being afraid of the responsibility thereof. But humans undertook it. They were indeed unjust and foolish.”

How is it that the Qur’an claims that the heavens, earth and mountains can make choices? What is the Trust?

The modern Ahrimanic world view puts forward that all “things” around us (e.g. plants, rivers, land, mountains, rocks, caves) are essentially soulless. They neither think nor feel. They can be exploited by man for whatever purpose man dictates. This paradigm, introduced to the world by the demon Ahriman, would even state that animals have neither cognition nor feelings, and can thus be hunted, tortured and experimented on. There are those, under the influence of Ahriman, who would even take this view to the next logical step, namely: humans are nothing more than biological machines, complex computers, without souls.

Another paradigm puts forward that the Earth is alive. It is our “mother.” All of its “children,” (e.g. animals, plants, insects, rivers, mountains, etc.) both have a soul and are animated by spirit. In fact, like humans, each plant, tree, river, mountain, cave, etc. has a higher spirit that is aware and has cognition. The spirits behind and within everything are seen as agents in the spirit realm and are capable of healing, helping, etc.

What does the Glorious Quran reveal to us?

Surah 33:72 reveals that all “things” of the world are alive, aware, capable of reason, of making choices, have power and have direct contact with Allah.

Depending on the station, the Sufi (very much like the Native American Shaman), is one who exercises the Trust positively. What is the Trust? According to the Rose Crescent tradition, The Trust is the Spiritual Power to purposefully affect change on the physical and spiritual planes for the purpose of achieving balance, harmony and beauty. The Sufi carries out the Trust by:

* Knowing that all things are alive and have spirit;
* Communicating with the spirits of all things (e.g. mountains, rivers, animals, plants, etc.);
* Working with the spirits of all things to affect change (e.g. healing) on the physical plane;
* Participating in a spiritual assembly with all spirits (e.g. mountains, rivers, animals, plants, etc.);
* Praying for the well being of all spirits; and
* Asking the spirits to intercede on her/his or others behalf with Allah.

Surah 33:72 also implies a warning: The Trust is dangerous. The unjust and the foolish easily fall prey to demonic enemy forces and use the Trust for one’s own egotistical and destructive ends (hence “black sorcery”), as Ahriman would have us do by destroying the earth and enslaving humanity.

To learn more about the Recital given by the Archangel Gabriel to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), visit our site on the Quran.

Qur'an Surah 15:21 - Islam and Archetypes

2006-07-04T15:40:00.000-07:00

“And there is not a thing, but with Us are its archetypes. And We send it not down except in due measure.”

Surah 15:21 confirms the Prophet Plato (PBUH) and his revelation of the “Forms” as well as the inspired wisdom of Saint Ibn-Arabi and the insights of the 20th century psychologist C.G. Jung’s concepts of archetypes.

As revealed to humanity in the Glorious Qur'an, every being “down” in this world (e.g. humans, animals, plants, insects, etc.) as well as qualities (e.g. love, goodness, justice, etc.) are built on ascending archetypes. We all have Higher Selves that dwell in the super-sensible realm. And those Higher Selves are derived from still higher heavenly archetypes that are part of the Umm al-Kitab (the archetypal Mother Book – located on the First Aeon).

According to the Rose Crescent, we can know our archetypal Higher Selves and the universal archetypes through meditation, recollection and study.

To learn more about the recital, visit our site on the Qur'an.

The Sacred Earth

2006-07-02T10:52:00.000-07:00

Table of Contents

Surah 6:38 - Animal Rights in the Qur'an
R.C. House of Peace supports Spain's Recognition of Rights of Apes
Surah 33:71 - Heavens, Earth, Mountains and the Trust
Sunflower Queen and Consort Bumble Bee (click here)
Sacred Datura and the Sphinx Moth (click here)
Bibi Fatima - The Rose Garden (click here)

External Links:

Sekem (click here and here)
Earth Policy Institute (click here)
Biodynamic Gardening (click here and here)
Findhorn Foundation (click here)

The Spirit of Wisdom

2006-07-02T10:27:00.000-07:00

Table of Contents

1. The Spirit of Wisdom in Islam and Sufism.
2. Bibi Fatima: Manifestation of the Spirit of Wisdom (Sophia)

The Spirit of Wisdom in Islam and Sufism

2006-07-02T10:19:00.000-07:00

What is the Spirit of Wisdom and how is the Spirit of Wisdom revealed in Islam and Sufism?

According to the Rose Crescent tradition, the Spirit of Wisdom is a created being of the first Aeon. “She” is the partner of the Logos-Rasul.

What is the difference between the Logos-Rasul and the Spirit of Wisdom?

The difference is in their cosmic function. The Logos-Rasul has the task to warn beings. The Logos-Rasul usually brings a revelation with “him.” “He” is usually interested in the establishment of civilization (based on a reflection of divine law), the promotion of justice and the providing of a text (book) which reflects the Mother Book. Moreover, the Messenger (aka: Warner) often battles with one or more enemies. The Spirit of Wisdom, on the other hand, is a Comforter of all beings, aiding them in their afflictions and providing wisdom and guidance. In addition, "Her" role is often to temper the harsher - justice oriented - revelation of the Messenger (Logos-Rasul). However, there have been Messengers that did not come with a book, and Comforters who did.

What other revelations speak of the two Divine Spirit beings?

The Greeks called them Logos and Sophia. The Indian/Tibetan cultures call them Buddha and the Bodhisattva (Kuan Yin being the most famous). The ancient Egyptians spoke of Osiris and Isis. The Jewish Holy Scriptures speaks of the Messiah and Wisdom (See: Proverbs 8)

What is the relation between the individual human and the Spirit of Wisdom or the Logos-Rasul?

The two Divine Spirits usually possess the individual. Thus we find that Christian imagery of the “dove” (the Logos-Rasul) descending upon Jesus at his baptism [give scripture]. Once the human body dies that individual ascends into the spirit realm and continues his/her ministry as a manifestation of one of the Divine Spirits.

Are all manifestations of the Logos-Rasul men and all manifestations of the Spirit of Wisdom women?

No. There have been male and female Messengers (Logos-Rasul) and male and female comforters (Spirit of Wisdom). However, in point of fact most Messengers have been males and most comforters have been females. This has to do with the openness of the individual human (their predilection) than any ontological necessity. Islam clearly, and rightly, teaches that at the soul level there is no difference between human males and females.

Who were the first manifestations?

Adam was the first Messenger. Eve was the first comforter.

What about Jesus?

Jesus was truly unique. He was a Manifestation of the Logos-Rasul, but (as revealed in the Glorious Qur'an) he was strengthened by the Spirit of Wisdom.

Are there any manifestations today?

Muhammad was the last Messenger, ending the incarnation of the Logos-Rasul. However, the Spirit of Wisdom continues to possess humans on earth.

For more information on Islamic-Sufi Gnosticism visit our site.

For more information on the Spirit of Wisdom visit our site.

***
For a non-Rose Crescent perspectives on the Divine Feminine in Islam click here. For an informative and interesting non-Rose Crescent book see: "Women of Sufism: A Hidden Treasure" by Camille Adams Helminski.

Qur'an Surah 6:38 - Animal rights in the Qur'an

2006-07-01T12:52:00.000-07:00

Bismillah ar-Rahman ar-Rahim

How does the Qur'an present the relation between animals and humans? Should animals have rights? Do animals have a soul? Do animals have eternal life? Surah 6:38 provides the answer.

This is a foundational verse in the Holy Qur’an. The verse, along with the one preceding it and the one following it, provides a key to understanding the ontological essence of animals and their relation to humans and God.

Let’s look at the first part of the revelation:

"There is not an animal that exists on the earth, nor a being that flies on its wings, but that they form communities like you."

Here the Spirit clearly reveals the equality between humans and other creatures. The Quranic revelation completes the Abrahamic tradition by revealing that humans and animals are co-equals before God, thus setting a clear precedent for animal rights. Moreover, the revelation startlingly concludes:

"And they all shall be gathered to their Lord in the end."

Not only are animals like humans (and thus deserving of rights), but they also have a soul, share in eternal life and will be gathered together in the Kingdom of Heaven. The revelation given to Muhammad (PBUH) includes animals as partners of humans, gathered eternally together before Allah.

Surah 6:38 answers the unbelievers of 6:37 who constantly complained that “Why is not a Sign sent down to him from his Lord?” In other words, why doesn’t the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) bring signs (miracles) as did Jesus (PBUH)? Why doesn't he raise people from the dead?

The answer that the Spirit gives is to direct us back towards the greatest of all miracles – the earth (life) in all its splendor and recognize the miracle of creation, of beauty. Our animal brethren are the miracle of Allah!

But most people, unfortunately, refuse to recognize the fact that humans and animals are equals. Few people are prepared to grant animals their rights or to recognize that every being has an eternal soul (be it mammal, bird, fish insect, etc.).

The Qur’an is clear that those who reject this sign (6:39) -

“Are deaf and dumb, in the midst of darkness profound.”

The Sufi is one who recognizes the eternal soul in every being and joins it in praising Allah; the Sufi aids, protects and cares for animals whenever possible.
And what, we ask, would happen if all Muslims and Sufis gave the necessary weight to Surah 6:38 that it rightfully deserves? Certainly Islam and Sufism would be transformed. No animal would ever be injured. All Muslims and Sufis would consider it their highest duty to protect all animals. (Joining Jains and Buddhists) Muslims and Sufis would help prepare the earth for the Kingdom, when animals and humans will join together in peace and co-existence. So mote it be!

To learn more about the recital, visit our site on the Qur'an

Spain to Recognize Rights of Apes

2006-07-01T12:45:00.000-07:00

The Rose Crescent House of Peace fully supports Spain's recognition of the rights of apes. We implore all Sufi and Muslim groups and lands to recognize the rights of animals in accordance with the revelation given to humanity (Quran Sura 6: 37-39).

So mote it be!

Women Vote in Kuwait

2006-06-29T08:48:00.000-07:00

The Rose Crescent House of Peace supports the rights of women to vote in all Muslim lands. In fact, we remind the umma that Aisha was our first theologian and advisor to the Prophet (PBUH), and Fatima (PBUH) the rightful heir of the Prophet (PBUH).

Congratulations to the sisters of Kuwait!

So mote it be!

Ahriman

2006-06-28T09:36:00.000-07:00

How is Ahriman attempting to gain global domination? What strategies has Ahriman used in the past several centuries? What does Ahriman plan for the future?

According to the Rose Crescent tradition, Ahriman is one of the most prominent demons in the hierarchy of darkness, and since the Industrial Revolution has taken the lead in attempting to enslave humanity, destroy the earth, and effect total world domination.

Ahriman’s historical strategy of global domination has been four fold:

Phase I:

The Industrial Revolution: Ahriman’s ultimate strategy was to create a mechanistic view of reality by physically harnessing humans to machines. Beginning in Europe and North America most humans spent 16 hours a day laboring at conveyor belts, mindlessly performing tasks, alienated from the end product. This inprisoning of humanity has now spread, like a virus, from Europe and North America to Asia where millions upon millions suffer in sweatshops.

In the short term, Ahriman was able to destroy artisanship and craftsmanship, dealing art (one of our strongest connections to the metaphysical) a staggering blow.

Moreover, as the Industrial Revolution worked its way into the human soul we ceased thinking in terms of the Spirit, or viewing the spirit behind phenomena, or focusing on the individual and community needs. Instead, the new post-Industrial Revolution human came to the following: (a) all phenomena are dead matter; (b) all matter (earth, animals and humans) can and should be manipulated.

Human thought became calculative. The measurement of success shifted from qualitative to quantitative analysis. Following a factory model, education at all levels and achievement became measured in production (e.g. numbers of graduates; numbers of articles published, etc.) rather than on the quality of thought and the channeling of the divine. For example, today it matters little if an inspired individual has one great poem. Instead, success is measured in the number of volumes a poet produces!

His long-term strategy, as we shall see, of Phase I is to destroy the earth through Green House gases.

Resistance to Ahriman’s Stage One strategy:

Ahriman’s first phase was opposed around the globe. In the West, where Ahriman launched his first phase, it was primarily opposed by the remnants of the Rosicrucian movement, the Romantics and their heirs (i.e. Rudolf Steiner and Anthroposophy), the psychology of Jung and the universal Sufism of Hazrat Inayat Khan; in the Near East Ahriman has been opposed by various Sufi groups; and in the Far East by a number of Buddhist traditions.

Phase II:

Having introduced a mechanistic movement to corrupt the human soul, Ahriman now proceeded to introduce the Chemical Revolution. His strategy here was (a) to destroy all forms of biodiversity; and (b) to make humans dependent on chemicals. Pesticides, fertilizers and gene manipulation was introduced to both destroy plant diversity and to (1) create human illness through the introduction of carcinogens into the food chain and (2) to so pollute the environment that many species would die off.

Phase II has been opposed by the organic movement (which Ahriman is now attempting to take over through mega-farms), the biodynamic movement and homeopathy.

Having accomplished phases I and II the demon Ahriman is now prepared to open the next phase.

Phase III:

Here Ahriman will attempt to reap his work through global warming. Much of the habitable earth will be destroyed. All species (plant, animal and human) will significantly decline.

During this phase nanotechnology, artificial intelligence and psycho-chemicals will be developed.

Phase IV:

The remaining humans will become hybrids – part robot and part organic human. All human brains will have a chip inserted, and intelligence, personality and behavior will be manipulated by chemicals. All humans will be linked to a central regime and controlled by an elite oligarchy, who themselves will be under the influence of the dark hierarchy. Humans will live in artificial environments (artificial lighting, air, etc.).

What should we do?

It may not be possible to stop Ahriman (only Allah can). The Rose Crescent House of Peace calls on all people to commit to supporting those movements that support biodiversity, renewable energies, the metaphysical, and promote a deep love and reverence for the earth, etc. Moreover, the Rose Crescent calls on the leaders of the world's religions to take a stand for the earth: Are you for the Earth and freedom or for Ahriman and slavery?

The Sufi is one who values the Earth and the freedom of the spirit.

To learn more about the strategies of darkness, visit our site on the enemies.

Sufis and Vampires

2006-06-18T06:57:00.000-07:00

According to the Rose Crescent tradition, vampires are defined as individuals who have died but continue to cling to this world, attempting to fulfill their addictions vicariously through another living human.

When an individual dies, s/he (especially those who have lived their lives in disbelief of the hereafter – see Surah 2:4) is in danger of not recognizing their new state of existence.

The soul of such a person continues to be turned towards the world of matter. Thus, s/he will often remain amongst the living, continuing to frequent places that s/he was formally habituated to (e.g. house or place of work), or will remain close to his/her body (e.g. hospital or cemetery), or will frequent places where s/he practiced certain physical-psychological addictions (e.g. bars, brothels, etc.).

After a time this individual soul realizes that it cannot participate in the world of the living, but lacking a connection (or belief) to the Light (Allah), s/he becomes confused and frustrated. At that point s/he will attempt to attach onto a human being that has similar patterns to the ones s/he had while in the body (e.g. alcoholic souls will attach to other alcoholics; smokers will seek out smokers, etc.), becoming a vampire.

The human who is in the body (i.e. living) experiences both a drain on his/her energy level from the vampire and an amplification of both the addiction to whatever it is that connects the attaching soul (the vampire) and him/herself and certain negative emotions the vampire has (e.g. anger, hate, jealousy, etc).

The Sufi performs two major tasks in this regard: First, Sufis assist the living to free themselves, with the power of the Spirit (Allah), from vampire attachment; secondly, Sufis perform psycho-pomp work, assisting vampires, with the assistance of angelic beings, to recognize that they have in fact died, and that the must turn towards the Light and move on.

To learn more about the strategies of darkness, visit our site on the enemies.

Fatwa Alert: Polar Bears

2006-06-15T15:05:00.000-07:00

Bismallah ar-Rahman ar-Rahim:

The Rose Crescent House of Peace issued a fatwa today calling on all nations and peoples and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to immediately marshall the necessary resources to save the polar bears.

According to the revelations vouchsafed unto humanity the earth is a sacred place, humans have been placed here as caretakers, entrusted as custodians of Allah to care for the various species. Polar bears are a beautiful ayat of Allah that must be protected.

Several Watchers asked if it isn't possible to construct platforms from which the bears could hunt as the ice recedes?

So mote it be!