Cosmic Awareness - 1978 23 - religion christianity baptism water guilt edgar cayce mind new age paul shockley psychology

Magazine Overview

Title: Revelations of Awareness
Issue: 78-23
Publisher: Cosmic Awareness Communications
Date: Undetermined
Content Focus: Spiritual and esoteric interpretations of religious and spiritual concepts.

Article: Concerning Baptism

This issue features a question from B.W. of Lakewood, California, inquiring about the original purpose and meaning of the rite of baptism and its relevance today. Cosmic Awareness, channeled through Paul Shockley, provides an in-depth explanation.

Alchemical Nature of Baptism

Cosmic Awareness defines baptism primarily as an "alchemical action" designed to facilitate a transformation in consciousness. It emphasizes that for this transformation to be effective, entities must not only receive verbal suggestions but also engage in a ritual or ceremony, ideally accompanied by a physical experience.

Symbolic Forms of Baptism

The text outlines several symbolic forms of baptism:

• Baptism of Fire: This form was used in previous cultures, with entities walking on burning coals in Oriental and South Pacific regions. It is described as tuning into higher forces for protection and relying on faith and trust in Divine forces.
• Baptism of Water: This is presented as the simplest and most commonly known form. It involves sprinkling or dipping into water to symbolize the cleansing of the spirit, body, and soul. This physical action is considered symbolic enough to create a sense of change, making associated words more significant.
• Baptism of Spirit: This is equated with 'conversion' in Protestant churches, where an individual relinquishes their own will to the spirit. This process can involve intense feelings of guilt and shame, which are then shed by giving oneself over to the "Saviour" or Spirit. This is seen as a valid method for changing consciousness and aiding spiritual development.
• Baptism of Earth: This is interpreted as the act of being born onto the physical plane. An example is given of certain American Indian tribes leaving infants in the woods overnight to test their worthiness, with survivors being raised.

Purpose and Effect of Baptism

According to Cosmic Awareness, the core purpose of these various baptisms is to effect changes in consciousness through rituals and experiences believed to be beneficial for an entity's growth and development. The effectiveness of these rituals is not limited to the individual participating but also extends to the attitudes of observers, whose support can assist in the desired change.

Context and Publication Information

The newsletter is identified as "REVELATIONS OF AWARENESS," a cosmic newsletter published by Cosmic Awareness Communications, located at P.O. Box 115, Olympia, Washington 98507. The copyright is dated 1978 by Cosmic Awareness Communications & The Aquarian Church of Universal Service, with reproduction permitted but subject to restrictions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue reflects a consistent theme of spiritual interpretation and esoteric understanding, characteristic of "Cosmic Awareness Communications." The editorial stance is one of guidance and suggestion rather than dogma, encouraging individuals to "question, explore, doubt and discover for yourself what is the truth." The focus is on consciousness transformation, spiritual growth, and the symbolic meaning behind religious practices, framed within a New Age perspective. The publication positions itself as a source of information for those entering a new era of spiritual awareness.