The word "gnosis" is derived from the Greek language, and means
"knowledge of an intuitive nature; the intuitive comprehension of spiritual
truths." Gnosis is a knowledge that cannot be arrived at through books or lectures,
but rather through one's own direct experience of reality. Gnosis is often referred to as
knowledge of the heart, in contrast to knowledge that is obtained through the use of the
intellect.
The Gnostic teachings contain systems and exercises through which every aspect of the
teachings can be personally verified by each individual. Gnosis is not just theoretical,
but one hundred percent practical. Through direct experience we surpass the boundaries of
belief and disbelief, since both lead to ignorance. Rather than believing or disbelieving,
accepting or rejecting, the Gnostic personally verifies in a direct manner the validity of
the concepts he or she is studying. This personal verification leads to true knowledge and
comprehension, not merely an intellectual or theoretical understanding of the teachings.
Through Gnosis one personally learns to experience reality directly, quell the battle
between doubt and belief, and comes to KNOW the inner TRUTH.
The Gnostic teachings consist of a wide variety of esoteric disciplines, all of which are presented in a very practical manner. Exercises are given for the student to verify what he or she is learning, so that this knowledge is experienced directly. The ultimate goal of this doctrine is for the student to reach complete self-realization through the awakening of consciousness. The following list includes just a few of the many subjects that are taught and practiced as part of the Gnostic Doctrine:
Gnosis is called the 'Doctrine of the Synthesis', since it synthesizes the most important aspects of all major religions and esoteric systems of past and present in one doctrine. Yet Gnosis is not a derivative of any one of these systems. Gnosis predates all religions and systems, and is not the property of any individual or group. Rather, it is a timeless and perennial knowledge.
Gnosis is the modern form of an ancient system of learning which has existed throughout
the history of man's presence on Earth. This wisdom was not made available to the public,
but revealed only to those who had the privilege to be initiated into the mysteries.
Gnosis was taught in the mystery schools of ancient India, China, Egypt, Greece, Rome,
among the ancient Gnostics, the Incas, the Mayans, etc. Intense persecution from religious
authorities at various stages throughout history caused the initiates of these mystery
schools to disappear from the public eye. During these times the Gnostic doctrine was not
lost, but rather was taught and practiced in secrecy. Later, when the persecutions
subsided, Gnosis reemerged once again.
At critical times in the history of man, such as the times we live in today, great
spiritual masters or avatars appear on the earth to bring humanity key teachings to assist
those searching for inner enlightenment or liberation. Buddha, Jesus, Mohammed, Krishna,
Moses, and Quetzalcoatl are well known examples of such avatars. The Gnostic doctrine, as
taught in Gnostic centers throughout the world today, comes from the teachings, practices,
and writings of a modern day avatar , Samael Aun Weor who
synthesized the precepts of philosophers, mystics, and adepts from all times into an
integrated and comprehensive system of knowledge and instruction. Gnosis, as unveiled by
Samael Aun Weor, contains the synthesis of all major esoteric systems throughout the
world, both past and present. This doctrine provides a complete and cohesive process
whereby any person can awaken consciousness and achieve complete self-realization in one
lifetime.
A thorough study of Gnosis includes the research and study of the four fundamental branches, or "pillars", of knowledge that have been present in the building of all civilizations, united in one doctrine:
The main objective of the Gnostic esoteric work is the attainment of Self-Realization.
Gnosis offers the complete system by which any individual may attain Self-Realization in
one lifetime. The term 'self-realization' has often been misunderstood, and has been
defined differently by various esoteric systems. In Gnosis Self-Realization is something
extraordinary - it is defined as "the complete and harmonious development of
all the infinite possibilities within man". The importance of
Self-Realization, of "realizing your own Self", is summarized in the ancient
saying, "In you is hidden the treasure of treasures. Oh, man, know thyself and
you will know the Universe and the Gods."
Gnosis teaches that self-realization can be accomplished only through the practice of the
three factors for the revolution of consciousness.
First Factor: The awakening of consciousness, of virtues, of the latent powers and
faculties of our Inner Being. Since it deals with awakening and creation, the First Factor
is called Birth.
Second Factor : The discovery and elimination of those psychological elements
within each of us, those elements that hinder spiritual progress and keep us from living
our life to the fullest. Since it deals with psychological change through the elimination
of such inharmonious elements, the Second Factor is called Death.
Third Factor : Making the knowledge of how to reach self-realization available to
all those who are searching and yearning for such knowledge. Since this process entails
voluntary sacrifice for humanity, the Third Factor is called Sacrifice.
The founders of all great religions, and all initiates who attained self-realization by
practicing the systems of these Masters, successfully worked with the Three Factors for
the Revolution of Consciousness. The Three Factors form the cornerstone, the foundation on
which the entire Gnostic Doctrine is built.
Gnosis does not condemn any religion, but rather teaches that all religions play a vital role in the process of humanity. Gnostic students today come from all types of religious backgrounds. Studying Gnosis, therefore, will help you comprehend the deeper significance of the various aspects of your religion - the esoteric aspects. This will in turn give you a much greater understanding and appreciation of your religion and its practices. Being part of an established religion, however, is not a prerequisite for the Gnostic studies.
Often, other groups focus on one or only a few aspects of esoteric knowledge. Some
concern themselves with the development of psychic and mental powers, others devote
themselves to meditation and the experience of enlightenment, and still others are
concerned with astral travel, kabbalah, astrology, etc. The Gnostic teachings, however,
encompass a vast array of knowledge. Gnosis has been termed as the 'Doctrine of the
Synthesis' since it brings together the most important and profound aspects - the
inner essence - of all religions and esoteric systems. The best and most useful aspects of
all religions and all bodies of knowledge can be found in Gnosis. The Gnostic teachings
are so vast and profound that it cannot be found in any other system. In fact, much of
this knowledge has been taught secretly throughout the ages in hidden schools of mysteries
scattered around the world.
Another difference between Gnosis and many other similar groups is the emphasis on
practical applications and exercises. Within the Gnostic doctrine there is an enormous
amount of exercises, literally hundreds, that are taught and practiced so that you may
verify every aspect of the teaching through direct personal experience. Theoretical study
alone is extremely limiting - the authentic seeker of knowledge must investigate
personally and directly everything that he is taught so that he or she can make this
knowledge real and alive within.
You will start seeing changes is your life almost immediately. Just as a child sees the
world differently and with awe when it learns something new, so too will you begin to see
yourself and your relationship with others in a different light. You will begin to see
that your life acquires a different flavor, since new knowledge brings about new ways of
thinking and seeing the world. In a short time, this constant inflow of new knowledge will
help you cope with problems and situations in your life much more effectively. You will
find yourself prospering spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, and materially.
It is important to note, however, that nothing can be accomplished without some sort of
effort involved. Even though you will begin to see important benefits in your life
relatively quickly, you will not progress or "receive attainment" instantly.
Progression in the Gnostic Esoteric Work is similar to that of any other activity or skill
you wish to develop - it takes time, practice, and effort to learn the fundamentals and
even more to master the skill. With patience and dedication, however, anything can be
accomplished.
The Gnostic Centers throughout the world are non-profit organizations, relying entirely on voluntary student and participant donations. No person involved in the running and operation of such a center is monetarily compensated for his or her services. The goal of all centers is to share Gnosis with anyone interested, regardless of race, sex, religious background, occupation, etc. The Gnostic teachings can thus be considered as "free" by not having a monetary price set on them. This, however, does not mean that the teachings are superficial - on the contrary, they are among the most profound teachings that exist in the world today. If a monetary price was to be placed on them, then these teachings would be enormously expensive! Rather, the "fruits" of Gnosis are "bought" through the effort of the student - the more effort and work the student puts into studying, understanding, and practicing the teachings, the greater will be the fruits of his or her efforts.
The Gnostic Movement has spread rapidly since its creation by V. M. Samael Aun Weor in
the 1950's. Today, Gnostic centers can be found in many countries throughout the Americas,
Europe, Asia, Australia, and Africa. Centers can be found throughout the world teaching in
many different languages, such as Spanish, English, French, Japanese, Italian, German,
Greek, Portuguese, etc. There are several hundred thousand students in the world today who
are studying and practicing Gnosis.
There are two major reasons why most people are not familiar with Gnosis. The first reason
is the content of its teachings: Gnosis is concerned with inner development leading
towards self-realization, something that the majority of humanity is not genuinely
interested in. It is unfortunate, but most people value their material, career, and social
growth above all else. Although the Gnostic teachings can greatly help one to materially
and socially advance, the majority of people, even if they have heard of Gnosis, do not
pursue its teachings further. Thus Gnosis predominantly appeals to people who have
questions about life and are actively seeking answers. This is underscored by the ancient
wise saying, "When the student is ready, the teacher will appear." The
second reason that Gnosis is not widely known is that Gnostic Centers do not actively try
to recruit, influence, or persuade anyone to accept Gnosis against their will.
Advertisements for talks and courses are usually placed in areas where people in the
general public have access to them, such as bookstores, newspapers, etc. After seeing the
advertisement or hearing about the course or lecture through word of mouth, it is the
individual's decision whether or not to attend. Thus it is always through personal choice
that one takes part in the activities of a Gnostic Center.
There are several ways you can learn more about the Gnostic teachings. If you live in
the Los Angeles area, you may attend courses at the Gnostic Center. For a list of titles
and dates of public courses being offered at the center, please go the Current Events
page. If you would like to know the locations of other centers in Los Angeles and
throughout the world, and in what language Gnosis is taught there, please go to the International Directory.
Another way to find out more about the Gnosis is through the books of V. M. Samael Aun
Weor, founder of the Gnostic movement, who wrote over 70 books on all aspects of Gnosis
(meditation, psychology, alchemy, kabbalah, astral travel, healing with plants, etc.).
These books were originally written in Spanish, and are presently being translated into
other languages, including English.
If you have questions regarding Gnosis, you may either call the Gnostic Center of Los
Angeles, at (213) 664-8241, or you may send your question via e-mail to
gnosisla@earthlink.net.
© Gnostic Center
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