The Teaching of Hazrat Inayat Khan1
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Topic ArchetypesAstrologyAttainmentChakrasCharacterChristCompassionDervishDesire and renunciationDestiny and Free WillDimensionsDiscipleshipDreamsDuties and debtsEgoElementsGodGuidanceHealersHealingHealthHeartImmortalityInitiationLight and LoveLoversMagnetismMasteryMaterial lifeMeditationMessageMindPhysical BodyPlanesPoetsPowerPrayersPurposeReconstruction of WorldRelationshipsReligionsSaintsSchoolScientistsSexualitySleepSpeakingStagesStoriesSufismTeaching StyleVoiceWomenWorldWounds of the Heart | Sub-Topic A Cover Over the SoulCare of the bodyDeveloping will-powerExperience through theEyesEyes expressFire WalkingGreetingsIntermarriageLaw of HeredityLeft - RightLipsMind-Body InfluenceMovements in FacePhysiognomyPurpose ofRadiance of FaceSense OrgansSex determinationSpineStiffnessVegetarian Diet |
Vol. 13, GathasInsight1.4, Divine EvidenceThe first thing in the study of human nature is observation of the external part of man. This has two aspects, one is the head of man, the other his form. And this can be seen from two points of view, the first is the analytical point of view, the second the synthetic. The former is the understanding of the character of each organ and the meaning of its form, and the latter is the harmony of the different organs. And a person understands half if he considers one organ only and not its combination with other organs. The study of physiognomy can help one as an interesting study, but one must have intuition also to help and guide him who wishes to judge. Nothing in life is so interesting as the study of human nature, and in attaining to knowledge of God, knowledge of human nature is the beginning. Therefore in occult study one must begin by studying human beings, and the first lesson is to study their form. The prominence of particular organs and muscles shows the vitality which exists in these organs, and lack of it is lack of energy in these organs.
In every face and form there is always some resemblance to the lower creation, and a person with keen insight can recognize it, and intuition helps us to understand it. Sometimes in face or form, sometimes in movements, we show a sign of one or other of the lower creatures, and this signifies some resemblance with the nature of that particular creature. The more one observes from this point of view the clearer will the view become, and it shows the marvel of the Creator. It makes one tolerant and forgiving to everyone, by reason of understanding that none can act against his nature. Also he who looks at this marvel begins to see the divine evidence in every face, as a person can see the painter in his painting. And it is only natural to wish to study this part of occultism in order to recognize the divine part in the creature and worship Him. |