Event Description

Rosicrucian Book Review - The Sanctuary of Self by Ralph M. Lewis

You are cordially invited to join us in reading and discussing one of our foundational Rosicrucian texts, The Sanctuary of Self by Ralph M. Lewis. 

This evening we will be continuing our journey into the wisdom of Part Four, Attainment, with our discussion of Chapter Twenty-Two: Spirituality (pages 157-159).

1.     Ralph M. Lewis tells us that to be spiritual suggests that we conduct ourselves according to our spiritual nature. What sort of conduct do you think he is referring to?

2.     Do you personally find it easy to follow “the dictates of conscience” or has following your inner urges or promptings sometimes been difficult for you? Does this process become easier as we mature?

3.     The author suggests that there are “certain noble virtues” that should be practiced daily, or at least known to most people. These, he says, “are the quintessence of spirituality.” What are these virtues? Can you suggest additional ones?

4.     We are told that it is essential that we make an effort to “live” these noble virtues, not by removing ourselves from society, but by engaging with others in the world. Do you agree and to what extent?

5.     The author gives examples of an honest person and also someone who displays mercy or compassion. Such persons use their “spiritual powers to perfection” when they “refrain” from doing the opposite—that is from being dishonest or ruthless when opportunities arise. Do you agree that spirituality is therefore related to self-mastery, self-restraint, and self-control? Explain.

6.     The author refers to well known expressions that describe people in spiritual terms such as, “one’s word is one’s bond” or she has “a big heart.” Can you think of other such expressions that describe ordinary people that are either complimentary to their spiritual nature or even the opposite?

7.     The author claims that to be spiritual does not require “knowledge of spiritual doctrines” or “astute wisdom of Divine laws,” but to one’s actions and values. Do you agree with this definition of spirituality? Would you add anything else?

8.     Another expression that we often hear is that “actions speak louder than words.” Can you think of examples from your own life regarding people you have met in various professions or “walks of life”?

9.     The author gives us examples from various professions and activities, including sales, athletic competitions, trading in gold and minerals, etc., and states that these activities in themselves do not violate spiritual laws. How could persons who engage in such activities violate spiritual law? How then could such individuals rectify these violations?

10.  In terms of violating spiritual laws as discussed, do you think punishment is a viable form of “correction”? Feel free to explain and give examples.

11.  The author concludes by saying that to excuse one’s lack of competence or lack of concentration or even lack of creative ability on having a more refined spiritual nature “desecrates the Divine.” What do you think he means by that, and do you agree?

12.  In what ways can we improve our own spiritual sensibilities or attain a better spiritual understanding in our own lives?

Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/6528596718

We look forward to seeing you at this book review!