The Corporeal Aspect

A basic and surface level of understanding the human body can be acquired through our physical senses. In this regard, the process of observing it is no different from how we come to understand other objects that we perceive through our senses. Just as we study minerals, plants, and animals, so too can we study the nature of man, which is intricately connected to these other three forms of existence. Like minerals, he constructs and builds his body using the raw materials found in nature. Like plants, he grows and perpetuates his species. And like animals, he perceives the world around him and shapes his inner experiences based on the impressions he receives. Therefore, we can attribute to man a mineral, plant, and animal like existence.

The distinctions in the composition of minerals, plants, and animals correspond to their respective forms of existence. It is through the perception of their structure, their physical shape, that we identify them as bodies. However, obviously the human body differs from that of minerals, plants, and animals. This distinction is evident to anyone, regardless of their beliefs about the relationship between humans and animals. Even the most sincere materialist, who denies the existence of the soul, cannot deny the truth expressed by Carus in his work "Organon der Natur and des Geistes". Carus states, "The intricate and inner construction of the nervous system, particularly the brain, remains a mystery to physiologists and anatomists. However, it is an established fact that this concentration of structure progressively increases in animals and reaches an unparalleled level in humans. This fact holds profound significance in the spiritual evolution of humans. Therefore, when the structure of the brain fails to develop properly, as seen in microcephalic individuals and those with intellectual disabilities, it is evident that original ideas and knowledge cannot be expected to emerge, just as the reproduction of species cannot be expected in individuals with severely underdeveloped reproductive organs. On the other hand, a strong and well-formed physique, particularly a well-developed brain, may not guarantee genius, but it undoubtedly fulfills the essential prerequisite for higher knowledge." In the same way that we attribute the three forms of existence to the human body - mineral, plant, and animal - we must now attribute a fourth form, the human soul. Through this form, man possesses a unique sense of sovereignty, particularly when considering the magnificence of his physical embodiment.

The Soul Aspect

The existence of the soul differs from that of one's physical body, as it resides and belongs solely to that which is of one's own individual and psychological world within. This inner world, which is unique to each person, is confronted at the moment of attention to the simplest sensations. To begin with, it turns out that no one can know whether another person perceives even the simplest of sensations in exactly the same way. Some people are known to be color blind, they see things only in different shades of gray. Some people are partially colorblind, because of this they cannot recognize certain shades of color. Their view of the world is much different from the world of so-called ordinary people.

It becomes clear, therefore that even the simplest of sensations belong to our inner world. Thus, we must acknowledge that sensations are part of the realm of the soul. The initial outcome of sensation is feeling – some sensations bring pleasure while others bring displeasure. These stirrings within us are manifestations of our inner soul life. Additionally, we create a second world through our feelings, one that exists alongside the external world that influences us. Moreover, we add a third world to this – the world of our will. Through our will, we react and leave an indelible mark on the external world, imprinting it with the essence of our inner being. The actions of human beings differ from the regular events of nature, as they bear the unmistakable imprint of our inner life. In this way, the soul represents what is uniquely and inherently our own.

As the soul begins its journey through the external realm through means of the physical body, man engages with the world around him, drawing inspiration from its myriad stimuli. However, in his response to these stimuli, he not only interprets and assimilates them, but also constructs a unique realm that is distinctly his own. Thus, the physicality of man serves as the bedrock upon which his spiritual essence blossoms.

The essence of a person's being originates beyond the physical realm. Real spiritual human beings do not wander aimlessly, driven by every passing impulse or external influence. Instead, they engage in thoughtful contemplation of their perceptions and actions. Through this introspection, they gain knowledge and bring coherence and order into their daily lives. It is understood that one can only fulfill their duties as a genuine human being when one is guided by correct thinking in both understanding and conduct. Thus, the soul of man faces a dual necessity. While the laws of nature govern the physical body, the wise soul wishes to submit to the laws of rational thinking, recognizing their essentiality. By doing so, humans elevate themselves to a higher order, surpassing the mundane and physical levels of existence and enter the realm of the spiritual.

The soul is distinctly different from the body that it inhabits, but both are simultaneously interwoven and connected at the same time. Mere contemplation of the materials that compose the body does not encompass that which make up the soul. The soul emerges when these materials are set in motion, giving rise to sensations and the ability to say, "I taste sweetness" or "I feel pleasure", etc, etc.

The body serves as a foundation for the soul, and the soul serves as a foundation for the spirit. The study of anatomy and biology pertains to the body, while psychology delves into the study of the soul, meanwhile the investigation of the spirit concerns itself with that of the spiritual domain. To truly understand oneself and grasp the distinctions between body, soul, and spirit, one must engage in deep introspection and intellectual exploration. This understanding is crucial for those seeking enlightenment regarding the nature of human existence.

Written and Copyrighted by: The Midnight Occult Society

Dated: 8-2-2023