UNIVERSAL PHILOSOPHY
By Robert Najemy
Table of Contents
Purpose of book: To provoke to reader to examine his beliefs and perceptions of reality so as to help him experience greater inner security, self worth and unity with others and the world around him. The essence of most spiritual - philosophical traditions is presented. Emphasis is placed on the similarities between the various schools of thought and on removing the feeling of separation and alienation between the individual and the world around him, thus increasing feelings of love and belonging, as well as the manifestation of latent inner potential.
Interests: All thinking readers seeking to answer existential questions and create a personal philosophy with which to approach life and cope with its difficulties and lessons.
How it differs from similar books: It has no dogma or intent to proselytize. It approaches philosophy and spirituality with a logical and scientific approach (the author is a Chemical Engineer). It is very practically written and simply expressed so that all readers can perceive the inherent oneness behind the chaos of daily affairs. Emphasis is placed on employing philosophy as a way of life rather than mental gymnastics. Numerous subtitles, diagrams and bold letters make the text clear and easily absorbed.
Total pages of manuscript (as doubled columned pages 8.2 in. x 11.8 in. with text at 10 points) = 100. Total pages in published Greek Edition: (5.6 in x 8.2 in) = 310 pages. Number of printings of Greek Edition: 4 printings since first edition in 1991.
Chapter by Chapter Synopsis
INTRODUCTION
1. - WHAT IS UNIVERSAL PHILOSOPHY?
We start with a realization that science (especially physics) shows that we really are not perceiving the universe as it is, but rather, that much of what we perceive is an illusion. Universal Philosophy is ?comprised of six basic tenants which we find at the essence of most spiritually oriented philosophies.It has nothing to do with dogmas, liturgies or worship.
2. - THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE INDIVIDUAL AND THE UNIVERSAL
With the help of various diagrams we investigate how with might understand man's simultaneous separation and unity with the Divine and the world. The nature of consciousness to mind and body is also discussed.
3. - METHODS OF UNION
Five basic methods for experiencing that unity with the Divine and the world are briefly introduced.
4. - THE REAL VS. THE NON-REAL
What is real and what is imaginary? What do we mean by temporary real? What do we chose to give importance to?
5. - MAN'S GROSS AND SUBTLE BODIES
More diagrams help the reader to understand the higher levels of the mind and the nature of the soul and its relationship to the mind and body. The nature of consciousness is more deeply investigated.
6. - SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE FOR THE EXISTENCE OF THE CAUSAL BODY
Scientific experiments and theories which suggest the presence of a "causal body" or Morphogenetic field which ultimately controls the genes, tendencies and behaviors of whole species. This theory allows us to understand our relationship with all other beings inhabiting the Earth with us. It also supports the Critical Mass concept as it applies to human behavior and which is the major hope of the Celestine Prophecy.
7. - THE MERGING OF SCIENCE AND UNIVERSAL PHILOSOPHY
Abundant evidence is presented showing that science is rediscovering basic ancient philosophical truths as it moves into the world of subatomic particles and astral physics. Striking resemblances appear between what philosophers and scientist are saying.
8. - THE CAUSES OF HUMAN SUFFERING
The basic cause of man's suffering is his inability to fulfill his needs and attachments. His attachments are multiplied by his fears. His fear is generated by his ignorance of who or what he really is. This total identification with the body and all that belongs to the body creates his fear and ultimately his suffering. Practical employable solutions are offered.
9. - THE THREE LAWS OF EVOLUTION
The three laws which govern our motives, actions and reactions are:
a. Karma in which we learn by trial and error and suffering
b. Dharma in which act out of a sense of righteousness
c. Love in which our heart guides us to act out of love
Various levels of love are discussed.
10. - THE LAW OF KARMA
The law of Karma about which there are many misconceptions is discussed in more detail. Illusions about punishment or bad karma are dispensed as we realize that we are in a learning process and that all experiences are opportunities for growth. The natural psychological benefits from believing in the wisdom and justice of such a cosmic system of evolution are emphasized as are the traps which such a belief system might contain such as becoming too passive. The chapter ends with 13 quotations by well know thinkers who have accep ?ted the concept of reincarnation.
11. - FATE AND FREE WILL
Numerous examples help us understand the delicate balance between the seemingly opposite concepts of fate and free will. Emphasis is given to learning to see each event as the just result of all our previous actions, thoughts and choices, which now present us with the perfect opportunity for learning our next lesson in our spiritual growth process. Many possible lessons are given for dealing with illness, losing a loved one, coping with a court case etc.
12. - THE CIRCLE OF IMPULSES
We investigate the nature of thought impulses and how they are born in the deep subconscious and flow outward gaining moment and substance as they become conscious thoughts, feelings, words and actions. This then becomes a vicious circle as our original beliefs are corroborated by the very realities which they create. Solutions as presented for getting free from this circle.
13. - DISCIPLINE
The role of discipline in the effort to understand and employ spiritual truths. The relation between discipline and freedom. The difference between conscious and unconscious discipline.
14. - DEVOTION TO GOD
The relationship between devotion and philosophy and the experience of the truth. Methods of cultivating a relationship with the divine. The role of prayer, chanting and faith. The chapter does not refer to any specific religious path.
15. - THE INCARNATED GOD VS. THE FORMLESS GOD
A model is presented which helps us understand and bridge the seemingly opposite perceptions of the God as form and as a formless consciousness or energy.
16. - THE BIRTH, CRUCIFIXION AND RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST
Some thoughts on this rather world shaking event for all regardless of their religious beliefs. What are some lessons which we might learn from this example.
17. - SELF STUDY - SELF KNOWLEDGE
The study or our two selves, the personality and the Higher Self or soul. One study requires self observation and self analysis, while the other meditation and study of what those who have gone before us teach.
18. - FINDING OUR ROLE IN LIFE
A study of the obstacles towards living our real life purpose. Methods are suggested for discovering our real life purpose and for gaining the inner freedom and power to actually live it.
19. - DANGERS ON THE SPIRITUAL PATH
An exposé of the various traps and most commonly made mistakes which plague spiritual seekers.Suggestions are offered concerning how to avoid these traps and mistakes or at least how to learn from them.
20. - UNIVERSAL PHILOSOPHY IN ACTION
Selfless action and a selfless life are the ultimate result of a deeper understanding of the spiritual truths. Universal philosophy is experienced as love and as oneness which leads towards a life of selfless service to the whole. Obstacles to this transformation are discussed as well as ways to get started.
EPILOGUE 1