Selections from Theosophy’s Sacred Teachings: “The Voice of the Silence – The Seven Portals," Segment I, Part 2 of 2

Today on Words of Wisdom, we invite you to continue with us in Part 2 of “The Seven Portals” from Madame Blavatsky’s “The Voice of the Silence.” THE SEVEN PORTALS “Armed with the key of Charity, of love and tender mercy, thou art secure before the gate of Dâna, the gate that stands at the entrance of the path. The road that leads therethrough is straight and smooth and green. It is like a sunny glade in the dark forest depths, a spot on earth mirrored from Amitabha [Buddha]’s paradise. And to the second gate the way is verdant too. But it is steep and winds up hill; yes, to its rocky top. Grey mists will over-hang its rough and stony height, and all be dark beyond. Be of sure foot, O candidate. In Kshânti’s (Mercy’s) essence bathe thy Soul; for now thou dost approach the portal of that name, the gate of fortitude and patience. Close not thine eyes, nor lose thy sight of Dorje; mâra’s arrows ever smite the man who has not reached Virâga (detachment). Beware of trembling. Beneath the breath of fear the key of Kshânti (Mercy) rusty grows: the rusty key refuses to unlock. The more thou do advance, the more thy feet pitfalls will meet. The path that leads on, is lighted by one fire — the light of daring, burning in the heart. The more one dares, the more he shall obtain. The more he fears, the more that light shall pale — and that alone can guide. But once that thou hast passed the gate of Kshânti (Mercy), the third step is taken. Thy body is thy servant. Now, for the fourth prepare, the Portal of temptations which do ensnare the inner man. O fearless Aspirant, look deep within the well of thine own heart, and answer. Know thou of Self the powers, O thou perceiver of external shadows? If thou dost not — then art thou lost. For, on Path fourth, the lightest breeze of passion or desire will stir the steady light upon the pure white walls of Soul. Be of good cheer, O daring pilgrim ‘to the other shore.’ Heed not the whisperings of mâra’s hosts; wave off the tempters, those ill-natured sprites, the jealous lhamayin (evil spirits) in endless space. Hold firm! Thou near now the middle portal, the gate of Woe, with its ten thousand snares. Have mastery over thy thoughts, O striver for perfection, if thou would cross its threshold. Have mastery over thy Soul, O seeker after truths undying, if thou would reach the goal. Thy Soul-gaze center on the One Pure (inner Heavenly) Light, the Light that is free from affection, and use thy golden Key.”