SYMBOLISM OF THE TEMPLE
In the Old and New Testaments of the Bible we read reference after reference about temples. AND among the ancients in earlier times, more temples. So what then, is the deeper meaning of this temple? We've seen physical structures in matter form, but in the esoteric Inner Mysteries, taught among the initiates in the “Hidden Mysteries,” there is more than just a well-designed construct of concrete and marble. There are deep metaphysical messages, with apocalyptic (revealed/unveiled) symbolism.
“The most high dwells not in temples made by hands.”
-Acts 7:48
Now how do we approach this verse? Does this mean that no matter how hard mankind tries to build it's magnificent churches, mosques, cathedrals, and temples; that the most high (God) will not dwell in them? Well, if this were true ... then why build them at all? But this isn't the mystery of the verse.
What this verse is telling us is that church buildings and temples have absolutely nothing to do with being the dwelling place of God. And for thousands of years men have laboured, died, suffered, fought, been injured, all for something which is not a physical building.
The scriptural reference to the "temple" ... is your head. Where your Mind operates the senses from. Both sides of your head are called “temples” for a reason. It is all symbolism. The great temple made without hands sits atop your shoulders ... attached by the Atlas in Mythology, as he held the world on his shoulders. Even the site of the crucifixion of Jesus was called “Golgotha,” which means “skull, skull hill, place of the skull.”
“The Kingdom of God is within you.”
-Luke 17:21
Does it get any more elementary, or any easier than this? The “Kingdom” is not a religious system or geographic place, or a building designed for worship. It is WITHIN you ... not without you. Inside, not outside. The Bible is filled with allegory and myth via symbolism of the human mind and body. The process of Life ... through which we as Spirit operate, travel, and experience.
“Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in your midst?”
-1 Corinthians 3:16
Again, plain as black and white. The temple, church, tabernacle, is actually the human Mind, and all of scripture delves deep into the mystical studies and hidden secrets of the journey of Spirit, operating through the Mind (and heart). The way we think, decide, believe - not just individually, but universally and collectively.
Its is our Christ Consciousness that reminds us of our Divinity, and the Bible esoterically takes us through our life's journey. “Follow me” Jesus says. When you get lost, you find a guide who knows the path back home. But first, a wise sage, shaman, or hierophant will ask “where are you?” Before you can receive directions or instructions to further your journey in the right (righteous) (right-thinking) direction, it must first be discovered where you are on your path. Born voyage!
Just a thought ...
Justin Taylor, ORDM.
