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Ascended masters, also known as Mahatmas, are believed in several theosophical and related spiritual traditions[1] to be spiritually enlightened beings who in past incarnations were ordinary humans. Through a series of spiritual transformations, or initiations, they are said to have achieved a higher state of being.[citation needed]

Although the terms mahatma and ascended master are often used synonymously, the Ascended Master Teachings define them differently, associating "ascended master" with a higher level of spiritual attainment, specifically the Sixth Initiation or Ascension.[2] This contrasts with "Masters of Light", "Healers", or "Spiritual Masters", who are said to have taken the Fifth Initiation and reside in a fifth dimension.[citation needed]

The term ascended master was first used by Baird T. Spalding in 1924 in his series of books Life and Teachings of the Masters of the Far East (DeVorss and Co.). Godfre Ray King (Guy Ballard) further popularized this concept of spiritual masters who had once lived on the earth in his book Unveiled Mysteries:[3]

"I had heard of the Great Ascended Masters who could take their bodies with them wherever they go and manifest or bring into visibility anything they desire to use direct from the Universal."[4]

Definition

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Adherents of the ascended master Teachings hold that the beliefs surrounding ascended masters were partially released by the Theosophical Society beginning in 1875, by C.W. Leadbeater and Alice A. Bailey, and began to have more detailed public release in the 1930s by the ascended masters through Guy Ballard in the I AM Activity.[5] However, theosophists maintain that the concept of an ascended master is an exaggeration and corruption of the more modest theosophical concept of "Master of the Ancient Wisdom".[6]

Guy Ballard said his work Unveiled Mysteries was dictated to him by the ascended master Saint Germain.[7][8] Other Ascended Master Teachings are contained in The Bridge to Freedom (1951),[9] Mark Prophet and Elizabeth Clare Prophet's The Summit Lighthouse (1958) (reorganized as the Church Universal and Triumphant in 1975),[10] The Temple of The Presence (1995),[11] The Hearts Center (2005), the I AM University (2004), and various other organizations such as The White Eagle Lodge (1936) and the Aquarian Christine Church Universal (2006).[12][13]

Peter Mt. Shasta, who met the ascended masters Saint Germain, Kuthumi, and El Morya, has been releasing the ancient teachings in a more modern and simplified form, emphasizing the teaching that the masters can work with those who have an open heart and the desire to benefit humanity.[14]

Beliefs about ascended masters

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Helena P. Blavatsky in 1877.

The term ascended master was first introduced in 1934 by Guy Ballard with the publication of Unveiled Mysteries, a book which he said was dictated to him by the ascended master St. Germain.[15][16] Other Ascended Master Teachings are contained in The Bridge to Freedom (1951),[17] The Summit Lighthouse (1958) (known also as The Church Universal and Triumphant),[18] The Aetherius Society (1955),[19] The Temple of The Presence (1995),[11] the I AM University (2004), the White Eagle Lodge (1936) and the Aquarian Christine Church Universal, Inc. (2006).[20][21]

In Ascended Master Teachings there is also mention of Serapis Bey, a being who was incarnated as a high priest in one of the "Temples of the Sacred Fire" on Atlantis, and who migrated to Egypt at the time of the destruction of Atlantis.[22] It is also believed that he was incarnated as the Egyptian Pharaoh Amenhotep III (who constructed the Temple of Luxor to the god Amon)[23] and also as Leonidas, the King of Sparta,[24] who was killed in 480 BC defending the pass of Thermopylae against the invasion of ancient Greece by Emperor Xerxes I of the Persian Empire.

Other beliefs about ascended masters

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Belief in the ascended masters and their Great White Brotherhood is an essential part of the beliefs of various organizations that have continued and expanded the concepts released in the original Saint Germain instruction in the 1930s through the "I AM" Activity. Examples of those believed by the ones proposing these teachings to be ascended masters would be the Master Jesus, Confucius, Gautama Buddha, Mary the mother of Jesus, St. Paul of Tarsus (a.k.a. Hilarion), Ashtar Sheran, Sanat Kumara, Melchizedek, Archangel Michael, Metatron, Kwan Yin, St. Germain and Kuthumi.[citation needed]

Jesus

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Main article: Master Jesus

Jesus is believed to be one of the Masters of the Ancient Wisdom in Theosophy and is one of the ascended masters in the Ascended Master Teachings. The Master Jesus is regarded by Theosophists as the Master of the Sixth Ray.[25]

It is believed by Ascended Master Teachings organizations that the Master Jesus was "Chohan of the Sixth Ray" until December 31, 1959, when, according to Elizabeth Clare Prophet, Lady Master Nada[who?] fully took on the Office in the Spiritual Hierarchy in his place. According to Prophet, Jesus became World Teacher, along with Kuthumi,[who?] on January 1, 1956, succeeding Maitreya, who took the Office of "Planetary Buddha" and "Cosmic Christ".[26]

According to Elizabeth Clare Prophet, Prophet of the Church Universal and Triumphant (the largest Ascended Master Teachings religion), the Master Jesus incarnated twice as the Emperor of Atlantis, once in 33,050 BC and again in 15,000 BC.[27]

According to Alice Bailey, the Master Jesus was previously incarnated as Joshua, the Hebrew military leader in the 13th century BC, and Joshua the High Priest in the sixth century BC.[28]

According to the Ascended Master Teachings,[29][30][31][32] Jesus was also incarnated as Joseph of the coat of many colors in the 17th century BC/16th century BC (approximately between 1650 BC and 1550 BC), as well as King David (who lived c. 1037 BC until around 970 BC), and Elisha in the 9th century BC.[33]

Sanat Kumara

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According to the post-1900 publications of Theosophy (specifically, the writings of Charles W. Leadbeater, Alice Bailey, and Benjamin Creme, as well as the Ascended Master Teachings of Guy Ballard, Elizabeth Clare Prophet, Geraldine Innocente, Joshua David Stone, and other Ascended Master Teachings teachers), Sanat Kumara[34][35] is an "advanced being" of the Ninth Initiation (the highest initiation possible on planet Earth) who is regarded as the Lord or Regent of Earth and of humanity, and the head of the Spiritual Hierarchy of Earth who dwells in Shamballah.

It is believed by these authors that he is the founder of the Great White Brotherhood, which consists of Masters of the Ancient Wisdom (Fifth Initiation), ascended masters (Sixth Initiation), Chohans and Bodhisattvas (Seventh Initiation), Buddhas (Eighth Initiation), and highly spiritually-evolved volunteers from other worlds, who have all joined to advance spiritual evolution on Earth.[36]

Sanat Kumara was mentioned briefly by the theosophist Helena Blavatsky.[37] She claimed he belonged to a group of beings, the "Lords of the Flame", whom Christian tradition have misunderstood as Lucifer and the fallen angels.[38]

Sanat Kumara gained greater prominence when her follower Charles W. Leadbeater wrote that Sanat Kumara was the "King" or Lord of the World, and the head of the Great White Brotherhood of Mahatmas who had revealed the principles of theosophy.[39]

Maitreya

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Main article: Maitreya (Theosophy)

Initiation

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According to C.W. Leadbeater, Initiation is a process by which "we try to develop ourselves not that we may become great and wise, but that we may have the power and knowledge to work for humanity to the best effect."[40] According to Alice Bailey, Initiation is the "process of undergoing an expansion of consciousness"[41]

Periodization

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The fall of man

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It is believed that since the "fall of man" during the time of the incarnation of the fourth root race, imperfection, limitations and discord increasingly entered into the world. The memory body is considered to have become known as a "soul", and this temporary personality has taken on the sense of a self that is separated and not connected to God. It is believed that a "Dictation" from Maitreya further clarified this matter through the "Messenger", Geraldine Innocente, on September 27, 1954, when what occurred during the time of the fourth root race was described:

Curiosity, rebellion against holding true to the Divine Pattern and the use of thought and feeling in creation of imperfection, began the building of what you call the 'soul'. It is a consciousness apart from the full Purity of God. The first thought a man had that was imperfect and impure, energized by a secret feeling, was a cause and that, sent out into the atmosphere, created an effect. Like a boomerang, the effect came back into the consciousness and made a record. That record was the beginning of an impression. Energy sent out in a certain manner returned to affect the lifestream who had sent it forth and there began to be created a shadow between the I AM Presence and the human consciousness. Endeavoring to contact the Presence, the individual would find these 'tramp' thoughts and feelings flowing through that line of contact until more and more imperfect was the conscious use of them. Finally, those centers got completely away from the control of the ego and acted independently.[42]

Dawning Golden Age

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Students of the Ascended Master Teachings believe that this world is destined to again have a Golden Age, a "Heaven on Earth", that will be permanent, unlike previous Golden Ages millions of years ago.[43]

The Great White Brotherhood

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The Great White Brotherhood, in belief systems akin to Theosophy, are said to be supernatural beings of great power who spread spiritual teachings through selected humans.[44] The members of the Brotherhood may be known as the Masters of the Ancient Wisdom or the Ascended masters.[44] Various people have said they have received messages from these beings, including most notably Helena Blavatsky (Theosophy), Aleister Crowley (Thelema), Alice Bailey (New Group of World Servers), Guy Ballard ("I AM" Activity), Geraldine Innocente (The Bridge to Freedom), Mark L. Prophet & Elizabeth Clare Prophet (Church Universal and Triumphant) and Benjamin Creme (Share International).[44]

The Masters are collectively called the "Great White Brotherhood" by various theosophists and esotericists. The use of the term white refers to their advanced spirituality (in other words, that they have a white colored aura) and has nothing to do with race. Blavatsky described many of the Masters as ethnically Tibetan or Indian (Hindu), not European.[45] She did, however, describe them as being from all cultures and races, such as the "Greek gentleman" known as Hilarion.[46]

Belief in the Brotherhood and the Masters is an essential part of the syncretistic teachings of various organizations that have taken the Theosophical philosophical concepts and added their own elements.[47] Examples of those believed to be ascended masters by these organizations are: Jesus, Sanat Kumara, Buddha, Maitreya, Confucius, Lord Lanto (Confucius' historical mentor), Mary the mother of Jesus, Lady Master Nada, Enoch, Kwan Yin, Saint Germain, and Koot Hoomi (Kuthumi), to name but a few.[48] It is believed that all of these put aside any differences they might have had in their Earthly careers, and unite instead to advance the spiritual well-being of humanity.[49]

Dictations

[edit]

Within "The I AM Activity" (founded by Guy Ballard in the early 1930s), claimed contact and cooperation with the ascended masters became a central part of each member's life. Through the Ballards as "messengers", the ascended masters were believed to have regularly communicated with the students of "The I AM Activity". These supposed addresses (known as "Dictations") were delivered before gatherings of members in Conclaves held throughout the United States of America, and published in the monthly periodical The Voice of The "I AM", and some were collected and reprinted in the "green books" of The Saint Germain Series. In all, 3,834 claimed Dictations from the Masters were received through Guy and Edna Ballard. Other "Ascended Master Activities" believed that the ascended masters, cosmic beings, Elohim, and Archangels continued to present a program for both individual development and spiritual transformation in the world.[50] They believe that further instruction from the ascended masters and the rest of the spiritual hierarchy continued through new Dispensations with new Messengers, such as the Bridge to Freedom,[51] the Summit Lighthouse, and the Temple of The Presence.

The Aquarian Church

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The Aquarian Christine Church Universal, Inc. (ACCU) is a denomination founded in 2006 based on The Aquarian Gospel of Jesus the Christ, said to be transcribed from the Akashic records by Levi H. Dowling. The Aquarian Christine Church actively promotes Ascended Master Teachings and shares many beliefs in common with the I AM Movement, White Eagle Lodge and New Thought and Theosophical groups. The book "Initiations of the Aquarian Masters: The Theosophy of the Aquarian Gospel" by ACCU founder Jacob L. Watson, expounds on the church's teachings which draw heavily from the writings of A.D.K. Luk (pen-name of Alice Beulah Schutz) (1905–1994), the Saint Germain Series published by the Saint Germain Press (The Saint Germain Foundation), and especially from "The Lost Years of Jesus" compiled by Elizabeth Clare Prophet and published by The Summit Lighthouse.[52]

Criticism

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René Guénon wrote a detailed critique of Theosophy titled Theosophy: history of a pseudo-religion (1921). In the book Guenon speculated that Blavatsky had acquired all her knowledge naturally from other books not from any supernatural masters. Guenon points out that Blavatsky spent a long time visiting a library at New York where she had easy access to the works of Jacob Boehme, Eliphas Levi, the Kabbalah and other Hermetic treatises. Guenon also speculated that Blavatsky had borrowed passages from extracts of the Kanjur and Tanjur, translated by the eccentric orientalist Sándor Kőrösi Csoma, published in 1836 in the twentieth volume of the Asiatic Researchers of Calcutta.[53]

K. Paul Johnson suggests in his book The Masters Revealed: Madame Blavatsky and Myth of the Great White Brotherhood that the Masters that Madam Blavatsky claimed she had personally met are idealizations of certain people she had met during her lifetime.[54]

Robert Todd Carroll in his book The skeptic's dictionary (2003) speculates that Blavatsky used trickery into deceiving others into thinking she had paranormal powers. Carroll further speculates that Blavatsky had faked a materialization of a tea cup and saucer as well as written the messages from her masters herself.[55] The article "Talking to the Dead and Other Amusements" by Paul Zweig, New York Times October 5, 1980, also speculates that Madame Blavatsky's revelations were fraudulent.[56]

See also

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Citations

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  1. ^ "Ascended Master". Encyclopedia.com.
  2. ^ Partridge, Christopher, ed. (2004). New Religions: A Guide: New Religious Movements, Sects and Alternative Spiritualities. USA: Oxford University Press. pp. 330–334. Describes the Theosophical Society and religious organizations based on a belief in Ascended Masters, such as The I AM Activity, The Bridge to Freedom, and The Summit Lighthouse
  3. ^ King, Godfre Ray (1934). Unveiled Mysteries. Chicago, Illinois: Saint Germain Press. p. vii. The time has arrived, when the Great Wisdom, held and guarded for many centuries in the Far East, is now to come forth in America, at the command of those Great Ascended Masters who direct and protect the evolution of mankind upon this Earth.
  4. ^ King, Godfre Ray (1934). Unveiled Mysteries. Saint Germain Press. p. 28.
  5. ^ King, Godfre Ray. The Magic Presence. Saint Germain Press 1935. page 89, 95
  6. ^ "Mahatmas versus Ascended Masters - Theosophical Society in America". Archived from the original on 2016-03-07.
  7. ^ King, Godfre Ray. Unveiled Mysteries. Chicago, Illinois: Saint Germain Press, 1934, p. vii: "The time has arrived, when the Great Wisdom, held and guarded for many centuries in the Far East, is now to come forth in America, at the command of those Great Ascended Masters who direct and protect the evolution of mankind upon this Earth."
  8. ^ Saint Germain Foundation. The History of the "I AM" Activity and Saint Germain Foundation. Schaumburg, Illinois: Saint Germain Press, 2003.
  9. ^ The Bridge to Freedom Journal (1951-1961) Reprinted by Ascended Master Teaching Foundation, 1989.
  10. ^ Lewis, James R. Church Universal and Triumphant in Scholarly Perspective Center For Academic Publication 1994.
  11. ^ a b White Paper - Wesak World Congress 2002. Acropolis Sophia Books & Works 2003
  12. ^ Braden, Charles S. These Also Believe, MacMillan Publishing Company 2000, pp. 257–307.
  13. ^ Watson, Jacob L. "Initiations of the Aquarian Masters: The Theosophy of the Aquarian Gospel" Outskirts Press, 2009. ISBN 978-1-4327-4598-1
  14. ^ Mt. Shasta, Peter, Adventures of a Western Mystic: Apprentice to the Masters (Church of the Seven Rays, 2010)
  15. ^ King, Godfre Ray. Unveiled Mysteries. Chicago, Illinois: Saint Germain Press 1934 page vii: "The time has arrived, when the Great Wisdom, held and guarded for many centuries in the Far East, is now to come forth in America, at the command of those Great Ascended Masters who direct and protect the evolution of mankind upon this Earth."
  16. ^ Saint Germain Foundation. The History of the "I AM" Activity and Saint Germain Foundation. Schaumburg, Illinois: Saint Germain Press 2003
  17. ^ The Bridge to Freedom Journal (1951-1961) Reprinted by Ascended Master Teaching Foundation, 1989
  18. ^ Melton, J. Gordon (1994). Church Universal and Triumphant in Scholarly Perspective. Stanford, Calif. : Center for Academic Publication. pp. 1–2. ISBN 978-0-8191-9634-7.
  19. ^ "Ascended Masters & The Spiritual Hierarchy Of Earth". The Aetherius Society. Retrieved 2017-08-02.
  20. ^ Braden, Charles S. These Also Believe Macmillan Publishing Company 2000, pp. 257-307
  21. ^ Watson, Jacob L. "Initiations of the Aquarian Masters: The Theosophy of the Aquarian Gospel" Outskirts Press 2009 ISBN 978-1-4327-4598-1
  22. ^ Prophet, Mark L. and Elizabeth Clare Lords of the Seven Rays. Summit University, Livingston, Montana, USA, 1986, p. 149.
  23. ^ Prophet, Mark L. and Elizabeth Clare Lords of the Seven Rays, p. 153.
  24. ^ Prophet, Mark L. and Elizabeth Clare Lords of the Seven Rays, p. 150.
  25. ^ Bailey, Alice A, A Treatise on Cosmic Fire (Section Three - Division A - Certain Basic Statements), 1932, Lucis Trust, 1925, p. 1237.
  26. ^ Prophet, Mark L. and Elizabeth Clare Lords of the Seven Rays Livingston, Montana: Summit University Press 1986 page 225
  27. ^ Prophet, Elizabeth Clare and Prophet, Mark (as compiled by Annice Booth) The Masters and Their Retreats Corwin Springs, Montana:2003 Summit University Press Pages 142-143
  28. ^ Bailey, Alice A. Initiation, Human and Solar New York: Lucis Publishing, 1922, p. 56.
  29. ^ I AM Ascended Master Dictation List, Saint Germain Press Inc., 1995, Listing of Ascended Masters by The I AM Activity
  30. ^ Schroeder, Werner. Ascended Masters and Their Retreats, Ascended Master Teaching Foundation, 2004. Listing of those who are believed to be Ascended Masters by The I AM Activity and The Bridge to Freedom
  31. ^ Booth, Annice. The Masters and Their Retreats Summit Lighthouse Library, June 2003. Listing of those who are believed to be Ascended Masters by The I AM Activity, The Bridge to Freedom, and The Summit Lighthouse
  32. ^ Shearer, Monroe & Carolyn. I AM Adorations, Affirmations & Rhythmic Decrees, Acropolis Sophia Books and Works, 1998. Listing of Ascended Masters by The I AM Activity, The Bridge to Freedom, The Summit Lighthouse, and The Temple of The Presence
  33. ^ Prophet, Elizabeth Clare and Prophet, Mark (as compiled by Annice Booth) The Masters and Their Retreats Corwin Springs, Montana: Summit University Press, 2003, p. 143.
  34. ^ Sanat Kumara at ascension-research.org
  35. ^ A Progress Report On Our Ascension Archived 2016-03-03 at the Wayback Machine at luisprada.com
  36. ^ Schroeder, Werner. Ascended Masters and Their Retreats, Ascended Master Teaching Foundation 2004. Describes the founding of Shamballah by Sanat Kumara
  37. ^ Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna. The Secret Doctrine: The Synthesis of Science, Religion, and Philosophy, Theosophical Publishing House, 1888. Sanat Kumara - Volume I: pp. 89, 457–458; Volume II: pp. 106, 140, 319, 584.
  38. ^ Blavatsky, Helena Petrovna. The Secret Doctrine: The Synthesis of Science, Religion, and Philosophy, Theosophical Publishing House, 1888. Volume II, pp. 243 ff.
  39. ^ Leadbeater, C.W. The Masters and the Path. Adyar, India: Theosophical Publishing House, 1925 (Reprint: Kessinger Publishing, 1997), pp. 296-299.
  40. ^ Leadbeater, Charles W. The Masters and the Path, Adyar, Madras, India, Theosophical Publishing House, 1925, p. 166.
  41. ^ Bailey, Alice A. Initiation, Human and Solar New York: Lucis Publishing, 1922, p. 12.
  42. ^ The Bridge to Freedom Journal, February 1956 (Reprinted by Ascended Master Teaching Foundation 1989) Purported address from Maitreya on September 27, 1954 "through" Geraldine Innocente
  43. ^ King, Godfre Ray. Unveiled Mysteries. Saint Germain Press 1934. pages 42, 97, 136–137, 142, 167–168, 171–172, 225–226, 228, 236
  44. ^ a b c Barrett, David (1996). Sects, 'Cults', and Alternative Religions: A World Survey and Sourcebook. London: Blandford. ISBN 0-7137-2567-2.
  45. ^ Sinnett, Alfred Percy. The Occult World. Boston: Colby & Rich, 1882.
  46. ^ Sisson, Marina Cesar. Helena Blavatsky and the Enigma of John King; originally published as Informativo HPB, No. 3, 4 and 5 English translation.
  47. ^ Melton, Gordon J.; Partridge, Christopher. New Religions: A Guide: New Religious Movements, Sects and Alternative Spiritualities, Oxford University Press, 2004.
  48. ^ I AM Ascended Master Dictation List, Saint Germain Press Inc., 1995, Listing of those who are claimed to be Ascended Masters by The I AM Activity
  49. ^ The Great White Brotherhood in the Culture, History and Religion of America. Summit University Press, 1975.
  50. ^ Partridge, Christopher ed. New Religions: A Guide: New Religious Movements, Sects and Alternative Spiritualities Oxford University Press, USA 2004. Describes the religious organizations based on a belief in the Ascended Master Teachings, such as The I AM Activity, The Bridge to Freedom and The Summit Lighthouse. pages 330–334
  51. ^ The Bridge to Freedom Journal 1951 - 1961 Reprinted by Ascended Master Teaching Foundation 1989
  52. ^ Watson, Jacob L. "Initiations of the Aquarian Masters: The Theosophy of the Aquarian Gospel"
  53. ^ Guénon, René (2004). Theosophy: history of a pseudo-religion. Alvin Moore, Jr. and Cecil Bethell (trans.). Sophia Perennis. pp. 82–89. ISBN 9780900588808.
  54. ^ Johnson, K. Paul. The Masters Revealed: Madame Blavatsky and Myth of the Great White Brotherhood, Albany, New York: State University of New York Press, 1994.
  55. ^ Carroll, Robert Todd. The skeptic's dictionary, 2003, p. 376.
  56. ^ Zweig, Paul. "Talking to the Dead and Other Amusements", The New York Times, 5 October 1980.

General and cited references

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Further reading

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Ascended master

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An ascended master is a spiritually enlightened being who has completed the evolutionary lessons of , transcended the physical body through a process of ascension, and achieved in a higher vibrational , from which they guide and assist humanity toward spiritual awakening. This concept emphasizes mastery over thought, emotion, and karma, allowing these beings to manifest divine qualities without the limitations of reincarnation. The idea of ascended masters originated in the early 20th century as an extension of Theosophical teachings but developed distinctly through the "I AM" Activity, founded by Guy W. Ballard and his wife Edna in the 1930s. Ballard claimed to have encountered the ascended master Saint Germain in 1930 on , receiving revelations that formed the basis of his 1934 book Unveiled Mysteries, which introduced the term and described these masters as former humans who had balanced their karma and ascended. Unlike Theosophy's "Mahatmas"—living adepts who retain physical bodies to aid evolution—the ascended masters are depicted as disembodied entities operating from ethereal planes, often channeling messages through messengers like the Ballards. Prominent ascended masters in these teachings include Saint Germain, El Morya, Kuthumi, and , portrayed as hierarchical guides who dictate through "decrees" and invocations to purify energy and accelerate ascension for followers. The movement expanded in the mid-20th century under and , who established The Summit Lighthouse in 1958 and later the , blending the concept with prophecies, American patriotism, and apocalyptic themes. Today, ascended masters remain central to spirituality, influencing channeling practices, groups, and esoteric literature worldwide, though criticized by traditional Theosophists for diverging from original doctrines.

Definition and Origins

Definition

In the teachings of the and related movements, an ascended master is an individual who, through self-conscious effort, has generated sufficient inner love and spiritual power to overcome all human limitations, thereby achieving and freedom from the cycle of . This process, known as ascension, allows them to transcend physical embodiment while attaining a state of perfected consciousness in oneness with the divine God-Life. These beings exist in a bodiless form within higher spiritual planes, or octaves, yet they retain the ability to manifest their presence, , and assistance to humanity as needed. As perfected teachers and intermediaries, ascended masters radiate their luminous essence to guide human spiritual evolution, serving as bridges between the divine source and earthly life by imparting wisdom and support for personal ascension. They collectively form part of the , a hierarchical order dedicated to the upliftment of humanity.

Theosophical Foundations

The foundational concept of spiritually advanced masters, articulated as "Mahatmas" or "Adepts" in Theosophical doctrine, influenced the later development of ascended masters through the efforts of Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, who co-founded the in on September 7, 1875, alongside and others. This organization aimed to investigate universal spiritual truths, drawing on esoteric traditions to bridge Eastern and Western philosophies. Blavatsky positioned these Mahatmas as enlightened beings who guide humanity's spiritual evolution, marking a pivotal shift in toward recognizing hidden masters as active influencers in human affairs. Blavatsky's foundational texts elaborated on these figures extensively. In Isis Unveiled (1877), she described Mahatmas as advanced adepts possessing profound knowledge, capable of transcending physical limitations through mastery of natural laws. Her magnum opus, (1888), further portrayed them as inhabitants of concealed realms such as —a mystical center in serving as a repository of ancient wisdom—where they preserve esoteric teachings for select initiates. These works framed the Mahatmas not as mythical entities but as real, living teachers who communicate through means, influencing the doctrinal core of . The Theosophical concept of Mahatmas blended Eastern spiritual traditions with Western occultism, reinterpreting elements from and to align with Victorian-era esoteric interests. Drawing from Hindu notions of enlightened gurus (gurus) who achieve , and Tibetan Buddhist ideals of bodhisattvas who delay nirvana to aid others, Blavatsky integrated these with Western and , presenting a synthesized "ancient " accessible to modern seekers. This fusion emphasized karma, , and hierarchical spiritual evolution, positioning Mahatmas as compassionate guides who retain physical forms to mentor humanity without fully "ascending" beyond the material plane. Central to Blavatsky's narrative were her claimed personal contacts with specific Mahatmas, notably (also Kuthumi) and Morya, whom she described as her primary teachers residing in the near . , a Punjabi adept reportedly educated at and fluent in multiple languages, co-inspired the Theosophical Society's founding and collaborated with Blavatsky on , while also authoring over 100 letters to journalist A. P. Sinnett between 1880 and 1884, later compiled as The Mahatma Letters. Morya, similarly, served as Blavatsky's personal , directing her to disseminate their teachings in the West and appearing in physical form to witnesses like Olcott during the Society's early years. These interactions, documented through correspondence and eyewitness accounts, underscored the Mahatmas' role as active intermediaries, fostering the movement's growth and doctrinal authenticity.

Core Beliefs and Concepts

Nature and Role of Ascended Masters

Ascended masters are spiritually enlightened beings who have transcended the cycle of physical through the process of ascension, attaining a state of perfected and existing as beings of in etheric bodies. These etheric forms enable them to dwell on higher dimensions, primarily the —the uppermost realm of the material cosmos—where they maintain focused retreats and project pure vibrational energy without the limitations of dense . This existence allows them to embody divine qualities such as , wisdom, and power, serving as exemplars of the Christ consciousness that humanity is destined to achieve. In their roles, ascended masters function as spiritual guides and dispensers of divine , anchoring cosmic energies to support humanity's evolutionary toward higher . They inspire positive thoughts, intuitive insights, and aligned actions in individuals and groups, facilitating personal and collective spiritual growth while respecting the principle of by avoiding coercive direct intervention. As members of the , their collective purpose is to elevate the vibration of the planet, mitigating negative forces and promoting harmony through the release of light rays that heal and enlighten. Interactions between ascended masters and humanity occur subtly and esoterically, often through telepathic communication, inner promptings, or visionary apparitions during , dreams, or soul travel. Devotees and authorized messengers receive dictations—direct transmissions of teachings—that convey guidance on practical , karma resolution, and of divine assistance. These methods ensure that influence remains inspirational rather than manipulative, allowing recipients to integrate the wisdom voluntarily for their soul's advancement. The internal hierarchy among ascended masters is structured around the seven rays of divine , with chohans—meaning "chiefs" or "lords"—serving as authoritative overseers for each ray. These chohans embody and govern specific aspects of spiritual development: the first ray of will and , the second of and illumination, the third of active intelligence and , the fourth of and , the fifth of truth and , the sixth of devotion and ministration, and the seventh of ceremonial order and transmutation. By focusing the Christic energy of their respective rays, chohans mentor chelas (students) in mastering these qualities, thereby directing the flow of and energy to accelerate humanity's enlightenment.

Ascension and Initiation

In the doctrine of the Ascended Masters, ascension represents the culmination of spiritual evolution whereby an individual's physical body undergoes transmutation into a , granting and freedom from the cycle of death and rebirth. This process is achieved through the acceleration of sacred fire, often invoked via —a spiritual associated with the seventh ray that transmutes negative karma and purifies the four lower bodies (physical, etheric, mental, and emotional). Alternatively, it may involve the raising of from the base to the crown, harmonizing the entire system to align the soul with the I AM Presence, the of within. The path to ascension unfolds through seven initiations, each corresponding to one of rays and testing the aspirant's mastery over successive aspects of being. These initiations entail progressive trials of purification, selfless service, and surrender to the divine will; for instance, the first initiation marks mastery over the physical body and is symbolized by birth into spiritual awareness, while the second focuses on emotional control, the third on mental , the fourth on of personal attachments, the fifth on or the overcoming of through victory, the sixth as the actual ascension where the personality merges fully with the higher self, and the seventh as the attainment of cosmic mastery akin to or avatar status. Ascended masters often serve as sponsors or initiators, guiding chelas (disciples) through these levels via inner dictations or etheric retreats. Prerequisites for undertaking these initiations include the balancing of all seven chakras to ensure the free flow of light, the complete resolution of personal and collective karma through decrees and acts of service, and unwavering devotion to the divine plan as revealed through one's or inner Christ . The must also achieve in the threefold flame—the divine spark comprising love, wisdom, and power—within the heart chakra, while aligning the four lower bodies to vibrate at the frequency of the . This preparation demands rigorous self-discipline, , and adherence to the sacred laws under hierarchical oversight. Upon completing the sixth initiation, the ascended one attains permanent union with the Godhead, joining the Great White Brotherhood as an immortal being capable of manifesting at will on inner or outer planes to assist humanity's evolution. This rare achievement results in the withdrawal of the soul's sponsorship from earthbound incarnations, allowing service from higher octaves. Historical precedents within the doctrine include biblical figures Enoch, who "walked with God and was not, for God took him," and Elijah, who ascended in a whirlwind—both exemplifying ascension without physical death.

Key Figures

Jesus

In the teachings of the ascended masters, is revered as the avatar embodying the sixth ray of devotion, ministration, and spiritual service, qualities that defined his earthly mission of selfless and . As Chohan of this ray until 1959, when he passed the office to Lady Nada, Jesus demonstrated the ray's pure essence through his life and works, focusing on the upliftment of humanity toward divine . He ascended following his and , achieving full mastery over matter and spirit, and now holds the hierarchical office of World Teacher in these teachings, guiding souls in the application of Christhood. Central to his role as an ascended master are pivotal events interpreted as on the path of enlightenment. The represents the fourth initiation, a profound surrender of the human ego to divine will, allowing Jesus to balance karma for humanity while exemplifying the crucifixion of personal attachments for all seekers. Subsequently, his bestowal of the at is seen as the impartation of collective ascension energy, empowering early disciples and with the inner necessary for group initiation and spiritual . In the current transition to the Aquarian age, Jesus continues as an active force, supporting the shift from Piscean devotion to Aquarian brotherhood by anchoring frequencies of and unity among embodied souls. Doctrinal references to as an ascended being appear prominently in foundational texts of the , such as Guy Ballard's Unveiled Mysteries (1934), where he is depicted as a luminous master who bore the to transmute and discord, serving as a perpetual example of victory over limitation. Unlike orthodox Christianity's portrayal of as the exclusive savior and divine , ascended master teachings emphasize him as one among many enlightened beings in the , whose path of mastery is accessible to all through personal initiation and adherence to .

Sanat Kumara

Sanat Kumara is regarded in Theosophical teachings as an ancient ascended master and the planetary logos of , embodying the highest spiritual authority for the planet's evolution. Originating from the etheric plane of , he volunteered to descend to approximately 18.5 million years ago during the mid-Lemurian period to preserve the divine plan when humanity's spiritual development had faltered, thereby preventing the withdrawal of higher influences. This act positioned him as the "Lord of the World," a title signifying his role as the central solar intelligence overseeing the globe's karmic and evolutionary processes. In this capacity, Sanat Kumara resides in Shamballa, the ethereal city at the northern pole that serves as the planetary headquarters for spiritual governance, from where he directs the unfoldment of human consciousness across root-races and cycles. As the head of the , he coordinates the activities of all ascended masters and initiates, ensuring alignment with cosmic law and the will of the solar logos. His presence sustains the vital link between Earth's and higher divine sources, guiding initiations under his ultimate authority. Key attributes of Sanat Kumara include his depiction as eternally youthful, often appearing as a sixteen-year-old figure symbolizing undying vitality and the perpetual renewal of divine energy. He embodies the solar logos on Earth, channeling its creative fire, and is particularly associated with the first ray of God's will and power, representing the directive force that initiates evolutionary impulses. Helena described this entity as the "Silent Watcher," the supreme planetary spirit who sacrifices personal nirvana to watch over and illuminate humanity's path. These concepts were expanded in Alice Bailey's writings, where Sanat Kumara is explicitly named and his Venusian origins and hierarchical functions detailed.

Maitreya

In Theosophical and related esoteric teachings, Maitreya is identified as the successor to Gautama Buddha, embodying the office of the and serving as the head of the second ray, which represents love-wisdom. This ray governs qualities such as magnetic attraction, inclusivity, and intuitive understanding, positioning Maitreya as a central figure in the spiritual hierarchy responsible for fostering divine love in . In these teachings, he holds the office of World Teacher. Currently, he is described as residing in an etheric retreat in the , from which he oversees preparations for his eventual physical manifestation to assist humanity during a transitional period. Maitreya's anticipated role centers on inaugurating a new age of enlightenment aligned with the Aquarian era, where he will impart teachings on unity among all peoples, selfless service to the greater good, and cooperative alignment with the planetary spiritual hierarchy. These teachings aim to elevate collective consciousness, promoting right human relations and the dissolution of separative tendencies to build a civilization based on sharing and justice. As the World Teacher in Theosophy, he is expected to address modern global challenges by inspiring recognition of humanity's interconnectedness and the need for hierarchical guidance in spiritual and material affairs. Prophecies regarding 's appearance have been articulated by key esoteric figures, foreseeing his physical emergence in the 20th or to herald this transformative phase. , in her 1948 work The Reappearance of the Christ, outlined his return as imminent, tied to post-World War II spiritual opportunities and the dawning of the Aquarian age. Similarly, announced in the 1970s that had descended to the physical plane in 1977 and would reveal himself publicly around 1982, though this full revelation did not occur as initially predicted; Share International later claimed appearances and a TV interview, but no global declaration has taken place as of 2025. These expectations underscore a blended where functions not only as the prophesied future from Buddhist traditions but also as a Theosophical avatar descending to renew spiritual impulses across religions.

Other Prominent Masters

In the teachings of the Ascended Masters, particularly as articulated in the , a diverse array of figures beyond the central ones are recognized, often organized within the framework of the seven rays, which symbolize distinct divine attributes such as will, wisdom, and freedom. El Morya holds the position of Chohan for the first ray, embodying the qualities of divine will, faith, protection, and leadership; he is described as having incarnated as a in previous embodiments. Kuthumi serves as the Chohan of the second ray, focusing on illumination, education, love, and harmony; traditions identify him with the ancient philosopher . Saint Germain is the Chohan of the seventh ray, emphasizing freedom, transmutation, alchemy, and ritual; he is invoked as the spiritual sponsor and patron of the United States of America. Feminine counterparts, such as Portia—who is the twin flame of Saint Germain and known as the Goddess of Justice—contribute to the balanced governance of the rays, overseeing aspects like mercy, opportunity, and divine equity alongside their male complements. The I AM teachings catalog more than 50 ascended masters, with assignments to specific rays or hierarchical roles within the spiritual order, illustrating the expansive hierarchy supporting .

Cosmology and Hierarchy

The

The is conceptualized as a hierarchical council composed of ascended masters, archangels, and other enlightened beings who form a unified spiritual order dedicated to guiding humanity's . In Theosophical traditions, this includes advanced adepts known as Mahatmas or Masters of the Ancient Wisdom, such as the Lord Buddha, Lord Maitreya, and the Mahā-Chohan, who operate in harmony as the Inner Government of the World. The term "white" denotes unsullied spiritual purity and the radiance of divine light, rather than any racial connotation. The organizational structure features departments aligned with the seven rays—divine energies representing qualities like will, love-wisdom, active intelligence, , concrete knowledge, devotion, and ceremonial order—each led by a Chohan or ray lord, with planetary councils managing specific evolutionary aspects under the broader oversight of the Solar Logos. This hierarchy is headquartered in the etheric realm at Shamballa, a spiritual center above the , serving as the focal point for cosmic governance. As the presiding figure, Sanat Kumara directs the Brotherhood's endeavors from this ethereal location. The Brotherhood's primary function is to implement the divine plan for by monitoring the spiritual development of humanity, intervening during pivotal evolutionary cycles to dispense teachings, and fostering the collective ascent toward enlightenment. Originating in Helena Blavatsky's descriptions of the Masters of the Ancient Wisdom as custodians of esoteric knowledge, the concept evolved through later Theosophists like and C.W. Leadbeater, who formalized it as the . Guy Ballard's I AM Activity further expanded its roster to encompass a broader array of ascended masters who have completed their earthly incarnations and now assist from higher planes.

Periodization of Human Evolution

In the teachings of the ascended masters, human evolution is divided into seven root races, each representing a distinct stage in the soul's collective development and embodiment on . These root races form a doctrinal timeline spanning millions of years, with the first three races inhabiting early golden ages characterized by purity, obedience to cosmic law, and direct communion with the Divine. The first root race fulfilled the (first ray), laying the foundational divine plan; the second embodied (second ray), expanding the causal body; and the third manifested divine (third ray), achieving high cultural and scientific harmony in . Members of these races ascended upon completing their cycles, free from duality or selfishness, and contributed to the hierarchical oversight of subsequent evolutions. The fourth root race marked a pivotal descent known as the Fall of Man, during the Lemurian era due to the misuse of free will. This fall involved the abandonment of devotion to the Divine Mother, corruption through black magic, phallic worship, and influence from fallen angels, leading to the desecration of sacred energies and genetic miscreations. As a consequence, humanity entered cycles of karma and reincarnation, losing conscious awareness of their God-potential and reembodying in a primitive state on a devastated planet, with diminished inner threefold flame. This event extended into the Atlantean period, where similar abuses culminated in cataclysms around 12,000 years ago, sinking both continents and solidifying the patterns of separation from Source. The Great White Brotherhood has overseen these cycles to guide souls toward redemption. The current era corresponds to the fifth , often termed the , which embodies intellectual development but is overshadowed by materialism and ego dominance within the , the age of darkness that began around 3102 BCE. This yuga, the final phase of a four-age cycle, is defined by strife, greed, deception, war, and a shift toward ritualistic over genuine , lasting traditionally 432,000 years. The sixth root race is now emerging, focusing on intuitive and Christed consciousness, while the seventh will fully manifest in during the Aquarian age, sponsored by figures like the Great Divine Director. The dawning , aligned with the Aquarian era, promises enlightenment and the potential for mass ascension under the guidance of the ascended masters, beginning with the emergence of Lord Maitreya as the to anchor divine love. This transition from involves balancing accumulated karma through invocations and adherence to sacred fire, ushering in an age of unity, scientific-spiritual synthesis, and the fulfillment of the seventh root race's divine plan.

Practices and Movements

Dictations and Channeling

In ascended master teachings, dictations refer to the purported direct telepathic transmission of messages from ascended masters to human messengers or sensitives, typically delivered in the first-person voice of the master and recorded verbatim for dissemination. These communications are said to occur through heightened states of , where the recipient acts as a conduit without altering the content, ensuring the purity of the transmitted wisdom. The process emphasizes the master's sponsorship of specific teachings tailored to humanity's evolutionary stage, distinguishing it from general impressions by its structured, instructional nature. Historical examples illustrate the evolution of this practice. In the 1930s, Guy W. Ballard and his wife Edna received over 3,800 dictations from various ascended masters, including Saint Germain, which formed the core of early 20th-century ascended master activities and were transcribed for public release. These instances highlight dictations as a recurring method for masters to guide human spiritual development during pivotal eras. Common techniques for receiving dictations include trance mediumship, where the recipient enters a deep meditative state to allow the master's presence; , in which words flow unbidden onto the page; and inner dictation, a silent, auditory-like impression perceived mentally and then externalized. Validation of authenticity often relies on inner confirmation by the recipient's higher self or through alignment with prior master teachings, sometimes following spiritual initiation as preparation for such contact. The primary purpose of these dictations is to sponsor and release targeted teachings for humanity's current needs, such as decrees—invocations attributed to Saint Germain that transmute personal and collective karma, purify the , and accelerate soul evolution by dissolving negative energies accumulated across lifetimes.

The I AM Activity

The I AM Activity emerged in the 1930s as a religious movement centered on the teachings of , particularly Saint Germain, who purportedly appointed Guy W. Ballard and his wife Edna W. Ballard as messengers during Guy's 1930 encounter with the master near . This experience, described as a divine , formed the basis for the movement's cosmology and practices, emphasizing direct communion with spiritual beings to achieve personal ascension. The Ballards formalized the activity through the establishment of the in 1932, which served as the organizational hub for disseminating these teachings via publications, lectures, and group activities. Central to the I AM Activity are its foundational texts, beginning with Unveiled Mysteries (1934), in which Guy Ballard, writing under the pseudonym Godfré Ray King, recounted his visions and initial dictations from Saint Germain. This was followed by The Magic Presence (1935), expanding on themes of inner divinity and mastery over human limitations. The movement grew through a series of 21 books comprising dictations from various ascended masters, published by the Saint Germain Press, which integrated these revelations into accessible narratives for followers seeking spiritual enlightenment. These works positioned the I AM Activity as a bridge between esoteric traditions and practical . Core practices of the I AM Activity revolve around invoking the "I AM Presence," understood as one's individualized higher self or , to facilitate personal transformation and ascension. Participants engage in "I AM decrees," affirmative spoken statements that align the individual with cosmic energies, often in group settings to amplify collective power. A prominent technique is the invocation of , a spiritual energy visualized as a purifying purple light that transmutes negative karma and , enabling progress toward mastery. These rituals underscore the movement's focus on conscious with ascended masters for individual and global harmony. The experienced rapid expansion in the late 1930s and 1940s, attracting up to one million adherents by 1939 through nationwide lectures, publications, and the establishment of hundreds of I AM Temples and Sanctuaries. Despite this growth, the movement faced significant legal challenges, including federal mail fraud indictments in 1940 against Edna Ballard and associates for allegedly misrepresenting the Ballards' divine status. The U.S. ruled in 1944 ( v. Ballard) that such claims were protected under religious freedom, affirming the I AM Activity's legitimacy as a practice. The foundation persists today, maintaining a global network of centers while upholding the original teachings amid reduced membership. Several organizations have emerged to propagate ascended master teachings, extending beyond foundational movements by emphasizing specific aspects such as hierarchical structures, messenger roles, and global missions. These groups often draw on dictations, meditations, and evolutionary frameworks to guide spiritual development, adapting the core concepts to contemporary contexts. The Bridge to Freedom, established in 1951 by Geraldine Innocente in New York, served as an early vehicle for ascended master dictations, publishing monthly journals that included messages from masters like El Morya and Kuthumi. Innocente, recognized as a , focused on training individuals to become conduits for these teachings, emphasizing personal discipline and the role of the individual in bridging higher realms with humanity. The organization's activities, with Innocente serving as the primary messenger until her passing in 1961, after which it continued under new leadership, produced a series of "White Books" compiling these dictations, influencing subsequent groups by highlighting the practical application of master guidance in daily life. In 1958, founded The Summit Lighthouse, which evolved into the (CUT) under after his transition in 1973. CUT synthesizes ascended master teachings with elements of prophecy and communal preparation, notably incorporating survivalist practices in the 1980s through the construction of underground shelters in in anticipation of global cataclysms foretold in dictations. positioned herself as the primary messenger, channeling messages that integrated Eastern and Western spiritual traditions, fostering a worldwide network dedicated to decrees and invocations for planetary transformation. Following 's death in 2009, CUT continued under the leadership of her children, maintaining a focus on spiritual education while scaling back communal and survivalist elements. The Aquarian Church of the Seven Rays, founded in 2010 by Peter Mt. Shasta, represents a modern iteration emphasizing meditations on the seven rays—colorful streams of divine energy associated with specific masters and qualities such as will, love, and illumination. This group, inspired by Saint Germain, promotes ray-specific practices to accelerate spiritual ascension, aligning with the periodization of by focusing on the transition to the Aquarian Age. Its approach underscores individual empowerment through ray attunement, distinguishing it by its contemporary, accessible methods for integrating these energies into everyday consciousness. Organizations influenced by Theosophical teachings, such as Lucis Trust founded by in 1922, have propagated hierarchical teachings akin to ascended master cosmology, describing a "Spiritual Hierarchy" of enlightened beings guiding humanity's evolution from Shamballa through masters like the Christ and . Bailey's writings, channeled from her Tibetan teacher Djwhal Khul, outline the roles of these masters in fostering global goodwill and the externalization of this hierarchy, influencing esoteric education and United Nations-related initiatives without direct claims of physical ascension. Share International, established in 1975 by in , extends the global reach of these teachings by announcing the presence of , the World Teacher and head of the ascended masters' , as a living figure among humanity since 1977. Creme's organization disseminates information on Maitreya's mission to establish justice and sharing, through lectures, publications, and media, positioning the masters as active agents in addressing contemporary crises like and conflict. With branches in multiple countries, it emphasizes the masters' role in ushering a new era of cooperation.

Criticism and Influence

Criticisms

The doctrine of ascended masters has faced significant scrutiny regarding its authenticity, particularly through legal challenges to its promoters. In the 1940s, Guy W. Ballard, founder of the , and his wife Edna were indicted on eighteen counts of mail fraud for allegedly making false representations about communications with ascended masters, including claims of direct encounters with figures like Saint Germain. The U.S. case v. Ballard (1944) ultimately reversed their conviction, ruling that juries cannot assess the veracity of religious beliefs, though the trial highlighted accusations of intentional deception in soliciting funds and followers. Psychological analyses often attribute experiences of contact with ascended masters, such as through dictations or channeling, to non-pathological states or processes rather than external spiritual entities. Researchers describe channeling as a form of or identity alteration, where individuals enter of that mimic possession but stem from internal psychological mechanisms, including and creative . These explanations frame such phenomena as extensions of normal human , without requiring validation. Theological critiques from portray the ascended master concept as incompatible with orthodox doctrine, viewing it as a form of and occultism that elevates human or demonic figures to divine status. Christian apologists argue that portraying as merely one ascended master among many diminishes his unique divinity and promotes with Eastern , potentially leading believers into spiritual or bondage to false guides. This perspective sees the as a that undermines biblical through Christ alone. Scientific perspectives dismiss the ascended master doctrine for its complete lack of , classifying it as that relies on unverifiable personal testimonies and anecdotal claims without testable hypotheses or reproducible observations. Skeptics emphasize that assertions of hierarchical spiritual or cosmic interventions fail under scrutiny from fields like physics and , which find no support for non-physical beings influencing human affairs. Internal divisions within movements centered on ascended masters have arisen from disputes over legitimate messengers and successions, leading to numerous schisms. Following Guy Ballard's death in , rival claimants emerged asserting direct contact with the masters, resulting in splinter groups that modified core teachings and accused each other of fraud or deviation, such as the formation of organizations like the Bridge to Freedom and the . These conflicts underscore ongoing debates about authentic transmission of dictations. Sociologically, the ascended master doctrine is critiqued as a form of escapism, offering individualized spiritual fulfillment as a retreat from 20th-century crises like world wars and industrialization, while potentially fostering cult-like dynamics through charismatic leadership and insular communities. Scholars note that such beliefs prioritize personal transformation over , enabling adherents to bypass systemic issues in favor of inner harmony, which can reinforce isolation and dependency on gurus or channeled authorities.

Modern Interpretations and Legacy

In contemporary spirituality, the teachings of ascended masters have permeated literature and practices, promoting concepts of inner guidance, ego transcendence, and personal enlightenment as pathways to collective awakening. These ideas resonate in works emphasizing presence and spiritual evolution, influencing modern seekers to invoke higher guidance for daily transformation. Crystal healing modalities within New Age frameworks often draw on the seven rays associated with ascended masters, linking specific gemstones—such as for the violet ray of Saint Germain or rose quartz for the pink ray of Lady Nada—to channel ray energies for emotional, physical, and spiritual healing. Practitioners use these crystals in meditations to align with the masters' vibrational frequencies, enhancing energy work and personal empowerment. The digital era has amplified the accessibility of ascended master teachings since the 2010s, with online communities forming around forums, groups, and dedicated platforms for sharing decrees and invocations. Mobile applications, such as The Summit Lighthouse's official app, provide tools for reciting decrees, accessing dictations, and studying teachings on the go, democratizing participation in spiritual practices. channels and websites feature contemporary channelings purporting new messages from masters like El Morya and Saint Germain, attracting subscribers who engage in virtual study groups and live sessions. The global dissemination of ascended master concepts has notably expanded in , where organizations like The Summit Lighthouse maintain Spanish-language resources, including websites, books, and events tailored to regional audiences. This growth traces back to figures such as ascended lady master Clara Louise, who established early nursing initiatives in to support spiritual outreach, fostering enduring communities in countries like , , and . Intersections with ufology in modern esoteric circles reinterpret ascended masters as advanced extraterrestrial entities or interstellar guides, blending Theosophical roots with UFO narratives to explain cosmic interventions in human evolution. This synthesis appears in New Age literature and channeled works portraying masters like Ashtar as benevolent space commanders aiding Earth's ascension. Addressing legacy gaps, contemporary interpretations of ascended master hierarchies increasingly highlight gender inclusivity, elevating female figures such as Kuan Yin, Mother Mary, and Portia alongside male counterparts to reflect balanced divine feminine and masculine principles in spiritual leadership. Golden age prophecies, originally envisioning a utopian era of harmony, have evolved to incorporate 21st-century environmental imperatives, with channeled teachings warning of climate disruptions like extreme weather and global warming as karmic calls for planetary stewardship and violet flame invocations to restore ecological balance.

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