THE CONSTITUTION OF MAN

If we consider the universe to be the macrocosm, then man is the microcosm.  The macrocosmic universe consists of great beings who physically manifest their lives through galaxies, stars, suns, and planets.  If we study the macrocosm, then we can, through analogy, compare the macrocosm to ourselves, the microcosm. 

Our universe is based on the number seven, as is the constitution of man.  Occultists tell us that the matter of the solar system is divided into seven planes or states of consciousness.  The constitution of man is divided into seven planes or states of consciousness as well, and these seven planes are a part of the larger macrocosm.  The seven planes of man constitute only the seventh, or lowest plane of the Great Being who physically manifests through our solar system. 

The constitution of man is basically threefold.  There is (1) the personality, or lower self, (2) the Ego, which is the higher self or soul, and (3) the Monad or pure Spirit.

The diagram below (from "Treatise on Cosmic Fire," pg. 117) is an attempt to pictorialize this.  When related to the seven planes, the personality includes  the physical-etheric plane, the emotional or astral plane, and the four lower sub-planes of the mental plane.  The causal body, the home of the Ego or Soul, is located on the third sub-plane of the mental plane counting from the top. 

Man is created in the image of God, and is a product of the union of spirit and matter.  The goal of mankind to to align the three personality vehicles, the physical, astral (emotional) and mental, so that he can then contact and be brought under the control of his Soul or higher self. The way we contact the Soul or higher self is through meditation.

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