| abstract | - The Seven Rays is a metaphysical concept that has appeared in several religions and esoteric philosophies since at least the sixth century BCE, in both Western culture and in India. In the west, it can be seen in early western mystery traditions such as Gnosticism and the Roman Mithraic Mysteries; and in texts and iconic art of the Catholic Church as early as the Byzantine era. In India, the concept has been part of Hindu religious philosophy and scripture since at least the Vishnu Purana, dating from the post-Vedic era. Beginning in the late nineteenth century, the seven rays appeared in a modified and elaborated form in the teachings of Theosophy, first presented by H. P. Blavatsky The Theosophical concept of the Seven Rays was further developed in the late 1800s and early 1900s in the writings of C. W. Leadbeater, Alice Bailey, Manly P. Hall, and others; and in the philosophies of organizations such as Temple of the People, The "I AM" Activity, The Bridge to Freedom, The Summit Lighthouse, Share International, The Temple of The Presence (1995), and various other organizations promulgating what are called the Ascended Master Teachings. As the New Age movement of the mid-to-late 20th century developed, the Seven Rays concept appeared as an element of metaphysical healing methods such as Reiki and other modalities, and in esoteric astrology.
|
