25 December, 2006

Shekhinah

Judas lifted up his eyes and saw the luminous cloud, and he entered it.
– The Gospel of Judas

Shekhinah [...] means the glory or radiance of God, or God’s presence. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shekinah

In christian and buddhist art it is not uncommon to see a halo around a person who is identified as holy. In general, iconographic representations attempt to find both a general representation of the person that is recognizable, and more importantly, a set of symbolic elements that resonate with the viewer and inspire their spiritual feeling. Even Mohammed (pbuh) is shown in Persian art (!) with a halo.

But why the halo?

Well, one actually radiates a strong light in certain states of the mystic awakening. It is spontaneous. I have seen it on others, seen it when it has happened to me. My beloved brother was the first to see it on me, and surprised me with his astonishment. I had assumed it was just in my inner vision, and not visible to others, and had, of course, not mentioned it to him. Obviously I was wrong!

It does not usually appear to ordinary vision, but it is a magnificent and palpable experience. I’m sharing this personal experience so you may know of its possibility. Look for it, and let it occur for you.