Understanding the Afterlife Beliefs of Hermetic and Esoteric Christians

In the rich tapestry of Christian traditions, Hermetic and Esoteric Christianity stand as unique branches, deeply rooted in ancient symbolism and mysticism. One particularly intriguing aspect of this tradition is the belief in the afterlife, a concept that diverges from conventional interpretations with a strong emphasis on inner enlightenment and divine connection. Let us delve into these fascinating beliefs through the symbolic lens of Daskalos Styllianos Atteshlis' Symbol of Life.

The Symbol of Life: An Ancient Divine Structure

The Symbol of Life is a profound and ancient symbol that pre-dates Kabbalah. This symbol is central to Esoteric Orthodox Christianity, which extends its roots to the foundational figures of early Christianity, such as Origen of Alexandria and Apostle John, based on the Book of Revelations. Origen, often referred to as the father of Christianity, played a pivotal role in the creation of dogmas and rites that shaped the early Christian churches. Similarly, Moses is believed to have been the master of this symbol before the creation of Kabbalah, making it an essential and sacred emblem in its own right.

The Symbol of Life is not a product of human creation but a divine structure, mirroring God's eternal creation. It is designed for personal enlightenment and healing, reflecting its pure and ethereal qualities. Utilizing this symbol can lead to spiritual growth and inner peace, allowing individuals to embark on a journey of heightened consciousness and self-discovery.

A Golden Pathway to Inner Truth: The Afterlife Perspective

One of the core teachings of Hermetic and Esoteric Christians is the nature of the afterlife, which is not seen as a physical place for ascension or descent. Instead, they view the afterlife as an internal realm of truth, a place where the soul's true nature is realized. Christ's famous statement that the Kingdom of Heaven is within you serves as a guiding principle in this perspective. Our body is considered the temple of God, and any journey towards the afterlife is one of self-discovery and alignment with divine wisdom.

The Greek Orthodox Church beautifully articulates this concept, referring to the afterlife as the Psychical-Noetical World, a place where life, colors, and living creatures are more vibrant and diverse than in the physical world. This world is characterized by form over gravity and magnetism, providing a realm where thoughts and intentions shape reality. Upon passing, the individual's "self-created" personality—referred to as one's eternal side—lives on, possibly re-creating itself in a fresh, enlightened state.

The Journey to Enlightenment: Theosis and Free Will

Embracing the journey to enlightenment involves personal introspection and meditation, practices central to the Hermetic and Esoteric Christian tradition. Through Theosis—theosis being a journey to union with God—individuals strive to align their hearts and minds with divine wisdom. Detachment from harmful habits and attachments allows for sustained progress towards enlightenment.

Some individuals, upon reaching a state of higher consciousness, are able to travel to the Psychical-Noetical heaven consciously and on-demand, interacting with deceased loved ones. Yet, this ability is moderated by the angels who control whether such interactions are permissible. Those stuck in their personal dogmas may find themselves in a self-created reality, a "shell," which the angels help them escape through various life events and lessons. Christ, in his role as divine guide, aims to smash such realities if they prevent enlightenment, ensuring a re-incarnation with new learning opportunities.

The Legacy of Daskalos Styllianos Atteshlis

Daskalos Styllianos Atteshlis, a key figure in this tradition, has dedicated his life to sharing the teachings of the Symbol of Life. He has many followers and has healed hundreds of people using this symbol, without monetary gain, emphasizing the divine nature of such healings. One notable incident occurred at a regular hospital, where Atteshlis straightened a woman's spine, an act that left many witnesses marveling at divine intervention. His teachings have also impacted famous Egyptologists, enabling them to read ancient Egyptian texts from the time of Moses.

Atteshlis' students, some of whom are awakened and actively improving humanity, remain private in their work, focusing on divine order and not seeking publicity or rewards. Their aim is to elevate human consciousness and facilitate spiritual growth.

The Symbol of Life and the teachings of Daskalos Styllianos Atteshlis offer a profound pathway to inner enlightenment and a deeper understanding of the nature of the afterlife. This tradition, with its mystical symbolism and spiritual practices, provides a unique perspective on the journey of the soul.