My Library

may attempt to study this unknown, through the known, may learn much of interest, even of value, but nothing conclusive can ever emerge; the real facts can never enter his two- dimensional mind. Let us further assume that it is possible for the latent three-dimensional portion of this being to be prematurely awakened, and its development to be forced, by the application of known laws, as a horticulturist forces a plant. The twodimensional being will then become capable of observing three-dimensional phenomena. Gradually, as he perfects his ability to function in the threedimensional world, he will be able to meet and study its denizens on equal terms. Under these conditions it becomes possible for him to obtain conclusive knowledge for himself. Even so, it would still be quite impossible for him to demonstrate his knowledge conclusively to others, who did not possess his powers of investigation. It is for this reason that the statement is made that no demonstrable proof of the life after death can ever be given by or through one person to another. The testimony of the whole of humanity, from first to last, concerning the glories of the sunset can never be proof to a man blind from birth. Only when he has opened his eyes, and has seen for himself, can he know. Occultism teaches that every man has a vehicle of consciousness and appropriate organs of cognition by means of which he can enter and study the invisible worlds and such intelligences as dwell therein; if he will awaken and use them, he may then apply scientific tests to the problems of life after death and alleged spirit communication. The only satisfactory and final test of their existence is that applied by the trained occultist. Using age-long knowledge and experience, he unfolds and learns to use the necessary faculties. He awakens the latent seership, to which every man is heir, and by its means is enabled to explore the regions beyond the portal of death. This is not the place to attempt a full statement of the results of such investigations, though brief records are given in this volume; it may be said, however, that the Knowledge so gained places death in its rightful place as an incident which marks the translation of human consciousness from one plane of manifestation and growth to another, and which differs from sleep only in that the change is permanent. During sleep we temporarily enter the after-death