Aspirant Name: Bastu Heryt Merri Net
Report Assignment for Book: Egyptian Mysteries Vol. 3: Priests and Priestesses in Ancient Egypt- pages 1-34
Due Date: August 1, 2021
In determining the question ‘who is qualified to be taught the teaching?’ posed on page 34 of the text, the Spiritual teacher should be willing to ask hard questions of themselves as well as others. While it is important that one be familiar with the foundations of Shetaut Neter, a mere intellectual understanding of the teachings will not sustain spiritual growth. There must be a will to transform egoistic behavior by listening, reflecting, and meditating on the teachings. In this way a process of Devotion for the Divine can be cultivated that will eventually lead to the Transcendental experience.
The book goes into great detail on the historic chronology of ancient Kemet/Egypt, establishing it as the oldest, proven religion in human history. Impressive research highlights how ancient Kemetic/Egyptian religion and philosophy impacted and influenced other world religions. While these are important parts of Kemet’s rich historic legacy this should not be confused with the legacy of Shetaut Neter. Yet, if one is willing to put in the effort to study these historic facts it demonstrates a certain level of maturity required of a qualified aspirant.
If, however, an aspirant remains at the level of intellectualism they will not be able to embrace the abstract, higher teachings of Shetaut Neter and may fall prey to egoistic delusions about the teachings. As quoted in the text:
“In order to have learning and evolution, an ordinary person must experience cognitive dissonance.”
This dissonance could be the turning point if the will—one’s Heru nature is ignited. At this point it becomes critical for the aspirant to seek authentic spiritual guidance that will allow for a transformative experience. Through the Shedy disciplines an aspirant can learn to recognize egoistic behavior and with time and reflection overcome it.
Thus, a qualified aspirant should be patient as they go through the process of purifying their ego. It must be understood, by the aspirant, that it is a process that cannot be rushed, and therefore no expectations on perceived outcomes should be entertained. By cultivating love for the Divine through Devotional practices, one cultivates knowledge of Self. The book says it best:
“Integration, from a spiritual perspective, means developing a higher vision, being transformed by the new knowledge and changed psychologically so as to become a different personality.”
In summary, it is a great responsibility for one to take on the charge of spiritual aspiration, and an even greater responsibility to be a Spiritual teacher to the aspirant. Thus, it becomes incumbent on the Priest or Priestess to reflect on their own cognitive dissonance as they encourage it of the aspirant. To be willing to recognize egoistic patterns in themselves as they have compassion for the aspirant who struggles with ego. To have the patience and Devotion to be steadfast through the process of transformation, as they witness the transformation of the aspirant through their Devotion.
Htp
