Level 1 – Lesson 3 Audio Assignment – GS13- Dr Muata Ashby interview About his work and philosophy by -theremix show_671694blogtalkradio.com.mp3
1-What are the main teachings brought out in the audio lecture recording? Explain in your own words
Many teachings were brought out in this interview. One of the main one that caught my attention immediately has to do with the importance of the revamping/remembering of African Culture and Philosophy (Maat, yoga posture systems, glorious light meditation, serpent power etc.), its underlying values are indeed the ethical foundation for self-discovery and is so needed in this time. These ethical disciplines allows the personality to be purified enough to be grounded in ethical conscience leading to self – discovery, harmony and peace in society. These values are attained by ‘living’ African proverbial wisdom which very foundation is based in Ancient Kemetic culture and philosophy. The follow up question by the host about the value of myth (transcendental truth) brought forth a response that not only expounded on Kemetic culture/philosophy but solidified its importance in creating a society that’s harmonious and peaceful. With the issues happening in our society today (racism, corruption, injustices etc.) this made me think of the use of these values in real ‘nation building’ or creating a ‘new society’ based on this philosophy (maat). Myths provide a foundation through a special language where individuals could be led by a preceptor/s to self-discovery/ direct experience of Self. However, a proper myth such as the Asarian resurrection is necessary. The understanding of the journey of the soul and the ability to live the myth is what leads to the inner movement necessary for freedom and peace. For us to experience just being. On the contrary a society without a proper myth will self-destruct as we can see in the United States due to a culture being led by greed, lust, violence, corruption etc.
Another teaching had to do with a question about the tree of life concept of creation by the Anunian tradition of Ancient Kemet and some of the divinities on the tree (Asar, Nebahet &Set) and what they represent. The divinities on the tree of life embody different principles, five cosmic and five human. Through Nebahet, Asar(soul) experiences the physical/waking consciousness and through Aset (intuitional wisdom) he’s able to have experiences of the higher realms/transcendental.The goal of an initiate is to master both ends of the tree of life, heavenly (one with God/Ra) and physical (Heru-like). This is an example of the creation questions posed in the beginning of the recording. My understanding is that creation at a mythic level conveys that the body is vehicle for the soul to have a higher experience of the nature of being. At a metaphysical level, the mind is trained to experience the creator and creation as one in the same. Also on a metaphysical level, techniques such as meditation and the very proverbial and philosophical wisdom of Kemet, give rise to the capacity of the mind to reveal the higher Self/wisdom which is and has always been there and only need to me unveiled.
2-Are you currently implementing the teaching given in the book and the lecture? If so which one(s)?
Ny. I am doing the postures, engaging in meditation daily, and listening to the wisdom teachings/philosophy. I also enjoy reading of the proverbs and have incorporated in into my daily life.
3-If not then how will you implement the teachings you are not currently practicing, in your life and spiritual practice?
I am constantly working on ethical conscience and sometimes I have challenges. I am still working on balancing formal yogic disciplines (Shedy) with informal yogic disciplines that present itself in the form of ‘life’ tests. I will continue as I have, listening, reflecting and meditating on the teachings, to gain tools necessary to meet these challenges and eventually transcend them.
Htp
