24. Spiritual Manifestation in the Bible

Spiritual Manifestation, Eckhart Tolle and Jesus Teachings : In a world consumed by the pursuit of material success and external achievements, the concept of spiritual manifestation offers an alternative perspective on shaping our reality. Rooted in the belief that our thoughts, beliefs, and intentions can influence our experiences, spiritual manifestation has gained traction in various spiritual and self-help circles. One prominent figure whose teachings intersect with this concept is Eckhart Tolle, a renowned spiritual teacher and author. In this article we will explore how Tolle's insights provides a unique perspective on the topic.

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The Essence of Spiritual Manifestation

At its core, spiritual manifestation asserts that we possess the power to attract and create the experiences we desire through the alignment of our thoughts, emotions, beliefs, and intentions. This philosophy is closely associated with the Law of Attraction, which posits that like attracts like. By focusing on positivity, visualizing goals, and nurturing a hopeful mindset, proponents of spiritual manifestation believe that we can steer our lives toward our desired outcomes.

Eckhart Tolle: A Beacon of Spiritual Wisdom

Eckhart Tolle, known for his transformative teachings on presence and mindfulness, offers a perspective on manifestation that differs from the mainstream approach. Rather than fixating on future outcomes, Tolle emphasizes the significance of being fully present in the moment. His teachings encourage individuals to transcend the incessant pursuit of future desires, as this pursuit often leads to dissatisfaction and suffering; the same is true of dwelling in the past. In regards to the past, what happened has happened, as for the future, it only dwells in the imagination, and slowly unfolds as the present. This is inline with Jesus Teachings on worrying about the future (see below). 

1. Presence Over Future-Centric Thinking

Tolle's teachings underscore the idea that true contentment and inner peace are found in the present moment. He asserts that the relentless quest for future achievements can be detrimental, as it distances us from the only reality we have – the present. 

Instead of fixating on what we lack or yearn to attain, Tolle invites us to embrace the now as the source of genuine fulfillment. He likens his thinking to Jesus teachings on the lilies of the field and birds in the air, where the Lord tells us to focus on the present and our father will see to both our present and future needs Matt 6:26-34 

Eckhart further suggests that you imagine what u want is already there, but focusing on the present. Okay, I admit this seems confusing. I think the idea is to recognize a need, but not dwelling on it; imagine that you have it and forget about it. The subconscious will pick up on it and the manifestation will happen, with little or no effort on your part.

In contrast to traditional manifestations, which tend to emphasize setting goals and striving towards them, Tolle's teachings suggest that focusing on the present moment can lead to a more profound sense of well-being and satisfaction. 

I would like to add a caveat to the last paragraph. My understanding of presence is being fully aware of your daily activities and mindful of all of sentient beings and non sentient objects around you; (remember that there is nothing that has not come from the source of all life and given that all things are created, the mark of the divine must be on all things; sentient and non sentient). 

There is a supernatural formula that takes cognizance of your mindfulness and the activities that constitute your daily presence. Mindfulness or spiritual awareness, would always assume that you have no choice but to be a positive source of support for the community you live in. It is the combination of mindfulness and presence that leads to the manifestation.  

Jesus teachings by way of the The parable of the Landowner and his two sons, gives credence to the idea; it s the one that is mindful by his obedience that obtains the blessing of God Matt 21:28-32

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2. Liberation from the Ego

Central to Tolle's philosophy is the concept of the ego – the mind's tendency to identify with thoughts, desires, and external validation. The ego-driven pursuit of future goals often stems from a sense of inadequacy or lack, perpetuating a cycle of discontent. Tolle's teachings advocate for liberation from the ego's influence, encouraging us to observe our thoughts without attachment and recognize their transient nature. 

Jesus teachings on the opposite of egocentric behavior, namely humility is well recorded in many of his sayings and particularly in the sermon on the mount. The purpose of our physical existence is to learn to love each other and to love the source of life. Once you learn not to place yourself on a pedestal and to view each and every human being as a brother or sister regardless of stature, you will be well on your way to liberating yourself from the ego.

By disengaging from the ego's insatiable desires, we can break free from the cycle of seeking external validation and future achievements. This detachment allows for a more authentic experience of the present moment and a shift from the superficial realm of the ego to the profound realm of spiritual awareness.

Note, no manifestation will occur unless you fully succumb to humility and a complete break from ego centric living.

More examples:

The Pharisee and tax collector (Luke 18:9-30)It warns us to be careful about self-righteousness and unfair judgment. The Pharisee presumes his righteousness and condemns the publican. 

The talents, Matthew 25:4-20 : The gifts we get from God are for the well-being of all mankind, and certainly not just for yourself. To whom much is given, much is expected.

 Lazarus and the Richman, Luke 16:19-31 : If you cannot take care of your immediate neighbour, whom can you possibly take care of? We start with our nearest and dearest then extend to Christians at large and the world in general.

The rich fool  Luke 12:13-21 : The two great commandments as stated by our Lord and well versed by the Jews in the Pentateuch was a love of God and a love of neighbour. This is why we live, to learn and to practice these. All material possessions we shall leave here to others, however our acts of love, compassion, gentleness, self-sacrifice, and the like, we shall carry with us. Material things are simply a means to a spiritual end; one however needs to be so inclined.

The teachings of Jesus abound in these teachings that require presence, which in my humble opinion does eventually lead to manifestation, in this world or the one to come.

3. Aligning with the Flow of Life

While traditional manifestation methods often involve a structured approach to goal-setting and visualization, Tolle's teachings point to the importance of surrendering to the natural flow of life. Rather than forcefully manifesting specific outcomes, he suggests that aligning with the organic rhythm of existence can lead to a more harmonious and fulfilling life.

In this view, spiritual manifestation becomes less about controlling the external world and more about cultivating inner alignment with the universe's creative energy. Tolle encourages us to trust in the unfolding of life's journey and embrace whatever arises with a sense of presence and acceptance.

Okay, again this appears confusing. Starting from point 1, you have recognized a need, its just that you don't really know how the solution will manifest itself. Eckhart is suggesting going with life's flow as it presents itself; don't try to force the issue by visualizations and day dreaming. You've recognized the need, the rest will simply fall in place. The lilies in the field and the birds of the air have no egos, and thus your father in heaven provides for them automatically.

We live on average 80 years in the world. Does it really matter how life manifests itself to you, except maybe in the fulfillment of the two great commandments, a love of neighbour and a love of the source of all creation? There are billions of people on earth, and it is an accident of history, economy, genes etc, that you find yourself in any one part of it with a particular skin tone, speaking a particular tongue and having a particular IQ or lack of it. It is not an accident that you are here; your mission are just the two commandments.

4. Intentions Rooted in Presence

Tolle acknowledges the potential benefits of setting intentions, but he adds a unique twist – intentions must arise from a place of presence and inner alignment rather than being driven by egoic desires. Intentions that emerge from a state of mindful awareness are believed to carry a more authentic and potent energy, making them more likely to align with the natural order of the universe.

An excerpt from Matt 6:26-34 

But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? 31 Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear?’ 32 For it is the Gentiles who strive for all these things; and indeed your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 “So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own. Today’s trouble is enough for today.

In the context of the verse, God knows what your needs are, all that you need is to be present and the source of life will manifest what you need; what you need is not particularly what you desire for example, you might desire a Lamborghini, but what you need is transportation; you might desire a mansion, but what you need is shelter. The source of life, through your subconscious will give you what you need, however spend your time in the present!

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By setting intentions from a place of presence, we bridge the gap between the traditional approach to manifestation and Tolle's teachings on mindfulness and consciousness. This integration brings a depth of purpose and authenticity to the act of setting intentions.

Conclusion

In the expansive realm of spiritual manifestation, Eckhart Tolle's teachings offer a distinct and profound perspective. While Tolle does not explicitly focus on traditional manifestation techniques, his insights challenge us to redefine our relationship with desires, presence, and the universe. His teachings encourage us to shift our attention from a future-oriented mindset to one centered on embracing the present moment.

34 “So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own. Today’s trouble is enough for today.

Another excerpt from Matt 6:26-34

We paraphrase using presence language:

Don't worry about the past, for it has passed, and what it taught we have inculcated; don't worry about the future, for we have no power over it, however concern yourself fully in the present to manifest your future needs.

Ultimately, the synthesis of spiritual manifestation and Tolle's wisdom invites us to harmonize our desires with the natural flow of life, liberate ourselves from ego-driven yearnings, and ground our intentions in mindful awareness. By integrating these teachings into our journey, we embark on a path of transformation that transcends mere external achievements, leading us to a more authentic, peaceful, and spiritually aligned existence.


Enjoy, Spiritual Manifestation in the Bible