These ten elements constitute what we commonly think of as a human being. They can be grouped into four categories: our three “selves”, three ethereal (also called shadowy or subtle) bodies, three vital forces, and the physical body. Together, they form a map of human being as both spirit and matter, consciousness and energy.
I. The Three Selves
These represent the core psychological and spiritual dimensions of a person. They are not simply parts of the psyche in the modern psychological sense, but more like coexisting centers of intelligence, each with its own way of knowing and relating to the world.
1. The Lower Self (Therema)
This self is deeply connected to the body, the senses, and the unconscious. It is the seat of emotions, instincts, memories, and dreams. It processes experience through feeling and symbol, and acts as the intermediary between the conscious mind and the subtle realms. Though often dismissed in modern life as mere irrationality, it is in fact essential for communication with both the higher self and the hidden energies of nature. It is the keeper of memory, habit, and deep intuitive knowing.
2. The Middle Self (Noetrix)
This is the conscious self—the reasoning mind, the ego, the planner, and the interpreter. It deals in language, logic, and volition. Its power lies in focused thought, intention, and decision-making. However, it cannot directly interact with spiritual or energetic forces. For this, it must communicate with the lower self, which in turn can access the hidden and divine. The middle self is responsible for aligning the other parts and coordinating their functions.
3. The Higher Self (Anunion)
This is the spiritual self—wise, detached, benevolent. It dwells in a higher plane of consciousness and sees beyond time and ego. It may appear in dreams, visions, or synchronistic events as a guiding presence. It does not control the human being, but rather waits to be invited. It can bring healing, insight, and protection, but only when the lower and middle selves are aligned and willing to receive. It may also be a composite of ancestral and divine intelligence.
II. The Three Ethereal Bodies
These are subtle, energetic forms that correspond to the inner selves. Though invisible to the naked eye, they are believed to play a vital role in health, perception, and spiritual function.
4. The Ethereal Body of the Lower Self (Umbrasca)
This shadowy double is intimately linked with physical sensation, the autonomic processes, and memory. It can leave the body in dreams, trance, or death. It holds the imprint of traumas and patterns, and it is shaped by lived experience. It is also the means by which healing energy can be sent or received. Some traditions call this the “etheric” or “emotional” body.
5. The Ethereal Body of the Middle Self (Umbrion)
This is the body of conscious thought and self-image. It connects with the personal aura and the field of will. It helps form the individual’s identity and is shaped by beliefs, intentions, and self-perceptions. When it is clear and well-aligned, a person’s thoughts and actions are coherent. When it is conflicted, fragmented, or falsely constructed, the life becomes confused or self-defeating.
6. The Ethereal Body of the Higher Self (Asterion)
A luminous, radiant form that exists in a more refined plane. It is the body of the soul in its higher aspects—pure awareness, archetypal intelligence, and divine connection. It rarely manifests in normal waking consciousness, but may appear in dreams, mystical states, or moments of grace. It holds the blueprint of one’s true nature and destiny.
III. The Three Vital Forces (Prana/Chi)
Each self requires a different form of life energy to function and communicate. These vital forces, akin to prana or chi, power the activities of the selves and enable movement across the layers of being.
7. Basic Vital Force
This is the life energy used by the lower self. It is absorbed from food, breath, sunlight, and the earth. It powers the senses, instincts, and emotions. It is also the fuel for habits, desires, and unconscious patterns. This energy can be depleted by fear, confusion, or disorder, and replenished by rest, ritual, breathwork, or natural beauty.
8. Empowered or Focused Vital Force
This is the energy that flows when intention and emotion are combined and directed. It is generated when the middle self communicates a clear intention to the lower self, which then acts upon it. It is used in prayer, manifestation, healing, and magic. It enables the sending of messages to the higher self or the spiritual world. It is stronger when the selves are in harmony.
9. Spiritual or Divine Vital Force
This is the refined energy associated with the higher self. It does not originate from the physical world, but descends from higher planes when invited. It flows into the person through intuition, inspiration, or revelation. It may come suddenly or gradually. It nourishes the soul and uplifts the whole being. This is the energy responsible for miracles, and many other supernatural feats. Unlike the other forms, it cannot be manipulated or hoarded—only received with humility and alignment.
IV. The Physical Body
10. The Flesh-and-Blood Body
This is the visible, tangible body that lives and breathes in the physical world. It is the dwelling place of the selves, the vehicle of experience, and the crucible in which spiritual and psychological forces are embodied. It is shaped not only by genetics and environment, but also by the energies and patterns of the inner selves. Illness, vitality, posture, and even physical features are seen as reflections of deeper forces. Though mortal and impermanent, it is sacred, and must be cared for as the temple of the soul.
Together, these ten elements describe a profoundly integrated view of the human being—not as a machine or a rational agent alone, but as a layered, living presence, linked both to earth and to the invisible. Each part has its own wisdom and power, and wholeness comes when they are brought into conscious relationship. This system offers not merely a theory, but a practice: a way of restoring inner balance, healing old wounds, and aligning with one’s deepest source of guidance.
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