{Seekers after Truth}[14th April 1987]

[Redbook3:194-196][19870414:1922]{Seekers after Truth}[14th April 1987]

1922

Identification of the 'link point'* emphasises an old difficulty: since we are in effect relying on the manifestation of the Absolute primarily through Qualities perceived by an Inner Sense; and also secondarily through Analogies perceived in the same way (such as visions, speech, patterns, and presumably ideas, all in terms of reference originating in the Outer World); how are we (that is, both the Internal Observer and the External Observer) able to judge what authority to award to those manifestations (i.e. within ourself (Internal) and within others (External))?

The answer is really the same whether we are assessing ourselves or others. Guidelines may help:

(1) As the Absolute cannot be wholly revealed to the Separation (or the Separation would cease), we cannot expect while on Earth to fully comprehend the Absolute Truth; from which it follows that there can be no Absolute Authority revealed to us. In particular, and especially, as mentioned before, claims to supply Inner Indirect Knowledge – e.g. systems of knowledge claiming the absolute authority** of inner revelation – should be regarded with great suspicion; but in fact no revelation, inner or outer, has absolute authority. There should always, therefore, be a willingness to admit that oneself*** [sic] may be (or has been, or is,) wrong.

(2) Truth being indivisible**** – and all truth being manifestations of the Quality of Absolute Truth – the ability to judge the general truthfulness of an Individual – including oneself – and his attitude to truth, can be of immense assistance.

(3) Even among sincere seekers of the truth, self-inflation can cloud the perception of Qualities etc. (and also lead to fantasy). With a little experience of different types of person, it should be possible to make a reasonable estimate at [sic] the state of a Man's self. His priorities will indicate how highly he regards himself. His priorities may be revealed in his life-style (and personal interests). However, Men can be very subtle at concealing their interest in themselves by sublimating it into an apparent concern for other people or institutions which is not really selfless at all. This is often difficult to detect.

Sumarising so far, it might look like this:

The Seeker after Truth

(1) Willingness to admit error.

(2) Truthfulness.

(3) Selflessness.

I don't think these are in any particular order.

There may well be more points; if I think of them, I shall note them down.

*[See last previous entry.]

**[[Redbook3:122-123][19870405:1057e](BELIEF AND KNOWLEDGE{1}[continued(5)])[5th April 1987]]

***(or any other person of course)

****(In a special sense!) <8910[?]31>

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