Glossary

Unfolding Images of Life Project
for Co-Evolutionary Exploration and Practice

Ver 1.0 for Web, August, 2003

As stated in the Comprehensive Sketch, our method of approach in this project is to build on a foundation of rigorously defined and internally consistent framework of philosophical concepts. This turns out to oftentimes involve the surfacing of ancient definitions that have new relevance for our time—sometimes by simply copying dictionary definitions and derivations of key words; sometimes by writing our own definitions, based on our reading of the wisdom literature of humanity.

Thus, this Glossary contains both our own unique definitions and those found in the dictionary (our standard is the American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, which has a most useful Appendix of Indo-European roots, links to which are denoted by an asterisk, *, at the end of the definition). For example, consider gloss, glossary, and lexicon::

Gloss n. 1. A brief explanatory note or translation of a difficult or technical expression usually inserted in the margin or between lines of a text or manuscript. 2. An expanded version of such notes; a glossary. [Middle English glose from Old French, from Medieval Latin glosa, from Latin glossa, word that needs explanation, from Greek glossa, tongue, language. See glogh- in Appendix.*]

glogh- Thorn, point. 1. Suffixed form *glogh-i- in Greek glokhis, barb of an arrow; 2. Suffixed form *glogh-ya in Greek glossa, glotta, tongue, hence also language.

Glossary n. A collection of glosses, such as a vocabulary of specialized terms with accompanying definitions.

Lexicon n. 1. A dictionary. 2. A stock of terms used in or of a particular profession, subject, or style; vocabulary: the lexicon of the sports page. … [ See leg- in Appendix. *]

* leg- To collect, with derivatives meaning “to speak.” 1. Perhaps Germanic lekjaz, enchanter, one who speaks magic words, in Old English læce, physician … 3. Greek legein to gather, speak: LEXICON.

Advaita

Literally, “not-two,” advaita is the most frequently used term for the highest expression of the Perennial Philosophy which holds that the Absolute Source level of all that is (Level III in our Gradient Model of Ascension), is “One with a Second.”

Advancement

Advance v. 1. To move or bring forward in position…3. To aid the growth or progress of; to further. n. 1. The act or process of moving or going forward; 2. Improvement; progress. Synonyms: advance, progress, promote, forward, further. As used in this project, synonyms include: advancement, maturation, evolution, unfolding, transformation, integration, ascension and enlightenment.

Ascension

Ascend v. -cended –cending, -cends. –intr. 1. To go or move upward; rise. 2 To rise gradually. 3. to slope upward. –tr. To move upward upon or along; climb. –See synonyms at rise. [Middle English ascenden, from Latin ascendere : ad-, toward + scandere, to climb (see skand- Appendix*).]

Ascending adj. Going, growing, or moving upward: a tree with ascending branches.

Ascendancy n. Also ascendancy, ascendance, ascendence. The state of being in the ascendant;; domination: “Germany only awaits trade revival to gain an immense mercantile ascendancy.” (Winston Churchill).

Ascendant adj. also ascendent. 1. Inclining or moving upward; ascending; rising. 2. Dominant in position or influence; superiour. –n. 1. The position or state of being dominant or in power: in the ascendant.

As used in this project, ascension is the process and result of élan vital, expressing itself in the creation and evolutionary development of matter (physiosphere), life (biosphere), mind (noosphere), and spirit (theosphere). In addition to above dictionary definitions, we see ascension as being co-defined by the concepts of entelechy and sovereignty.

Atman n. Hinduism 1. The individual soul; the principle of life. 2. Capital A. The supreme and universal soul, beyond any definable ego; form which all individual souls arise. [Sanskrit atman, breath, spirit, soul.

From a literal dissection of the Sanskrit, we can note that: a = not, or other; m_n ~ mind, thereby signifying a level of beingness that is other than mental in nature.

Awareness [See Consciousness.]

Ayn Sof

Ayn Sof is a term used in Kabbalah for the Source of all Reality, that which is beyond Ten Sephrot, the Tree of Life. Being radiant fullness, Ayn Sof is conceptually distinct from Sunyata, which is total emptiness.

Brahman

n. Hinduism 1. The essential divine reality of the universe; the eternal spirit from which all being originates and that to which all returns. Also, in Advaita (non-dual) Vedanta, often referred to as Nirguna Brahman, meaning, beyond the action or tendencies of the three evolutionary gunas of prakriti; tamas, rajas, sattva.

Enlightenment

Enlighten v. 1. To give knowledge or treuth to; endow with spiritual understanding; edify; instruct. 2. To acquaint (someone) with information; inform.

Enlightenment n. 1. An act or means of enlightening. 2. The state of being enlightened.

As used in this project, synonyms include: advancement, maturation, evolution, unfolding, transformation, integration, and ascension.

Evolution

n. 1. A gradual process in which something changes into a significantly different, especially more complex or sophisticated, form. 2. Biology. A. The theory that groups of organisms, as species, may change wsith passage of time so that descendants differ morphologically and physicalloy from their ancestors., b. The historical development of a related group of organisms; phylogeny. 3. The developmental or historical process of something, as of a social institution, geographical divison, or system of thought. [Latin evolutio, an opening, an unrolling, from evolutus, past participle of evolvere, to roll out, to open. EVOLVE.]

As used in this project, synonyms include: advancement, maturation, unfolding, transformation, integration, ascension and enlightenment.

Co-Evolution [defined in the Project Keel]

Co-Intelligence [defined in the Project Keel]

Co-Production [defined in the Project Keel]

Conation n. Psychology. The aspect of mental processes or behavior directed toward action or change and including impulse, desire, volition, and striving. [Latin conatio, endeavor, effort, from conatus, past participle of conari, to endeavor. See ken-¹ in appendix. *]

The Vedic image of mind and spirit has the conative (perceptive and choosing/intending) function of mind as identical with the Observing Self (Atman, the personalistic aspect of Brahman, Level III Ultimate Core Beingness in our model).

Conatus n. pl. Any natural tendency, impulse, or directed effort. [Latin conatus, attempt, effort, form the past participle of conari, to endeavor. See conation.]

Consciousness

Conscious adj. 1. a. Having an awareness of one’s own existence, sensations, and thoughts, and of one’s environment. b. Capable of complex response to environment. c. Not asleep; awake. –See synonyms at aware. [Latin conscius, knowing with others, participating in knowledge, aware of : com + scire, to know (see skei- in Appendix *

skei- To cut, slit. Extended root of sek- 1. Latin scire, to know (<”to separate one thing from another,” “discern”>): SCIENCE, CONSCIENCE, CONSCIOUS, OMNISCIENT, PRESCIENT.

Consciousness n. 1. The state of condition of being conscious.

A more extensive definition of consciousness is given in the Keel.

Desiderata

n. pl. Something needed and desired. [Latin desideratum, neuter past partricipale of desiderare, DESIRE]

Deva

The spirit of things; agents who express the essential forms of creation [Metatronic sacred geometry] into ever-evolving manifestation in all the expressions of nature.

Dharma n. Established order, custom, prescription, duty; virtue, moral merit, good works; justice [from Sanskrit Dictionary by Arthur Macdonall]. See also the expanded definition of Dharma, used in this project, in the Ascending Images Project Keel.

Élan vital [defined in the Project Keel]

Entelechy [defined in the Project Keel]

Evil

Evil adj. 1. Morally bad or wrong; wicked; malevolent; sinful: an evil tyrant. 2. Causing an undesirable condition, as ruin, injury, or pain; harmful; injurious: an evil suggestion. 3. Characterized by or boding misfortune; foreboding; ominous: evil omens. 4. Purportedly bad or blameworthy; undesirable; infamous; an evil reputation. 5. Characterized by anger or spite; malicious: an evil temper. –See synonyms at bad.

Evil n. 1. Sometimes capital E. That which is destructive, corruptive, or fallible whether from natural circumstances, or by human ignorance, error, or design: “The evil that men do lives after them” (Shakespeare). 2. Sometimes capital E. a. That which is morally bad or wrong; wickedness; sin. b. That which causes or constitutes misfortune, suffering, difficulty, or the like; woe. 3. Often plural. Anything that is undesirable because of its injurious nature or effect: the evils of war. 4. An evil thing or an act or instance of being evil. –adv. Archaic. In an evil manner. [Middle English evel, ivel. Old English yfel. See upo in appendix:

Upo. Under, up from under, over. … 4. Extended form *ubilaz, “exceeding the proper limit,” evil, in Old English yfel, evil: EVIL. … 11. Sanskrit upa, near to: OPAL, UPANISHAD.

Good

Good adj. better, best. 1. Having positive or desirable qualities; not bad or poor. 2. Serving the end desired; suitable; serviceable. … 14. a. Of moral excellence; virtuous; upright: a good man. b. Benevolent; cheerful; kind: a good soul.

Good and Evil

Note that in contrast to how the dictionary treats evil, there is nothing about good as a noun, nor good in contrast to the word, evil, other than indirectly in the 14^th definition dealing with morality and virtue. Good and Evil are treated as an extended topic in the Keel.

Gradient

n. 1. A rate of inclination; slope. 2. An ascending or descending part; an incline.

Guilt n. 1. The fact of being responsible for an offence or wrongdoing. 2. Law. A. Culpability for a crime or lesser breach of regulations. B. The disposition to break the law. 3. Rare Guilty behavior. 4. Remorseful awareness of having done something wrong. –See Synonyms at blame.

In this project, we believe that guilt is a natural property of Level I functioning and that there is in most cultures, a collective consciousness of guilt. A natural property of Level II is the transcendence of guilt. Guilt is resolved in two ways: by forgetting and/or by forgiving, which . Denial is not forgetting.

Guna

A special Sanskrit word denoting each of three evolutionary principles of nature, the “three gunas of prakriti”—tamas, rajas and sattva. [See more on this in the Keel.]

Integral

adj.1. Essential for completion; necessary to the whole; constituent. 2. Whole; entire; intact.

As used in this project, synonyms include: advancement, maturation, evolution, unfolding, transformation, ascension and enlightenment.

Integrate

v. –tr. 1. To make into a whole by bringing all parts together; unify. 2. To join with something else; to unite. 3. To pen to people of all races or ethnic groups without restriction; 5. To brfing about the integration of (personality traits). [Latin integrare, to make complete, from integer, whole]

Keel

The principal structural member of a ship, running fore and aft on the center line and forming the backbone of the vessel, to which the frames are attached. The name we have given to the intellectual foundation for this project.

Life

Of some 16 dictionary definitions, only the 12^th (life as an animating force; a source of vitality) comes close to being useful for our project, and even this one is circular. As we begin this project, we choose a limiting definition — life as that which replicates by means of physical DNA — and in so doing, are deliberately open and inviting for equally precise, but ascending definitions for life that go beyond this limited definition in ways yet to be discovered.

Maturation

n. 1. The process of becoming mature; a ripening.

As used in this project, synonyms include: advancement, evolution, unfolding, transformation, integration, ascension and enlightenment.

Metaphysics

In essence, metaphysics is the union of the following three sets:

ontology + epistemology + cosmology

be do have

models tools data

Metatronics

Cosmic law, the archetypal relationships and patterns of process coming prior to morphogenetic fields of thought forms in the unmanifest aspect of reality, which, in turn, is causally prior to the manifest domain of space/time. [See The Ancient of Days, a water color by Blake, which served as the fronticepiece to America, depicting Metatron (the mythical arch-angelic being from whom emanates the universe of form), with one finger on a leg of the divider (“devil”) symbolizing time, and three fingers on the other leg, symbolizing space.]

Mind

Since Aristotle, mind is conceptualized as consisting of cognition (intellect), affection (emotion), conation (will), somatic (body knowing). The ascension of life involves refinement of all of these, but in this project we particularly emphasize the conative due to its central role in wise choosing at different levels of ascension. The use of precise and internally consistent concepts using the intellect—especially in math, logic and reason, and taken in balance with the other three aspects of mind—is an essential way to resolve many of the world’s problems. We expect that conative guidance from higher aspects of the mind will be an even more essential in this regard.

Mood

Independent of ascension is mood. Mood states (things like nostalgia, bliss, yearning, grief, friendship, etc.), can be felt at all levels of ascension, except the full-out Level Three experience of the Absolute, where no-thing is experienced at all. Looked at this way, makes it easier to see that the most essential core characteristic of ascension is none other than “centeredness” in the Absolute.

Perennial Philosophy [an expanded discussion is given in the Project Keel]

Philosophia Perennis is a term coined by Leibnitz and popularized by Aldous Huxley in his 19XX book, The Perennial Philosophy. It refers to the sacred literature expressing the transcendental experience of non-dual beingness, the so-called “highest denominator” of all the world’s great religious mystics, including Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism and Hinduism (Vedanta).

Sentience

Sentient adj. 1. Having sense perception; conscious: the living knew themselves just sentient puppets on God’s stage” (T.E. Lawarence). 2. Experiencing feeling or sensation. –n. 1. A sentient person or thing. 2. The mind. [Latin sentiens, present participle of sentire, to feel. ]

We note that following Blake, Aldous Huxley in his book, The Doors of Perception, saw sentience as “a window of perception” (taste, smell, tactile, audio, visual, etc.), whether or not you are aware of it. “If the doors of perception were cleansed, everything would appear to man as it is, Infinite…For man has closed himself up, till he sees all things through narrow chinks of his cavern.” (Blake) In what is called the Perennial Philosophy, everything in the material domain of space/time is sentient.

Sovereignty [an expanded discussion is given in the Project Keel]

Sovereignty n. 1. Supremacy of authority or rule, as exercised by a sovereign or a sovereign state. 2. Royal rank, authority, or power. 3. Complete independence and self-government. 4. A territory existing as an independent state. (see uper in Appendix)

Sunyata
Emptiness. The vacuum from which all emaninates in the manifestation of reality. Where you go when you enter Samadhi. Being total emptiness, Sunyata, from which we get the modern word zero, is conceptually distinct from Ayn Sof, which is radiant fullness.

Swaraj
A term used by Sri Aurobindo to inspire the political revolutionary movement to overthrow the British colonial rule. He used it as something of a pun, meaning both spiritual liberation and political freedom. It is a useful concept when thinking about integrative ascension.

Transform, Transformation

v. –tr. 2. To change the nature, function, or condition of; to convert. n. 1. a. The act of transforming. b. The state or an instance of being transformed.

As used in this project, synonyms include: advancement, maturation, evolution, unfolding, integration, ascension and enlightenment

Tychism

A term originated by the American philosopher, C. S. Peirce, denoting an event that cannot be predicted. Tychisms are seen to be significant contextual factors in evolution [cf. Wild Card as this term is used in futures research].

Sunyata

Emptiness. The vacuum from which all emaninates in the manifestation of reality. Where you go when you enter Samadhi. Being total emptiness, Sunyata, from which we get the modern word zero, is conceptually distinct from Ayn Sof, which is radiant fullness.

Ylem

Ylem is the cosmic “soup” that existed immediately after the “Big Bang,” before particles crystallized from its condensation as it cooled. It is the concept from which we get such modern words such as element and elementary.



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	Glossary *Unfolding Images of Life* Project for Co-Evolutionary Exploration and Practice Ver 1.0 for Web, August, 2003 As stated in the Comprehensive Sketch, our method of approach in this project is to build on a foundation of rigorously defined and internally consistent framework of philosophical concepts. This turns out to oftentimes involve the surfacing of ancient definitions that have new relevance for our time—sometimes by simply copying dictionary definitions and derivations of key words; sometimes by writing our own definitions, based on our reading of the wisdom literature of humanity. Thus, this Glossary contains both our own unique definitions and those found in the dictionary (our standard is the American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, which has a most useful Appendix of Indo-European roots, links to which are denoted by an asterisk, , at the end of the definition). For example, consider gloss, glossary, and lexicon:: Gloss n.* 1. A brief explanatory note or translation of a difficult or technical expression usually inserted in the margin or between lines of a text or manuscript. 2. An expanded version of such notes; a glossary. [Middle English glose from Old French, from Medieval Latin glosa, from Latin glossa, word that needs explanation, from Greek glossa, tongue, language. See glogh- in Appendix.] glogh-* Thorn, point. 1. Suffixed form glogh-i- in Greek glokhis,* barb of an arrow; 2. Suffixed form glogh-ya in Greek glossa, glotta,* tongue, hence also language. Glossary n. A collection of glosses, such as a vocabulary of specialized terms with accompanying definitions. Lexicon n. 1. A dictionary. 2. A stock of terms used in or of a particular profession, subject, or style; vocabulary: the lexicon of the sports page. … [ See leg- in Appendix. ] leg- To collect, with derivatives meaning “to speak.” 1. Perhaps Germanic lekjaz, enchanter, one who speaks magic words, in Old English læce, physician … 3. Greek legein to gather, speak: LEXICON. Advaita Literally, “not-two,” advaita is the most frequently used term for the highest expression of the Perennial Philosophy which holds that the Absolute Source level of all that is (Level III in our Gradient Model of Ascension), is “One with a Second.” Advancement Advance v. 1. To move or bring forward in position…3. To aid the growth or progress of; to further. n. 1. The act or process of moving or going forward; 2. Improvement; progress. *Synonyms:* advance, progress, promote, forward, further. As used in this project, synonyms include: advancement, maturation, evolution, unfolding, transformation, integration, ascension and enlightenment. Ascension Ascend v. -cended –cending, -cends. –intr. 1. To go or move upward; rise. 2 To rise gradually. 3. to slope upward. –tr. To move upward upon or along; climb. –See synonyms at rise. [Middle English ascenden, from Latin ascendere : ad-, toward + scandere, to climb (see skand- Appendix).] Ascending* adj. Going, growing, or moving upward: a tree with ascending branches. Ascendancy n. Also ascendancy, ascendance, ascendence. The state of being in the ascendant;; domination: “Germany only awaits trade revival to gain an immense mercantile ascendancy.” (Winston Churchill). Ascendant adj. also ascendent. 1. Inclining or moving upward; ascending; rising. 2. Dominant in position or influence; superiour. –n. 1. The position or state of being dominant or in power: in the ascendant. As used in this project, ascension is the process and result of élan vital, expressing itself in the creation and evolutionary development of matter (physiosphere), life (biosphere), mind (noosphere), and spirit (theosphere). In addition to above dictionary definitions, we see ascension as being co-defined by the concepts of entelechy and sovereignty. Atman n. Hinduism 1. The individual soul; the principle of life. 2. Capital A. The supreme and universal soul, beyond any definable ego; form which all individual souls arise. [Sanskrit atman, breath, spirit, soul. From a literal dissection of the Sanskrit, we can note that: a = not, or other; *m_n* ~ mind, thereby signifying a level of beingness that is other than mental in nature. Awareness [See Consciousness.] Ayn Sof Ayn Sof is a term used in Kabbalah for the Source of all Reality, that which is beyond Ten Sephrot, the Tree of Life. Being radiant fullness, Ayn Sof is conceptually distinct from Sunyata, which is total emptiness. Brahman n. Hinduism 1. The essential divine reality of the universe; the eternal spirit from which all being originates and that to which all returns. Also, in Advaita (non-dual) Vedanta, often referred to as Nirguna Brahman, meaning, beyond the action or tendencies of the three evolutionary gunas of prakriti; tamas, rajas, sattva. Enlightenment Enlighten v. 1. To give knowledge or treuth to; endow with spiritual understanding; edify; instruct. 2. To acquaint (someone) with information; inform. Enlightenment n. 1. An act or means of enlightening. 2. The state of being enlightened. As used in this project, synonyms include: advancement, maturation, evolution, unfolding, transformation, integration, and ascension. Evolution n. 1. A gradual process in which something changes into a significantly different, especially more complex or sophisticated, form. 2. Biology. A. The theory that groups of organisms, as species, may change wsith passage of time so that descendants differ morphologically and physicalloy from their ancestors., b. The historical development of a related group of organisms; phylogeny. 3. The developmental or historical process of something, as of a social institution, geographical divison, or system of thought. [Latin evolutio, an opening, an unrolling, from evolutus, past participle of evolvere, to roll out, to open. EVOLVE.] As used in this project, synonyms include: advancement, maturation, unfolding, transformation, integration, ascension and enlightenment. Co-Evolution [defined in the Project Keel] Co-Intelligence [defined in the Project Keel] Co-Production [defined in the Project Keel] Conation n. Psychology. The aspect of mental processes or behavior directed toward action or change and including impulse, desire, volition, and striving. [Latin conatio, endeavor, effort, from conatus, past participle of conari, to endeavor. See ken-¹ in appendix. ] The Vedic image of mind and spirit has the conative (perceptive and choosing/intending) function of mind as identical with the Observing Self (Atman, the personalistic aspect of Brahman,* Level III Ultimate Core Beingness in our model). Conatus n. pl. Any natural tendency, impulse, or directed effort. [Latin conatus, attempt, effort, form the past participle of conari, to endeavor. See conation.] Consciousness Conscious adj. 1. a. Having an awareness of one’s own existence, sensations, and thoughts, and of one’s environment. b. Capable of complex response to environment. c. Not asleep; awake. –See synonyms at aware. [Latin conscius, knowing with others, participating in knowledge, aware of : com + scire, to know (see skei- in Appendix * skei- To cut, slit. Extended root of sek- 1. Latin scire, to know (<”to separate one thing from another,” “discern”>): SCIENCE, CONSCIENCE, CONSCIOUS, OMNISCIENT, PRESCIENT. Consciousness n. 1. The state of condition of being conscious. A more extensive definition of consciousness is given in the Keel. Desiderata n. pl. Something needed and desired. [Latin desideratum, neuter past partricipale of desiderare, DESIRE] Deva The spirit of things; agents who express the essential forms of creation [Metatronic sacred geometry] into ever-evolving manifestation in all the expressions of nature. Dharma n. Established order, custom, prescription, duty; virtue, moral merit, good works; justice [from Sanskrit Dictionary by Arthur Macdonall]. See also the expanded definition of Dharma, used in this project, in the Ascending Images Project Keel. Élan vital [defined in the Project Keel] Entelechy [defined in the Project Keel] Evil Evil adj. 1. Morally bad or wrong; wicked; malevolent; sinful: an evil tyrant. 2. Causing an undesirable condition, as ruin, injury, or pain; harmful; injurious: an evil suggestion. 3. Characterized by or boding misfortune; foreboding; ominous: evil omens. 4. Purportedly bad or blameworthy; undesirable; infamous; an evil reputation. 5. Characterized by anger or spite; malicious: an evil temper. –See synonyms at bad. Evil n. 1. Sometimes capital E. That which is destructive, corruptive, or fallible whether from natural circumstances, or by human ignorance, error, or design: “The evil that men do lives after them” (Shakespeare). 2. Sometimes capital E. a. That which is morally bad or wrong; wickedness; sin. b. That which causes or constitutes misfortune, suffering, difficulty, or the like; woe. 3. Often plural. Anything that is undesirable because of its injurious nature or effect: the evils of war. 4. An evil thing or an act or instance of being evil. –adv. Archaic. In an evil manner. [Middle English evel, ivel. Old English yfel. See upo in appendix: Upo. Under, up from under, over. … 4. Extended form *ubilaz, “exceeding the proper limit,” evil, in Old English yfel, evil: EVIL. … 11. Sanskrit upa, near to: OPAL, UPANISHAD. Good Good adj. better, best. 1. Having positive or desirable qualities; not bad or poor. 2. Serving the end desired; suitable; serviceable. … 14. a. Of moral excellence; virtuous; upright: a good man. b. Benevolent; cheerful; kind: a good soul. Good and Evil Note that in contrast to how the dictionary treats evil, there is nothing about good as a noun, nor good in contrast to the word, evil, other than indirectly in the 14^th definition dealing with morality and virtue. Good and Evil are treated as an extended topic in the Keel. Gradient n. 1. A rate of inclination; slope. 2. An ascending or descending part; an incline. Guilt n. 1. The fact of being responsible for an offence or wrongdoing. 2. Law. A. Culpability for a crime or lesser breach of regulations. B. The disposition to break the law. 3. Rare Guilty behavior. 4. Remorseful awareness of having done something wrong. –See Synonyms at blame. In this project, we believe that guilt is a natural property of Level I functioning and that there is in most cultures, a collective consciousness of guilt. A natural property of Level II is the transcendence of guilt. Guilt is resolved in two ways: by forgetting and/or by forgiving, which . Denial is not forgetting. Guna A special Sanskrit word denoting each of three evolutionary principles of nature, the “three gunas of prakriti”—tamas, rajas and sattva. [See more on this in the Keel.] Integral adj.1. Essential for completion; necessary to the whole; constituent. 2. Whole; entire; intact. As used in this project, synonyms include: advancement, maturation, evolution, unfolding, transformation, ascension and enlightenment. Integrate v. –tr. 1. To make into a whole by bringing all parts together; unify. 2. To join with something else; to unite. 3. To pen to people of all races or ethnic groups without restriction; 5. To brfing about the integration of (personality traits). [Latin integrare, to make complete, from integer, whole] Keel The principal structural member of a ship, running fore and aft on the center line and forming the backbone of the vessel, to which the frames are attached. The name we have given to the intellectual foundation for this project. Life Of some 16 dictionary definitions, only the 12^th (life as an animating force; a source of vitality) comes close to being useful for our project, and even this one is circular. As we begin this project, we choose a limiting definition — life as that which replicates by means of physical DNA — and in so doing, are deliberately open and inviting for equally precise, but ascending definitions for life that go beyond this limited definition in ways yet to be discovered. Maturation n. 1. The process of becoming mature; a ripening. As used in this project, synonyms include: advancement, evolution, unfolding, transformation, integration, ascension and enlightenment. Metaphysics In essence, metaphysics is the union of the following three sets: ontology + epistemology + cosmology be do have models tools data Metatronics Cosmic law, the archetypal relationships and patterns of process coming prior to morphogenetic fields of thought forms in the unmanifest aspect of reality, which, in turn, is causally prior to the manifest domain of space/time. [See The Ancient of Days, a water color by Blake, which served as the fronticepiece to America, depicting Metatron (the mythical arch-angelic being from whom emanates the universe of form), with one finger on a leg of the divider (“devil”) symbolizing time, and three fingers on the other leg, symbolizing space.] Mind Since Aristotle, mind is conceptualized as consisting of cognition (intellect), affection (emotion), conation (will), somatic (body knowing). The ascension of life involves refinement of all of these, but in this project we particularly emphasize the conative due to its central role in wise choosing at different levels of ascension. The use of precise and internally consistent concepts using the intellect—especially in math, logic and reason, and taken in balance with the other three aspects of mind—is an essential way to resolve many of the world’s problems. We expect that conative guidance from higher aspects of the mind will be an even more essential in this regard. Mood Independent of ascension is mood. Mood states (things like nostalgia, bliss, yearning, grief, friendship, etc.), can be felt at all levels of ascension, except the full-out Level Three experience of the Absolute, where no-thing is experienced at all. Looked at this way, makes it easier to see that the most essential core characteristic of ascension is none other than “centeredness” in the Absolute. Perennial Philosophy [an expanded discussion is given in the Project Keel] Philosophia Perennis is a term coined by Leibnitz and popularized by Aldous Huxley in his 19XX book, The Perennial Philosophy. It refers to the sacred literature expressing the transcendental experience of non-dual beingness, the so-called “highest denominator” of all the world’s great religious mystics, including Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism and Hinduism (Vedanta). Sentience Sentient adj. 1. Having sense perception; conscious: the living knew themselves just sentient puppets on God’s stage” (T.E. Lawarence). 2. Experiencing feeling or sensation. –n. 1. A sentient person or thing. 2. The mind. [Latin sentiens, present participle of sentire, to feel. ] We note that following Blake, Aldous Huxley in his book, The Doors of Perception, saw sentience as “a window of perception” (taste, smell, tactile, audio, visual, etc.), whether or not you are aware of it. “If the doors of perception were cleansed, everything would appear to man as it is, Infinite…For man has closed himself up, till he sees all things through narrow chinks of his cavern.” (Blake) In what is called the Perennial Philosophy, everything in the material domain of space/time is sentient. Sovereignty [an expanded discussion is given in the Project Keel] Sovereignty n. 1. Supremacy of authority or rule, as exercised by a sovereign or a sovereign state. 2. Royal rank, authority, or power. 3. Complete independence and self-government. 4. A territory existing as an independent state. (see uper in Appendix) Sunyata Emptiness. The vacuum from which all emaninates in the manifestation of reality. Where you go when you enter Samadhi. Being total emptiness, Sunyata, from which we get the modern word zero, is conceptually distinct from Ayn Sof, which is radiant fullness. Swaraj A term used by Sri Aurobindo to inspire the political revolutionary movement to overthrow the British colonial rule. He used it as something of a pun, meaning both spiritual liberation and political freedom. It is a useful concept when thinking about integrative ascension. Transform, Transformation v. –tr. 2. To change the nature, function, or condition of; to convert. n. 1. a. The act of transforming. b. The state or an instance of being transformed. As used in this project, synonyms include: advancement, maturation, evolution, unfolding, integration, ascension and enlightenment Tychism A term originated by the American philosopher, C. S. Peirce, denoting an event that cannot be predicted. Tychisms are seen to be significant contextual factors in evolution [cf. Wild Card as this term is used in futures research]. Sunyata Emptiness. The vacuum from which all emaninates in the manifestation of reality. Where you go when you enter Samadhi. Being total emptiness, Sunyata, from which we get the modern word zero, is conceptually distinct from Ayn Sof, which is radiant fullness. Ylem Ylem is the cosmic “soup” that existed immediately after the “Big Bang,” before particles crystallized from its condensation as it cooled. It is the concept from which we get such modern words such as element and elementary.