The Book of Zohar is a central text in Jewish mysticism, structured as a novel that follows the theological and physical wanderings of Rabbi Simeon ben Yochai and his disciples. It explores themes such as the nature of God, creation, the origin of the world, the significance of the Ten Commandments, and the relationship between humans and the divine. The text is composed of lengthy homilies, short discourses, and parables, all centered on mystical and symbolic interpretations of biblical texts. While traditionally attributed to Rabbi Simeon ben Yochai, modern scholars generally believe that Moses de León wrote the major portion of the Zohar in the 13th century[1][2][5].
The novel follows Chris, who dies in a car accident and finds himself in the afterlife. Initially confused and unable to leave his grieving wife, he is guided by a character named Albert through various realms, including Summerland (Heaven) and Hell. The book delves into themes of near-death experiences, reincarnation, and the self-imposed nature of one's fate in the afterlife. Chris's journey is marked by his attempts to communicate with his family and ultimately rescue his wife from the depths of Hell after she commits a final act that determines her own fate[1][3][4].
Written in 1884, 'Flatland: A Romance of Many Dimensions' is a satirical novella by Edwin Abbott Abbott. The story is set in a two-dimensional world inhabited by geometric figures, where social status is determined by the number of sides of each figure. The narrator, A Square, guides readers through the practicalities and social hierarchy of Flatland, before being introduced to the concept of higher dimensions by a Sphere. The book is both an introduction to the idea of higher dimensions and a satire of Victorian society, critiquing its class system, gender roles, and social norms. Despite its satirical elements, the book also delves into mathematical concepts and the limitations of perception in different dimensions[1][3][5].
This book is a detailed account of Paramahansa Yogananda's life, from his childhood in India to his spiritual quest and eventual establishment of the Self-Realization Fellowship in the United States. It includes his encounters with various spiritual figures, his experiences with Kriya Yoga, and his mission to spread the teachings of yoga and meditation to the Western world. The book also delves into the prophesied writing of his autobiography and its significance in spreading the message of yoga globally[1][2][5].
Life often unfolds in ways we could scarcely imagine, weaving paths that connect science and spirit, intellect and intuition. Shehnaz Soni, our guest on today’s episode, exemplifies this wondrous dance. As a NASA aerospace engineer and a quantum coach, she navigates the intersection of high-tech innovation and metaphysical insight, proving that these realms are not separate but two sides of the same coin. Her story is one of unshakable courage, relentless curiosity, and a fearless embrace of the unknown.Imagine growing up in a culture that limits your questions, a world where inquiry is stifled, and possibilities feel boxed in by tradition. Yet, from a young age, Shehnaz was an outlier, a seeker of truths that no one dared to ask. "If you're questioning it, it's because it is questionable," she tells us. It is this inherent defiance, this determination to understand life’s mysteries, that propelled her from the shores of Karachi, Pakistan, to the cutting-edge laboratories of NASA.Her journey is a masterclass in transformation. As Shehnaz recounts, she arrived in the United States at 21, speaking little English and bound by the constraints of an arranged marriage. But adversity, rather than discouraging her, became her greatest teacher. Her ability to adapt, learn, and persevere led her to a career where she’s not only building the technology of tomorrow but also challenging the paradigms of today. She shares with us how working on projects like the International Space Station and the Artemis Moon mission has expanded her understanding of what it means to bridge science and spirituality.In one particularly poignant moment, Shehnaz reflects on her near-death experience at the age of 12—a moment that reshaped her worldview forever. Pulled into the depths of the ocean and on the verge of drowning, she recalls the life review she experienced: “It was like watching a movie of my life, rewinding all the way back to the womb.” This event, she believes, set her on a path of fearless living, free from the fear of death, and imbued her with the clarity to see beyond life’s illusions.Her spiritual awakening didn’t just fuel her personal growth; it also gave her the courage to challenge societal norms. Despite her demanding role at NASA, Shehnaz devotes herself to raising consciousness, teaching others about the interplay of quantum physics and spirituality. "We are here to live at our highest potential," she says, emphasizing that our limitations are often self-imposed. Her message is clear: we are all capable of creating our own playgrounds of possibility.
SPIRITUAL TAKEAWAYS
- Question Everything: Trust your intuition, especially when something feels off. As Shehnaz advises, “Honor the red flags you sense—they’re nudges guiding you to greater awareness.”
- Integrate Creativity and Logic: Shehnaz speaks about balancing her creative and logical sides, allowing each to enhance the other. “The more creative you become, the quicker you solve problems,” she explains.
- Life Happens for You, Not to You: Shifting this perspective, as Shehnaz suggests, allows us to see obstacles as stepping stones, not barriers.
As our conversation wraps up, one thing becomes abundantly clear: Shehnaz’s life is a testament to the power of embracing dualities. She thrives in a world where rockets and algorithms coexist with meditations and metaphysical musings. Her journey invites us to do the same, to embrace the richness of our multidimensional selves, and to live courageously, unapologetically, and fully.
Please enjoy my conversation with Shehnaz Soni.
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Next Level Soul Podcast with Alex Ferrari 
