Chicago Gnosis Podcast

Everything in nature functions in accordance with rhythms, tempos, ebbs, and flows. The same with the consciousness. Through concentrating one's attention on internal states and expanding one's awareness of external phenomena, meditators learn to access a significant range of their conscious potential. By comprehending how consciousness can both focus and amplify our understanding, we establish a foundation for overcoming the psychological causes of affliction. Resources and References https://chicagognosis.org/lectures/contraction-and-expansion

"And by the night as it closes in, and by the dawn when it breathes..." ―Qur'an 81:17-18 Breath is an essential dynamic in every mystical tradition, especially Sufism. By combining breath with spiritual longing, aspiration, and conscious love, the practitioner elevates solar or creative forces from within one's sexual organs, up the spine, to illuminate the mind. In this manner, meditators master the three types of soul in the Qur'an, so as to acquire perfect serenity and illumination. Resources and References https://chicagognosis.org/lectures/breath

"The best act of worship is watchfulness of the moments." ―Al-Wasiti Meditation is based upon alert novelty, awareness, watchfulness, vigilance, and directed attention in the moment we find ourselves in. Without comprehending our psychology from instant to instant, it is impossible to experience the fruits of meditation: serenity, transformation, and the internal states of liberation. Resources and References: https://chicagognosis.org/lectures/the-present-moment

Sufism describes varying levels of direct experience and contemplation of divinity. While stations are the result of inner effort and initiatic work, mystical states, profound experiences, and the ecstasies of the soul result from divine blessings. Learn how through an explanation of Kabbalah and the testimonies of the Sufi masters. Resources and References: https://chicagognosis.org/lectures/states

There exist infinite degrees, qualities, or levels of consciousness, defined within Sufism as the stations in the spiritual path leading to divine realization. Through profound works of meditation, practitioners can permanently establish themselves within these higher degrees of being, known within universal gnosticism as initiations. Discover how to enter and travel the path through an exploration of the Tree of Life and the Sufi scriptures. Resources and References: https://chicagognosis.org/lectures/stations

The state of meditation is experienced when spiritual principles and divine laws are fulfilled. Similarly, meditation can only be understood through the harmonious balance of daily study and practice. See how through a profound exploration of the Qur'an and the three forms of certainty, the steps for acquiring genuine, experiential wisdom, and the means to recognize such states within one's life. Resources and References: https://chicagognosis.org/lectures/essential-principles

The science of meditation​​ is based upon observable facts: what we can verify through repeatable experimentation and practice. Discover the foundations for how to study, approach, and experience the state of meditation. This lecture explains the three levels of meditative instruction within Sufi schools, the path of ethics, as well as the psychological qualities of genuine realization and spiritual conduct from the prophetic tradition. Resources and References: https://chicagognosis.org/lectures/practical-foundations

Everything in life is in a state of transformation. Just as the human body provides life through digestion and breathing, the consciousness needs to transform different impressions, experiences, and psychological reactions to develop intelligence. The Essence derives spiritual nourishment through comprehending the causes of affliction, which is only achieved through revolutionizing our perception in the present moment. Resources and References: https://chicagognosis.org/lectures/transform-your-life

All great religions and mystical traditions symbolize the divine feminine throughout innumerable myths, narratives, and symbols. Regardless of the name, culture, or language, She is the divine force of universal compassion with one express and unique purpose: the liberation of Her child (the consciousness) from suffering. Discover how to practically work with your Divine Mother to achieve genuine freedom from the ego. Resources and References: https://chicagognosis.org/lectures/the-divine-mother

Heaven is not only a higher dimension, but a psychological state of being. According to every great religion and meditative tradition, liberation is achieved only through actions and the inner rebellion of the soul. Discover the three factors for awakening consciousness, a spiritual revolution against suffering and the animal ego. Resources and References: https://chicagognosis.org/lectures/how-to-conquer-heaven