Series 2 - Lesson 9 - Annotation 20
What relation does "beholding" bear to the work of transforming man?
20. To behold means "to look upon or at; to view; to see; to hold; to observe." To transform means "to give a different form to; to change; to change the form of; to transmute." The relation between "beholding" and "transformation" is that of cause and effect.
Beholding is a basic requisite In the work of transforming man. Beholding from a metaphysical standpoint means to keep in sight the transforming power in man, because we become in experience and manifestation like that which we behold in our thinking; like that picture we hold in our consciousness through the use of the imagination. Beholding precedes the working of the imagination. It is what we look at, behold, that becomes the pattern from which the imagination will work.
A marvelous transformation takes place in the mind, body, and affairs of man as a result of his "beholding" in the imagination the pictures of ideal conditions, in mind, body, and affairs.
"Beloved, now are we children of God, and it is not yet made manifest what we shall be. We know that, if he shall be manifested, we shall be like him; for we shall see him even as he is. And every one that hath this hope set on him purifieth himself, even as he is pure" (I John 3:2,3).
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Preceding Entry: Why should children be taught to be fearless?
Following Entry: What is will? What is understanding? What is the relation of will to understanding?
