The Secret Teachings 9/9/21 - Fire

The Bible speaks of fire as baptizing in relation to the Holy Spirit, but also as destructive as a tool of God. It can be seen figuratively as a substance that burns away the old and unusable to allow for the rebirth of a Phoenix rising from the ashes. This occurs in nature, too, particularly natural wildfires that precede a forest’s rebirth and growth. Fires can be caused by man for reasons that are both politically negligent and socially irresponsible, making Smokey very upset. Fire can also be seen as consciousness and will. Traditionally, the wand represents the will and air; the chalice or cup represents intuition and water; the sword represents mind and fire; and the pentacle represents the bodily temple or earth. Other traditions assign the wand to fire and sword to air. This wand of association with fire is the direction of will which is itself an expression of fiery consciousness. Fire can be as destructive as it is necessary to creation and life. From Daniel in the den of solar creatures - lions - to the concept of the magi, fire is a driving elemental force.Salamanders are elementals of fire. Commonly referred to as genies, and especially prevalent in Persian belief such as the cults of Zoroastrianism and Mithraism, they provided a framework for the formation of demons in Christianity, Islam and Judaism. Material fire was made of their essence and could not exist otherwise. What is cold and dark - Earth - is warmed and illuminated through the Sun. Those seeking forgiveness for their sins, having been harassed by guilt, are burning with the same desire that may have been responsible for their actions.