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We can be inspired to evil deeds as well as noble ones. It is said that Charles Manson claimed to be inspired by the Beatles' music to go on his killing spree. This is not as outlandish as it might first seem. It is not that there is anything inherently evil in the music of the Beetles, but it does indicate that any external influence can be interpreted by the receiving mind in ways that are productive or destructive. Evil is created in the mind long before it is externalized. This concept reinforces the idea that the foundation of self must be grounded in wholesome social values. All too often, in our very materialistic society, we find a culture fixed on the acquisition of things with a total disregard for the ethics involved in the process of acquiring them. Sabian philosophy teaches that to understand this concept properly, we must realize that inspiration is the light of truth that is diffused through life and experience. So here we have light, not only as a happy analogy, but also as the literal nature of truth and subsequently of all wisdom. This approach to creative living is based on Ibn Gabirol’s Fountain of Life Book IV, Chapter 14. Here the Teacher explains the most important tenet in his entire work, that all of creation is composed of matter and form. Form is the light, matter (at the human level) is each one of us. Our life or "matter" is increased in value to the degree that it is in-formed by the light of truth. Our life is decreased in value to the degree that it is informed by the darkness of lesser values. A practical application of the concept of inspiration would be to look around you and find light—situations that shine with inspiring values. Contrariwise, look around you and find darkness—situations that reveal vulgarity, deception, or any conduct not worthy of "human" beings. |
