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APRIL, 1990
175
principle which is in ourselves when this is fully developed, we also shall become Christs, by the crucifixion of the lower nature on the altar of the higher. We also use the cross as a symbol. All living beings have to pass through or evolve from the lowest, the monadic condition to the highest state of existence and cannot reach this unless they obtain possession of the three things necessary ; right belief, right knowledge and right conduct. The right belief, really speaking, is not that there is no passing through forms after death, but the soul keeps progressing always in its won nature without any backward direction at all.13 We have expressed this in clear language without any parables or metaphors, but when we preach these truths to the ignorant masses some story or picture might be necessary for them and after that the explanation of the real meaning ; as we have an allegory in the Pilgrim's Progress. It is just like reaching the Celestial City in that book, but we must all understand that these things are parables. Others may need music to assist their religion, but when we understand the esoteric meaning which underlies all religion there will be no quarreling and no need of names or of forms; and this is really the object of all religions.
from the Systems of Indian Philosophy
13 The meaning of this sentence is not quite clear. May be Gandhi is saying that the
possession of 'right belief' does not rule out the possibility of a future birth but that it does rule out the possibility of a future degeneration.
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