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Discipleship in the New Age I - The Six Stages of Discipleship - Part IV
Basically and essentially, the disciple's attitude is not really of much importance in comparison with the effect of the Hierarchy and its techniques upon him. The results are [712] inevitable, because they are dependent upon two important factors: The first factor is that directed, hierarchical impression is not imposed until the man has fitted himself through self-discipline to respond to it and is, therefore, nearing the end of the Path. The second is the factor of group response. This means response in two directions: To sensed human need, leading consequently to a pledged life of service. To soul impression, leading to spiritual sensitivity. When these two factors are established - even if unknown to the disciple in his waking consciousness - the grip of the soul upon the personality becomes irrevocable. Then, and only then, the Master can begin to work and the response will be effective, real and lasting. Now let me enumerate for you again the stages with which we shall be dealing: The stage, wherein the disciple is contacted by the Master through some chela upon the physical plane. This is the stage of Little Chelaship. The stage wherein a higher disciple directs the chela from egoic or soul levels. This is the stage called a Chela in the Light. The stage wherein, according to necessity, the Master contacts the chela through: A vivid dream experience. A symbolic teaching. The using of a thought-form of some Master. A contact with the Master in meditation. A definite, remembered interview with the Master in his Ashram. This is definitely the stage of Accepted Discipleship. The stage wherein, having shown his wisdom in work and his appreciation of the Master's problem, the disciple is taught how (in an emergency) to attract the Master's attention and thus draw upon his strength and knowledge and advice. This is an instantaneous happening [713] and practically takes none of the Master's time. This has the peculiar name of the Chela on the Thread, or Sutratma. The stage wherein the disciple is permitted to know the method whereby he may set up a vibration or a call which will entitle him to an interview with the Master. This is only permitted to those trusted chelas who can be depended upon not to use their knowledge for anything except the need of the work. No personality reason or distress would prompt them to use it. At this stage, the disciple is called a Chela within the aura. The stage wherein the disciple can get his Master's ear at any time. He is in close touch always. This is the stage wherein a chela is being definitely and consciously prepared for immediate initiation, or - having taken initiation - is being given specialized work to do in collaboration with his... At this stage, he is described as the Chela within the Master's heart. There is a later stage of still closer identification, where there is a complete blending of the Lights, but. there is no adequate paraphrase of the terms used to convey this name. I would have you note that the six stages above mentioned have been translated and paraphrased for occidental understanding and must in no way be considered as translations of the ancient terms.
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