Posted by Dave on April 17, 19101 at 10:12:12:
In Reply to: Re: Speaking in Tongues posted by Phil on February 24, 1999 at 06:59:06:
: : I wonder what the relationship between the Eastern development of Mantras which were suppositly cognized by seers as a "direct connection" with God, and the use of tongues as a means of "direct connection" with God when used as a centering focus for contemplation. If indeed the Holy Spirit is also inspiring non Christian religions as the Catholic Church now teaches, what better way then for God to give man's conditioned mind a language to communicate.
: : John Theobald
: Good point, John. I think glossalalia vibrates the various energy centers (chakras) through sound just as mantras do, only it is a much more spontaneous flow. Glossalia is also frequently directed toward God in praise and adoration, while mantras sometimes seem to express little intentionality.
: So, similarities there are, and yet the differences are significant. It seems to me that mantras are generally used to expand consciousness through the use of sounds which vibrate the higher energy centers. Glossalalia might do the same, but through the medium of intensifying intentionality.
: Hope this helps.
: Phil
This is very interesting, I attend a pentecostal Church and have many questions about "gifts" of the holy spirit and their appropriate application for today. Unfortunately the Church that I belong to doesn't foster a medium favorable to questioning of the practices that ensue in the services. If anyone has info I would appreciate it if you emailed me.
Thanks,
Dave