Trance in the Spirit Realm: A Journey Beyond the Veil
Journal name: Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions
Original article title: Transe en pays spirite / Trance in Spirit Land
The journal “Archives of Social Sciences of Religions� publishes advanced research on religion in French, English, and Spanish. It studies the sociology of religions and religious traditions or theologies. It is supported by the INSHS-CNRS (“Institut des Sciences Humaines et Sociales�)
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Christine Berge
Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions:
(Founded in 1956 and published quarterly�)
Full text available for: Transe en pays spirite / Trance in Spirit Land
Year: 1992
Copyright (license): © Archives de sciences sociales des religions
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Christine Bergé's paper investigates the phenomenon of trance and mediumship within a spiritualist group in Lyon, France, highlighting its cultural significance and impact on participants. The discussion centers on how trance represents an altered state of consciousness where mediums act as conduits for spiritual communication, exploring the educational aspect of trance, its historical contexts, and the structured practices involved.
The Nature of Trance
One key concept presented is the nature of trance itself, characterized as a transitional state that symbolizes a significant inner transformation within the medium. Bergé illustrates that trance involves a shift from ordinary consciousness to a heightened state where individuals become open channels for spiritual entities. This metamorphosis is distinguished from chaotic behavior; rather, it is cultivated through disciplined practices in mediumship schools, where participants learn to manage their mental states to facilitate effective communication with spirits.
Controlled vs. Uncontrolled Trances
Another important aspect discussed is the distinction between controlled and uncontrolled trances. In the structured environment of the spiritualist group, trance sessions are approached with careful preparation and etiquette, defining what constitutes acceptable behavior and communication. This controlled aspect helps mitigate the risks associated with possession, which is viewed as a potential pitfall in spiritualist doctrine. Bergé highlights that the controlled trance fosters a safe and respectful atmosphere for participants, contrasting with more chaotic spiritual experiences found in different cultural contexts.
The Role of the Medium
Bergé also emphasizes the role of the medium as not merely passive but as an active participant in navigating their consciousness. The medium's ability to govern their state of awareness is critical in ensuring that spiritual messages are accurately conveyed. This relationship between the medium and the spirit world is characterized by a dance of recognition, awareness, and intentionality, wherein the medium consciously differentiates between their thoughts and those of the spirit communicating through them. This complex interplay underscores the medium’s responsibility in maintaining a balance during sessions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Christine Bergé’s exploration of trance and mediumship in the context of a Lyon spiritualist group provides valuable insights into the mechanisms and cultural significances of these practices. Trance is framed not simply as an altered state but as a multifaceted phenomenon involving careful preparation, active participation, and the respectful interplay of consciousness with spiritual entities. The paper highlights the need for spiritualists to employ techniques that cultivate awareness and control, forming a ritualistic framework that guides their experiences and conversations with the spirit world.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What does the term 'trance' imply in spiritual practices?
The term 'trance' indicates a transitional state involving an inner change within the body, often signifying the passage of spirits through the medium.
How are trance sessions structured among the spiritualist group in Lyon?
Trance sessions begin with a period of study and discussion, followed by a calm preparation phase where participants enter a meditative state before experiencing the trance.
What is the role of mediums during trance experiences?
Mediums act as channels between the living and spirits, expressing messages from the spirit world. They undergo transformations of voice, gestures, and demeanor during these sessions.
What distinguishes spiritualist trance from possession in spiritual practices?
In spiritualist trance, mediums maintain awareness and control over their consciousness, whereas possession implies a complete takeover by an external spirit, which is viewed as a significant risk in spiritualism.
How is trance viewed within the context of cultural norms?
Trance is considered an alternative state of consciousness that challenges the norms of 'ordinary' consciousness, serving as a means to express culturally constructed representations of spirituality.
What is the significance of the trance experience in spiritualism?
The trance experience enables personal connections with the spirit world, facilitates the sharing of messages, and reinforces beliefs in the survival of the soul, acting as a significant emotional and social phenomenon.
Glossary definitions and references:
Theological and religious glossary list for “Trance in the Spirit Realm: A Journey Beyond the Veil�. The list explains important keywords that occur in this and other scholarly articles. It is also linked to the glossary for understanding that concept in the context of History, Religion, Philosophy, Theology, Sociology etc.
1) Trance:
Trance refers to a state of consciousness that signifies a transformative experience for the medium, allowing for communication with spirits. In spiritualist practices, trance occurs as a controlled form of awareness where the individual enters an altered state to connect with external entities, exemplifying the dynamic interplay between consciousness and the unknown.
2) Consciousness:
Consciousness is the awareness that encompasses thoughts, feelings, and perceptions of the individual during trance states. In the context of mediumship, this awareness becomes a paradoxical blend that allows the medium to operate on multiple levels, relating to both the inner self and external spiritual influences, creating a complex dialogue between the self and other beings.
3) Space:
Space in a spiritualist context denotes the physical and metaphorical environment where trances occur. It is the setting where mediums gather to facilitate communication with spirits and engage in discussions about their experiences. This space is imbued with intentionality, serving as a bridge between different dimensions of existence.
4) Experience:
Experience, particularly within trance practices, involves the direct encounter that mediums undergo when channeling spirits. This experiential process allows for deep engagement with otherworldly elements, highlighting the complexities involved in navigating through both subjective interpretations and external manifestations of spirit communications.
5) Face (Facing, Faced):
The face of the medium often undergoes a metamorphosis during trance, reflecting inner changes linked to the passage of spirits. This facial transformation signifies the emotional and spiritual journey taken within the state of trance, serving as a visible marker of the dual existence between the medium's self and the communicating spirit.
6) Manifest (Manifested, Manifestation, Manifesting):
Manifestation refers to the outward expressions of spirits through mediums in a trance state. These observable signs, whether through speech, gestures, or writing, represent the voices of spirits and are crucial for establishing connections in the spiritualist practice, contributing to the authenticity and depth of the spiritual experience.
7) Spiritual:
Spiritual pertains to the non-material aspects of existence that are explored through practices such as mediumship. It signifies a commitment to understanding the soul's journey and the underlying connections to other realms, facilitated by the trance experience where personal transformation aligns with universal truths.
8) Religion:
Religion contextualizes the spiritualist practice as an organized system of beliefs, rituals, and ethical guidelines that govern the interactions between living individuals and the spiritual realm. It provides the framework within which concepts like trance, communication, and soul evolve, guiding practitioners in their pursuits.
9) Doctrine:
Doctrine encompasses the fundamental beliefs and teachings of spiritualism, particularly those articulated by figures like Allan Kardec. It forms the intellectual foundation for mediums to understand their role and responsibilities, guiding their practices and interpretations of communication during trance states.
10) Soul:
Soul denotes the essence of an individual that is believed to continue existing after physical death. In spiritualism, the concept of the soul is central to understanding the interactions that occur in trance, where mediums act as conduits for spirits, thereby affirming the belief in the persistence of existence beyond the material world.
11) Perception:
Perception refers to the way mediums interpret their experiences and the messages received during trance. It is subjective, influenced by the emotional and mental states of the medium, and is essential for shaping the understanding of spiritual communications, making it a crucial component in the dialogue that unfolds.
12) Emptiness:
Emptiness signifies a mental state reached during the preliminary phases of trance, where mediums create a void within themselves to facilitate the entrance of spirits. This crucial process underscores the need for detachment from personal identity, ensuring that the medium can effectively channel messages from the spiritual realm.
13) Dimension:
Dimension in this context refers to the multiple realms of existence navigated during trance. It signifies the transcendental space where the medium exists simultaneously in both the physical and spiritual worlds, representing the complexity of consciousness that bridges everyday reality and spiritual encounters.
14) Gesture:
Gesture embodies the physical movements made by the medium during trance, often reflecting the emotional and spiritual states associated with spirit communications. These gestures communicate non-verbal signals that enrich the experience for both the medium and the observers, enhancing the understanding of the messages being conveyed.
15) Prayer:
Prayer serves as a foundational practice within spiritualist meetings, used to establish intention and create a protective atmosphere for the work to be done during trance. It represents the communal effort to connect with higher powers, ensuring that the medium's experience is grounded in love and charity.
16) Book:
Book refers to the written texts, such as The Gospel According to Spiritualism and The Book of Mediums, that guide the doctrine and practices within spiritualism. These texts provide essential resources for understanding the principles of mediumship, enhancing the education and foundation on which trances are conducted.
17) Mental health:
Mental health in the context of trance implies the psychological well-being of the medium, crucial for maintaining the balance between personal identity and the experiences of spirit communication. This concept highlights the need for awareness and mastery of one's inner state while engaging with external spiritual influences during trance.
18) Communication (Communicating, Communicate, Communicated):
Communicate pertains to the act of relaying messages from spirits through mediums during trance. This crucial process facilitates the shared understanding between different dimensions of being, illustrating the fundamental role of mediums in spiritual exchanges.
19) Unconscious:
Unconscious refers to the parts of the medium's psyche that remain hidden during the trance state. Distinguishing between expressions that arise from the unconscious and those that represent genuine spirit communication is a vital skill for mediums, emphasizing the complexity of the trance experience.
20) Possession:
Possession indicates a state wherein the spirit temporarily takes control of the medium’s body and identity. In spiritualism, this is closely monitored to prevent negative experiences, emphasizing the importance of mastery over the medium's consciousness to maintain a healthy balance during the transformative process.
21) External:
External refers to the influences and communications that originate outside of the medium. These external messages received during trance indicate the presence of spirits, illustrating the medium's role as a conduit for messages from the other realm, bridging two distinct spheres of existence.
22) Feeling:
Feeling signifies the emotional states experienced by the medium during trance, often evident in their expressions and responses. These feelings inform the quality of the experience, enhancing the personal connection to the spiritual messages being channeled and the overall authenticity of the encounter.
23) Mastery:
Mastery is the skill and control a medium develops over their state of consciousness to effectively facilitate trance and communicate with spirits. This development promotes a sense of confidence and expertise essential for navigating the complexities of spiritual interactions, ultimately enhancing the quality of the mediumistic experience.
24) Health:
Health in this context refers to the overall well-being of the medium during their practice of trance. Maintaining physical, mental, and emotional health is crucial for effectively engaging with spiritual work and ensures that the medium can perform their duties without overwhelming or distressing experiences.
25) White:
White symbolizes purity and often represents the mental space that mediums aim to achieve during trance. It can also relate to the blank slate upon which the medium's experiences and messages are transcribed, highlighting the importance of clarity in spiritual communication.
26) Image:
Image signifies the visual representations or mental pictures that the medium may encounter during trance. These images can serve as precursors to messages from spirits, providing valuable insights into the nature of spirit communications and the experiences being expressed.
27) Mind:
Mind refers to the cognitive processes engaged by the medium during trance, facilitating the interpretation and understanding of spiritual messages. It emphasizes the delicate interplay between conscious and unconscious elements that come into play during mediumistic experiences.
28) Discussion:
Discussion is the process through which group members engage in meaningful dialogue regarding their collective experiences in trance. This communal exchange fosters a deeper understanding of the spiritual messages received, enhancing the learning and interpretation of the trance phenomena for all participants.
29) Dialogue:
Dialogue refers to the active conversation occurring during spiritualist meetings, where mediums share their experiences and insights obtained through trance. This exchange is essential to the learning process, allowing for collaborative exploration of the messages received from spirits.
30) Evening:
Evening denotes the specific time during which trance sessions occur, setting an atmosphere conducive to spiritual work. The tranquility and focused environment of the evening enhance the participants' ability to engage with the spiritual realm and deepen their practices.
31) Machine:
Machine represents the notion of automatism within the medium where the medium operates almost mechanically, channeling spirits without conscious thought. This concept emphasizes the balance needed between awareness and surrender to facilitate effective spirit communication during trance.
32) Devotion (Devoted):
Devoted signifies the commitment exhibited by participants in spiritualist practices, emphasizing their dedication to exploring spirituality through trance. This devotion underlines the seriousness of the work being done and illustrates the importance of focus and intention in connecting with the spiritual world.
33) Breath:
Breath is an essential aspect of maintaining focus and relaxation during trance. The control of breathing aids in achieving a calm state necessary for entering trance and enhances the overall experience of communion between the medium and the spiritual entities they encounter.
34) Depth:
Depth refers to the profound nature of the experiences encountered within the trance state. This concept entails not only the emotional and spiritual dimensions of mediumship but also the intricate layers of communication and understanding that unfold between different realms of existence.
35) Sleeping (Sleep):
Sleep is often contrasted with the state of trance, as mediums may enter a similar state of relaxed awareness without relinquishing full consciousness. Understanding this distinction is vital for recognizing the unique qualities of the trance experience, which resides between waking and sleep states.
36) Anger (Angry):
Angry describes the state in which a spirit may communicate through a medium during trance. This emotional expression highlights the complexity of feelings that can arise in mediumship, serving as a conduit for messages that may promote healing or resolution.
37) Human:
Human pertains to the nature of the experience shared between mediums and the spirits contacted during trance. It underscores the intrinsic qualities of empathy and understanding essential for interpretations and communications that foster connections across different existential dimensions.
38) Pari:
[see source text or glossary: #Pari#]
39) Love:
Love denotes the emotional foundation that supports spiritualist practices, guiding the intentions behind trance work. It is a fundamental principle renown in prayers and interactions between mediums and spirits, enhancing the quality and purity of the messages being communicated.
40) Palm:
Palm can refer to the gestures made by mediums as they channel spirits, particularly during the expression of emotions or intentions. The movement of the palm holds significance in spiritual symbolism, illustrating the connection between physical actions and spiritual communications.
41) Personal experience:
Personal experience highlights the subjective encounters that mediums undergo during trance, representing the unique interpretations and transformations shaped by individual consciousness. This emphasis on personal involvement is vital in understanding the humanities of mediumship and spirit interactions.
42) External sign:
External sign refers to the visible manifestations that occur during trance as evidence of spirit communication. These signs serve as confirmations for both the mediums and the participants, providing validation of the experiences taking place and the messages being conveyed.
43) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
Transformation indicates the deep, often profound personal changes that individuals undergo during trance. It signifies the shifts in identity and consciousness as mediums integrate their experiences of the spiritual world into their understanding of the self.
44) Determination:
Determination is the resolute intent exhibited by mediums as they engage in trance work, signifying their commitment to learning and mastering the art of communication with spirits. This determination is essential for navigating the complexities involved in the spiritual practices.
45) Conversation:
Conversation reflects the dynamic exchanges that occur within a group during trance gatherings. These dialogues are vital in sharing insights related to spirit communications, fostering understanding and collective growth among participants as they interpret their experiences.
46) Recollection:
Recollection indicates the process whereby mediums may recall their experiences and the messages received during trance. This cognitive act allows the mediums to analyze their journey and integrate insights gained from their interactions with spirits into their understanding of reality.
47) Ungraspable:
Ungraspable highlights the elusive nature of the experiences encountered during trance. This term signifies the challenges mediums face in articulating their encounters with spirits, emphasizing the inherent complexities of bridging the tangible and intangible aspects of spiritual communication.
48) Detachment:
Detachment refers to the state achieved by mediums as they transition from their ordinary selves to make space for spirit communication. This quality enables them to attain a position of neutrality, allowing for clearer connections with spirits without their personal biases interrupting the message.
49) Figurative:
Figurative implies the symbolic expressions often observed during trance, where mediums may use gestures and non-verbal cues to convey the essence of spirit communications. This element of figurative expression enriches the overall experience, adding layers of meaning to the interaction.
50) Separation (Separateness, Separate, Separated):
Separation denotes the distinction maintained between the medium's consciousness and that of the spirit during trance. The careful management of this separation allows mediums to navigate their identities and communicate clearly, underscoring the balance essential in spiritual practices.
51) Confession:
Confession relates to the process through which individuals share their fears, hopes, and feelings with spirits during trance. This act serves as a means of catharsis and allows for open communication, fostering healing and understanding in the context of spirit interactions.
52) Inference:
Inference involves the interpretative process that both mediums and participants engage in when deciphering messages received during trance. This cognitive effort is essential for extracting meaning from the communications that take place and understanding their implications across different contexts.
53) Evolution:
Evolution signifies the ongoing development of mediumistic practice and understanding within the spiritualist community. This concept reflects the growth of knowledge and skills associated with trance, emphasizing the importance of learning from experiences and adapting practices accordingly.
54) Education:
Education emphasizes the learning process inherent in mediumship and trance practices. It highlights the importance of knowledge acquisition, skill development, and understanding spiritual doctrine, ensuring that mediums can perform their roles effectively and responsibly.
55) Breathing:
Breathing is an integral part of the preparatory process for trance, serving to calm the medium and facilitate focus. Controlled breath allows the medium to achieve a relaxed state conducive for aligning their consciousness with the spiritual work at hand.
56) Existence:
Existence pertains to the overarching theme of life's continuity explored through spiritualist practices. It blurs the line between life and death, allowing mediums to investigate and communicate with spirits, enriching their understanding of life beyond the physical realm.
57) Sensation:
Sensation encompasses the physical and emotional experiences that arise during trance, particularly as mediums channel spirits. These sensations inform the communications and interpretations within the mediumistic context, highlighting the diverse ways interactions manifest.
58) Imaginary:
Imaginary relates to the creative visions and mental representations that mediums may encounter during trance. This imaginary aspect plays a crucial role in the spiritual communications process, often guiding the mediums in their interpretations and understanding.
59) Painting:
Painting can symbolize the act of creating visual expressions during trance, where mediums may channel artistic messages from spirits. This creative process reflects the broader theme of mediumistic expression and the relationship between spirituality and art.
60) Forehead:
Forehead refers to the physical manifestation of emotions and experiences during trance, where the medium's brow may furrow or relax as spirits communicate. The forehead becomes a canvas through which the internal emotional landscape is projected during these transformative moments.
61) Exercise:
Exercise highlights the practice and repetition of trance techniques aimed at honing the skills required for effective spirit communication. It signifies the dedication mediums must apply to master the art of transmuting their consciousness for spiritual dialogue.
62) Shoulder:
Shoulder may symbolize the physical tension or release as the medium experiences emotional labor during trance. The sensations in this area can indicate the depth of engagement and the transition between personal experiences and spirit communication.
63) Crossing (Cross over):
Crossing signifies the movement between different realms of existence during trance, where mediums navigate the space between life and death. This crossing symbolizes the passage of spirit messages, illustrating the profound interconnectedness of all beings across dimensions.
64) Universe:
Universe refers to the broader cosmic framework within which spiritualist practices operate. It embodies the interconnectedness of all life and spirit, encompassing the experiences and phenomena observed during trance as mediums engage with various entities.
65) Kindness:
Kindness embodies the emotional tone present in spiritualist practices and communications. This foundational quality supports the compassionate interactions between mediums and spirits, enriching the messages conveyed and fostering healing within the group.
66) Identity:
Identity pertains to the construction of self that evolves during trance experiences, as mediums often take on different roles or personas. This fluidity showcases the complexity of the self within spiritualist practices, where personal identity intertwines with spiritual experiences.
67) Disease:
Disease can metaphorically signify the disruptions experienced in one's consciousness outside of trance, representing the psychological and emotional struggles that mediums may face in their personal lives. Understanding these challenges is essential for maintaining balance during spiritual practices.
68) Yawning:
Yawning may occur as mediums transition between states of awareness, often indicating a shift in consciousness. It serves as a physical manifestation of the mental changes occurring during trance, marking the channeling and reception of spirit communications.
69) Triumph:
Triumph signifies the successful navigation through trance processes and the meaningful connections established with spirits. This notion embodies the accomplishment felt by mediums as they engage with the spiritual realm, highlighting the fulfillment derived from their work.
70) Fatigue:
Fatigue represents the potential physical and mental exhaustion that mediums may encounter during and after trance work. It highlights the necessity for balance and self-care in the pursuit of spiritual exploration, ensuring that mediums remain grounded in their practices.
71) Hundred:
[see source text or glossary: #Hundred#]
72) Charity:
Charity embodies the altruistic intentions underscoring spiritualist practices, providing a guiding principle during trance. This value nurtures empathy and compassion, framing the interactions between mediums, spirits, and group members within a context of healing and support.
73) Release:
Release refers to the act of letting go during trance, allowing the spirits to communicate through the medium. This process underscores the importance of detachment and surrender in fostering connections with the spiritual realm, facilitating authentic messages to emerge.
74) Family:
[see source text or glossary: #Family#]
75) Nature:
Nature signifies the complexities of human existence as explored through mediums during trance. This interplay highlights the inherent connections between spirituality, personal experience, and the broader questions about life, death, and the divine.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 96]