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Spiritualism
Director's Introduction
The character Jarrad in Divine Curse is based on several spiritualists
I know. The story attempts to show their frustration with
"divine gifts", mainly arising from high expectations and
a steep learning curve.
I find the concept of an existence after death more real after
spending time with these people and reading of others' experiences.
This is no crutch for a weak-minded person. This is an open
mind saying "What are the ramifications if this is true?".
For me quite simply, debate over life after death is like
debate over the world being round.
In more orthodox views, spiritualism is the work of the devil
and indeed mediumship purely for the sport of contacting the
dead can be risky if not conducted with an overarching belief
system. At the very least , it is probably a waste of innate
talents if not put to good use.
I hope to make a lot more films that deal with this core theme
in an entertaining way. Its my way of throwing open ordinary
arguments about politics, justice, hardship and death to the
mystery of the universe.
Below are some terms from the film that may have not seemed
clear. These are my interpretations and I am open to correction
by those
more widely read or experienced than I.
Spirit
This describes the form of existence we are supposed to take
after death. It is different to a ghost which is a form of
lost spirit (see below). In Near Death Experiences (NDE),
many report seeing a light to which they are drawn, often
accompanied by a tunnel and a sense of flying. This is known
as "passing over" and is the journey of the soul (and self)
as it leaves the body.
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Clairaudience
The ability to hear spirit, almost as conversation or sometimes
via automatic writing in which a spiritualist with eyes closed
can write messages.
Clairvoyance
The ability to see a spirit including form, facial expressions
and movement.
Lost Spirits
Also known as a ghost, this is a disembodied soul which has
failed to pass over, either through ignorance about the light,
the suddenness of death, or in some cases fear of the consequences
of a badly lived life.
Psychically Open
Every person is psychically sensitive to a greater or lesser
extent. For some, the experience is vivid either through visions
or voices, while for others they sense nothing more than itchiness
or "shivers". Sensitivity can be enhanced through meditation
but a cautionary note : seek assistance from established spiritualist
groups before "going alone". Their advice can counter any fear
arising from your initial experiences, fear which may put you
off for life. Read more and most importantly, maintain a healthy
scepticsm.
Channelling
When a spirit takes over the medium's body and speaks using
their voice. Not strictly what was shown in Divine Curse, which
instead protrayed visions arising from meditation. |
