Peeling the Onion

Gnostic perception can be compared to peeling away the layers of an onion. We can think of “All That Is” as an onion. At the heart of the onion is Source. Moving out from Source are multiple layers of creation all the way to the surface of the onion. We begin life at the surface. If we desire to do so - we can begin working toward the center – peeling away one layer of the onion after another. Each layer is real. Each layer is integral. Each layer is supported by those beneath it – all the way to Source. Each layer you peel away takes you closer to God.

If you wish – you can remain your whole life at the surface of the onion. Many people do. There is nothing wrong with that. Understanding the outermost layer gives you a common sense view of reality. It provides a consensual perception of the world. However, if you have Gnostic inclinations – you will ask – “yes, but what is behind what I see on the surface? Answering that question initiates the peeling away process.

It is interesting to note that each layer of the onion is what it is. When we discover it – we use whatever words we have in our vocabulary to describe it. However – our perception is not a matter of belief or faith. We simply describe what we have encountered. A layer is just what it is. Perceiving it simply means describing your experience. That is why Gnosticism in Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism or Buddhism is the same Gnosticism. No beliefs are involved in Gnosticism. No particular practices are required.

To say you are a Gnostic, is to simply say you are on a voyage to the Center – to Source. It means you love God and want to understand more about God’s creation. I am a Christian Gnostic – but I travel with Gnostics of many different religious persuasions and we share much in common. Gnosticism is not about a religion or any particular belief system. Gnostics are like mountain climbers. They may come from many different religious persuasions, but they are climbing the same mountain together and they are sharing their observations and their stories as they travel along. They provide assistance to one another, when it is needed. They all hope to get to the top of the mountain together.

Gnostics do not attempt to persuade others to begin the journey. Gnostics know that potential candidates must be “ripe” before they commence such an arduous effort.

Most Gnostics will extend some kind of help to “seekers” they encounter on the path. However, they usually discourage those who are merely curious or who are already satisfied with their lives.

If you believe you already know – you are not a candidate for Gnosticism. You should take the comfort of your current beliefs and avoid further inquiries. Gnosticism is not for “true believers.” True believers live on the surface of the onion. That is O.K. We should not disturb their rest. When their time of “quickening” arrives – it is then appropriate to introduce them to Gnosticism. No true Gnostic believes he/she is any better or any worse than any one else in the universe. No one is special. We are all simply at different points in the journey to the center of the onion.

Nor, do Gnostics believe that Gnosticism replaces religion. Gnosticism is a type of inner perception – no more and no less.

Leland Kaiser