Epistemology

We are unaware of the effects of our actions because “effects” refers to people’s ways, signs, and intentions—things anyone can discern by sharpening their perception. It is possible to attain this degree of awareness in this world, and God records both people’s actions and their effects.

The faculty of imagination is like a screen that reflects the heart: it displays whatever is on the network to which the heart is connected. When the heart is guided by reason, it connects to the realm of the unseen and becomes receptive to divine inspiration. This connection gives rise to true imaginings and thoughts, both in sleep and while awake. The stronger one’s reason and noble character, the clearer and truer one’s imaginings become.

At the beginning of creation, creatures had the capacity to grow and were meant to move toward a higher station. Some fulfilled this potential, while others fell. Human beings, too, stumbled at this stage; after their fall in rank, they must begin their journey of spiritual growth.