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T h e D a i l y B e l l N e w
T h e D a i l y B e l l N e w
s w
s w
i r e - I t ' s F R
i r e - I t ' s F R
E E
E E
!
!
J e f f r e y A r m s t
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g o n t
r o n g o n t h e M y s t e r i e s o f
h e M y s t e r i e s o f I n d i a n
I n d i a n
C
Cu l t u r e , t
u l t u r e , t h e
h e R
Re l e v a n c e
e l e v a n c e o f
o f H i n d u V e d a s
H i n d u V e d a s a n d
a n d t h e
t h e
R
Re a l i t y o f
e a l i t y o f A n c i e n t
A n c i e n t F
Fl y i n g M a c h i n e s
l y i n g M a c h i n e s
Sunday, December 19, 2010 – with
Sunday, December 19, 2010 – with Anthony WileAnthony Wile
The Daily Bell
The Daily Bell
is pleased to
is pleased to
present an exclusive
present an exclusive
interview
interview
with
with
Jeffrey Armstrong (left).
Jeffrey Armstrong (left).
Introduction:
Introduction:
Jeffrey Armstrong is an award-winning author of
Jeffrey Armstrong is an award-winning author of
numerous books on Vedic knowledge including his recent book:
numerous books on Vedic knowledge including his recent book:
Spiritual Teachings of the Avatar, Ancient Wisdom for a New World.
Spiritual Teachings of the Avatar, Ancient Wisdom for a New World.
He is a philosopher, practitioner and teacher of the Vedas for the
He is a philosopher, practitioner and teacher of the Vedas for the
past 40
past 40
years. He
years. He
has degrees in
has degrees in
Psychology, History
Psychology, History
&
&
Comparative Religions, and Literature and had a successful career
Comparative Religions, and Literature and had a successful career
as an executive in Silicon Valley before turning to teaching full time.
as an executive in Silicon Valley before turning to teaching full time.
Jeffrey Armstrong (Kavindra Rishi) is the founder of VASA – Vedic
Jeffrey Armstrong (Kavindra Rishi) is the founder of VASA – Vedic
Academy of Sciences &
Academy of Sciences &
Arts in
Arts in
Vancouver Canada.
Vancouver Canada.
His work aims
His work aims
at promoting
at promoting
higher
higher
education in the Vedic sciences, showing their roots in Veda and Vedanta, taking an integrated
education in the Vedic sciences, showing their roots in Veda and Vedanta, taking an integrated
approach with
approach with
the different Vedic disciplines. As
the different Vedic disciplines. As
the Vice
the Vice
President and International
President and International
Media
Media
Coordinator for the Vedic Friends Association (VFA), Jeffrey Armstrong is a global advocate for
Coordinator for the Vedic Friends Association (VFA), Jeffrey Armstrong is a global advocate for
the Sanatana Dharma Culture.
the Sanatana Dharma Culture.
D a i l y B e l l :
D a i l y B e l l :
Give us some background, where did you grow up?
Give us some background, where did you grow up?
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
I am one of those people that people often ask: How did you do all that
I am one of those people that people often ask: How did you do all that
in one
in one
life? I
life? I
was born
was born
in Detroit, Michigan
in Detroit, Michigan
and by the
and by the
time I
time I
was 13
was 13
I
I
had
had
become
become
more
more
interested than anyone I knew in questions such as: Who are we? Why are we here? What is
interested than anyone I knew in questions such as: Who are we? Why are we here? What is
life? I was a philosopher in the making, but I sure wasn't surrounded by many others in the
life? I was a philosopher in the making, but I sure wasn't surrounded by many others in the
suburbs of Detroit. Eventually, everything I did became directed toward answering these
suburbs of Detroit. Eventually, everything I did became directed toward answering these
questions.
questions.
D a i l y B e l l :
D a i l y B e l l :
Did you focus on these issues in college?
Did you focus on these issues in college?
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
I went off to university and spent five years working on a double major,
I went off to university and spent five years working on a double major,
one in psychology and one in creative writing, literature, and poetry. During that time – which
one in psychology and one in creative writing, literature, and poetry. During that time – which
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was also the 60s – I was intensely involved in social developments and what was going on in
was also the 60s – I was intensely involved in social developments and what was going on in
the world and the experiences of the time. From that I was led, in almost every subject that I
the world and the experiences of the time. From that I was led, in almost every subject that I
entered into, toward India. It is my opinion that if one studies most any modern subject with real
entered into, toward India. It is my opinion that if one studies most any modern subject with real
diligence, they will be led, as I was, to India. India has the largest simultaneously scientific and
diligence, they will be led, as I was, to India. India has the largest simultaneously scientific and
spiritual 'library' known to exist.
spiritual 'library' known to exist.
I then spent five years in a Yoga ashram, as a celibate monk, being trained in the knowledge
I then spent five years in a Yoga ashram, as a celibate monk, being trained in the knowledge
and practices of India. At the end of that time I spent two years learning Vedic Astrology. In the
and practices of India. At the end of that time I spent two years learning Vedic Astrology. In the
west, Astrology is mostly considered entertainment but in India it is a very serious and rigorous
west, Astrology is mostly considered entertainment but in India it is a very serious and rigorous
science. Then I went back for another degree in History and Comparative Religion where I spent
science. Then I went back for another degree in History and Comparative Religion where I spent
3 more years and then a year of graduate work in South Asian studies at the University of
3 more years and then a year of graduate work in South Asian studies at the University of
Wisconsin. I also studied modern dance, various forms of martial arts, fencing, Chinese herbal
Wisconsin. I also studied modern dance, various forms of martial arts, fencing, Chinese herbal
studies and rode and trained horses for many years.
studies and rode and trained horses for many years.
Starting in
Starting in
1980 I
1980 I
began working
began working
in
in
corporatio
corporatio
ns
ns
in
in
Silicon Valley.
Silicon Valley.
I
I
first
first
worked
worked
for
for
Apple
Apple
Computer as their Middle Eastern Sales Manager and then spent the next 7 years at the heart
Computer as their Middle Eastern Sales Manager and then spent the next 7 years at the heart
of the explosion of Silicon Valley, in various Executive Sales & Marketing positions. Finally, I
of the explosion of Silicon Valley, in various Executive Sales & Marketing positions. Finally, I
decided I would prefer to work outside the corporation, as a consultant, rather than inside. So, I
decided I would prefer to work outside the corporation, as a consultant, rather than inside. So, I
built a
built a
career for
career for
myself as
myself as
a
a
corporate motivationa
corporate motivationa
l
l
speaker
speaker
and spent the
and spent the
next
next
10
10
years
years
speaking to Fortune 500 companies around the world. That was my work until 14 years ago,
speaking to Fortune 500 companies around the world. That was my work until 14 years ago,
when I made the commitment to be a full time spiritual teacher. During all these years, I have
when I made the commitment to be a full time spiritual teacher. During all these years, I have
been an avid Mystical poet and have written over 1,600 poems describing the philosophy of
been an avid Mystical poet and have written over 1,600 poems describing the philosophy of
India in modern English.
India in modern English.
D a i l y B e l l :
D a i l y B e l l :
How did you get interested in Indian culture and
How did you get interested in Indian culture and
religion
religion
?
?
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
Religion
Religion
is the wrong word to use for India's teachings. Religion is a
is the wrong word to use for India's teachings. Religion is a
word that is more accurately applied to the Middle Eastern Abrahamic cultures. Judaism,
word that is more accurately applied to the Middle Eastern Abrahamic cultures. Judaism,
Christianity and Islam are religions. The origin of the word religion, from the Latin, is
Christianity and Islam are religions. The origin of the word religion, from the Latin, is
re-legare
re-legare
(a
(a
legalistic system of rules given by God) or '
legalistic system of rules given by God) or '
bound by rules
bound by rules
.' Re = tied up or connected by, and
.' Re = tied up or connected by, and
ligion =
ligion =
legare =
legare =
ligam
ligam
ents = to tie
ents = to tie
, bind or bandage
, bind or bandage
. The usual idea is that the practitioner of a
. The usual idea is that the practitioner of a
religion is
religion is
bound up
bound up
in rules or laws. This especially applies to the three Abrahamic religions of
in rules or laws. This especially applies to the three Abrahamic religions of
Judaism, Christianity and Islam, whereas the spiritual practices of India are called a Dharma
Judaism, Christianity and Islam, whereas the spiritual practices of India are called a Dharma
Culture. The main difference is religions generally have one book of rules and stories whereas a
Culture. The main difference is religions generally have one book of rules and stories whereas a
Dharma culture has a library of spiritual and material knowledge aimed at understanding who we
Dharma culture has a library of spiritual and material knowledge aimed at understanding who we
really are and how to properly use everything around us. The phrase Dharma Culture is a more
really are and how to properly use everything around us. The phrase Dharma Culture is a more
accurate descriptor for India, as compared to the 'Indian religion' or 'Hindu religion.'
accurate descriptor for India, as compared to the 'Indian religion' or 'Hindu religion.'
At the core of the Abrahamic Religions is a set of rules given by God that we are told we must
At the core of the Abrahamic Religions is a set of rules given by God that we are told we must
follow because a specific vision of God and His prophet said so. That is not the basis of the
follow because a specific vision of God and His prophet said so. That is not the basis of the
Vedic Spiritual Library of India.
Vedic Spiritual Library of India.
India does
India does
not
not
have a
have a
single book or
single book or
an
an
authoritarian/disciplinarian God, it uses an entirely different approach to the question of who we
authoritarian/disciplinarian God, it uses an entirely different approach to the question of who we
are and
are and
it
it
is
is
certainly more
certainly more
philosop
philosop
hical
hical
than a
than a
Religion, but
Religion, but
it
it
also
also
contains
contains
many
many
other
other
components. It has a library of self-actualizing sacred knowledge, rather than just one dogmatic
components. It has a library of self-actualizing sacred knowledge, rather than just one dogmatic
book.
book.
D a i l y B e l l :
D a i l y B e l l :
What do you believe in and why? What application does it have to the West?
What do you believe in and why? What application does it have to the West?
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
My lifelong effort has been to try to find things that are universally true
My lifelong effort has been to try to find things that are universally true
rather than relatively true and I believe that the largest library of that information exists in India
rather than relatively true and I believe that the largest library of that information exists in India
in spite of the fact that India is a very fragmented culture right now due in large part to 1200
in spite of the fact that India is a very fragmented culture right now due in large part to 1200
years of violent colonization by outside invading forces. This library of knowledge stretches back
years of violent colonization by outside invading forces. This library of knowledge stretches back
for thousands and thousands of years and is, as far as I know, the largest repository of the
for thousands and thousands of years and is, as far as I know, the largest repository of the
universal truth that exists on our planet.
universal truth that exists on our planet.
What we now call the West is the outgrowth of a tribal or city/state approach to living on the
What we now call the West is the outgrowth of a tribal or city/state approach to living on the
planet. This means if you take care of your tribe, you are seen as good. So, to all those tribes
planet. This means if you take care of your tribe, you are seen as good. So, to all those tribes
who were fighting against each other for thousands of years in a series of wars, that essentially
who were fighting against each other for thousands of years in a series of wars, that essentially
meant that as long as the spoils of the wars were brought back and shared amongst the tribe,
meant that as long as the spoils of the wars were brought back and shared amongst the tribe,
they were good. Alexander the Great was a prime example of this. He went out to rape, pillage
they were good. Alexander the Great was a prime example of this. He went out to rape, pillage
and conquer, and was a monster to the rest of the world, but was considered great by his
and conquer, and was a monster to the rest of the world, but was considered great by his
people, hence the name. He was really great at being a warmonger, and a rapist and a pillager.
people, hence the name. He was really great at being a warmonger, and a rapist and a pillager.
But he brought his people back the spoils of war. India, on the other hand, is the only culture of
But he brought his people back the spoils of war. India, on the other hand, is the only culture of
its size in the world that has never gone out and tried to spread its beliefs by war. In fact, it has
its size in the world that has never gone out and tried to spread its beliefs by war. In fact, it has
consistently given shelter to anyone from any culture. So, to compare histories, the west is a
consistently given shelter to anyone from any culture. So, to compare histories, the west is a
competitive, war-based civilization and India has been a nurturing, cooperation-based civilization
competitive, war-based civilization and India has been a nurturing, cooperation-based civilization
on an epic scale. I am involved in the process of practicing and transferring that cooperative
on an epic scale. I am involved in the process of practicing and transferring that cooperative
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culture of India to the war-based culture of the west at a crucial time when it is needed very
culture of India to the war-based culture of the west at a crucial time when it is needed very
much.
much.
D a i l y B e l l :
D a i l y B e l l :
Let us go back in time. How old is humankind?
Let us go back in time. How old is humankind?
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
This is one of the most striking things about India. Indians of pre-modern
This is one of the most striking things about India. Indians of pre-modern
history calculated the age of the universe in trillions of years. This is also the culture that gave
history calculated the age of the universe in trillions of years. This is also the culture that gave
us zero, the numerals that we use – so-called Arabic have their roots in India – as do
us zero, the numerals that we use – so-called Arabic have their roots in India – as do
trigonometry and calculus, astronomical calculation and a view that says the universe is not only
trigonometry and calculus, astronomical calculation and a view that says the universe is not only
billions, but trillions of years in age and that we are eternal beings who are simply visiting the
billions, but trillions of years in age and that we are eternal beings who are simply visiting the
material world to have the experience of being here. So, the point is, India holds a massive
material world to have the experience of being here. So, the point is, India holds a massive
cosmological view of us – and that humans have existed for trillions of years, in varying stages
cosmological view of us – and that humans have existed for trillions of years, in varying stages
of existence. And further, over time humans will continue to populate the many universes again
of existence. And further, over time humans will continue to populate the many universes again
and again.
and again.
D a i l y B e l l :
D a i l y B e l l :
You wrote a book about this. Can you explain?
You wrote a book about this. Can you explain?
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
The book I wrote is called: The Spiritual Teachings of the Avatar,
The book I wrote is called: The Spiritual Teachings of the Avatar,
publishe
publishe
d
d
by Atria/Beyond Words an imprint of
by Atria/Beyond Words an imprint of
Simon and Schuster. The word Avatar means
Simon and Schuster. The word Avatar means
the
the
descent of the Transcendental Divine or Supreme Being to the Earth for the purpose of
descent of the Transcendental Divine or Supreme Being to the Earth for the purpose of
revealing things we need to know about both living here and the nature of the Transcendental
revealing things we need to know about both living here and the nature of the Transcendental
itself. In other words, to inform us of that which is currently beyond our sight.
itself. In other words, to inform us of that which is currently beyond our sight.
D a i l y B e l l :
D a i l y B e l l :
Are there lost Indian cities under the sea?
Are there lost Indian cities under the sea?
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
There is at least one that was discovered in 2001 in the Bay of Cambay,
There is at least one that was discovered in 2001 in the Bay of Cambay,
which is off the west coast of India. In a routine, environmental scan of the bottom of the sea, a
which is off the west coast of India. In a routine, environmental scan of the bottom of the sea, a
city was discovered which turns out to have the largest megalithic stones of any city in ancient
city was discovered which turns out to have the largest megalithic stones of any city in ancient
times; artifacts were dated to about 10,000 years ago. This find hasn't yet been recognized in
times; artifacts were dated to about 10,000 years ago. This find hasn't yet been recognized in
mainstream intellectual and academic circles but is nonetheless a momentous discovery which I
mainstream intellectual and academic circles but is nonetheless a momentous discovery which I
am sure will eventually contribute to the review of our current theories of the age of human
am sure will eventually contribute to the review of our current theories of the age of human
civilization. The city sits in about 150 feet of water, which indicates it was built before the last
civilization. The city sits in about 150 feet of water, which indicates it was built before the last
melting of the polar ice caps, which most geologists date conservatively at about 12,000 years
melting of the polar ice caps, which most geologists date conservatively at about 12,000 years
ago. It appears to have had a building format similar to the cities of Harappa and Mohendro
ago. It appears to have had a building format similar to the cities of Harappa and Mohendro
Daro
(3000-Daro (3000-
5000 BCE), which were
5000 BCE), which were
previously thoug
previously thoug
ht to be
ht to be
the oldest cities of India
the oldest cities of India
(and
(and
located in what is now called Pakistan). But this underwater city off the coast of India suggests,
located in what is now called Pakistan). But this underwater city off the coast of India suggests,
conservat
conservat
ively, 15,000 years of sophisticated human history in
ively, 15,000 years of sophisticated human history in
India.
India.
D a i l y B e l l :
D a i l y B e l l :
Did the ancient Indians know how to fly and to build flying machines? Are there
Did the ancient Indians know how to fly and to build flying machines? Are there
replicas of these machines on the
replicas of these machines on the
tops of ancient temples?
tops of ancient temples?
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
On the latter question, I am not sure I have heard that there are replicas
On the latter question, I am not sure I have heard that there are replicas
of the airplanes or Vimanas as they were referred to in the epic histories of India. But there are
of the airplanes or Vimanas as they were referred to in the epic histories of India. But there are
two
two
Indian epics, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, the two
Indian epics, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, the two
epic poems that supposedly took
epic poems that supposedly took
place 5,000 years ago and over 1.2 million years ago in India, and the Ramayana actually
place 5,000 years ago and over 1.2 million years ago in India, and the Ramayana actually
begins with a scene in which a very sophisticated stolen airplane is being flown all over the
begins with a scene in which a very sophisticated stolen airplane is being flown all over the
Earth. Such ancient stories, thousands and thousands of years old, have no logical reason for
Earth. Such ancient stories, thousands and thousands of years old, have no logical reason for
talking about airplanes in any modern sense. Yet they do.
talking about airplanes in any modern sense. Yet they do.
D a i l y B e l l :
D a i l y B e l l :
Did this civilization possess nuclear weapons?
Did this civilization possess nuclear weapons?
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
It did not possess nuclear weapons as we know them and there is no
It did not possess nuclear weapons as we know them and there is no
evidence that India cultivated radium or other atomic materials at all. There is reference to a
evidence that India cultivated radium or other atomic materials at all. There is reference to a
particular kind of mantra-based weapon that was used along with bows and arrows and is called
particular kind of mantra-based weapon that was used along with bows and arrows and is called
a "Brahmastra." This weapon supposedly could release nuclear-like energy with pinpoint
a "Brahmastra." This weapon supposedly could release nuclear-like energy with pinpoint
accuracy. So not exactly nuclear, but its use produces the same consequence of bringing an
accuracy. So not exactly nuclear, but its use produces the same consequence of bringing an
intensely powerful explosion to a targeted area: complete and fiery destruction. But in the epics
intensely powerful explosion to a targeted area: complete and fiery destruction. But in the epics
there is
there is
nothing that resembles the nuclear reactors or
nothing that resembles the nuclear reactors or
nuclear contamina
nuclear contamina
tion we see today. India
tion we see today. India
is also unique
is also unique
in that,
in that,
historicall
historicall
y, none of their
y, none of their
wars were
wars were
fought with
fought with
or agains
or agains
t
t
civilian
civilian
populations. Even in the massive Mahabharata war, warriors fought warriors on a sequestered
populations. Even in the massive Mahabharata war, warriors fought warriors on a sequestered
field of battle,
field of battle,
leaving civilians untouched.
leaving civilians untouched.
D a i l y B e l l :
D a i l y B e l l :
Are there lost power sources and other ancient technologies that we could perhaps
Are there lost power sources and other ancient technologies that we could perhaps
reclaim with enough study?
reclaim with enough study?
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
This is a question that is once again coming to light. For example, there
This is a question that is once again coming to light. For example, there
is a recent though controversial book out called
a British submarine captain, Gavin Menzies. Regardless, China and India had very sophisticated
a British submarine captain, Gavin Menzies. Regardless, China and India had very sophisticated
sea faring technology, which is
sea faring technology, which is
now proven, and with
now proven, and with
that technology and with
that technology and with
the
the
many
many
inventions that both cultures created, it is becoming more and more clear that there was an
inventions that both cultures created, it is becoming more and more clear that there was an
extensive technological culture at an earlier time period in history than generally thought, that
extensive technological culture at an earlier time period in history than generally thought, that
was spread all over the planet. It is now considered very likely that China and India had the
was spread all over the planet. It is now considered very likely that China and India had the
ability to circumnavigate the entire planet. The ships that were launched from China in 1423
ability to circumnavigate the entire planet. The ships that were launched from China in 1423
were 300 feet long and double-hulled and could stay at sea for 300 days at a time. Menzies
were 300 feet long and double-hulled and could stay at sea for 300 days at a time. Menzies
further suggests that many inventions attributed to Leonardo de Vinci were actually from a book
further suggests that many inventions attributed to Leonardo de Vinci were actually from a book
that the Chinese brought to Italy in 1423 on a global, seafaring expedition. Either way, China and
that the Chinese brought to Italy in 1423 on a global, seafaring expedition. Either way, China and
India and Egypt appear to have had sophisticated technologies for thousands and thousands of
India and Egypt appear to have had sophisticated technologies for thousands and thousands of
years before modern times. And for the record, it is also common historical knowledge that both
years before modern times. And for the record, it is also common historical knowledge that both
Egypt and China acknowledge their debt to India as the oldest culture.
Egypt and China acknowledge their debt to India as the oldest culture.
D a i l y B e l l :
D a i l y B e l l :
How were the great stone blocks used by ancient builders moved from place to
How were the great stone blocks used by ancient builders moved from place to
place?
place?
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
This still remains a mystery. There are actually conjectures that this was
This still remains a mystery. There are actually conjectures that this was
done with so-called psychic ability and powerful sound vibrations called mantras, yet there is no
done with so-called psychic ability and powerful sound vibrations called mantras, yet there is no
proof of this
proof of this
theory. All that
theory. All that
aside, so-called modern man
aside, so-called modern man
constant
constant
ly and
ly and
profound
profound
ly
ly
underesti
underesti
mates the brilliance
mates the brilliance
of so-
of so-
called primitive man.
called primitive man.
D a i l y B e l l :
D a i l y B e l l :
What happened to this ancient civilization?
What happened to this ancient civilization?
Was it worldwide?
Was it worldwide?
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
There is a lot of evidence that it was global and as I mentioned many
There is a lot of evidence that it was global and as I mentioned many
were
were
seafaring and
seafaring and
using
using
extremely accurate
extremely accurate
astronomic
astronomic
al,
al,
heliocen
heliocen
tric calculations
tric calculations
for
for
both
both
Earth and celestial motions, indicating an understanding that the Sun is at the center of the solar
Earth and celestial motions, indicating an understanding that the Sun is at the center of the solar
system and that the Earth is round. Elliptical orbits were also calculated for all moving celestial
system and that the Earth is round. Elliptical orbits were also calculated for all moving celestial
bodies. The findings are remarkable. What India calculated thousands of years ago, for example
bodies. The findings are remarkable. What India calculated thousands of years ago, for example
the wobble of the Earth's axis, which creates the movement called precession of the equinoxes
the wobble of the Earth's axis, which creates the movement called precession of the equinoxes
– the slowly changing motion that completes one cycle every 25,920 years – has only recently
– the slowly changing motion that completes one cycle every 25,920 years – has only recently
been validate
been validate
d
d
by modern
by modern
science.
science.
Was this knowledge given to them by divine beings as they claim? Was there inter-galactic
Was this knowledge given to them by divine beings as they claim? Was there inter-galactic
travel? Did the people in India have contact with beings or knowledge from other planets? We
travel? Did the people in India have contact with beings or knowledge from other planets? We
don't know, but what is certain is that they had mathematical/astronomical understanding that is
don't know, but what is certain is that they had mathematical/astronomical understanding that is
extremely precise and agrees with many of the results of astronomy today. There is no other
extremely precise and agrees with many of the results of astronomy today. There is no other
way to explain why India and these ancient cultures would have such precise knowledge other
way to explain why India and these ancient cultures would have such precise knowledge other
than the fact that they were in a period of impressive technology and culture beyond our present
than the fact that they were in a period of impressive technology and culture beyond our present
understanding.
understanding.
D a i l y B e l l :
D a i l y B e l l :
The
The
modern
modern
Hindu spirituality is
Hindu spirituality is
a
a
reflection of
reflection of
this
this
ancient
ancient
civilization
civilization
and
and
its
its
knowledge?
knowledge?
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
Reflection is probably a good word because India has been aggressively
Reflection is probably a good word because India has been aggressively
colonized for the last 1200 years. Some scholars have suggested that as many as 60 million
colonized for the last 1200 years. Some scholars have suggested that as many as 60 million
people died in the process of both the Muslim and British colonization of India. Whatever the
people died in the process of both the Muslim and British colonization of India. Whatever the
numbers, that a holocaust of this proportion hasn't even been discussed in terms of history
numbers, that a holocaust of this proportion hasn't even been discussed in terms of history
speaks for itself. But what is simultaneously amazing is that the culture of India is as intact as it
speaks for itself. But what is simultaneously amazing is that the culture of India is as intact as it
is compared to what one would expect from such extreme abuse and what we usually see with
is compared to what one would expect from such extreme abuse and what we usually see with
other decimated indige
other decimated indige
nous groups all
nous groups all
across the
across the
world.
world.
Sixteenth century India has been described as the wealthiest country in the world, with the best
Sixteenth century India has been described as the wealthiest country in the world, with the best
universal educational system – all of which has obviously become seriously damaged. India of
universal educational system – all of which has obviously become seriously damaged. India of
today does not accurately represent the ancient culture, but what is amazing is that the India of
today does not accurately represent the ancient culture, but what is amazing is that the India of
today, without funding or resources, has spread its knowledge around the world. Today, there
today, without funding or resources, has spread its knowledge around the world. Today, there
are probably as many as 100 million people practicing aspects of yoga – not because India
are probably as many as 100 million people practicing aspects of yoga – not because India
spent a lot of money trying to spread its culture, but because that knowledge is, I would say,
spent a lot of money trying to spread its culture, but because that knowledge is, I would say,
innately desired and needed by people all over the world.
innately desired and needed by people all over the world.
So, to look at current India and then ask if their deep cultural knowledge is useful for today is
So, to look at current India and then ask if their deep cultural knowledge is useful for today is
misguided and ignorant. Present day India is damaged badly by recent colonization, internally
misguided and ignorant. Present day India is damaged badly by recent colonization, internally
corrupt and in many ways ruled by foreign interests opposed to its basic culture. But if we look
corrupt and in many ways ruled by foreign interests opposed to its basic culture. But if we look
deeply into the storehouse of ancient knowledge that the original culture possessed, we will find
deeply into the storehouse of ancient knowledge that the original culture possessed, we will find
a legacy profoundly useful for the world we live in today.
a legacy profoundly useful for the world we live in today.
D a i l y B e l l :
D a i l y B e l l :
Did ancient Indians consort
Did ancient Indians consort
with
with
aliens and travel
aliens and travel
through time
through time
or to
or to
other
other
dimensions?
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
The cosmology of India describes our universe as having fourteen
The cosmology of India describes our universe as having fourteen
parallel realities on multiple levels, all existing and intersecting within the material realm in which
parallel realities on multiple levels, all existing and intersecting within the material realm in which
we are currently living.
we are currently living.
One of those levels is called the
One of those levels is called the
Deva
Deva
realm. The Deva realm is supposedly the home of the
realm. The Deva realm is supposedly the home of the
beings who actually conduct the laws of nature to which we are subject. This view of Divine
beings who actually conduct the laws of nature to which we are subject. This view of Divine
helpers is much misunderstood as the so-called many gods or also as demi-gods, but in India
helpers is much misunderstood as the so-called many gods or also as demi-gods, but in India
they were
they were
never viewed
never viewed
as God,
as God,
gods, demi-
gods, demi-
gods
gods
or
or
in
in
competitio
competitio
n with
n with
God.
God.
They
They
were,
were,
instead, viewed as souls
instead, viewed as souls
(or more
(or more
accurate
accurate
ly
ly
atmas) like us,
atmas) like us,
but living
but living
on another plane
on another plane
of
of
material reality and performing specific jobs as administrators of the laws of nature. So, gods is
material reality and performing specific jobs as administrators of the laws of nature. So, gods is
the wrong word for many reasons, the main one being it implies 'God,' which is not an Indian
the wrong word for many reasons, the main one being it implies 'God,' which is not an Indian
word in the first place. These beings are called Devas, meaning beings who 'work in the light'
word in the first place. These beings are called Devas, meaning beings who 'work in the light'
assisting the Supreme Being by enforcing the laws of nature that allow the universe to function
assisting the Supreme Being by enforcing the laws of nature that allow the universe to function
as it does.
as it does.
Different yet similar to us, Devas are viewed in India, by analogy, much as someone who works
Different yet similar to us, Devas are viewed in India, by analogy, much as someone who works
in the passport department giving out visas. Devas give out the passports (enforcing the laws of
in the passport department giving out visas. Devas give out the passports (enforcing the laws of
Nature) and we are people using and receiving the passports (obeying the laws of Nature).
Nature) and we are people using and receiving the passports (obeying the laws of Nature).
So as for the alien question, it was always the view in India that there are other dimensions of
So as for the alien question, it was always the view in India that there are other dimensions of
intelligent life in our universe who communicate with humans and that the Devas specifically are
intelligent life in our universe who communicate with humans and that the Devas specifically are
the
the
intelligen
intelligen
ces operating
ces operating
behind the
behind the
laws
laws
of Nature.
of Nature.
But
But
the
the
Vedic
Vedic
culture
culture
wouldn't
wouldn't
have
have
described these beings as aliens in the way we currently think of aliens, as coming from another
described these beings as aliens in the way we currently think of aliens, as coming from another
planet in a metal ship, parking their ship (or crashing their ship in Roswell) et cetera. The Vedas
planet in a metal ship, parking their ship (or crashing their ship in Roswell) et cetera. The Vedas
describe infinitely multiple universes filled with many Earth-like and other diverse planets and
describe infinitely multiple universes filled with many Earth-like and other diverse planets and
many kinds of intelligent beings living in these other dimensions, some in contact with this realm.
many kinds of intelligent beings living in these other dimensions, some in contact with this realm.
The closest modern analogs are found in some of the theories of quantum physics, one being
The closest modern analogs are found in some of the theories of quantum physics, one being
string theory, which suggests there are something like eleven parallel realities that are running
string theory, which suggests there are something like eleven parallel realities that are running
simultaneously with ours. This idea in physics, of parallel realities crisscrossing, is undeniably
simultaneously with ours. This idea in physics, of parallel realities crisscrossing, is undeniably
reminiscen
reminiscen
t of
t of
the ancient teachings from India.
the ancient teachings from India.
Finally, beyond these many material realms, the Vedas state that there is an eternal
Finally, beyond these many material realms, the Vedas state that there is an eternal
Transcendental realm or abode which, though non-material, makes periodic visits to our physical
Transcendental realm or abode which, though non-material, makes periodic visits to our physical
plane here on Earth. The Transcendental is not considered a material realm and thus represents
plane here on Earth. The Transcendental is not considered a material realm and thus represents
yet another form of visitation that sometimes takes place. In the Vedas, these intentional
yet another form of visitation that sometimes takes place. In the Vedas, these intentional
visitations from the Transcendental are called Avatars – literally the descent of higher beings
visitations from the Transcendental are called Avatars – literally the descent of higher beings
from the Transcendental to the material realms.
from the Transcendental to the material realms.
D a i l y B e l l :
D a i l y B e l l :
How did such a powerful civilization perish and why?
How did such a powerful civilization perish and why?
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
By a definition given in the Vedas, everything within matter changes and
By a definition given in the Vedas, everything within matter changes and
is in flux, eternally. Specifically, younger, more physically vital cultures from the cold climates
is in flux, eternally. Specifically, younger, more physically vital cultures from the cold climates
came in
came in
with
with
a
a
new power,
new power,
technolo
technolo
gy and
gy and
energy that
energy that
was
was
able to, let's
able to, let's
say,
say,
exploit
exploit
the
the
situation of a diverse and cooperative India that had also become somewhat corrupt and
situation of a diverse and cooperative India that had also become somewhat corrupt and
decrepit. Ancient India is probably the poster child for a diverse, complex, cooperative society
decrepit. Ancient India is probably the poster child for a diverse, complex, cooperative society
that by this definition allowed a lot of bio-diversity. Ironically, that was actually a weakness when
that by this definition allowed a lot of bio-diversity. Ironically, that was actually a weakness when
Europeans came in and wanted to conquer India, to rape and pillage her wealth or to religiously
Europeans came in and wanted to conquer India, to rape and pillage her wealth or to religiously
convert the population, as with Islam and Christianity. After all, might does not make right.
convert the population, as with Islam and Christianity. After all, might does not make right.
D a i l y B e l l :
D a i l y B e l l :
We believe the West is afflicted by money power – a group of wealthy families that
We believe the West is afflicted by money power – a group of wealthy families that
want to centralize control over the world and are causing misery. How does your philosophy
want to centralize control over the world and are causing misery. How does your philosophy
account for this?
account for this?
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
The philosophy of India is very clear. We human beings are here with
The philosophy of India is very clear. We human beings are here with
the ability to utilize our free will and the spectrum is anywhere from enlightened to 'endarkened.'
the ability to utilize our free will and the spectrum is anywhere from enlightened to 'endarkened.'
The enlightened end of the spectrum is where the laws of Nature reside, and is called the Deva
The enlightened end of the spectrum is where the laws of Nature reside, and is called the Deva
view. The 'endarkened' view is the philosophy of the so-called Asuras, who are always against
view. The 'endarkened' view is the philosophy of the so-called Asuras, who are always against
the enlightened way of being. We humans can choose to cooperate for the good of all and align
the enlightened way of being. We humans can choose to cooperate for the good of all and align
ourselves with the Devic view or we can choose to be entirely selfish and only concerned for the
ourselves with the Devic view or we can choose to be entirely selfish and only concerned for the
personal gain and pleasure of a few. The dark Asuric choice brings fear, destruction, chaos,
personal gain and pleasure of a few. The dark Asuric choice brings fear, destruction, chaos,
exploitation and is always imposed by a small uncaring minority, enslaving the masses and
exploitation and is always imposed by a small uncaring minority, enslaving the masses and
farming them
farming them
like animals
like animals
to steal
to steal
their
their
life energy.
life energy.
All
All
the
the
Vedic stories
Vedic stories
show
show
this
this
human
human
potential for abuse of free will and the problems it can create.
potential for abuse of free will and the problems it can create.
The Indian epics are rife with classic conflicts involving those who care only for themselves,
The Indian epics are rife with classic conflicts involving those who care only for themselves,
subvert the laws of nature, create artificial inorganic societies, cannibalize other living entities
subvert the laws of nature, create artificial inorganic societies, cannibalize other living entities
and make a few people very wealthy and powerful at the expense of large numbers of innocent
people.
It is the Avatars who come to fight against these dark beings. So anything like a global world
government or a single global power or technology that subverts a freedom-based and
sustainable reality with a manufactured and degrading pseudo-reality is considered, in the Vedic
way of thinking, as Asuric, or against the light, against truth and blind to the good of all. The
likelihood of such groups being out there is considerable. They are only acting in their selfish
interest and do not care if they cause harm to large numbers of people. Ironically, the Vedas
make it very clear that massive so-called wealth is actually most efficiently and easily acquired
by literally not caring at all about sucking the life-force out of people and the Earth.
D a i l y B e l l :
What is the fusion between "Western technology and Eastern wisdom [that] offers a
revolutionary new vision for multiculturalism and responsible expansion?"
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
The most scientific language that exists on our planet is Sanskrit. The
Sanskrit language has four thousand grammatical rules, making it more precise than either
Greek or Latin. Sanskrit by its sheer specificity explains why the citizens of India have never
made a wide distinction between material science and spiritual science. Sanskrit also helps
explain how a so-called primitive, ignorant and Pagan people were able to so rapidly take over
the IT industry. Behind Sanskrit is a temperament that is not against science but rather weds
science and our spiritual nature together into a single important subject: Divine Intelligence. The
key principal here is that the original culture of India thinks in the longest possible cycles and
believes that we are not supposed to brutally exploit the resources of the planet, the
non-renewable resources of the planet, let alone control or enslave people in the process. We are
supposed to use our scientific and technological abilities to work in harmony with the laws of
nature.
This is based on the belief that nature is intelligent, conscious, purposeful, and not random –
and that the natural order of the universe is to be supported by us, not subverted by us. In the
future, if we are fortunate, the technological capabilities that have now been developed will be
wedded with a renewable idea of energy and we will stop exploiting the non-renewable energy
resources of our planet and use our abilities to create a recycling, renewable and therefore a
good-for- the-future way of living on the planet. Because right now, in so many ways, from
energy to money, we are living as if there will be no future – and we will certainly leave a terrible
mess for our children given what is being done. Regardless of what we see today, India's
teachings have always stood for a renewable and cooperative relationship with the resources of
the universe and the freedom of individuals.
D a i l y B e l l :
You write of your views "this will help take our success beyond the present-day
definitions of a profit-only marketplace." How so?
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
The large corporation as we know and define it now generally has a
financial responsibility (which encompasses most of its other responsibilities) to its Board of
Directors, only to bring in profit. It has the rights of an individual with no moral responsibilities.
Corporations are still based on the colonial ethos that we can go out and harm the rest of the
world as long as we bring the results back to our own country. These giant corporations become
'too big to fail,' are often deeply subsidized by taxpayer money, are products of the State in
many nefarious ways and often have a revolving door of positions and lobbyists between
themselves and government. Of course this isn't good for the planet and it creates animosity
among many groups. Given the immense powers of technology, this rape and pillage attitude will
inevitably lead to more and more war, more destruction and misery, and more debt. It continues
at a rapid pace right now with the corporate world trying to own more and more resources like,
for instance, water, with the idea that individuals or corporations should be able to own
non-renewable, life-sustaining resources, neither of which is acceptable morally, as history has
shown and the Vedas have warned.
This robber baron mentality needs to be replaced by a new mentality. I call it the CCO and every
corporation should have one – the Chief Conscience Officer. Why? Because as I said, and as it
is said in the Vedas, massive wealth in the material world is most easily acquired via the
exploitation of both resources and people – and is therefore always tempting to certain beings.
Ideologies aside, without compassion and corporation, there is no well-being.
D a i l y B e l l :
What is the ancient Yoga philosophy and how does it teach valuable skills that are
applicable to all areas of life?
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :
The purpose of Yoga is two-fold. One is the purpose to live in harmony
with the laws of nature. The second is to empower each individual spiritual being to be
autonomous and ultimately to be able to fly their airplane, (their divine consciousness), back to
the Transcendental realm from which they originally came. This leads to a political viewpoint that
says our education should maximize as many human beings as possible to achieve their highest
human potential and not put them in positions of bondage where they are degraded in any
means whatsoever. The yogic ethos is that we should arrange life so that, as far as is possible,
human beings are not degraded in consciousness by performing their work but have the
greatest possible opportunity to remain conscious of their true, Divine Nature, which will lead
them as far as possible in that direction. All of this, by definition, has to be accomplished without
the use of intimidation, forced-conversion or coercion.
D a i l y B e l l :
You write, "The real treasures of the East weren't jewels, spices or exotic perfumes
– but the amazing treasure house of sacred and universal knowledge. This knowledge,
increasingly validated by modern science, is now being embraced by leading edge corporations,
professionals and leaders throughout the world." What are some examples?
J e f f r e y A r m s t r o n g :