Mandala Color Books: Conduits to New Age Meditation

Mandala Color Books: Conduits to New Age Meditation

Adult coloring has recently become a national passion.  Proof of this can be found in any book store where the first thing you'll see upon entering are shelves brimming with every kind of color book imaginable.  And congregated around these shelves you'll find enthusiastic colorists who'll be eager to share how enjoyable this current color fad can be.  And like many others it may not be long until you'll be picking up a book or two just to try it out.

Now, from your first examination of these color books you'll note they aren't like the color books of your youth, for at least half of them are distinctly New Age in look, and content.  And second, you'll note that they almost all purport to help calm, soothe, de-stress, and relax you into a meditative state.  Finally, you'll soon discover some of these intriguing books have tantalizing patterns called "mandalas" that will entice you to look at them over and over.  These mesmerizing "sacred circles"  are designed to visually take you to their centers to discover "Your Higher Self."  And yes they are deceptive, and no they aren't Christian!

So be aware that there are many seductive 'spiritual' color books out there both for adults and children alike.  Thus, should you decide on trying out some coloring, or buying some for others, one should ponder the Biblical warning from Psalm 101:3 that states: "I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes; I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me." And because "mandalas" have a hidden agenda this article is written to inform colorists, and non colorists exactly what they are, and what they are made for.

Sacred Circle Mandalas: Conduits to Meditation

A mandala means "circle" in Sanskrit--a sacred circle, or container that uses alluring symbols, dazzling colors, and mystical patterns.  Alberta Hutchinson, in the Mystical Mandala Color Book (Dover) defines mandalas this way: "symmetrical geometric designs which are traditionally used for meditative purposes by drawing our eye to the center of the circle."  A Little Mandalas (Dover) color book calls them "mystical motifs which symbolize the universe, wholeness, and eternity."  And a kids' color book: My First Mandalas (Dover) by Anna Pomaska maintains mandalas are a Far Eastern tradition with "intriguing centers and fascinating focal points."  In summary, "Mandala" from "Religionfacts.com" says, "Simply stated, a mandala is a sacred geometric figure that represents the universe.  When completed a mandala becomes a sacred area that serves as a receptacle for deities and a collection point of universal forces. By mentally entering a mandala and proceeding to its center, a person is symbolically guided through the cosmos to the essence of reality."
http://www.relgionfacts.com/mandala

Mandalas are a visual tool to take one into a meditative state just as mantras are a vocal tool to lead one into emptying one's mind.  As one repeatedly gazes, contemplates, looks upon, stares at the mandala while following its hypnotic patterns it can have the effect of relaxing the person into an altered state, or even a trance.

Speaking of a "meditative state" on December 12, 2015 the Orlando Sentinel had this front page article: "Adults Find Meditative State Coloring Away Stresses of Life" by Bethany Rogers.  The accompanying photo showed grandmotherly types coloring "Color Me Calm" pages at the Minneola Schoolhouse Library.  This was but one of four "Color Me Calm"* sessions where ladies gathered sipping tea, coloring, and listening to a flute tune titled "Morning Stillness."

The article noted that of the top twenty selling books on Amazon.com ten of these were adult color books.  It also said these books had page after page of intricately drawn mandalas, animals, inspirational phrases, and woodland scenery.  The article quotes devotee of Zen meditation Gabe Coeli, co-founder of Blue Star Coloring Books, who in the middle of the day often takes a short cut to mindfulness by doing a little coloring. 
http://www.usatoday.com/story/life/2015/12/13/adult-coloring-books-stress/76916842/

*  The name of a color book: Color Me Calm

Buddhist Sand Mandalas

A must-see mandala You Tube video "Tibetan Buddhist Mandala" (July, 8, 2011) is a good jumping off point into understanding the background, and true meaning of mandalas.  After viewing the short video below, read the accompanying description by Karen H. Sallick.

In her vivid depiction Sallick walks one through the process of how the monks funnel hand-ground precious stones onto a grid to create magnificent mandalas.  Sallick points out that every aspect of a mandala has a meaning.  Its center represents "The Buddha of Compassion" while  the next circle contains four different Buddhas.  After, there's a circle of lotus leaves, and as Sallick says, "The family of Buddhas that are in the center are sitting in a ring of lotus." 

Outside those circles comes a protection ring keeping one from negative thoughts; and finally, comes a fire ring helping one burn through ignorance into enlightenment.  No sooner do the monks complete their mandala masterpiece, than all its deities are swept away into an offering vase.  This deity offering is then dumped into flowing water to spread its blessings back to earth.  Buddhists believe all who have watched the construction, and destruction of the sand mandala can gain merit, and take on the Buddha nature.  Recall Biblical deities were dumped into water too, not as offerings but because they were idolatrous-the work of man's hands!
http://www.pbs.org/wnet/religionandethics/?p=4423

Shakti Color Book's Goddesses and Mandalas

A look at Ekabhumi C. Ellik's color book should be an awakening to any who are considering mandala coloring. To view this color book with Bhuvaneshvari, the goddess of spaciousness, regent of manifest creation, and universal earth mother on its cover go to Amazon.com or on Facebook under: The Shakti Color Book.

On its Facebook page you'll see pictures from the book colored by people who post them to the site.
One very disturbing post showed a child posing as a goddess while her mom told how obsessed with the goddesses her child was.  Ellik's reply to this mother was, "I'm so happy to contribute to helping girls recognize their inner divinity."  A comment below read, "Beautiful little goddess, keep that feeling."  Another post photo showed a young girl proudly holding up a goddess in a mandala she'd colored.

YogaDork's article: "Grab Your Crayon's and Say Om: Coloring Art as a Meditative Practice" has an excerpt from Ellik's book.  In it Ellik speaks of the goddesses depicted in the book by saying, "The goddesses who appear in the The Shakti Color Book encompass the entire spectrum of cosmic phenomena, mirroring our most expansive Self. ... Their mystic diagrams--their mandalas and yantras --have a powerful influence on our awareness when we mediate upon them and visualize them internally.  Our energy body is repatterned ... helping us to recognize behaviors that our of alignment with our most expansive nature, which is the Goddess herself."
http://yogadork.com

Ellik has also begun a "Shiva Color Book."  And Ellik asks readers: "What images ... forms of Shiva ... related deities ... mandalas or yantras ... should be included?"  Ellik also invites all to join him at an "Embrace Your Shakti: A Yoga Coloring Workshop" where they can begin their New Year with some goddess power.

In an August 2015 comment Ellik sums up the purpose of his color book when he says, "it's an opportunity to introduce sacred art as an intrinsic part of YOGIC practice to a HUGE number of people who may think it's only stretching and feeling calm."  He also notes,  "... to have readers introduced to this book is a great way to help shift public opinion away from yoga-is-exercise-to-look-and-feel-good-and-back-toward, well YOGA."  Ellik gives us a truth many undiscerning Christians are not acknowledging about yoga and mandalas!  Think about it!
http://www.facebook.com/shakticoloringbook

Carl Jung's Mandalas

It was Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung who helped bring "mandala making and mandala meditation" to the West.  His classic mandala work Mandala Symbolism is named as a resource by the Mandala Project.  Here's an article "Psychology of the Mandala" from Creatingmandalas.com that tells how Jung used mandalas himself, and how he used them with his clients.  This is the same Carl Jung who had a life-time spirit guide named "Philemon."  For more about Jung's life from a Christian vantage point read the transcript from the John Ankerburg Show: "The Seduction of Christianity Part I" by Johanna Michaelson and Dave Hunt done in 1985.
http://creatingmandalas.com/psychology-of-the-mandala
https://www.jashow.org/articles/general/the-seduction-of-christianity-program-1/


Color Book Mandalas: Conduits to Meditation for Kids of All Ages

Children's Mandala Color Books and More:

Joy Mandalas
"Mandalas of Joy for Children" offers thirty free color pages that will free the child's mind to think out of the box, for they say there's is no right or wrong way to color.
http://mandalacoloringmeditation.com/mandala-coloring/free-children-coloring-pages/
 
Crayola Crayon Mandalas 
Crayola offers a school plan to enable kids to work in groups of four to create a large mandala just as the monks used to do.  Make that "just as the monks do today!"
http://www.crayola.com/lesson-plans/school-mandala-lesson-plan/

Preschool Printable Mandalas 
Preschool mandalas are available from Education.com. so even the youngest colorists will become familiar with the term "mandala." http://www.education.com/worksheets/preschool/mandalas/

Meditation Mandalas
Do You Yoga tells kids their whole body is a "mandala" with its center being their "belly button."  Kids, in a "child's pose," color mandalas with quiet background music.  The site advises when a mandala is finished hang it up, and use it for meditation.  It suggests one breathe deeply, gaze at the center of the Mandala, and let thoughts and emotions come without following them.  Then, "slowly dive deeper into the center of the Mandala and into the harmony and love it represents."  And Do You Yoga says kids from five and up can participate.
http://www.doyouyoga.com/mandala-coloring-meditation-for-kids-96460/

Rainbow Mandalas
Rainbow Crystal Connection describes how kids can make a "Rainbow Mandala."  The author says "When I explain Mandalas to kids I tell them they are a reflection of 'you'-of how you are feeling and how complex and beautiful you are."
http://www.rainbowcrystalconnection.com/2011/11/05/mandalas-with-kids-part-1/

Activity Book Mandalas
Everyday Mandala for Children is a series of activity books designed for ages four and up based on "The Shichida Method" that uses mandalas with youngsters that requires them to capture the image of a Mandala within seconds, and apply the colors onto an uncolored Mandala.  The method boasts even a child of two can do it.  Its method includes holding a Mandala against a plain wall, asking a child to stare at the Mandala focusing on its center, and then visualizing it in their mind.  Children are told to hold that image there as long as possible.  And suggests the article you as an adult should also join in.
http://www.homeeducation.sg/

Guided Meditation Mandalas
A teacher taught mandala art and meditation to a group of first-third graders "which took to mandalas very easily."  Her simple guided meditation had the kids drawing their inner flower, their inner sun, inner light, and peace.
http://www.michelefaia.com/classes/class-schedule/class-photos-art/childrens-mandalas/

Dream Music Mandalas
"Pure Relaxation for Children" produces a You Tube video of mesmerizing music with vibrant mandalas shown in kaleidoscopic fashion.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hv97d5l9SHg

Kids' Magical Mandalas
German author Arena Verlag has created a color book Kids' Magical Mandalas found on Amazon.com.  A "Look Inside" note reads, "When kids start to color ... magic happens.  Suddenly they quiet down, become deeply drawn into the image ....  The reason: all the patterns are evenly distributed around a center ... of balance and harmony that no youngster can resist."
http://www.amazon.com/Kids-Magical-Mandalas-Arena-Verlag/dp/1402717210

My First Mandalas
Anna Pomaska's color book My First Mandalas says this book is an invitation for little artists to experience mandalas.  Its "Note" inside states mandalas were once used for healing and offerings but now they are "just for fun."  False, for as this paper proves they are very definitely made for other than fun!
http://www.amazon.com/First-Mandalas-Coloring-Dover-Books/dp/048646556X

Kids' Mandalas
Arena Verlag has a second Kids' Mandalas color book which brags, "This isn't a color book--it's a calming book with beautiful patterns and inviting images that help kids concentrate."  Ah, there is that bait again this will help youngsters calm down, de-stress, and chill out so they will surely focus better.  Don't buy it.

Mindfulness Mandalas
Here's a piece from Kids' Yoga Resource that tells how middle schoolers form a circle with mats to create a "sacred space."  Into this they quietly create a mandala from found objects as stones, shells and so on as soft music is played in the background.  They dismiss with a savasana or "corpse pose," and a "Namaste" or "I bow to the god in you, and you bow to the god in me."
http://www.thekidsyogaresource.com/2010/04/experiencing-mindfulness-through-mandalas-a-meditative-activity-for-children.html

Easy Mandalas
Free for the printing a site offers easy mandala coloring pages for kids, and even adults with various styles and themes. http://www.free-mandalas.net/niveaux-de-difficulte/easy-children/

Active Meditation Mandalas
An article From Kids Growing Up Psychic Series by psychic Melissa Leath details how she uses "active meditation" or anything that keeps kids focused and calm as e.g. making mandalas.  Afterward kids softly stare at their mandala while trying not to blink.  As they breathe in and out, Leath explains, "a shift" comes while colors in the mandala seem to change and move.  At this point, says Leath, kids will feel energy flowing from the mandala.  They are then to close their eyes to see an inner vision, and to feel more energy.  And so Leath a medium, mentor, and author leads kids into her psychic world. http://shaheenmiroinsights.com/2015/03/30/active-meditation-for-kids-creating-your-own-mandala-by-melissa-leath/

Momma 'N Manila's Meditation Mandalas
In "Meditating With Children" a yoga teacher uses many meditative methods such as meditation with a felt heart during  chakra lessons, and meditation with mandalas they have created.
http://www.mommanmanila.com/meditating-with-children/

Everyone's Mandalas
Psychotherapist Monique Mandali has written a series Everyone's Mandala Coloring Book: Vol.1-3 created for all ages 4-104.  About one someone wrote, "Finally a coloring book for kids and adults.  I bought one for my grandson and my 85-year-old mother ... they both love it!"   Of mandala meditation Mandali said, "The act of coloring the mandala is all about connecting with it as a calmer, peaceful, more balanced version of yourself ... (so) take a deep meditative breath and step into the circle."  http://www.mandali.com/  and http://www.mandali.com/uses/

A Billion Peace Mandalas
Mandali has also created a Peace Mandala Coloring Book with twenty-five mandalas with the help of kids ages 6-15 from around the world.  This book, maintains Mandali, will help spread the seed of harmony for the next 1000 years!  An inner city school teacher shares how her entire school is now making peace mandalas crediting Mandali with saying "it may take a billion peace mandalas to bring tranquility to human kind."  And a pediatric neurologist testifies, "My doctor's office is full of Monique's colored mandalas."  How clever to create "mandalas" under the guise of peace.  As Christians we know that there will be no peace until The Prince of Peace returns!

Monkeymind and Mandalas
The Toronto District Schools features "Meet the Self" for kids K-6 that includes "Monkeymind" an excitable puppet who has trouble with self-regulation.  In hour long sessions kids do mindfulness, breathing, regulation methods, and meditation.  To end the course kids make a whole-group mandala.
http://meettheself.com/classes/monkeymind-and-me-a-mindfulness-course-for-children/

Mandala Project Mandalas
The Mandala Project dedicates itself to promoting peace through art and education.  If one clicks onto its intertwining mandala logo you can learn of: "About the Project," "What Is a Mandala," "Links and Resources," "Education," "What's New," "The Labyrinth Project," and "Mandalas."  The Mandala Project also hosts: "Circling the Curriculum: Mandala Workshop" for teachers on how to insert the mandala into every aspect of the curriculum.  All sorts of lesson plans are offered as "Mandala Storymap" using mandalas as a tool for reading, or "Middle School Mandalas" using mandalas in math and history.  Its links/ resources provide such New Spirituality materials as e.g. Judith Cornell's "Mandala Healing Kit" with a workbook and guided CD of Cornell's meditations.  All of this is at the fingertips of  teachers ready to be used with innocent children to introduce them to a variety of New Age practices!  Be on the alert!  http://www.mandalaproject.org/Index.html

There are even more children's mandala materials that can't be listed here; but the bottom line is that the mandala coloring craze is not just an adult coloring book problem, it is being used  with children and teens.  Be watchful!  Teach your children what these seducing circles really are about!


Adult Mandala Color Books and More

Coloring Mandalas
Susanne F. Fincher, founder of Creatingmandalas.com., Presbyterian, Jungian psychotherapist, counselor, art therapist, author mandala books, and mandala intensives has led thousands to the spiritual, psychological and health enhancing dimensions of creating mandalas.  Author of four Coloring Mandalas books by Shambhala Publishing Fincher's first book, Coloring Mandalas 1: For Healing and Self-Expression, says that as a symbol of Self, the mandala connects us to our innermost being.  These mandalas are organized according to the "Great Round of the Mandala"-- a scheme of twelve archetypal stages of human growth.  http://creatingmandalas.com/susanne-f-fincher

Coloring Mandalas 3: Circles of the Sacred Feminine is totally pagan beginning with "Prayer to the Earth Mother."  Inside notes tell the colorist to consider these sacred images holy, and to set aside a sacred space to work on them.  Doing this will allow their "harmonious designs" to kick in just as their ancient chants will resonate within one in calming and revitalizing ways.  And says an "introductory description" of this idolatrous book: "Coloring the circular designs ... is a relaxing, meditative activity enjoyed by adults and children alike.  ...  The mandalas in this book are ... designed to provide a creative encounter with the Divine as a feminine presence."

Three-D Mandalas
Lisa Tenzin-Dolma, of the UK , is an author of a number of mandala books including the Mindful Mandala Colouring Book that contains seventy-eight meditative mandalas each containing an "elaborate explanation" and a "guided meditation."  A reviewer, "Colour with Claire" declares "it (colour book) does feel like a bible for mandala lovers." 

Besides the colour books, Tenzin-Dolma has also put together a 3D multimedia mandala kit for lovers of sacred patterns as well as meditators where one can put on 3D specs, drop in a CD, and follow a step-by-step guide into mandala contemplation.
http://www.amazon.com/Mindful-Mandala-Coloring-Book-Contemplation/dp/1780289197

Color Me Calm Mandalas
A Zen Coloring Book, Color Me Calm by Lacy Mucklow, author and art therapist, has 100 coloring templates for meditation and relaxation.  It has seven therapeutically themed chapters beginning with "Mandalas" and ending with "Spirituality."  Of this very popular color book it is said, Color Me Calm is a guided color book for harried adults."
http://www.amazon.com/Color-Calm-Templates-Meditation-Relaxation/dp/1937994775

Reading Session Mandalas
The Mandala Lady, Maureen Frank, is a mandala artist and intuitive reader, who does channeled visualization "Mandala Reading Sessions" for customers via Skype or telephone.  Maureen relates that during a Reiki session she was told she wasn't into the creative side of her brain, and she should get herself a color book.  Maureen did.  Later, at a New Age book store she came upon mandalas.  First she colored them, but soon she began to create them.  And then it was on to meditating on them, and soon she had "mandala messages" for others.  Now, she creates daily, week, monthly, and yearly mandalas as well as a whole line of "color your own" cards, prints, and color books.
http://themandalalady.com/bio/

I Love Mandalas
Jim Gogarty, of iheartmandalas.com (I Love Mandalas) calls himself "Mandala Jim."  Gogarty began drawing mandalas in 2005 after a spiritual awakening during meditation.  This meditative moment catapulted Jim into the mandala making business with its "About Mandalas," "Simple/Advanced Mandalas," "Mandala Tutorials," "Mandala Clothing," (Kids too!), and "Mandala Prints and Merchandise." 

Jim is the author of The Mandala Coloring Book with its 100 mandala coloring pages.  "This book," asserts Gogarty, "encourages you to use your imagination to create vibrant patterns that bring you closer to your true self."  Its "Introduction" attests, "By mentally 'entering' the mandala and moving toward its center, one is guided through the cosmic process of disintegration."  Its intro ends with this tidbit, "A clear mind and healthy body are just a meditation away, so pick up your pencil."
http://www.iheartmandalas.com/

In Love with Mandalas
Christina, a mandala mom, records she came across mandalas by accident when buying a mandala color book for her son.  Instantly drawn to it she next went out and bought a mandala one for herself, and now is in love with it!  She recommends you too try out this amazing mandala coloring by sampling pages from Alberta Hutchinson's Mystical Mandala Coloring Book --the one with the dazzling sun mandala on its cover.  An inside "Note" contends, "These exotic mandalas hold a special significance and provide a focal point for meditation."
http://www.amazon.com/Mystical-Mandala-Coloring-Dover-Design/dp/0486456943

Sacred Art Mandalas
Michal Beaucaire and Paul Heussenstamm's The Art of Mandala Meditation unlock what mandalas are made for--meditation.  A "Look Inside" this book reveals its true New Age colors.  Its back cover reveals Paul has been a spiritual artist for years now traveling with the Deepak Chopra Center.  One glance at Paul's web page, "Mandalas.com" will set off alarm bells signaling this is a site full of "sacred art" ready to seduce and entice any naïve colorist. http://www.mandalas.com/

One of the mandalas Paul creates, is the Hindu Sri Yantra a type of mandala with a Bindu center, of which he writes, "This pattern is considered the 'Mother' of all mandalas ..." 

Michal wrote that when she selected Paul as her artist she visited his site "Mandalas.com" and found 2,000 mandalas to pick from in just the right colors and shapes for each meditation in the book.  Michal shares, "The colors of each mandala bear the right energetic frequency of the meditation ....  For example, all inner strength meditations are in yellow ....  Yellow is the color of the Solar Plexus Chakra, and the essence of 'I' is connected to this chakra."
http://www.amazon.com/The-Art-Mandala-Meditation-Designs/dp/1440541140

Healing Mandalas
A Steven Vrancken in "Your Introduction of the Healing Powers of Mandala Color Pages" spells out the powers behind the mandala in this quote that says, "I awaken to the power of the mandala, A sacred circle of light and energy, A pathway to center--to my center and to the Universal All, A channel for healing body, mind, and spirit." 
https://mandalacoloringmeditation.com/mandala-coloring/mandala-articles/about-mandala-coloring-healing/

Meditative Mandalas
David Fontana has written Meditating with Mandalas: 52 New Mandalas to Help You Grow in Peace and Awareness.  Fontana maintains that the mandala is like a mirror that helps to do discover who we are. ... Like a mirror it accepts all that it sees."  Every mandala like others mentioned is accompanied by a guided meditation.  Speaking of a mirror, it is the Word of God that is like a mirror which reveals our true nature as a sinner falling short of the glory of God.
http://www.spiritualityandpractice.com/books/reviews/view/9635


Prayer Circle Mandalas: Conduits to Prayer for Contemplatives

Sunday School Mandalas
Baptist Global News Asst. Editor Jeff Brumley wrote a piece: "Adult Coloring Books Emerging as Popular Spiritual Practice."  How so?  Brumbley says, "Using crayons ... to focus the mind while praying or to contemplate Scripture can be as beneficial as walking a prayer labyrinth or creating an icon, say ministers of spiritual formation."

Brumley goes on to say that Blake Burleson, his co-editor and senior lecturer in religion at Baylor University, who with spiritual formation minister at Freemason St. Baptist Church, Norfolk, Virginia Michael Sciretti Jr., wrote Entemplating: Baptist Wisdom for Contemplative Prayer, teaches that praying while coloring puts the mind on hold while elevating the role of the heart in prayer.  Burleson also states, "Every religion uses art to express itself--whether it's an icon, a mandala, calligraphy, or a cave painting."  Maybe, Burleson should turn to Ezekiel 8 to see what the Lord had
to say about idolatrous wall art in the temple!

Burleson confides he uses various contemplative practice while teaching Sunday school.  He writes, "I'll bring in a mandala ... read Scripture ... and (we) color the mandala."  Burleson says such practices especially appeal to young adults, for in our spiritual lives certain forms become boring.  Note; A Carl Jung mandala reproduced by Burleson accompanies this Baptist article.
https://baptistnews.com/culture/item/30471-adult-coloring-books-emerging-as-popular-spiritual-practice

Hands-on-Mandalas 
How about a "Pray-date" with hands-on mandala prayers?  Rev. Sharon Garner, a United Methodist pastor and Ignatian Spiritual Director, suggests this.  Garner also conducts "Praying Mandala Sessions" with one to be at a Jesuit Retreat House as well as a United Church of Christ location.  To further her mandala cause she's written: Praying with Mandalas: Contemplative Coloring for Contemporary Christians.  Here the mandala becomes a "tool" to enter a contemplative state, and to do contemplative prayer!
http://www.bellyofthewhaleministries.net/directors-welcome/



Faith Circle Mandalas
Bro. Michael O'Neill McGrath, OSFS in "Faith Circles" in America Magazine in October 2012 wrote of the mystic St. Hildegard of Bingen, a Benedictine spiritual guide, who chanted meditative melodies and painted circle mandalas.  This mandala making, says McGrath, will allow one to paint, and pray at the same time.  McGrath reflects, "The process leads the painter to deeper levels of self-awareness and to the presence of God within."

In addition, McGrath notes, "The time spent creating a mandala is a mini-retreat that teaches me to be still and listen to the quiet voice within.  As Teresa of Avila used to say, 'God cannot rest in an unquiet heart.'"  http://americamagazine.org/issue/5155/art/faith-circles

UK Kids' Mandalas 
This UK Hallem Diocese admires Hildegard's sacred circular drawings too. The article then mentions that a number of schools are now using Mandalas as part of their spiritual curriculum, where a whole school "stills" and "calms down" while listening to meditative music as they make mandala booklets.
http://hallam-diocese.com/

Devonzine Magazine Mandalas
In "Color Yourself Closer to God" Robin Pippin from the Upper Room's Devonzine shares that while working with a child's spirituality program, "The Way of the Child" by Wynn McGregor that she discovered mandalas.  Pippin contends, "The purpose of coloring mandalas is spiritual ... designed to bring me closer to God and to get in touch with my heart."  Yes, in touch with one's Higher Self as New Agers call it!  See Ray Yungen's book For Many Shall Come in My Name chapter one for an explanation of what "The Higher Self" entails!
http://www.lighthousetrails.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Store_Code=LTP&Category_Code=NA

Pippin points out that prayer circles focus our attention on one thing thus producing relaxation. In a "Dig Deeper" section Pippen suggests teens try out coloring a mandala.  She directs: get a Bible, light a candle, and color a mandala.  If more mandalas are needed she tells the reader to click on a place labeled "Patterns."  This will bring one to June Moon's "Free Visionary Art"   "This art," says June, "is my gift to you."  And what a New Age pagan gift that is: Mandalas, Kitchen Kali, Wave of Bliss, Ganesha 01, Sri Yantra, Shiva Yantra, Fractal Heart, and more.  Imagine a teen, or teacher coming upon this art site while using this magazine!
http://devozine.upperroom.org/spiritual-practices/color-yourself-closer-to-god/

As a Side Note: "The Way of the Child" teaches contemplative techniques to young children in quiet peaceful rooms lit with a candle.  The children go to reflection stations such as "gazing" or "contemplation at the sand table."  At the sound of a chime the kids move on to a circle for discussion ending in a calm, peaceful exit.  At every step these lessons reflect New Age overtones.



Prayer Space Mandalas 
In "Upper Room Ministries Current News, Stories, and Insights" an article "Creating Prayer Spaces"
lists twelve sacred spaces where one can renew the soul in times of busyness, and as you guessed "Mandala-God at the Center" was one.  There was also "The Blessing Bowl," "Audio Lectio," and "Drumbeat of Mercy" among others.  http://voices.upperroom.org/prayerspaces/

A Monstrance Mandala
Kathryn Costa, mandala artist, designed "Mandala Inspired by Monstrance" that she found at St. Joseph's Cathedral in Manchester, NH. An article "Prayer, Adoration, and Mandalas" from a Heart to Heart Column (November 2015) tells of Costa's art, and names different ways to pray which "also incorporates from the Eastern traditions of creating a mandala as an expression of contemplative and intercessory prayer."  It also notes that just creating a mandala can be a meditation to help one maintain order and balance.  The article ends with a sample presentation as to how to project the mandala image, listen to relaxing music, color and pray with the mandala monstrance page, and finally, practice Eucharistic Adoration.   Read about Costa, and her book: The Mandala  Guidebook: How to Draw, Paint, and Color Mandala Art at  www.100mandalas.com .

Contemplative Cottage Mandalas
The author who works with theology grad students writes this, "When I began doing 'Sabbath Space' with the ... students I filled the air with yummy candle scents and had quiet corners set aside for peaceful reflection. ... But people need a little guidance ... so I went looking for something like a coloring book for adults.  Instead, I found hundreds of mandalas on the internet ... intricate geometric shapes just begging to be colored."  http://contemplativecottage.com/tag/mandalas/

New Way to Pray Mandalas
In "Coloring IS a Spiritual Practice" the Rev. Dr. L. Roger Owens contends during his spiritual formation retreats he'd notice a few people "will be bent over their desks with intricate mandalas in front of them ... listening to me ...." as they color.  Now does Owens feel these "poor souls" are being duped by falling for this new color fad?  Does Owens feel they should be "engaging in a real spiritual practice like praying or reading Scripture?"  "No," says Rev. Dr. Owens, "I give thanks that they are discovering a way of prayer their churches never taught them, but that is helping them listen to God and be present to others.  And when I enter Barnes and Nobles ... I only hope that more Christians might discover this practice and deepen their lives with God."

Now Owens, after thinking of the Biblical Martha's distractibility, reflected:  "Do you know what Martha needs?  A color book."  A coloring book, avows Owens, is just a form of "mindfulness practice."  However, mindfulness is a practice based on Zen Buddhism.  Read more here:
"Mindfulness: No-Mind Over Matter" from Stand Up for Truth. http://standupforthetruth.com/2012/02/mindfulness-no-mind-over-matter/ 
http://www.pts.edu/blog/coloring-books-spiritual-practice/

Color Me Discerning, or Color Me Deceived: Which Will It Be?

We're in the midst of  "a meditation invasion via color books" --and specifically through mandala
color books and like New Age books as I've shown in this article.  My question is if you've already bought into this color book craze under the guise of finding relaxation, and calm will you continue as a deceived colorist, or will you become a discerning one?  Will you understand that although coloring is not evil in and of itself, if it leads one into idolatrous sacred circles or like images then one must be very careful not to get entangled in this color book web.  May we, as the Lord warned in the Old Testament, "... Repent, and turn yourselves from your idols;  turn away your faces from all your abominations."  Ezekiel 14:6.  And may we strive to become discerning, rather than deceived.

Mandala circles will not give one true rest, or peace, or hope for this can only be found through the Lord Jesus who said,  "Come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28   May our desire be to do as the old hymn admonishes: "Turn your eyes unto Jesus, Look full in his wonderful face, And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, In the light of His glory and grace."        

Learn to Discern Granny Verse:  Psalm 119:37
"Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity; and quicken thou me in thy way."

For More Information:

Light House Trails Books: For Many Shall Come in My Name  by Ray Yungen.
http://www.lighthousetrails.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Store_Code=LTP&Category_Code=NA

Light  House Trails: "Question to the Editor: Any Information on Adult Coloring Books?"
http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/?p=18387s

"The Connection between Mantras, Mandalas, and Spiritism" by Dr. John Ankerberg and Dr. John Weldon (c.1999)
https://www.jashow.org/articles/new-age/the-connection-between-mantras-mandalas-and-spiritism/






 







         

Mudras, Chakras, Mantras: Deceptive Meditative Techniques

Mudras, Chakras, Mantras: Deceptive Meditative Techniques

A recent Facebook Post captioned: "Help Your Child Achieve Calmness!" showed a picture of a little girl sitting cross-legged, eyes closed, hands out, and with her fingers fixed in a mudra position.  What finger position is that?  To be precise, it is the "Gyan Mudra" or "Chin Mudra" finger position in which the index finger touches the thumb tip to form as perfect a circle as possible with the other fingers extending upward.

Why do people do this?  Yoga aficionado Gertud Hirschi, in her book Mudras: Yoga in Your Hands,  tells us why: "We can effectively engage and influence our body and our mind by bending, crossing, extending, or touching the fingers with other fingers."  Hirschi goes on to pinpoint just what this finger position really means: "The thumb is symbolic of cosmic (divine) and the index finger is symbolic of individual (human) consciousness.  The ultimate goal ... is oneness of humanity with cosmic consciousness."
http://www.amazon.com/Mudras-Yoga-Hands-Gertrud-Hirschi/dp/1578631394

Now, the purpose of this article is to inform teachers, parents, and grandparents that when either a child or adult uses mudra gestures, along with mantras, one is setting himself up to open up body areas designated as chakras.  So, readers beware, each mudra gesture has far more wrapped up in in it than you might imagine; and it is not just an innocent finger technique to get one into a calmed state.  To find out more--more on mudras, chakras, and mantras read on.

Mudra Information:

Mudra Definition: (muh-drah)  A mudra is a symbolic or ritual gesture in Hinduism and Buddhism.  It is a spiritual gesture and an energetic seal of authenticity employed in the iconography and spiritual practice of Indian religions. (Wikipedia)  Right up front, these gestures are spiritual, but most definitely not Christian!  For nowhere in Scripture do we read of various ways to fix our fingers; as a matter of fact Scripture does not even tell us to fold our hands!  However, it does tell us that we can stretch out our hands toward heaven, and call to the Lord who will hear our prayer.

Another Mudra Definition:  One of the symbolic hand gestures used in religious ceremonies and dances in India and in yoga. (Merriam-Webster) 

Mudra Introduction: 

The Eclectic Energies web page states, "Mudras have been in use in the East for thousands of years, particularly in Buddhism.  Buddha statues often have the hands in certain hand positions.  They have been used as a spiritual practice ... as a way on the path to enlightenment."
http://www.eclecticenergies.com/mudras/mudra.php?num=1

Buddha Mudras:

There are a number of sites where one can glimpse close up photos focusing in on the mudra gestures of the Buddha.  One such site reads: "Mudras of the Great Buddha: Symbolic Gestures and Postures" while another says: "Hand Gestures of the Buddha (Mudras) and Buddha Iconography."  Looking at these Buddha hands brings to mind the verses from Psalm 115:4-8 where it says: "Their idols are silver and gold, the work of men's hands. They have mouths, but they speak not: eyes have they, but they see not: They have ears, but they hear not; noses have they, but they smell not: they have hands, but they handle not; feet have they, but they walk not; neither speak they through their throat.  They that make them are like them; so is every one that trusteth in them."  Truly sad, that the hands of precious children, along with undiscerning adults, are being taught to form Buddhist mudras.
http://www.exoticindiaart.com/mudras.htm  and
http://www.buddha-images.com/hand-gestures.asp

Children's Mudras:

Speaking of children's hands, the book title: Yoga for Busy Little Hands: Mudras for Children          
by Marsha Therese Danzig says it all.  Under its title it suggests this book is "great for kids with ADD, ADHD, Autism, and in the Classroom."  And its back cover reads, "Yoga Educator and Founder of  'Color Me Yoga for Children' Marsha Therese Danzig, Ed. M. Harvard, Registered Yoga Teacher 500 Hours, illustrates the wonderful world of mudras, or sacred hand gestures."  (Reiki Master too.)*

It continues, "Mudras are ancient healing techniques relevant to children in modern times.  The hand has a series of meridians or rivers of energy that link the body, mind, and spirit.  Mudras teach child-ren self-empowerment, allowing them to access and send energy where it needs to go for physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.  Yoga for Busy Little Hands, first in Color Me Yoga's Educational Yoga Series for children, "satisfies the linguistic learner with foreign language skills, (Make that Sanskrit.)* ... the music learner with the rhythm of affirmation and mantra, ... the intrapersonal learner with meditative practices, and the spiritual learner with expanded conscious awareness."
*Note: I have highlighted some words, and added inserts.
 
This book description describes what mudras are all about showing these finger actions are not akin to nursery rhyme movements, or action rhyme movements used by teachers of young children.  The book also paints mudras as something very educational--yes, educating one into deceptive meditative techniques!

A look at the book contents reveals even more of its spiritual agenda.  Here are some of its "Mudra Categories" such as "Energy" as Live (Prana); "Nature" as Flow (Varuna); "Confidence" as Focus (Hakai); "Healing" as Surrender (Suchi); "Calm" as Quiet (Dhyana); and "Spirit" as Om (Shunya).

In addition, Danzig designed an hour webnar: "You've Got the Whole World in Your Hands: Mudras for Children."  (No!  He's Got the Whole World in His Hands!) to "illuminate the many ways specific, purposeful hand movements can increase positive energy ...."  "Mudra means seal," explains Danzig, "so in practicing a mudra, it is like sealing the body, mind, and spirit together."  Just simple hand movements?  No, one hundred percent no!  These are hand movements taking one straight into a New Age spirituality!
http://www.amazon.com/Yoga-Busy-Little-Hands-Childrens/dp/1495380858
https://kidsyogaacademy.net/faculty/marsha-therese-danzig/

More Mudra Materials for Kids:

The Global Family Yoga publishes a downloadable eBook Mudras for Children with an introduction to mudras, how and why to practice mudras, and instructions for ten simple mudras suitable for children.  Of mudras they write, "They are like mini yoga poses for your hands and are one of the many techniques used for self-regulation and to develop awareness.  Mudras tune us into the subtle energies of the body."  Of mudras and meditation they observe, "Meditation is one of the best ways to give the mind a rest and mudras are a wonderful way to facilitate the one-pointed concentration that leads to meditation."  http://globalfamilyyoga.com/mudras_for_children/

An enticing book, Evyatar's Mudras or Magical Hand Gestures by Alex Man, and Elizabeth Futerman, pictures a very young child meeting the morning by doing mudras in his bed.  This book includes nine basic mudras, and how to practice them on one hand or two.
http://www.amazon.com/childrens-books-Evyatars-Attention-collection-ebook/dp/B00RCIMTUM

Another tool is Lori Lite's mudra poster entitled "The Feelings in You Are the Feelings in Me" which shows mudra hand positions demonstrated by eleven children photographed listening to Indigo Dreams CD/Audio and book.  These mudra gestures include: heart, vision, peace, color, imagine, universal, truth, love, create, intuition, happy, and breathe.  Below the poster it says, "Yoga mudras have new meanings when children explore hand positions that empower them to be active participants in their own healthy, heart driven lives."  Notice the kids' poster photos as they sit cross-legged listening to mesmerizing stories, and music all the while doing sacred mudras.  Awaken!  This is not what one would desire for any child, or student!
http://www.amazon.com/Kids-Yoga-Posters-Mudras-Feelings/dp/0970863381

Don't Do Mudras!

Be warned when one allows a child to do mudras to calm down, they're being set up to go deeper into meditative techniques that will teach them to affirm their own goodness, and their own divinity.
They will also be taught that they can control their bodies, and that they can use these mudras to learn to open up their "chakras."  All the hype about de-stressing, relaxing, calming, and breathing will have that child, at some point, ready to be a full blown meditator falling into very dangerous habits.  Instead of being "from a child knowing the Holy Scriptures" they will be hooked on mudras and
mantras, and the pagan worldviews associated with them.  And instead of trusting Jesus as Savior, and protector they will be looking within themselves as divine.

Chakra Information:

Chakra Definition:  Chakras are centers of energy, says Eclectic Energies, are located on the midline of the body.  There are seven of them, and they govern  psychological properties.  The chakras located on the lower side of the body are the instinctual side, while the highest ones are the mental side.  http://www.eclecticenergies.com/chakras/introduction.php

Chakra Description:  The Sanskrit word chakra literally translates to wheel or disk.  In yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda this term refers to wheels of energy throughout the body.  There are seven main chakras which align the spine beginning from the base of the spine right up to the crown of the head.  One can visualize a chakra as a swirling wheel of energy where matter and consciousness meet.  This invisible energy, called prana is a vital life force, keeps one vibrant, healthy, and alive.

Chakra Chants:

In "Opening the Chakras" from Eclectic Energies it explains in detail how to use chakra chants that use mudras to open the chakras.  The mudras, says the article, have the power to send more energy to particular chakras.  Basically the mudra method involves fixing your hands in a designated arrangement, concentrating on a particular chakra, and chanting sounds to awaken it.
http://www.eclecticenergies.com/chakras/open.php
 
"How to Open Your Seven Chakras-As Explained in a Children's Show":

Aired on October 18, 2013 on Nick TV a chilling kids' show, "The Last Airbender," now a You Tube video, vividly described how a young boy was taught by his guru to open his chakras.  The video,
labled Y7 FV, demonstrated step by step how this cartoon character opened up all his chakras--from the earth chakra right up to the crown chakra.  Adults should watch this ten minute video to get an eye-opening glimpse into some of the mind-blowing teachings on this kids' cartoon.  Watch here:  
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02FkMr21xOA

Check Out These Children's Chakra Materials:

Chakra Webnar:

Marsha Danzig has recently developed a new webnar "Little Spinning Wheels: Chakras for Children." In it she says one can fine tune children's sensitivities to the chakras--those related to specific glands and earth qualities as roots, water, fire, air, ether, sound, light, and space which will make them better beings on the planet! 

While looking at this site click on the colorful butterfly to see it up close, to notice the wing colors beginning with the red (root chakra) color and the bottom all the way to the violet (crown chakra) at the top.  Notice, too, its black body with the colored chakra energy balls from the bottom right up through the top.  Clever!  Deceptive! https://kidsyogaacademy.net/faculty/marsha-therese-danzig/

Chakra Book:

A 2015 book titled: The Rainbow Tower: Understanding Chakras, Auras, and Reiki Energy for Kids can be viewed on Amazon.com books.  Click onto the book photo "to look inside" and what a tale you'll find there.  Its author, Kytka Hilmar-Jezek, has spun a story even the youngest child can understand all about the Chakra Tower with its colorful chakra lotuses.

Hilmar-Jezek wrote a parental letter saying in part: "Have you always wondered how to explain chakras, auras, and reiki to your children in a way they would understand?  Maybe you are a beginner looking for answers about auras, chakras, reiki, and healing energy or life force."  We all, asserts Hilmar-Jezek, have this Universal Life Force with an energy field made up of aura which shows itself in seven colorful layers and the chakra system.

Note: While indoctrinating children, these books go after parents too.  So, take heed!

Then in giant print Hilmar-Jezek emphasizes, "Even the youngest kids can learn the most about the seven chakras through the color story in the book."  Later, the author again uses oversized print to add, "This book helps children easily begin to understand their body as energy cen-
ters." http://www.amazon.com/The-Rainbow-Tower-Understanding-Chakras-ebook/dp/B00YYUJJ40 

Chakra Poster:

A Lori Lite Stress Free Kids' "Chakras Color Our World" Poster (March 2005) from Indigo Dreams renamed the chakras this way: earth (red); creativity (orange); feelings (yellow); love (green); voice (blue); knowing (indigo) and angel (purple).  These seven, says the poster, will empower kids to be active participants in creating their own healthy, heart driven, peaceful lives.  Marketed as a great tool for teaching chakras to children of any age this poster boasts that kids of any nationality may look different on the outside, but inside we all share the same inner colors.  However, Isaiah 53:6 says that inside we're all sinners who have gone astray, turning everyone to his own way, and that because of this we need a Savior.
http://healing.about.com/od/chakraimages/ig/Chakra-Posters/Chakra-10.htm

Kids' Chakra Affirmations:

Affirmation Book/CDs:

Lori Lite wrote Affirmation Weaver: A Believe in Yourself Story.  In this innocent sounding tale about sea creatures, Lite uses the oft repeated reason one needs such a book for children who are stressed out, and need calming, that she, Lite, has the book for you--a book that will boost your child's belief in himself through the repeating of positive sounding affirmations.  Now, an affirmation, according to Lite, is a compliment that you give to yourself.  Here's a Lite quote, "I love myself the way I am.  I can do anything I believe I can."
http://www.amazon.com/Affirmation-Weaver-Yourself-Self-esteem-Decreasing/dp/0983625697

Discerning reader, stop here, recall that this view is so opposite of what the Word teaches.  For it clearly says in Proverbs 20:11: "Even a child is known by his doing whether his work be pure, and whether it be right."  Jeremiah 17:9 sums it up like this, "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked and who can know it?"

As Christians we want our children to trust the Lord Jesus as personal Savior.  However, no amount of positive affirming meditative mantras are going to prepare a child to know the Lord; rather they are going to prepare him to focus in on himself speaking to his chakras and saying things to his "root chakra" as "I am divine being of light, and I am peaceful, protected, and secure."  But, only the Lord is divine!  He is the Light of the World wanting to rescue us from the darkness of sin.  Flee from these techniques, open up your Bible, and teach from it!  Check out chakra affirmations and know where Ms. Lite is leading you in such "relaxation" books filled to the brim with mudras, mantras, and more.

Be aware too Lite produces CD story sets as "Indigo Dreams," and "Indigo Ocean Dreams" with kids' stories said to reduce stress, anger, and anxiety while increasing kids' centering on self.  Both covers show a child seated in the lotus position, eyes closed, hands fixed in a mudra with the caption that these CDs will one de-stress and relax.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0012ARCA8?ie=UTF8&*Version*=1&*entries*=0
http://www.amazon.com/Indigo-Ocean-Dreams-Self-Esteem-Self-Awareness/dp/0970863365

Think on II Corinthians 6:17: "Wherefore come out from among them (idolaters, unbelievers ...), and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing, and I will receive you, ...."  We need to leave behind these New Age ideas that purport to help us, but instead lead us and our children far from the Lord.

Mantra Information:

Mantra Definitions:

A mantra is a motivating chant.  A mantra is usually any repeated word or phrase, but it can also refer more specifically to a word repeated in meditation.  Mantra comes from  Sanskrit word meaning a "sacred message," or text, charm, spell, counsel.  (Vocabulary.com)

A mantra is (Originally in Hinduism and Buddhism) a word or sound repeated to aid concentration.
A mantra is also a Vedic hymn. (Oxford Dictionaries)

A mantra is (Hinduism or Buddhism) any sacred word or syllable used as an object of concentration and embodying some aspect of spiritual power. (Dictionary.com)

Mantra Materials for Kids:

Liz Bragdon of "Move with Me" (Yoga Adventures) has written an article entitled: "Affirmations and Mantras for Kids."  In it Liz lays out what a mantra is, and what a mantra will do.  Liz says, "When you think of a mantra ... you will probably think of the recitation of beautiful Sanskrit phrases with a spiritual purpose.  In a nutshell, the idea behind mantras is that the specific words you repeat may become part of you and reveal, over time, truths about yourself and your connection to a deeper source, when recited regularly with faith and feeling."  Liz asserts, "Mantras ... encourage us to tune into our authentic inner voice and tune out the negative, distracting, thoughtlessly repeated messages that divide us from that authentic, wise, and loving voice."

Liz then goes on to list six simple mantras for children that are fun.  "However," she adds, "they are also for grown-ups.  A simple message is sometimes a powerful message."  Liz shares that some of her favorite kids' mantras taken from the performance of well-known chant artist--Snatam Kaur. 

Three of her favorites include: "Sa Ta Na Ma" a mantra that uses finger movements with a lovely song from Snatam's video.  Another: "Peace: Om Shanti, Shanti, Shantih" should be repeated three times: for oneself, for all living things, and for the whole world and the universe.  She also finds lovely: "I am Happy, I am Good" with its "Sat Nam, Sat Nam, Sat Nam ji," and its "Waheguru, Waheguru, Waheguru, ji" from Snatam's video.  Always these mantras teach children that in ourselves we are good, just the opposite of what our Bible says in Romans 3:23: "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; "
http://move-with-me.com/uncategorized/affirmations-and-mantras-for-kids/

When one views these little tots using mudras, and loudly chanting the "Wahe Guru" mantra one might smile, and think how cute!  However, here's what "Wahe Guru" really means, according to Kunalini Yoga Boot Camp (KYBC): "Wahe (Wha-hay) means 'Wow' or 'Ecstasy'" ... while Guru (goo-roo) means that force which brings one from darkness into light."  KYBC comments, "For example Wahe Guru is another way of expressing the joyous ecstasy that comes from knowing your true essence--call it God, call it soul, call it Self ... whatever."  Sad indeed that Christians today are allowing little kids to learn yogic techniques, and who knows what teacher just might teach your young child to chant mantras declaring they are divine in themselves.  How deceived, and naïve are the parents who think these so called "calming" mantras will help their children.
http://kundaliniyogabootcamp.com/wahe-guru-a-little-meaning/

Another article by Shannon Sexton gives "Six Reasons to Chant with Your Kids."  Sexton says, "There's a new generation of yoga-children out there who calm down and find peace through mantra musical meditations as "Kirtan" which is a form of call-and-response chanting from India.  Sexton lists six reasons why your child should become a yoga kid beginning with it helps kids focus--therefore try "bedtime mantras" which are sure to soothe!  Mantras help diffuse conflict too, says Sexton, so "Let's 'Om' Together!"  Besides, Sexton maintains that Sanskrit mantras are great for teaching yogic values.  Of course, these mantras will help kids quiet their minds, and help kids to know they are "spiritual beings."  "Just imagine," muses Sexton, "if we were all walking around singing, 'I am divine love.'"  Yes, becoming a "chanting junkie" will help one bond.  And finally, suggests Sexton, sing mantras with others, or join a live Kirtan event which will help one connect with community.  Discerning reader, I challenge you to research what is out there to entice parents, grandparents, and teachers to try out these wondrous mantra methods with their little ones.  Beware!
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/shannon-sexton/6-reasons-to-chant-with-y_b_5439564.html

Like an Angel of Light--Snatam Kaur--Sacred Chant Artist and Kids' Kundalini Yoga Teacher

If ever there was someone who appears quite angelic Snatam Kaur would have to be it.  To watch her beautiful face, and to listen to her melodious voice as she teaches those she calls her "Little Yogis," or "Tomorrow's Teachers" one would think she is a goddess herself.  But, do not be deceived, these chants are sacred mantras to captivate and to lead precious children deep into a New Spirituality.  To open your eyes watch this seductive video here:  http://www.spiritvoyage.com/yoga/Shanti-the-Yogi---Mountain-Adventure-DVD/Snatam-Kaur/DVD-002410.aspx

One of Kaur's DVDs is "Shanti the Yogi"--Mountain Adventure DVD" which is filled with beguiling illustrations as well as alluring musical mantra lyrics.  Composed of eight tracks the words to the lyrics can be found on "Welcome to Shanti the Yogi Dot Com" by clicking on "Lyric Sheets" PDF.  Oh, and there is a Coloring Book PDF as well. http://www.shatitheyogi.com/shanti_frame.html

Just a brief look at the lyrics will quickly let you know that each track song has teachings exactly opposite to Scripture.  Track 1, for example, "Feeling Good Today" teaches the idea that we're feeling good today for God who is in my inside is in you too.  Verse three reads: "God and me, me and God, are one, Sat Nam."  "Sat Nam," the common Kundalini mantra greeting, means "I see your true nature, " or "I recognize the divinity within you."  Similar to "Namaste" it acknowledges we are the same, we are one.  A site named the "Kundalini Way" explains, "Sat Nam is a mantra commonly used in Kundalini Yoga and is repeated three times at the end of a yoga session. ... It has been called the process of naming one's self  'Truth.'"  But in John 14:6 Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father but by me."  For we are not truth, nor are we divine; but we are sinners in need of a Savior!  https://kundaliniway.wordpress.com/sat-nam/

Then there is Track 6, "I Am the Light of My Soul," that teaches the child he again is divine by having him sing, "I am the light, light, light, light of my soul.  I am beautiful, I am bountiful, I am bliss.  Beautiful I am, I am, Bountiful I am, I am.  I am bliss."  No, we are not any of this!  Once again our Bibles tell us Jesus is the Light, and he is the great I Am.  For as Jesus said in John 8:12: "I am the light of the World: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life."

Track 7, "Sa Ta Na Ma," is one of most common mantras of Kundalini Yoga, which young children learn with ease belting it out while doing mudras.  Bragdon, in her affirmation piece named above, mentions Kaur's video of this mantra by saying, "This mantra incorporates finger movements, or mudras.  For kids they are just fun things to do with your fingers.  Both hands are doing the finger plays (hardly finger plays!!), simultaneously.  Bragdon then details the motions touching pointer finger to thumb for "Sa," and so on.  Below this explanation Bragdon includes this disturbing mantra video from Kaur.  Hear here:  http://move-with-me.com/uncategorized/affirmations-and-mantras-for-kids/  The bottom line is: stay far away from this seductive female Sikh, New Age Indian devotional musician, Kundalini Yoga teacher for kids, and meditation and Kirtan guru--Snatam Kaur, and anyone else endorsing these practices!

"Stand Up for Truth" has an in depth article "Warning: Kundalini Yoga's 'Highest Mantra Meditation'"--the Sa Ta Na Ma-- describing its mudras and mantras in detail.  It says, "You will notice the very same greeting in Kundalini Yoga 'Sat Nam' contains the Sa Ta Na Ma components.  Sat Nam is the seed mantra ... while Sa Ta Na Ma is understood as Existence, Life, Death, and Rebirth.  Kirtan Kriya makes this most important mantra the centerpiece of the meditation."

"Kirtan Kryia," the article explains, "exploits the power of mantras, hand positions (mudras), mind power, naad yoga (yoga of sound) to work its magic ...."  For more of this informative warning read here: http://standupforthetruth.com/2011/12/warning-kundalini-yogas-highest-mantra-meditation/

In Conclusion: We Can Choose!

We can choose to follow the gods of the people around us as did the Children of Israel, or we can choose to follow the Lord.  For as Deuteronomy 5:14 noted, "Ye shall not go after other gods, the gods of the people which are around you."  Or as Joshua 23:7-8 reads, "... neither make mention of the name of their gods, nor cause to swear by them, neither serve them, nor bow yourselves to them: But cleave unto the Lord your God ...."

We can choose to form sacred mudras, or we can stretch out our hands to the Lord.  For as Psalm 44:20-21 records: "If we have forgotten the name of our God, or stretched out our hands to a strange god: Shall not our God search this out? ...."  Or as Psalm 63:3-4 so beautifully describes, "Because  thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee.  Thus will I bless thee while I live, I will lift up my hands in thy name."

We can choose to mumble Sanskrit mantras--to multiply sounds and words; or we can choose to exalt the Lord of Lords, and King of Kings!  For as Matthew 6:7 reminds us, "But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking."  Or as Psalm 8:1 says we can shout out, "O LORD our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth."

Yes, we have a choice to follow the way that seems right to a man, or the one way of truth--we can allow our children, or even ourselves to follow after pagan techniques touted to calm us, and ground us; or we can choose, as the Psalmist penned in Psalm 19:14, to declare: "Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in they sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer."  We can choose, it is our choice; but as Joshua of old may our choice be to say: "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord!" (Joshua 24:14)

Learn to Discern Granny Verse:  Matthew 21:16  

"Hosannas, Not Mantras!"

"And they said unto him, Hearest thou what these say?  And Jesus said unto them, Yea, have you not read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise."


More Information:

For Many Shall Come in My Name by Ray Yungen (Lighthouse Trails)

Out of India by Caryl Matrisciana (Lighthouse Trails)

Foxs News' Contributor Kirsten Powers Exits Evangelicalism to Embrace Catholicism

Fox News' Contributor Kirsten Powers Exits Evangelicalism to Embrace Catholicism

Kirsten Powers, Fox News' pundit, happily announced on October 9, 2015 to "The Five" on "One More Thing" that the next day she would become Catholic.  Immediately, Powers was "high fived" by Kimberly Guilfoyle, and Eric Bolling.

Exactly why was this announcement so news worthy?  Well, for starters Kirsten, once an Episcopalian and later an atheist, had shared a "conversion story" about nine years ago.  At the time well-known Presbyterian Pastor Tim Keller of Redeemer Church in New York City had played a role in unveiling her eyes to the truth that God existed.  Further time at Redeemer had her calling herself an "orthodox Christian," and sharing her story with Christianity Today.  One wonders was there anything Keller shared about his own affinity with Catholicism as found, for example, in his book Reason for God  that gave Kirsten the impression Catholics are surely true Christians?  Dr. E.S. Williams in his article "Keller's Affinity with Rome" would support this.  Read more here:
http://www.newcalvinist.com/kellers-affinity-with-rome/

In an article, "Fox News's* Kirsten Powers Announces: 'I'm Becoming Catholic,'" Catholic Deacon
Greg Kandra of the Diocese of Brooklyn writes that during a 2006 trip to Taiwan Powers felt she had had a visitation from Jesus.  Kandra further writes, "She has called her conversion a 'a bit of a mind bender' due to her political beliefs and former atheism, and prefers the term 'orthodox Christian' over 'evangelical' to describe herself due to the 'cultural baggage' around the word 'evangelical.'  She has said that the biggest impact her new found faith had on her political beliefs was that she came to 'view everyone as God's child and that means everyone deserves grace and respect.'"  However, I would point out, that the Bible does not say everyone is God's child.  GotQuestions.com puts it this way, "The Bible is clear that all people are God's creation (Colossians 1:16) and that God loves the entire world (John 3:16), but only those who are born again are children of God (John 1:12, 11:52, Romans 8:16; I John 3:1-10)."  http://www.gotquestions.org/Printer/Gods-children-PF.html
http://www.patheos.com/blogs/deaconsbench/2015/10/fox-newss-kirsten-powers-announces-im-becoming-catholic/
* Kandra's error. 

In another piece, "Kirsten Powers Awakens to the Beauty and Depth and Riches of the Catholic Faith," Rick Rice wrote of Msgr. Charles Pope's* article that told of Kirsten's beautiful conversion story to Evangelicalism.  Rice noted that Msgr. Pope, at the time, prayed that Kirsten would to know that Jesus is Lord and the lover of her soul.  Of the Msgr. Pope piece Rice quotes, "But Father, but Father... 'She did not become Catholic.'"  However,  Msgr. Pope wrote, "Well, all I know is that she is on a journey.  And the Lord has surely led some of the best Catholics through the Evangelical denominations to the Catholic Church.**  ... In fact some of the greatest converts to the Catholic Church bring many gifts from their time as Evangelicals ...  At a personal level, I would love for Ms. Powers to find herself in full union with the Catholic Church. ..."  Rice went on, "Well Msgr. Pope, that one day has apparently arrived: Welcome Ms. Powers to the faith that challenges and enriches."  Rice ended by saying to Powers, "May God use you ma'am to bring others to His embrace."
http://wizbangblog.com/2015/10/09/kirsten-powers-awakens-to-the-beauty-and-depth-and-riches-of-the-catholic-faith/

*  Msgr. Charles Pope is pastor of the Holy Comforter- St. Cyprian Church that is part of the Arch- diocese of Washington, D.C.  Pope has also led Bible Studies in both Congress and the White House.
http://hcscchurch.org/  http://blog.adw.org/monsignor-charles-pope/

**  This could certainly refer to former Presbyterian Scott Hahn who converted to Catholicism some years back, and has become a best selling Catholic teacher, author, and speaker. 

In still another "Home to Rome" article: "Fox News' Kirsten Powers: Welcome Home to the Catholic Church" from Catholic News Live, Kate O'Hare writes "Deo Gratias!  Welcome Home!"  O'Hare also mentions Kirsten's tweet note of gratitude to Father Jonathan Morris for being instrumental in leading her into Catholicism.  O'Hare also adds, " ... maybe we can get her to tag-team with Father Morris and plant seeds to change the heart and mind of fallen-away Catholic Greg Gutfield of 'The Five.'"  As Powers has proven it may be a long and winding road, but there's no greater joy then finally crossing the Tiber.  Come on in Greg, the water's fine."
http://www.catholicvote.org/fox-news-kirsten-powers-welcome-home-to-the-catholic-church/

Dear reader, this is why Kirsten, a well-known writer and contributor, is such a prize convert for her opinions and thoughts influence many.  For us as Evangelicals, it is time to awaken and to understand that the Catholic Church teaches another gospel.  And rather than praising the Catholic Church and seeking common ground, we need to be planting our own seeds of the true gospel as found in Romans 3:24-26, and 28 where Scripture declares we are justified freely, and by faith without or apart from the deeds of the law!

While at Fox, Powers would have much contact with the large number of Catholic contributors.  And as Kirsten twittered about her conversations over dinner at Del Friscas, a ritzy Manhattan restaurant, with Fox's resident Catholic "evangelist" --the ever charismatic Father Jonathan Morris who had swayed her to make her decision.  This same Morris, you may recall, was on evangelist James Robison's program where Robison spoke of Evangelicals and Catholics joining together.  Morris was also on "Hannity" (9-24-15) along with Dr. Robert Jeffress of First Baptist Church, Dallas as they discussed their positive reaction to Pope Francis' visit.
https://twitter.com/kirstenpowers  https://www.facebook.com/drjeffress

Certainly, it seems Powers knows of, and has met Jeffress. One might ask did she hear Jeffress' clear affirmation of the pope declaring Francis "a humble Christ follower" for whom he had much respect?  Did she hear him state that he had more in common with his Catholic friends than his liberal Baptist friends?  Did she hear him say he differed with the pope only on secondary issues?  If Powers didn't, hundreds of others did!

A second prominent priest, Father Roger J. Landry of the Holy Family Catholic Church, an attache to the United Nations and a permanent observer of the Holy See to the United Nations also heavily influenced her to convert.  On Kirsten's October 11 Twitter to Landry Kirsten wrote: "Day 1 as a Catholic: awesome!  Wld not be here w/out the brilliant, kind, sacrificial, thoughtful, @ Fr.RogerLandry."
http://churchholyfamily.org/  http://churchholyfamily.org/people/father-roger-landry-1
https://twitter.com/kirstenpowers

And it was Landry's homily about which Kirsten tweeted, "Happy to share the phenomenal homily from my baptismal Mass by Fr. Roger Landry "The Continual Conversion..."  The homily: "The Continual Conversion Asked of the Rich Young Man and of Us, October 10, 2015"  (Mass of the Reception into Full Communion with the Catholic Church) was given at Manhattan's Holy Family Church whose building was dedicated in 1965 by His Eminence Francis Cardinal Spellman to serve the needs of the UN.  The church, by the way, is located just one block from the United Nations.
https://twitter.com/kirstenpowers

Holy Family was designed by architect George J. Sole to reflect the contemporary, post-Vatican II Church to fit into the United Nations neighborhood.  Its art and design reflect "a spirit of ecumenism and multi-nationalism."  To the left of the main altar stands a large Byzantine icon--"Our Lady of Peace."  Its eastern church style and subject matter, says the parish history, reflects the themes of universality and peace. http://churchholyfamily.org/about-the-church
http://churchholyfamily.org/parish-history

Just prior to her conversion Power's twittered her awe with the Pope on his recent papal visit by saying she was waiting for "Papa Francesca;" and later by writing she "was at the Pontifex Mass in DC." 

Yes, Kirsten was, as Bob Smietana of Christianity Today wrote in a Gleanings News piece, "Pope Francis' Latest Convert: Kirsten Powers."  Smietana said, "Fox News' highly reluctant Jesus follower
has found a new church."  Smietana also noted, "Powers gave few details about her decision to become Catholic.  She did thank Father Jonathan Morris, pastor of Mt. Carmel Church of the Bronx, on Twitter."
http://www.christianitytoday.com/gleanings/2015/october/pope-francis-newest-convert-kirsten-powers.html

How many like Kirsten have received, and are receiving confusing messages about Catholicism from pastors such as Keller, Jeffress, and a host of others.  In light of this, may we be ever ready to share the gospel that in order to reach heaven one must be born again, not join a church or do good works.  For as Acts 4:12 says: "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved."  May we avail ourselves of every opportunity to share the hope that is within us with truth, and love.  And may we stand true to the faith that Jesus Christ is the only way, the truth, and the life; and that it is through Christ alone that we find salvation.

Learn to Discern Granny Verse: I Peter 3:15

"But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear."


For More Information:

Pope Francis and the Thomas Merton Connection by Ray Yungen--A Light House Trails Booklet
http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/?p=18379

My Journey Out of Catholicism by David Dombrowski--A Light House Trails Booklet
http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/?p=10964

The Catholic Mary and Her Eucharistic Christ by Roger Oakland--A Light House Trails Booklet
http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/?p=16870

The Elijah List: A Prophetic Portal Into the Heart of the NAR (New Apostolic Reformation)

The Elijah List: A Prophetic Portal Into the Heart of the NAR

The Elijah List, a prophetic portal into the very heart of the New Apostolic Reformation, is a far reaching prophetic network promoting the revelations and prophetic words of the very elite of the
NAR.  Begun in 1997 Elijah List leader Steve Shultz opted to share positive prophetic words with a few choice friends.   Fast forward to today, and Shultz's list of thirty has grown to nearly 150,000
subscribers world wide.

Connecting these "apostles and prophets" together has produced, as apologist Sandy Simpson wrote in 2008 in "Deception in the Church," "The Elijah List: The Biggest Distributor of False Prophecies in Cyperspace."  http://www.deceptioninthechurch.com/elijahlist.html

The Elijah List Leader: Editor Steve Schultz

Steve Schultz, its prophetic leader, wears many hats from its chief prophetic coach to prophetic huckster to prophetic teacher.  Schultz, according to "Our History," in the 1990s began dabbling more and more in "the prophetic stream" greatly enhancing his prophesying abilities.  To further increase his knowledge Schultz enrolled in courses at Christian International headed by Bill Hamon.  http://www.elijahlist.com/ourhistory.html

Several years later Schultz began the site which is now known as "The Elijah List" whose
purpose is, according to Steve, "to give trustworthy, daily prophetic worship and intercessory prayer 'content' to as many Believers (and even Unbelievers) as possible."  Thus, presently "The Elijah List" disseminates its prophetic proclamations world wide with prophetic elder Schultz as its inveterate cheer leader!  http://www.elijahlist.com/mission.html

The Elijah List: A Prophetic Potpourri

Opening "The Elijah List" Home Page, with its lion banner and Amos 3:8 scripture, one encounters a page crammed with doorways into the prophetic-- "The Elijah List Daily Word," "The Elijah List Breaking Christian News," "The Elijah List Subscriber Boxes," "The Elijah List Upcoming Conferences," "The Elijah List Facebook and Twitter," "The Elijah List Prophetic TV," "The Elijah List Shop," and "The Elijah List Listen to Elijah Stream" and "The Elijah List Services."  From this prophetic potpourri one can delve into many hyper-Charismatic venues.  And sadly, all of this centers around idolizing man and his words, rather than the words of the Lord. For as the Psalmist reminds us in Psalm 119:105:  "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path."  http://www.elijahlist.com

The Elijah List Lists:  From Prophetic Words to Prophetic Ministry Links

The Elijah List: The ABC Prophetic Ministries List

When I first heard the title--"The Elijah List"-- I supposed it was just a list of names of prominent prophets, but when I clicked onto the site I was blown away by its lists within the list.  And where was that elusive list of "prophets" and their ministries?  Well, that "list" could be found by clicking on "About Us" and scrolling down to "Links."  Click on "Links," and finally one will find that ABC List of the who's who of the Elijah List elites--its super apostles and prophets.

This ABC list not only gives names, but photos, and below them the name of that prophetic ministry.  While it's not necessary here to delineate all of the eighty-four ministries nor their founders (my 9-2015 count) some of its better known players include: Che Ahn, John/Carol Arnott, Heidi Baker, Mike Bickle, Shawn Bolz, Wes/Stacey Campbell, Mahesh/Bonnie Chavda, Randy Clark, Kim Clement, Paul Keith Davis, Lou Engle, Francis Frangipane, James/Michal Ann Goll, Bill Hamon, Rodney Howard-Browne, Cindy Jacobs, Bill Johnson, Bob/Bonnie Jones, Rick Joyner, Patricia King, Chuck Pierce, Larry Randolph, Dutch Sheets, Kris Vallotton, C. Peter Wagner, and Bill Yount.
http://www.elijahlist.com/links.html

The Elijah List Daily Word: Prophecies by the Fifties

At the very heart of the Elijah List is "The Elijah List Daily Word" where it's claimed, that in accordance with scripture, "fresh daily prophetic 'manna' from the Lord" will be given.  However, much of this "manna from the Lord" seems instead to be "manmade manna."  Jeremiah, a true prophet, reminds us in Jeremiah 17:5: "...Cursed is the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the LORD.  On the other hand, Jeremiah 17:7 says: "Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is."

When an approved apostle or prophet receives a fresh revelatory "word" they may be featured on "The Elijah List Daily Word."  This word, always prefaced by "From the Desk of Steve Shultz" commentary, endorses this person, and their message encouraging the reader to partake of its "revelations."

Akin to a prophetic cheer leader Shultz writes things such as: "Enjoy!  Forward this! Now, grab a cup of coffee, and pull up a chair."   And like a prophetic huckster Shultz adds, "HEY!  Please EXPLORE our more than 4000 Christian prophetic books, CDs, and gifts at elijahshopper ...."  Then, after you've pulled up that chair, and begin to read that prophetic word you'll also learn of recent prophetic
products that prophet has produced, as well as their ministry address and upcoming itinerary as well.

Now, these dated prophecies come in fifties--you can receive the previous fifty words, or the next fifty words; or you may search the archives. Should you wish to send the daily word to a friend send it with text only, or send it with pictures.

A Recent Elijah List Daily Word: Doug Addison's "Doorway to Advancement"

Go to ABC Ministry Link; and find the "A" ministries.  There you'll note that the first name is Doug Addison and his ministry is listed as "In Light Connection Ministry." Research Addison's bio/info at his web site to find he is a prophetic dream interpreter, speaker, writer, Life Coach, and stand-up-comedian.  In addition Addison, as the Tattoo Prophet, specializes in prophetic tattoo and piercing interpretation.
http://dougaddison.com/about-us/  http://dougaddison.com/training/prophetic-tattoo-interpretation/

As per usual Steve Shultz on 9-9-2015 gives Addison a "thumbs up" rating when he writes, "I always look forward to ... Addison's word for the month.  Doug has a unique pulse from the LORD on what HE has in store for the Body of Christ each month."  "... but during this time, I try to be very attuned to what God might be saying to me, either in a dream or as I listen to His Voice!  I encourage all of you to do the same! ... Blessings.  ... And thanks for forwarding this to your friends! ..."

Addison's prophecy suggests September 13-23 is the time to hear God more clearly.  For at this time, says Addison, as God spoke to the Jewish people on their holy days, we too can gain direction.  What's more, continues Addison, God is redistributing gifts and callings --those of people who don't use them or those of people who have died--to those who will advance the Kingdom.

At this point Addison inserts his dream of meeting of the Tarnished Key Angel who hands Addison "The Key of Life and Death" which he says helped lift him out of sickness.  So, advises Addison, watch for something to be given you.
http://www.elijahlist.com/words/textonly.html?ID=15134

Speaking of angels, Addison on his In Light site September 10th wrote "A New Season, New Dreams, and An Angel of Bliss." In a dream Addison tells of buying a house in which a spirit resided.  When Addison went into this house the spirit appeared as a brilliant white Angel like transparent white rain. Was this angel evil?  No, insists Addison, this was an angel from God. This was the "Angel of Bliss."  Now this dream indicates, claims Addison, that God is moving in new ways that might be out of our comfort zones.  Watch, intones Addison, for new seasons of ecstasy and bliss to be coming.
http://dougaddison.com/2015/09/a-new-season-new-dreams-an-angel-of-bliss/

Steve Schultz may be enthused over Addison; but it would seem that readers, with even a smidgen of discernment after researching Addison's present and past prophetic utterances, should know to avoid a list that would promote his words as something God wants the body of Christ to read every month.  Surely Timothy's words in II Tim 3:13 are so apt: "But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived."

For an in depth look at "prophetic evangelist" Addison read Mike Oppenheimer's "Let Us Reason" articles "When Psychology Meets Psychic: What do You Get?" Part I and II here:
http://www.letusreason.org/Popteach62.htm.

The Elijah List Events List:  Upcoming Conferences/Schools

The Elijah List Event's list enables one to check out the latest prophetic conferences/schools world wide by clicking on a conference/event to register, or to peruse its agenda.  Events are dated, by city, state, country, and category.  There's even a place where starting at $99 an ad for your own conference can be arranged.
http://www.elijahlist.com/conference/index.html

The current list covers September/October 2015 with one exception--that is the January 7-9, 2016 "Elijah List Ministries Conference" --"What's God Saying for 2016: Don't Miss This One!"-- which takes place in Albany, Oregon.  Hosted by Elijah List founder Steve Shultz its speakers include Chuck Pierce (NAR's #2 in command behind C. Peter Wagner according to Dr. Orrel Steinkamp); Dutch Sheets (#3); Jane Hamon, and Dr. Alveda King (first time ever) niece of the Dr. Martin Luther King.  Schultz reminds all that 2016 will be a very pivotal year with presidential primaries and elections.
http://www.deceptioninthechurch.com/plumblinearchive.html  Scroll down to Dr. Steinkamp's
article: "Chuck Pierce, The Kabbalist Apostle and Heir Apparent for the NAR" (March-April 2010)

One sentence, part of this announcement, gives a window into Shultz's perception of prophecy fulfillment.  It reads, "The accuracy level of these prophetic voices have always been very high concerning what God is about to do, and it gets more accurate each year."  Along these same lines, The Zedekiah List gives several Shultz quotes about prophetic certainty.  Here are two.  Date: 8-12-2000:  "No prophet or prophetic voice is without error when they give specific prophecies.  However, some have developed more credibility over time, and with a track record of Words that come true."  Date:  12-4-2007: "When we post any word at all on the Elijah List website--ANY word some think it's from God and some think it's NOT from God.  So, that's the way it's supposed to work.  Over time, you will decide literally for yourself which words you feel are trustworthy for YOU and/or which prophets you feel have the least or best credibility."   
http://www.zedekiahlist.com/index.html

In Wandering Stars author Keith Gibson often refers to and examines Elijah List prophets, and prophecies.  He especially takes on the Schultz's notion that prophets grow in accuracy.  In chapter twelve: "Oops! They Did it Again" he chronicles some Elijah List examples of failed prophecies.
(pp.243-259)

Of these false "prophetic practitioners" Gibson notes that they make "prophecies that are unverifiable" with "words that are so vague as to be essentially meaningless though they sound
impressive."  Gibson cites such Elijah List prophecies as those by Kim Clement, Bob Jones, Rick Joyner, Bobby Conner, Chuck Pierce, Catherine Brown, and many more.  Gibson also states, "In
light of the litany of failed prophecies with the modern prophetic movement the words of Richard Fisher seem particularly relevant, 'today's modern prophets are like a child playing an instrument and making numerous mistakes all the while claiming to be a prodigy. We are just supposed to ignore all the sour notes.' Today's apostles and prophets are truly wells without water. They boast great things but produce little results."  (p.258)
www.thebereancall.org/content/t-mcmahon-keith-gibson-part-1

The Elijah List Shop List: Pick from Over 4000 Products

Begin your Elijah List shopping by clicking on "Shop" which takes one to the "Elijah Shopper's"  ABC List of products such as Art Prints, Books, Christmas/Holiday, Conference Sets, ElijahRain Magazine, Gift Certificates, Oils and Scents, Teaching Messages, and so much more.  Click on "Review" to see pages of "real shopper's" opinions.  Shop by category: angels/supernatural, destiny/personal growth, dreams/visions, prophetic/prophecy, worship/dance plus more; or shop by author, artist, or brand name with hundreds of choices.

Here's a sample of one "heavenly product" that Keith Gibson describes in his excellent book Wandering Stars.  From the 2005 Elijah List Shopper Gibson describes "Third Heaven Vision Anointing Oil" like this, " ... for the person who has difficulty getting caught up to heaven on their own and for whom the many teachings by the prophets on how to make this happen have proven insufficient , the Elijah List provides the following: ...  Third Heaven Vision Anointing oil ... made from six ingredients around the world: ... Each fragrance was chosen from different nations and was indi-vidually prayed over and sanctified for the work of the Lord.  May you have 'third heaven' visions."  (p.104)  Shopper beware, for this is but one of the 4000 plus products that the Elijah List advertises -- products often full of deceptive and aberrant teachings.
http://www.elijahshopper.com/

The Elijah List Services List: An International Association of Healing Rooms Index 

Another list within the Elijah List is the "Services" page which includes advertising, healing, and prayer.  One service that the Elijah List sponsors is a list from the Spokane's Cal Pierce run
IAHR where the user can find instant access to over three hundred twenty-two of the over three thousand world wide healing rooms in its IAHR Index. 

This index shows the name of the organization that hosts a healing room, its location by state or country, and its operating hours.  Should you need further locations contact information for the IAHR is given: its website, email, and telephone.  Of the over three hundred healing rooms listed there's an ABC list of the USA states; and also a list of  countries as the United Kingdom, South Africa, Singapore, Malaysia, Croatia, Canada, Australia, and so on.  For much more information on the Healing Rooms see my previous blog which details its ties to the New Apostolic Reformation.

In Summary:  The Elijah List portal is like a prophetic megaphone spewing out prophetic propaganda and prophecies to many in the body of Christ.  These are prophets and prophetesses, who do not stick to the Bible, are willing to add to it, or subtract from it teaching false doctrine from their prophetic pedestals. These men and women crave power, and are willing to do anything it takes to have people idolize them.  And while they are at it they aren't shy about helping themselves, through their prophetic products, to plenty of money from the undiscerning. As true discerners we need to educate ourselves, warn others, and turn away from such publications as the Elijah List.
http://www.elijahlist.com/healing_rooms/index.html

A Scriptural Word: 

As for you and me, let us choose the Word of God--the forever in heaven settled word, the truth word, the pure word, the sweeter than honey word, the lamp unto my feet word, the light unto my path word, the hide in my heart word, the not to be forgotten word, and the full of hope word.  For as the Psalmist says in Psalm 119:104: "Through thy precepts I get understanding; therefore, I hate every false way."

Learn to Discern Granny Verse:  Romans 16:17

"Now, I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them."