Peter Richelieu, despite considering himself no writer, delivered a profound book to the world, driven by an inner calling. His work, particularly from Chapter Four onwards, delves into realms beyond our everyday waking consciousness, offering insights into experiences during sleep and the nature of existence itself. Richelieu emphasizes the importance of the initial chapters, presented as talks by a Hindu guru, as they lay the vital groundwork for understanding the subsequent narrative and the broader realities of life and consciousness. He humbly offers his experiences, hoping to illuminate the grand design of life, provide solace, and foster a deeper understanding of evolution and our connection with animals.
Embarking on an Out-of-Body Experience
Chapter Four recounts Richelieu’s initial foray into an out-of-body experience (OOBE), guided by his guru’s teachings. He vividly describes the moment of departure from his physical form as a “sliding movement,” occurring just as the clock chimed ten. Suddenly, he found himself suspended above his body, observing it on the bed below. This separation brought a mix of surprise, excitement, thrill, and a touch of fear of the unknown. Despite the novelty and slight palpitation, there was no urge to return immediately, indicating a captivating allure to this expanded state of awareness.
Transitioning from Ceylon to London in this non-physical state, Richelieu’s narrative takes an emotional turn with a reunion with his brother, Charles. Their heartfelt embrace and conversation lead to a dinner at the Trocadero Grill, grounding the extraordinary experience with familiar human interactions. However, the evening takes a dramatic turn as they witness a plane crash. In a poignant scene, Richelieu’s guru steps in to assist the young pilot who perished in the accident.
The guru’s interaction with the pilot focuses on helping him detach from the “clinging matter” that bound him, described as etheric in nature and connected to the physical body. Through gentle guidance and encouragement to exert his will, the pilot sheds this matter, which disintegrates into dust. This symbolic shedding marks the pilot’s awakening into the afterlife. Initially overwhelmed and sobbing, the pilot grapples with the realization of his death and release from earthly struggles. The guru’s compassionate approach allows for this emotional release and gently guides the pilot towards understanding his new reality, swiftly moving him to a more peaceful environment in the countryside. This episode illustrates a compassionate perspective on death as a transition and the role of guidance in the immediate aftermath.
Encounters in the Astral Planes
Chapter Seven transports Richelieu to the third level of the astral planes, where he encounters Daphne, a departed friend who succumbed to pneumonia. Their reunion is filled with mutual surprise and affection. Daphne, astonished to see Richelieu in this realm while still alive, inquires about his presence. Richelieu attempts to explain his journey and experiences, revealing the unusual nature of a living person visiting such astral spheres. Daphne explains that while astral wanderings during sleep are common, consciously reaching the third sphere is rare. She warmly welcomes Richelieu’s ability to visit, expressing her affection and the promise of future explorations together.
Acharya, the guru, provides Daphne with context regarding Richelieu’s presence. He explains that while Daphne had previously tried to share spiritual insights with Richelieu in the physical world, it was the profound impact of his brother Charles’ death that ignited a deep “clamour for light, for occult knowledge” within him. This crisis became the catalyst for Richelieu’s spiritual awakening and his earnest pursuit of understanding. The guru emphasizes the universal truth: “what a man really wants he can get, providing he is willing and eager to work,” echoing the biblical principle of seeking and finding.
Following this profound exchange, Daphne leads Richelieu and the guru to a musical recital, showcasing the refined experiences of the astral plane. Subsequently, she guides Henry to her astral home, described as a “dream house” within a vibrant, colorful garden. The cottage exudes charm and comfort, with inviting wicker chairs on the porch, highlighting the ease and beauty of astral existence where earthly concerns like weather and theft are absent. This glimpse into Daphne’s astral home offers a comforting vision of the afterlife as a realm of beauty and peace, reflecting personal preferences and desires.
Building a Meaningful Spiritual Life
Richelieu’s book serves as an accessible introduction to the concept of life after death. He suggests that the initial astral spheres closely mirror earthly life, while higher spheres represent more specialized and refined states of being, generally beyond the reach of most. Ultimately, Richelieu posits a fundamental question: “Is this ‘real’?” He proposes that the authenticity of our spiritual journey is built upon the foundation of our earthly existence. Therefore, the emphasis is placed on living a life of purpose and spiritual growth in the physical realm as the true preparation for the soul’s journey beyond. Richelieu’s work encourages readers to contemplate their spiritual development in their current lives, suggesting that this earthly journey is intrinsically linked to the experiences that await.
