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‘New Age’ Glossary
Age of Aquarius: An era predicted by astrologers, due to
begin around the turn of the millennium, that is to be marked by peace, justice
and unity.
Channeling: Psychic communication in the physical world
with other entities -- usually non-corporeal -- for example, dead human beings,
spirits on a higher plane or aliens.
Crystals: Stones that are believed to have energies that
can heal the human mind and body.
Enneagram: System of character analysis, using nine types
based on inner motivation.
Feng Shui: The Chinese art of positioning objects in
buildings and other places based on the belief in positive and negative effects
of the patterns of yin and yang and the flow of chi, the vital force or energy
inherent in all things.
Tarot: A set of 78 cards used in divination or to explore
the unconscious. The 56 cards in the “minor arcana” are divided into
four suits: wands (symbolizing action); cups (emotions); swords (intellect);
and pentacles (material concerns). The 22 cards of the “major arcana”
depict archetypes and elemental forces.
Theosophy: A system of beliefs promulgated by Theosophical
Society, founded by Helena Petrovna Blavatsky and others in 1875. Theosophy
emphasizes the unity of spirit and matter, and embraces belief in reincarnation
and spiritual evolution.
Yoga: A Hindu discipline aimed at achieving a state of
perfect spiritual insight and tranquility. In the West, the term is most
commonly understood as the physical exercises that are practiced as part of
this discipline.
Zen: A school of Mahayana Buddhism that asserts that
enlightenment can be attained through meditation and self-contemplation.
-- Compiled by Teresa Malcolm
National Catholic Reporter, February 21,
2003
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