Nag Hammadi Gospels-A collection of 13 papyrus scrolls, written by early GNOSTIC writers, and were found in earthenware jars along the upper Nile by an Arab peasant in 1945. Although thematically related to Judeo-Christian teachings, the Nag Hammadi manuscripts espouse a very different, sometimes contradictory, view of RELIGIOUS matters from the traditional orthodox DOCTRINES. For example, the Nag Hammadi scriptures speak of CHRIST not so much as an INCARNATE, but as a DIVINE messenger who came to bring a secret knowledge of salvation through ENLIGHTENMENT to those who possessed this ESOTERIC knowledge. They were translated by various scholars, and were generally called the "Gnostic Gospels". They present an alternative approach to CHRISTIANITY, and their discovery was quite startling. There are extensive writings and commentary on this subject, available on the internet. The Great American Bathroom Book II also has a quite informative and concise section on this subject.
Namaste-Ac know ledging the SPIRIT, or the presence of a SPIRIT, in another person. Often done with a slight bow, or with your eyes. The idea would be: "I honor you" or "I honor the SPIRIT in you."
Native American Spirituality-Relating to the myths, SACRED behaviors, and mind-set of the native peoples of North America. It (was) and is associated by reverence to the forces of the universe and nature in general, as these forces were the underlying influences on human life. Various techniques were used to influence those cosmic forces, usually with the help of a SHAMAN. Apparently, the Native Americans did not recognize the idea of MONOTHEISM, and they used what could be called subordinate spirits to aid them in various situations. These situations would include war, health, influence on crops, game tracking, decision making, etc.
Near-Death Tube-People that experience near-death in trauma surgery often describe a tube between this world and other SPIRITUAL worlds or dimensions.
Negative Energy-Any energy that is toxic or draining to one's LIFE FORCE, and is counterproductive to the stimulation of life.
New Age-A SPIRITUAL movement using various techniques which could include ASTROLOGY, MEDITATION, crystals, etc. The aim is to seek evolve into an expanded AWARENESS of yourself and your relationship to mankind and the universe. See NEW AGE MUSIC.
New Age Music-Background or ambient music that is soothing or inspiring, and many times is heard with a blending of acoustic (or synthesized instruments) and ancient instruments.
New Testament-The second part of the Christian BIBLE, which includes the GOSPELS that describes the life and teachings of JESUS CHRIST, the history of the early church, and various sections have various authors. It is comprised of three sections: History, the Letters, and Revelation. Numerous versions are in print. See HOLY BIBLE for additional comments and evaluation of this and other sections of the BIBLE.
