Table of Contents
Overview
On January 25, 2019, Paul Power delivered a message discussing the symbolic and spiritual significance of the apple in religious and cultural contexts. The talk references “Keys 43” from the series “Love Letters from God,” attributed to the work of Robert Nelson. The apple is explored as a symbol in various traditions and its representation in religious narratives, particularly within Christianity.
Religious Symbolism of the Apple
The apple appears in multiple traditions:
- Biblical Context: The apple is often associated with the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, where it symbolizes the forbidden fruit from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil. Paul Power highlights that while the apple has been used to explain the “fall from grace,” it is often misrepresented. According to Power, the fruit referenced in scripture is not necessarily an apple.
- Mythological Context: The golden apples represent power, beauty, or immortality in mythology. They are symbols of special significance, often associated with divine or legendary qualities in various mythological traditions.
Misconceptions and Clarifications
The Fall from Grace
Paul Power refutes the idea that Eve, or the apple, caused humanity’s fall from grace. He emphasizes that the apple is an outward symbol and should not be blamed for human separation from God. Instead, the “fall” is described as a flawed perception, rooted in the idea of duality and separateness from the divine.
Eternal Nature and the Human Condition
Power explains that the spiritual part of human nature is eternal, as it is derived from God. The physical body, while important and good, is temporary and subject to change. The body is not designed to remain eternal in its current form. Power reminds listeners that humans are eternal because they are part of God’s nature.
Illusion of Separation
The talk stresses that separation from God is an illusion. Power explains that fear and limited perception give rise to behaviors that promote the illusion of separateness. He encourages individuals to view themselves as one with God and to reject the false belief in duality.
The Apple as a Symbol
The apple, according to Power, becomes a symbol of misperception. Robert urges listeners not to attribute humanity’s supposed fall from grace to the fruit or to Eve. Instead, he explains that the fall is a result of the belief in separation from God. The talk emphasizes unity and the idea that neither humanity nor any part of creation can fall from God’s grace.
Conclusion
Paul Power closes the discussion by encouraging individuals to “pluck the apple” and share in the celebration of life, free from guilt or suspicion. He urges listeners to embrace the apple as a gift, symbolizing the shared nature of existence with God.
