Spiritual development

There is the following ancient and widespread theory regarding consciousness (which is found presented in mythological, philosophical and highly detailed practical form).  That human consciousness normally finds itself is state which is very different from its original state or states which it is ultimately capable. This situation has a cause.  Consciousness is mapped out according to certain domains and powers (without implying that they are not all closely interconnected) and it is found that for each of these domains and powers (which we can come into conscious contact with) there is a certain obstacle or counter-energy, in particular in the form of deeply-ingrained habits and tendencies. All these obstacles work together the ensure consciousness stays in its current state.  If to each of these obstacles and 'illnesses' we apply the right remedy and 'virtue' (in the form of an deeply-ingrained counter-habit and counter-tendency) then this will function like so many keys which will remove the shackles binding consciousness to its unhappy condition.  Be it noted that the transformation involved is total and radical and all-encompassing. This freed and purified consciousness becomes apt to receive higher influences and powers and to be ultimately transformed and transfigured to its original state. Since there are billions of different consciousness it is natural that there are many different kinds of corrupt and fallen conditions which require subtle differences and balances of medicinal virtues and counter-energies.  And as regards to religions and spiritual and esoteric traditions and philosophies, besides the pure universal moral law this is the only important and valid core we should look for - and they should be purified again and again (including through restoration of symbolic and esoteric hermeneutics) until only the pure gold of the core shines forth. Anything beyond morality and yoga or which does not contribute directly to them is to be utterly rejected.