This psychic reading given by Edgar Cayce at his home on Arctic Crescent, Virginia Beach, Va., this 1st day of April, 1939, in accordance with request made by self, through his uncle, Mr. [257], Active Member of the Ass'n for Research & Enlightenment, Inc.

Present: Edgar Cayce; Gertrude Cayce, Conductor; Gladys Davis, Steno. Born July 3, 1923, in Meridian, Miss.

TEXT

1. GC: You will give the relation of this entity and the universe, and the universal forces, giving the conditions which are as personalities, latent and exhibited in the present life; also the former appearances in the earth plane, giving time, place and the name, and that in each life which built or retarded the development for the entity; giving the abilities of the present entity and that to which it may attain, and how. You will answer the questions he has submitted, as I ask them:
2. EC: Yes, we have the records here of that entity now known as or called [1856].
3. In giving the interpretations of the records as we find them here, not all that may be interpreted from same is given; yet these are chosen with the desire to make this experience one that may be helpful in the present sojourn.
4. While virtues and vices are not passed over lightly, neither are all the warnings given as might be a part of the experience.
5. Yet these are given as tenets and principles in which the entity may and should become well versed.
6. For the entity should naturally be a teacher, a leader, a director; and yet the thoughts, the purposes, the aims, the desires must be founded in spiritual principles and not to become egotistical nor so self-assertive as to forget Who is the Author and the Giver of life itself.
7. Know always in what ye believe, and be able to give a purpose, a cause for belief in same. Not as mere justification of self's activities, but that the glory of the Father may be made manifest among the children of men.
8. In choosing then those influences which arise in thy experience, thou art tempered well with the material heritage of which one might indeed be proud. Yet know that THY body is indeed the temple of the living God, and is to be considered as such and NOT as a means for self-indulgence nor self-aggrandizement.
9. Thy mind, thy soul stands ever before Him, the Giver of all good and perfect gifts.
10. Let thy activities, thy conversation, thy conduct before thy fellow man, then, never be that as would put a question mark of ANY nature that would be degrading or even a defying of the spiritual laws as ye know them.
11. Study, then, ever, to show thyself approved unto thy Maker, rightly divining the words of truth and KEEPING self unspotted from questionings of thine OWN conscience.
12. Then, in the light of that just indicated as compared with the influences that are a part of thy experience in the material world, as well as through those interims between thy sojourns in the material world, -
13. "How," ye ask "may this be best accomplished? What are my faults, my virtues, my weaknesses, my strength?"
14. Know that these can be answered in a very few words. THYSELF is thy greatest weakness, as thyself is thy greatest strength.
15. For as thy body is the temple of the living God, the more oft ye become active in letting those promises be manifested that are given to each soul, "If ye will be my son, I will be thy God," thus thy greatest strength may come in and through Him, - as it may be manifested through thy relationships to thy fellow man day by day.
16. As to choices of how these will be made manifest, - they, the choices, must EVER be thine answer to that conviction which lies within, through the knowledge of Him, thy Lord, thy God, day by day.
17. Of thyself alone little may be accomplished that is of lasting worth, yet much may be done in a material way to give or bring satisfaction, or gratification, to thy material desires. But these are of the earth-earthy.
18. Then, let thy life be so lived that the MATERIAL successes come as a result of a clean, conscientious, consistent abiding in the faith, the promise from HIM that ye are His son.
19. For the earth is the Lord's, and the fullness thereof. The silver, the gold is his; and the cattle, the grain upon a thousand hills are but as the workmanship of His hand. And He withholds no good things from those who abide wholly within Him and His promises.
20. Astrologically, - ye find that there are the mental abilities, as well as the abilities to speak, the abilities to manifest physical prowess, the abilities to attain leadership.
21. These, as indicated, are both thy weaknesses and thy strength; and thus must be tempered in the spirit of truth and righteousness altogether.
22. And know that the "try" is that as may be, as it ever has been, counted to thee for righteousness' sake.
23. As to the appearances in the earth, as ye find, are quite varied in their activity, - as well as in the environs of those periods when ye as an entity materially manifested.
24. Before this we find ye - as the grandson of Zedekiah - made for those activities in the land now known as the English, where - with those of thy peoples - ye set up the attempted activity in that land.
25. There ye went, not a priest but rather as a teacher, a workman with thy hands; as a leader, as a director, - in the name then Zeruben.
26. In the experience ye gained, for ye established freedom of individual activity, yet united in one accord for the common good of all in the material relationships.
27. The weaknesses of forcing the purposes, the issues, became manifest during the experience; yet these GREW by the tempering of self FOR the greater purposes to be those lessons that ye may apply in this present experience.
28. Before that we find the entity was among those activities during the rebuilding of the walls, and the setting up of the temple service during those periods of activity of Zerubabbel, Nehemiah, Ezra, and those who came into the land of promise for the reestablishing of those activities there.
29. The entity was young in years, and among the first of those born in that activity; out of confusion, as the entity has found and will find oft in material experience, came the dedicating of this entity to the service carried on there.
30. Thus, as that purpose was set through those experiences there, so may it in this experience be carried forward again, - in a great uniting of interests in the calling again of Israel to the worship of the living God!
31. The name then was Joel - not the elder, not other than those active in the experience of the reestablishing of the active temple service in that particular period.
32. Before that we find the entity was among those peoples born in the wilderness during the journeying of the children of promise to the Promised Land, - during those days when there were disputations as to those activities of Korah.
33. We find the entity standing close with those of Joshua, Aaron and Moses to the defense of the activities through those experiences of the purifying of body for the dedicating of same for a service in the activities of the peoples as they journeyed.
34. There we find the entity gained, throughout that experience; being one that upheld those tenets, those principles, those ordinances as were proclaimed during those experiences.
35. And from that experience, those abilities to bring quietness out of dissension, the abilities to quell those activities that would become mob activity, those abilities to counsel with those who are individually sad hearted, come as a natural activity of the entity.
36. The name then was Shulzar.
37. Before that we find the entity was in the Egyptian land, during those periods of turmoils and strifes between the Natives as well as the Priest and their followers.
38. There we find the entity was rather one studying in the activities of what now would be called the chemist.
39. These the entity was able to use in those periods of the realizing of the activities of coalition between the Priest and his followers, the activities of those from the Atlantean land, and the King and the rulers in that experience.
40. Hence we will find those abilities for the activities in EVERY form pertaining to body-development becoming a part of the entity's experience in the present; for it was he that established those activities of the Temple of Sacrifice there, - in the name Ar-pht-den.
41. As to the abilities of the entity in the present, and that to which it may attain, and how:
42. HOLD FAST to that which has been the impelling influence in thy sojourns through the earth! Keep those principles first and foremost!
43. And in the capacity of the teacher or the rabbi, or the instructor in the art of self-defense for the DEVELOPING of the rhythmic activity of body and the coordinating of same, - these be channels through which the entity may make the greater contribution at this time.
44. For, know, - they that have saved a soul from self-indulgence, from self-destructive influence, and guided such a one towards the light of the new hope in the promises from HIM from above, have covered a multitude of sin.
45. Ready for questions.
46. (Q) What college or institution should I attend to prepare myself for such a career?
    (A) Cincinnati.
47. (Q) In a particular one there?
    (A) To be sure - the rabbi school there!
48. (Q) Is my present high school curriculum suitable?
    (A) Very good.
49. (Q) What course of study should I pursue in my senior year of High School?
    (A) That in directing towards those things that will make for the fitting for that activity as may be chosen.
50. (Q) In what way may I best assist my mother in her work?
    (A) By keeping self as a living example of activity of that which she would accomplish in the experiences and lives of others.
51. (Q) Should I play football in high school and college?
    (A) Would be well. For in these the entity may excel. DO NOT become professional.
52. (Q) What will the summer of 1939 have in store for me?
    (A) How much will ye put INTO the service of that which presents itself in the devious ways and manners? That's how much it has in store for thee. As ye give, ye receive.
53. (Q) Would the proposed move for next fall benefit me?
    (A) This depends on many other circumstances. In so far as self is concerned, very well. Consider others.
54. (Q) Is there a way by which my sight may be strengthened?
    (A) By the head and neck exercise and the regular exercise that comes from stimulating the activity to the optic forces.
55. (Q) In what way should my relatives assist me?
    (A) Rather would the question be, "In what way may I assist my relatives?" So live that ye would be a living example before them, and let THEM be rather as FREE in their expression of aid.
56. We are through for the present.

    Copy to Self
    Copy to Mr. [257]
    Copy to Ass'n file

BACKGROUND

1. In 1919 mother [459] was told that if she and Rabbi [4159] married their firstborn would be a leader of his people.
2. 10/10/35 See 459-7, Par. 12-A--16-A reiterating prophecy.
3. 5/28/36 Maternal aunt [558]'s letter: "[1856] is being confirmed Sunday at his father [4159]'s temple."
4. 11/21/38 See 459-10, Par. 16-A regarding best school for [1856].
5. 3/26/39 [1856]'s letter to EC:
   ... Drive ..., N.Y.
   Mr. Edgar Cayce Virginia Beach, Virginia
   Dear Mr. Cayce,
   My Uncle [257] has just informed me that arrangements have been made so that I might be given a reading by you. I would like to thank you very much for the privilege, and I assure you that I shall do all in my power to cooperate with you. The following is a list of questions which I should like very much to be answered.
   1. What career am I best suited for? 2. What college or institution should I attend to prepare myself for such a career? 3. Is my present high school curriculum suitable? 4. What course of study should I pursue in my senior year of High School? 5. In what way may I best assist my mother in her work? 6. What will the Summer of 1939 have in store for me? 7. Would the proposed move for next fall benefit me? 8. Is there a way by which my sight may be strengthened? 9. Should I play football in High School and College? 10. In what way should my relatives assist me?
   I have never made out questions for a reading before. If any of these, which I have put seem irrelevant or not clear, please omit these.
   Again I would like to thank you very much. This reading will mean quite a lot to me. Please give my best regards to Hugh Lynn.
   Sincerely yours, [1856]
6. 3/26/39 Uncle [257]'s letter: Dear Judge:
   Attached are the questions that [1856] worked on with [459]'s help. I sent you the questions that I would have asked. So please use these & if there is time use mine in addition.
   1. What school should he be sent to for College preparatory? 2. What college will be best for him? 3. What future should he follow? 4. What affect has the prophecy given in Mother 1919 as to her issue being important had on the boy's life? 5. Is he destined to do important work in his lifetime? 6. Should he follow Rabbinical work? 7. What should his summers be used for? 8. What affect will present European affairs have on his life? 9. Is there any danger as to the anti-Semitic experiences affecting him in America in his life time? 10. What can he do to help his mother and sister? 11. Under whose guidance will the mind of this boy show greater development? 12. Will his father [4159] be able to guide & direct him? 13. How will he know of his presence? 14. What direct advice will help the boy most to make him a well rounded, healthy, normal, boy? 15. What may be expected of his contribution to his God & mankind?
   I would like a copy of [1856]'s reading so I can study it also - this should be a wonderful reading as so much has been promised us in his connection.
   Love to you all -
   As always, [257]

REPORTS

1. 4/03/39 EC's letter to [1856]:
   Dear [1856]
   Hope you find your reading most interesting - am sure that you will find if you will read it over every now and then - not try to understand it all at once, that you will get a great deal more out of it - if you find it interesting, hope some time when I am in N.Y. that we will have the opportunity to discuss it - know will be glad to hear from you as to what you think of it - and are there any questions you wish to ask me about it - will be glad to give you the advantage of my little experience with the readings - and don't think too many questions will ever be. For wish you to get as much out of your reading as my own boys have gotten out of their's.
   Give my love to your mother and [...] [sister [2444]], with all good wishes
   Sincerely, Edgar Cayce
2. 4/06/39 His Uncle [257]'s letter: "We have lots to think about with that young man, and he and his mother [459] are one of the most tickled pair I have ever seen."
3. 4/07/39 [1856]'s letter to EC:
   Dear Mr. Cayce,
   I have read and reread the reading. It has helped me more than anyone might realize. It has given me a moral and spiritual uplift which I hope will stay with me. It is one thing to know that you are becoming lazy, indolent, and self-centered and do nothing about the condition, and it is quite another to be suddenly awakened by the realization that someone else knows what is happening and is interested in helping you. We have had quite a few disappointments and griefs in the past years, and I suppose that they had demoralized me quite a bit. However you have set me aright again. In a way that last paragraph in the reading [1856-1, Par. 44] really describes you and your work.
   You were right when you said that I was forgetting my beliefs. In past months I have declared a "moratorium on religion" and have not gone to temple. However, I shall "try" to make up for it in the only way possible.
   There are several questions I would like to ask you. Not important but concerning readings in general. Perhaps I can ask some concerning my own reading [1856-1], now: Does the "alone" in the sentence [Par. 17] mean that someone must push me to accomplish something lasting or that I shall never be able to do such? and how may I profit by my past lives on the earth? If in reading the reading again I am in doubt about anything, I will write you. I am pretty sure I know and understand it.
   I would like to thank you very much for what you have done for me I suppose you get many letters of this sort and I am proud to add mine to them. You certainly have helped me immeasurably -
   Mother [459] and [2444] join me in wishing you and the family a very Happy Easter and best of health.
   Yours sincerely, [1856]
4. 4/10/39 EC's letter to [1856]:
   Dear [1856]
   Thank you for yours of the 7th - glad you find something worth reading in your reading - believe [1856], you like most every one else will find more and more as you read it - read - put it away - then read again - making notes as to what you would like to ask about what is said - the chances ten to one the next time you read it you will find the answer there.
   Know how much such has meant for us as to our boys - and am sure you can make it of help to you. And as most people say as the years go by it will become more and more helpful to you.
   Know will be glad to try and answer any question that may come up but is much better of course if you find it yourself - but don't hesitate to ask me.
   With love to your mother and [2444]
   Sincerely, Edgar Cayce
5. 12/10/40 Mother [459]'s letter, reminiscing "My father was a great philosopher, and do you know, out of a clear sky, [1856] gave his major as philosophy. We never discussed his college career, as we wanted him to decide. Now he is all over N.Y. looking for the best Hebrew tutor."
6. 11/04/40 Uncle [257]'s letter: "[1856] made the debating team at ... Univ., also honor roll."
7. 1/30/41 See mother's Life Reading, 459-12, Par. 45-A--47-A, regarding fulfilling the prophecy that [1856] "might become to the people of promise such as did the grandson of Ruth."
8. 9/11/41 See mother's reading 459-13, Par. 4-A--21-A, regarding son [1856]'s education at Hebrew Union College and University of Cincinnati.
9. 9/15/41 Mother's letter: "The reading was swell. I shall try and carry out to the best of my ability. [1856] was very much pleased to know that he might make the Hebrew Union College in six years. So we shall go to Cincinnati on Wednesday. Many, many, thanks for the early reply."
10. 11/03/41 Mother wrote saying [1856] took the exam and passed it with high average, as indicated in above 459-13. "[...] told me that the faculty and the examining board were taken off their feet at the astonishing results of [1856]'s exam. Now what does that make you - a fake fortune teller? Remember the scene at the Hotel that time in N.Y.? Well, in generations to come - you and I may not live to see it but - psychic research will grow and, as radio, etc., has been developed, this power will also and we shall say, 'Well, the great psychic, Edgar Cayce, the origin of the great science, was stoned - as Jesus was crucified - as the Jews were for their belief and still are. That's what [1856]'s mission will be, to narrow down prejudice - jealous people who would love to be renowned and have a God-given power given to them are the ones who throw the stones. They have some of the power, but they are lazy and do not develop it. I will not say that it is so evident, as I truly believe you are probably the only Benjamin Franklin but Edison did wonders. As I say, it's too bad that one can't on this earth be recognized, that they may enjoy their earthly existence, but for that were we created to prepare for the great academy on high. Whether our daily life is in trade or psychology we must not lose sight of the 'purpose.' We all are created for different missions. So the reading said my particular purpose is to make my son a forerunner of David. Is [1856] to be a 'Jesse' - who is he supposed to be - I do not quite get that. I know the reading told me before I met dear [4159] that I'd marry a man who made laws but not a lawyer and through the marriage I'd make myself a Ruth to the generation and become nationally known. That remains to be seen. In another reading it said the prophecy would be fulfilled through the son. Does not matter just so we can be of service to mankind."
11. 5/13/42 Mother's letter: "[1856] likes living a simple life. Just like his Dad [4159]. Dr. Morgenstten is very fond of him, as are all the professors. He said that [1856] showed a promising career - commented favorably on his voice - said it was just like his dad's heard him singing one day in the choir loft and from the next room recognized his voice as being of the same 'range' as [4159]'s - made his 'A' in first semester - took ten subjects altogether in Hebrew Union College and University of Cincinnati."
12. 5/22/42 See mother's reading 459-14, Par. 8-A, 9-A advising [1856] to associate himself as assistant in a temple in N.Y. for summer.
13. 10/23/42 Mother's letter: "You said...best but developments in the summer would come. Well, around last of August [1856] got a letter from Hebrew Union College asking him to go to ..., Miss. and lead the congregation for fall holidays. I believe the youngest on record. To think that he was to have a congregation all his own, so he proceeded to get ready. It was just when he completed his 6 weeks course at Columbia in Psychology and earned an A in each of the two courses and get credit for 1 year's work at University of Cincinnati. [1856] took advanced Psychology and had Professor Coffin from California, and the professor of psychology here said to get an A from Coffin was something to be proud of. As a result his mind was sharpened pretty keenly for the six sermons he had to write. The letter that came from ..., Miss. full of apologies for being such a small community - 60 members - made [1856] chuckle, especially when they said they would make up for their smallness in numbers by being hospitable true to the South. I wondered what they would say when they saw my [1856] all of 19 in July - to think his first pulpit in the home state of his birth, not far from where he was born and his father's first regular pulpit. When ..., Miss. heard that they felt a guiding hand had sent him, as they were having 'difficulties' - some of the members were not on speaking terms and they were influential - seemed as though a split in the temple was pending. Well, all in all he brought the families together. It was done through his prayers from the pulpit, so he didn't have to enter into personal quibbles...I understand the people wrote a letter to H.U.C. in praise of [1856]'s services and asked for his return for next fall and they want him for Confirmation services..."
14. 4/19/44 Mother's letter: "[1856] has had 3 years of A's. Only two students at New York University took Greek but [1856] was one of them (as a freshman). He is taking 5 yrs. for B.A. on account of his Hebrew Union College work - 10 subjects a day but he was on the Dean's list. He broadcasted over ... Saturday and Dr. [...] heard him - said he thought [4159] had come back. He had. I can hear you say, 'he had.' He IS back. Jesus came back and walked beside his disciples - why wouldn't [4159] come back and walk beside his son. His very walk is like [4159] - slow and easygoing in disposition. Has a righteous indignation side also."
15. 8/08/48 He became a member of A.R.E. on his own.
16. 12/01/50 Uncle [257] reported that [1856] is now a leading rabbi in the Israel movement, etc.
17. 4/21/64 Rabbi [1856] requested copies of his and his mother's [459] rdgs., and sent his renewal membership in A.R.E.
18. 6/23/66 Uncle [257] reported that Rabbi [1856] had just married a lovely 41 yr. old widow with EIGHT children (two sets of twins); he had met her through his sec'ty at an A.R.E. Xmas party. She, the new wife, had been brought up a Protestant, had married a Catholic and been converted to Catholicism, then upon divorcing her husband had some years later been converted to Judaism. Mr. [257] said they almost came to A.R.E. Headquarters on their honeymoon, but she had to get back to her teen-age twin girls.

Edgar Cayce Readings © 1971, 1993, 1994, 1995 by the Edgar Cayce Foundation