Synchronicity Is Not Just a Coincidence
A lot of people have an idea of what the term “synchronicity” means in popular use, but in a lot of cases, they confuse it with the simple fact that sometimes, all of us experience extraordinary, timely coincidences. Accidents that seem as though they were by design.
But synchronicity really removes the accident from the accidental nature of those ‘random’ phenomena, and while it can manifest itself as coincidence, that’s only the visible tip of a vast, hidden synchronicitous iceberg.
To better illustrate the nature of this distinction, let me call upon two other simple metaphors: electricity and eating.
We all have faith in the practical applications of electricity, right? You know the light will turn on when you flip the switch (unless one of those “never needs replacing” light bulbs needs replacing), but sometimes, the light goes on or off at a very particular moment without you flipping the switch. Or in its grander form, a bolt of lightening strikes a tree on your family property. Those are what you may call ‘electrical coincidences.’ Synchronicity, in this case, has more to do with a very practical, yet deeply mysterious lifelong relationship to natural phenomena of all kinds.
For example, if a bolt of lightening strikes your grandfather’s favorite tree on the day of his death, that’s synchronicity. One aspect appears to be connected to the other, but there’s no provable material cause for it – aside from an obvious spiritual cause.
Or say you’re getting hungry around lunchtime, and for some unusual reason you’ve been craving oysters. Just then, a co-worker starts talking about the great oysters he had last night. That’s coincidental. But if your girlfriend gives you a surprise call to meet her at the oyster bar for lunch, and then tells you how much she loves you – well, that’s synchronicity. Reaching beyond just the particular coincidence, synchronicity may have everything to do with how you met your wife.
Dr. Carl Jung on Synchronicity
Dr. Carl Jung, the creator of synchronicity, may have taken that example a little further by suggesting that love revealed itself to you like a pearl, and that the opening up of your life revealed this timeless treasure to you. His original version of synchronicity brought in, and out, the presence of recurrent images and ideas, archetypes, tying us to another dimension where dreams come true, timely meetings change your life, omens accurately predict the future, and phenomenal “signs” are deeply significant to our personal experience.
Dr. Jung didn’t define the new principle because he was a mystic, but because after years of working with patients and bearing witness to the events of his own life, it became clear that there appeared to be a mysterious, underlying kind of ‘field’ affecting a whole different level of experience. Even though he first coined the idea of synchronicity in the late 1920s, it wasn’t until 1952 that he committed his concept and data to print with “Synchronicity: An Acausal Connecting Principle,” as the first half of his book, The Interpretation of Nature and the Psyche.
Quantum Theory
Around the same time, the world was learning about quantum theory, and the concept of a quantum field, or source plenum, from which all matter arises. With it came evidence that we’re all participants in an observer-based reality, of sorts; that our focused attitudes, intentions, and actions may interact with an unseen mechanism to create our personal and collective reality. It confirmed Jung’s observations, and he referred to this field as unus mundus – a unified world. In this unified world, coincidence is only an indicator of an underlying reality.
Jung’s observations were based on the rejection of a coincidental, one-dimensional life, and instead, the recognition that we engage in the world in a very complex way through our psyches, our energies, our emotions, and our actions and experiences. Seeing life this way, it becomes less a series of coincidences mixed with our projections and manipulations, and instead a far more interactive (albeit far more mysterious) experience. Life becomes a unified co-creation that is answering your questions. Life is reflecting to you what it is you need to know.
Continuous creation is to be thought of not only as a series of successive acts of creation, but also as the eternal presence of the one creative act.
Carl Jung
The Synchronistic Model
Jung based the synchronistic model on three characteristics of spiritual potential.
1. Meaningful Coincidence
Random events happen sometimes with very specific, personal meaning.
2. Causal Connection
Despite there being no apparent material cause and effect, there is an undeniably profound personal significance, and so an apparently intentional connection at play.
3. Luminosity
The indication that all of this happens within a kind of shared field of divinity, in communion with a greater whole.
Across most life experiences, these three aspects actually do work to describe something that happens in everyone’s life, even though no one knows exactly how.
The Scientific Materialist View
Scientific materialists see consciousness as an individually brain-generated phenomenon, generated independently by every consciously living thing, rather than as a shared field that’s accessed by every living thing through their sensory capabilities. Because of this, they tend to dismiss synchronicity, yet their limited model of consciousness supports synchronicity, too, because if each life form has a bubble of consciousness around it, they become like ‘quanta’ of quantum physics when they simultaneously, “acausally” share information through the principle of entanglement.
Synchronicity merely recognizes the existence, and potential, of this in-formation field of shared consciousness.
Confirmation Bias
Skeptics say it’s all coincidence, chalking it up to what’s called “confirmation bias,” which is our very real tendency to remember our ‘hits,’ and forget our ‘misses.’ It means that you’re more likely to remember the bird at the window the day of your father’s death than all the birds at the window on other occasions. Of course, it all depends on what the bird is doing, and when it’s doing it, doesn’t it?
My wife and her family witnessed just such a bird hovering nearly motionless outside the window of her father’s hospital room that flew away at the moment of his death. It was the first, and only, time any of them had ever seen a bird hover outside a window like that before. That’s synchronicity: meaningful coincidence, causal connection, luminosity.
Spirituality is Anecdotal
Materialism considers all such verifiable testimony as ‘anecdotal’ – as is all of personal spiritual experience, when you think about it. But spiritual experiences are realized through one’s heart, not through one’s intellect – which is a mechanism that’s been proven unreliable after centuries of scientific reassessments, and a dangerous kind of “adjustable” dogma. The miraculous has always ironically been rejected by learned men, who have yet to provide an explanation for their existence on a planet in outer space other than that it is likely the product of “coincidence.”
The acceptance of synchronicity as an unpredictable, yet wondrously reliable mechanism in our (observer-based) life, leads to a very practical realization that you could relate to any natural force, like electricity or gravity – it works much better for you when you believe it’s there and learn how to work with it.
About the Author
What Are the Akashic Records and What Are They For?
The Akashic Records are energetic archives containing the complete history of every soul. Every thought, word, action, and intention leaves an imprint on this energetic field, sometimes called the Akashic Library. This universal repository preserves past lives, current experiences, and potential future paths, offering insights into the soul’s journey, life’s purpose, and karmic patterns.
What is most astonishing is that anyone can access the Records. Through focused intention, guided meditations, or prayer, you can connect with this source of universal wisdom to gain guidance, clarity, and a deeper understanding of your spiritual path. This article explores what the Akashic Records are, how to access them, the benefits of an Akashic reading, and steps to begin your journey of spiritual growth.
Table of Contents
- What Are Akashic Records?
- History and Origins of the Records
- What Is an Akashic Records Reading Like?
- What Kind of Questions Can Be Asked?
- Are There Any Dangers in Accessing the Records?
- Who Can Read the Akashic Records?
- How to Learn to Read the Akashic Records
- Benefits of Accessing the Records
- Closing Prayer and Integration
What Are Akashic Records?
The Akashic Records are a universal memory of existence, a non-physical, energetic space where every thought, word, action, and emotion is recorded. Sometimes referred to as the Akashic Library, this archive preserves the history of each soul, its past lives, current experiences, and potential futures. It offers a comprehensive perspective on the soul’s journey, linking all beings and levels of existence across time.
The term akasha (or akasa) comes from Sanskrit and means ether or astral light, considered the fifth element in many spiritual traditions. These subtle vibrations capture not only individual life experiences but also universal patterns, providing insight into karmic influences, personal growth, and the soul’s purpose.
For anyone accessing the Records for the first time, the experience can reveal hidden tendencies, unexplored potentials, or connections with loved ones who have passed. The Records are a living resource for spiritual growth, supporting clarity, healing, and understanding in all areas of life.
Accessible through meditation, focused intention, or the guidance of an experienced practitioner, the Akashic Records can provide wisdom about behavioral patterns, relationships, and challenges, serving as a practical tool for navigating your spiritual journey.
In the series Microdose, available on Gaia, the fascinating subject of the Akashic Records is explored, offering practical perspectives for those wishing to deepen their understanding and experience of this universal library.
History and Origins of the Records
The concept of the Akashic Records has roots in both Eastern and Western spiritual traditions. In the East, philosophies have long described akasha as the fundamental etheric fabric of existence, a subtle dimension where all experiences are remembered as vibrations or astral light.
In the West, Helena Blavatsky, founder of the Theosophical movement in the late 19th century, introduced the Akashic Records after her studies and experiences in Tibet. There, monks and mahatmas shared that the records exist in the akasha—a Sanskrit word meaning ether—and are the repository of universal knowledge. Blavatsky claimed she could access them through clairvoyance and psychic abilities, including astral projection, and she shared these insights as part of a broader philosophy of universal wisdom. Her teachings emphasized that human thoughts, words, and actions leave lasting impressions on this subtle field, influencing spiritual understanding and personal growth.
Rudolf Steiner, another influential metaphysician, expanded the Western understanding of the Records, describing them as a source of inspiration for human ideals and evolution. He proposed that the Akashic Records not only preserve past events but also reveal patterns that guide humanity toward harmony, justice, and spiritual development.
During the 20th century, Edgar Cayce, often called America’s “sleeping prophet,” popularized the Akashic Records through his psychic readings. Cayce described how individuals could access the Records of their past, present, and potential futures to facilitate healing, gain clarity about life’s purpose, and understand karmic patterns. He likened the Records to a Book of Life, connecting each person to a universal consciousness and to the broader flow of the soul’s journey.
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Linda Howe further advanced the understanding and practice of accessing the Akashic Records. Through her teachings, books, and workshops, Howe developed practical methods for connecting with the Records, emphasizing personal empowerment, spiritual guidance, and insight into one’s spiritual path. Her work has helped make the Akashic Records accessible to a wide audience, bridging historical teachings with contemporary spiritual practice.
Contemporary thinkers such as Ervin Laszlo continue to explore the Akashic Records from both spiritual and scientific perspectives. His “Akashic Paradigm” considers consciousness itself as deeply connected to this universal memory field, bridging spirituality and science and offering a holistic view of existence.
What Is an Akashic Records Reading Like?
An Akashic reading is a sacred encounter where a trained reader accesses the akashic library to share insights and guidance. Unlike fortune-telling, these readings focus on understanding the soul’s journey, exploring past patterns, present challenges, and potential futures.
Key aspects of an Akashic Records reading include:
- Connection and Atmosphere: A quiet, focused environment allows both the seeker and reader to connect deeply with the Records.
- Guided Meditations and Intention: The reader may use guided meditations, prayer, or focused intention to attune to the subtle vibrations of the Records.
- Receiving Insights: Messages may come as intuitive impressions, symbols, images, emotions, or subtle sensations, offering clarity and direction.
- Exploring Themes: Common areas of exploration include the soul’s purpose, relationships with loved ones, karmic patterns, and personal growth along the spiritual path.
- Interpretation and Reflection: The reader helps the seeker understand and integrate the messages in ways that resonate with their life experiences.
Many seekers experience the reading as a fluid, interactive process rather than a strict step-by-step session. Each reading is unique, and the insights often help individuals:
- Gain clarity on life’s purpose
- Understand past lives and karmic influences
- Strengthen psychic abilities and intuition
- Receive guidance on relationships, career, or spiritual decisions
- Deepen self-awareness and personal spiritual growth
For those exploring the Akashic Records for the first time, the experience can be transformative, offering validation, reassurance, and a sense of connection to universal wisdom.
What Kind of Questions Can Be Asked?
Questions in an Akashic Records reading are most effective when they are open-ended and focused on personal insight, spiritual growth, and understanding the soul’s purpose. Instead of seeking simple yes or no answers, the goal is to explore guidance, clarity, and healing.
Common questions include:
- What is my life’s purpose in this incarnation?
- How can I align with my soul’s journey and fulfill my soul’s purpose?
- What lessons or patterns am I carrying from past lives?
- Are there karmic influences affecting my current experiences?
- How can I heal or strengthen relationships with loved ones?
- What guidance can I receive to develop my psychic abilities or intuition?
- How can I navigate challenges along my spiritual path?
- What do I need to release or transform for deeper spiritual growth?
- Are there messages from spirit guides or energies I should pay attention to?
- How can I prepare for major life changes or transitions for the first time?
These questions are intended to open a dialogue with the Records, allowing intuitive insights and guidance to emerge naturally. They help seekers gain a deeper understanding of their life, karmic influences, and the lessons their soul has chosen to explore.
Are There Any Dangers in Accessing the Records?
Accessing the Akashic Records is generally considered safe when approached with respect, intention, and openness. The Records are guided by universal wisdom and protected by benevolent beings, sometimes described as light beings or ascended masters, who ensure that the experience serves the seeker’s spiritual growth.
Key points about safety and guidance include:
- Pure Intention Matters: Approaching the Records with humility and sincere curiosity ensures the information received is aligned with the highest good.
- Guided Connection: Using prayers, guided meditations, or working with an experienced reader helps maintain a protected and focused space.
- No Harmful Energy: The Records are designed to offer insight, clarity, and healing rather than fear or harm.
- Support for First-Time Seekers: Those exploring the Records for the first time often find reassurance, calm, and a sense of connection to universal wisdom.
Rather than posing danger, accessing the Records can provide profound understanding of karmic patterns, personal challenges, and past lives. It fosters empowerment, helps release old attachments, and encourages alignment with one’s life’s purpose.
Who Can Read the Akashic Records?
Reading the Akashic Records is not limited to mystics, mediums, or those with innate psychic abilities. Anyone with curiosity, humility, and a sincere commitment to spiritual growth can learn to access this profound source of guidance.
Key insights about who can read the Records:
- No Special Talents Required: Success depends more on intention, practice, and respect than on innate abilities.
- Beginner-Friendly Access: Working with an experienced Akashic Records reader helps first-time seekers understand the process, interpret messages, and feel comfortable navigating the Records.
- Gradual Mastery: Over time, many individuals learn to open their own Records independently or accompany others during readings.
- Ethics and Responsibility: Workshops, courses, and training programs emphasize ethical principles and proper techniques, ensuring readings honor the privacy and integrity of the seeker.
Learning to read the Records becomes a spiritual path in itself, offering insight into the soul’s journey, helping align with life’s purpose, and encouraging personal transformation.
How to Learn to Read the Akashic Records
Learning to read the Akashic Records involves cultivating spiritual awareness, ethical intention, and consistent practice. Many practitioners begin by studying with experienced teachers such as Linda Howe, who provide guidance on opening and closing prayers, meditation techniques, and methods for interpreting the subtle impressions received from the Records. These teachings emphasize approaching the Records with humility, compassion, and a commitment to the seeker’s highest good.
In addition to formal instruction, numerous books, online courses, and webinars help seekers understand the energetic and vibrational nature of the akashic library. Regular practice through guided meditations, journaling, or mindful reflection strengthens intuition, sharpens psychic abilities, and deepens connection to the soul’s journey. Over time, this ongoing practice allows individuals to access their Records more easily, uncover karmic patterns, and gain insight into their life’s purpose and personal growth.
Benefits of Accessing the Records
Accessing the Akashic Records can provide profound insights and support for both personal and spiritual growth. By connecting with this universal archive, individuals gain clarity about their life’s purpose, uncover patterns from past lives, and better understand karmic influences affecting their present experiences. The Records also offer guidance for nurturing relationships with loved ones, developing psychic abilities, and strengthening intuition along the spiritual path.
Many seekers find that the Records enhance their spiritual journey, offering inspiration for guided meditations and practical strategies for daily life. Insights gained can help release limiting beliefs, heal emotional blockages, and align actions with the soul’s purpose. Whether approached for self-reflection, healing, or exploration of the akashic library, accessing the Records fosters a deeper connection to universal wisdom and encourages meaningful transformation over time.
Closing Prayer and Integration
Every Akashic Records session should conclude with a closing prayer, sealing the connection with gratitude and respect for the wisdom received. A simple example might be:
“I thank the keepers of the Records, my guides, and the universal field of wisdom for their presence and guidance. May these insights serve my highest good and the good of all.”
Integration of the insights is just as important as the session itself. Reflecting through journaling, meditation, or personal contemplation helps ground the guidance from the Records into daily life. Over time, consistent practice with the Akashic Records strengthens connection to the soul’s journey, deepens understanding of the soul’s purpose, and supports spiritual growth. Whether exploring past lives, gaining clarity about life’s purpose, or seeking guidance from loved ones, the Akashic Records become a trusted companion on the path of personal transformation.
