In this series of articles, we have been discussing specialness and more specifically spiritual specialness as it is becoming a prevalent form in the Course community. Like all forms of specialness, spiritual specialness is a defense of the ego (against the opposite). It maintains the separation in the mind as the spiritual reason for differences. In this fifth article, we’re going to bring the discussion around to idols as it is meant in A Course in Miracles (ACIM).
You will recall from the fourth article on fragmentation. We are looking to become aware of when we are choosing the ego (Ken Wapnick). Because the ego is the part of the mind that believes in division (T-5.V.3). Idols should warrant consideration and learning as they are ego:
Idol is the symbol of the substitution of the ego for our true Self or god; a false belief that there can be something other than, or more than God, and thus separate from Him, a belief which is then projected onto the special relationship: people, things or ideas (Glossary-Index for A Course in Miracles, Kindle location 550).
Here is the answer to every problem that will confront you. In this world, you believe you are sustained by everything but God. Your faith is placed in the most trivial and insane symbols; pills, money, influence, prestige, being liked, knowing the “right” people, and an endless list of forms of nothingness that you endow with magical powers. All these things are your replacements for the Love of God (Lesson 50).
Here within the dream, or illusion, the word symbol definition for “idol” is. “A person or thing that is greatly admire, loved or revered.” In the last article on fragmentation, we also discussed how spiritually special Course teachers are cult leaders. And the word symbol definition for a “cult” which most do not consider is. “A misplaced or excessive admiration for a particular person or thing.” All of these symbols point to the same thing. Specialness in all its forms are idols meant to replace the Love of God. And maintain the separation in the mind.