“He sees neither through the soul nor through the spirit, but through the Nous, which is between the two.”
(From the Gospel of Mary Magdalene, commented by Jean-Yves Leloup)
The Question That Concerns You
Have you ever wondered if what you believe you perceive or feel is truly real? In a world full of impressions, opinions, and wishful thinking, it can be difficult to tell the difference. Especially when we have big dreams or long for something deeply, there is a risk of following an illusion instead of a true vision.
This question has occupied humanity for a very long time. An intriguing answer can be found in an ancient text: the Gospel of Mary Magdalene. The text tells of a conversation between Mary Magdalene and Jesus (the Redeemer), conveying a simple yet profound truth: True recognition doesn’t come from thinking or feeling – but from a deeper clarity within ourselves.
Mary’s Question: How Do You Know What Is True?
Mary Magdalene asks the Redeemer a question that might also move you again and again:
“Lord, does the one who sees the vision see it through the soul or through the spirit?”
The soul here stands for what you feel – your emotions, wishes, and fears. The spirit is what you think – your thoughts, opinions, and judgments. But Jesus responds unexpectedly:
“Neither through the soul nor through the spirit, but through the Nous, which is between the two.”
“Nous” is an ancient word for what might be called “higher consciousness” – a kind of inner knowing or deep clarity. Jean-Yves Leloup describes it as “heart wisdom”: an inner space where you are free from feelings and thoughts. A place where you do not judge, but simply recognize.
Illusion – When You See What You Want to See
Often, we don’t perceive things as they truly are, but as we would like them to be. Your wishes, fears, or hopes can lead you to believe something is true, even though it is only an illusion. These illusions can even drive or inspire you, but they are not based on deep truth. They may feel good, but when you look closer, you may realize they lack a solid foundation.
Jean-Yves Leloup says:
“Illusion arises from our projection.”
That means: You don’t see reality but what you project onto it. That can be comforting – or confusing. And at some point, you may ask yourself: Are you ready to let go of what you wish for in order to see what truly is?
Vision – The Clear Image From Your Inner Stillness
A true vision doesn’t come from wishful thinking or fear. It arises in a moment when you become completely still. When you neither want nor fear anything. The vision appears in your innermost knowing – in the “Nous,” in your heart wisdom. It feels clear and calm. You don’t need to convince anyone that it is true. It simply is.
Often, it leads you to a new path. Perhaps one you didn’t expect. But this path is honest and deeply connected to who you really are.
How Do You Recognize the Difference?
You might want to reflect:
- When in your life did you truly feel you recognized something?
- When was it rather a beautiful wish you mistook for the truth?
- How does it feel when an idea or insight simply arises in you quietly and clearly – without pressure, without doubt?
Illusion or Vision? – A Comparison at a Glance
| Illusion | Vision |
|---|---|
| Arises from fear or wishful thinking | Arises from inner peace and clarity |
| Depends on feelings or opinions | Is independent of moods or opinions |
| Often feels urgent or restless | Feels calm, open, and clear |
| Leads to control and holding on | Leads to trust and letting go |
| Needs to be proven or explained | Needs no proof – it simply is |
| Leads to restlessness or insecurity | Brings peace and a sense of security |
| Changes with external circumstances | Remains constant, even when much changes |
Why It Is Important to Look Closely
Today, we often hear about “visions” – in careers, personal development, or advertising. But not everything that sounds good is truly a vision in the deeper sense. That’s why it is worth asking: Is this really your deepest truth? Or is it just something you would like to believe?
Jean-Yves Leloup reminds us: A true vision also challenges you. It requires you to be honest with yourself. To be willing to see not only what you want to see but what truly is. Yet a vision also connects you to your deepest potential.
Sometimes, that means waiting. Being patient. Becoming still. Like a blank page waiting for the true story to appear.
Conclusion: The Invitation to Truly See
The Gospel of Mary Magdalene gives you a clear message: You do not recognize the truth through thinking or feeling alone. But through a deeper clarity within yourself – through the “Nous.”
Maybe today is the right moment to ask yourself:
- Are you ready to truly look?
- Are you open to letting go of what you wish for in order to see what is true?
Jean-Yves Leloup says:
“It is the heart that has become free that can see.”
That may be your most important task: To become free. To truly see. And perhaps in doing so, you will not only discover a vision – but discover yourself entirely anew.
