The Far East and the Law of Attraction

Exploring the Origins of the New Thought Movement

The Law of Attraction is a popular concept that claims that our thoughts, feelings, and beliefs can manifest our reality. It is often associated with the New Thought Movement, a spiritual and philosophical movement that emerged in the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The New Thought Movement was influenced by various thinkers and writers, such as Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry Wood, Helena Blavatsky, William Walker Atkinson, Wallace Wattles, and Napoleon Hill. These figures might be considered the Lords of Attraction, as they promoted the idea that we can attract anything we desire by aligning our minds with the universal mind.

Liao-Fan’s Four Lessons: How to Change Destiny

One of the most remarkable examples of the Eastern Law of Attraction is the book Liao-Fan’s Four Lessons, written by Yuan Liao-Fan in the Ming dynasty. Yuan was a scholar and an official who lived in the 16th century. He was originally a fatalist, believing that everything was predetermined by heaven and that human efforts were futile. However, he met a Zen master named Zhi-Chang, who taught him that destiny can be changed by cultivating kindness and humility. Zhi-Chang also predicted Yuan’s future events with astonishing accuracy, proving his mastery of the Law of Attraction.

Inspired by Zhi-Chang, Yuan decided to write a book to share his insights and experiences with his son. The book consists of four lessons, each focusing on a different aspect of the Law of Attraction. The first lesson shows how to create destiny by practicing good deeds and avoiding evil deeds. The second lesson explains the ways to reform by repenting past mistakes and correcting bad habits. The third lesson reveals the ways to cultivate kindness by helping others and being compassionate. The fourth lesson discloses the benefits of the virtue of humility by being modest and respectful. The book is still widely read and appreciated today, as it provides a practical and moral guide for learning both Confucianism and Buddhism.