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The Invested Spark: Unveiling the Soul’s Divine Origin and Sacred Custodianship

Introduction: The Divine Riddle of the Invested Gem

Here, we have a profound spiritual enigma – * A Creator who sold the most precious gem one could imagine, and he invested it – the breath of life into your body. Eternal essence from the never ending and everlasting realm of calls cause out of that, so what am I talking about?

“You must nurture this gem, and you will protect it.”

Section 1: The Creator’s Endowment: Unveiling the “Precious Gem” and “Breath of Life”

To unravel the riddle, it is essential first to examine the Giver, the Gift, and the act of Giving. These elements lay the groundwork for comprehending the nature of the indwelling treasure.

Subsection 1.1: The “Creator” and the Act of Bestowal

The concept of “The Creator” is pivotal to the query and varies significantly across religious and philosophical traditions. Monotheistic faiths such as Judaism, Christianity, and Islam typically envision a singular, omnipotent God responsible for the creation of the universe, often ex nihilo (out of nothing) or through divine ordering. The Book of Genesis, for example, describes Elohim (and later Yahweh) as the divine architect of the cosmos and humanity. Islamic theology presents Allah as the all-powerful Creator, Sustainer, Ordainer, and Judge. Christianity affirms creation by God the Father, with the Prologue to the Gospel of John identifying the Word (Logos) as the divine agent of creation.  

In contrast, some traditions feature a secondary creator or demiurge. Gaudiya Vaishnavism, for instance, posits Brahma as a secondary creator who fashions the phenomenal worlds from materials provided by Vishnu, the primary creator. Similarly, Plato’s Timaeus describes a Demiurge who crafts the world from pre-existing matter, unlike the Abrahamic God who creates from nothing. Monistic philosophies may perceive the “Creator” not as a distinct personal entity but as the impersonal Absolute from which all reality emanates. Conversely, non-creationist perspectives, such as those found in Buddhism and Jainism, deny a creator deity altogether, proposing that the universe and its constituents arise from other principles like karma and natural laws. The specific choice of “The Creator” in the query, singular and capitalized, tends to suggest a monotheistic or panentheistic framework, where a primary, ultimate source is responsible for the “gem’s” origin. This framing elevates the inherent sanctity and direct divine connection of the “gem,” steering away from notions of a flawed or malevolent creator, as found in some Gnostic interpretations of the Demiurge.  

The query further speaks of the Creator “investing” this gem. This act of bestowal signifies a direct impartation of life, essence, or even a particle of the divine itself. In Christian theology, God’s creation of humanity is a direct and personal act. Mandaeism describes Hayyi Rabbi (The Great Life) as creating all worlds and forming the soul, which is then placed into the human body. The Baháʼí Faith posits that the purpose of creation is for the created to develop the capacity to know and love its Creator, implying a divine investment of potential. The metaphor of “investing” suggests a deliberate placement of something of immense value, perhaps with an expectation of growth or a return in a spiritual sense, aligning with many theological perspectives on humanity’s divine purpose. The act of “investing it the breath of life into your body” implies a direct ontological link between the Creator and the created, particularly humanity. This suggests that the “gem” is not merely an external gift but an intrinsic, divinely sourced component of human being, intimately woven into the fabric of existence by the Creator’s own act.  

Subsection 1.2: The “Precious Gem”: A Metaphor for the Indwelling Divine

The “most precious gem one could imagine” is a powerful metaphor that resonates deeply within spiritual traditions. Across diverse cultures, precious gems symbolize enlightenment, virtue, spiritual wealth, beauty, divine teachings, and God’s immutable promises. In Buddhism, gems can represent pristine cognition, the fruits of virtuous deeds, or even divine seats, signifying superior qualities. Hinduism employs gems to adorn deities, reflecting opulence, devotion, and the confluence of spiritual and material abundance. In biblical contexts, gemstones are often depicted as divine seals of belonging, manifestations of God’s creative power, and pointers towards eternal, celestial truths. The inherent value, rarity, and often the light-reflecting qualities of gems make them potent symbols for an inner spiritual treasure.  

The riddle explicitly equates this “precious gem” with “the breath of life” and “Eternal essence,” strongly indicating that the gem is a metaphor for the soul, spirit, or an indwelling divine spark. The Soul is widely conceived as the immaterial aspect or essence of a human being, conferring individuality and humanity. It is often considered to partake of divinity and to survive the death of the body. As noted, Mandaeism teaches that the Creator “formed the soul” and placed it in the body. Kabbalistic mysticism, a profound stream within Jewish esotericism, teaches that the soul (Neshama) is a “divine spark” (נִשְׁמָתָא קַדִּישָׁא), a fragment of God’s own light, imbued with purpose and potential. The Spirit (Latin: spiritus, Greek: pneuma, Hebrew: ruach) is often understood as the vital principle or animating essence within humans, sometimes synonymous with the soul or a deeper aspect thereof. The etymological root of “spirit” in Latin is spiritus, meaning “breath,” directly linking to the query’s “breath of life”. The Divine Spark is a concept found across various traditions, signifying a portion of God or divine essence residing within each human being. In Gnosticism, this spark is a fragment of the Pleroma (the fullness of God) trapped in matter, yearning for liberation. Quakerism speaks of “that of God in every one” or the “inner light”. Hindu traditions also acknowledge a divine essence within all living entities. Western Esotericism similarly views individuals as “sparks of the divine” that have forgotten their true origin. The Christian mystic Meister Eckhart wrote of the “soul spark” (Seelenfünklein), an uncreated aspect of the soul always in contact with God.  

These diverse concepts, despite their unique theological nuances, converge on the idea of an intrinsic, valuable, spiritual core within humans, originating from a divine source. The “precious gem,” therefore, is not merely like the soul or spirit; in the context of this riddle, it is the soul or spirit, presented through a metaphor that powerfully emphasizes its inherent, supreme value and divine origin. The subsequent identification with the “breath of life” and “Eternal essence” serves to confirm and enrich this interpretation. The metaphor of a “gem” also implies something that can be cultivated and whose brilliance can be enhanced—”nurtured”—and something valuable that must be safeguarded—”protected”—thus aligning perfectly with the explicit injunctions given later in the query. This suggests that the “gem” is not a static entity but a dynamic potentiality, its expression and radiance contingent upon human stewardship.

Table 1: Conceptions of the Divine Essence (The “Precious Gem”) Across Traditions

Tradition	Term for Essence	Key Characteristics/Origin
Vedanta (Hinduism)	Atman	Eternal self, identical with Brahman (Ultimate Reality); uncreated, immortal, pure consciousness
Kabbalah (Jewish Mysticism)	Neshama (Soul), Ruach (Spirit), Divine Spark	Emanation from Ein Sof (the Infinite); a fragment of God’s light; pre-existent
Gnosticism	Divine Spark, Pneuma (Spirit)	Fragment of the Pleroma (divine fullness); trapped in matter but inherently divine; seeks liberation
Sufism (Islamic Mysticism)	Ruh (Soul/Spirit), Qalb (Heart)	Ray of Divine Light from God; pre-existent in the “kingdom of the ruh”; seeks return to God
Christianity (General/Mystical)	Soul, Spirit, Imago Dei (Image of God), True Self	Breathed into by God (Genesis 2:7); created in God’s image; eternal essence in God
Indigenous Spirituality	Sacred Inner Essence, Connection to Great Spirit/Creator	Part of the sacred web of life; a gift from the Creator; intrinsically linked to nature and community
Stoicism	Hēgemonikón (Ruling Principle), Inner Divine Principle	Rational part of the soul; a fragment of the divine Logos (Reason) permeating the cosmos
Neoplatonism	Psyche (Soul)	Emanation from the Nous (Divine Mind), which itself emanates from The One; seeks return (henosis)

Subsection 1.3: The “Breath of Life”: Divine Animation and Spiritual Impartation

The identification of the “precious gem” with the “breath of life” draws upon ancient and powerful theological imagery. The biblical account in Genesis 2:7, where “the LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground. He breathed the breath of life into the man’s nostrils, and the man became a living person” (נֶפֶשׁ חַיָּה, nephesh chayyah), is foundational. This divine in-breathing is unique to humanity’s creation in this narrative, signifying a special, intimate relationship with the Creator. It is not merely biological animation but the impartation that makes humanity a “living soul”. Some interpretations suggest this act “transferred the image of Himself into humanity”.  

This “breath of life” transcends mere respiration; it is the infusion of vitality, consciousness, and spiritual potential directly from the divine. The constant necessity of breath for physical survival serves as a potent symbol of humanity’s continuous dependence on God for life and spiritual sustenance. The air we breathe—invisible, intangible, yet absolutely essential—becomes a metaphor for God’s invisible yet omnipresent and life-giving presence.  

Furthermore, there is an intrinsic connection between breath and spirit in many linguistic and theological traditions. The Hebrew word ruach (רוּחַ) and the Greek word pneuma (πνεῦμα) can denote breath, wind, or spirit, underscoring the intimate linkage between the physical act of breathing and the spiritual dimension of existence. The act of Jesus breathing on His disciples and saying, “Receive the Holy Spirit” (John 20:22), as cited in one source , powerfully connects this divine breath to the impartation of the Holy Spirit, the active presence of God.  

Thus, when the “precious gem” is equated with the “breath of life,” it suggests that the very essence of animate, conscious existence, directly infused by the Creator, is itself supremely valuable and of divine quality. It is not an object given to life, but the divine principle of life itself—a dynamic, vivifying force. The “investment” of this “breath of life” into the human body implies that human life is not self-generated but is a direct and continuous gift from the Creator. This establishes an unbreakable ontological link and forms the basis for a relationship of dependence, stewardship, and accountability for this precious, divinely animated existence.

Section 2: The “Eternal Essence” and Its Fount: The “Never Ending and Everlasting Realm of Calls Cause Out of That”

Having established the “precious gem” as the soul or spirit, infused as the “breath of life,” the query further defines it as an “Eternal essence” originating from a mysterious, transcendent source: the “never ending and everlasting realm of calls cause out of that.” This section will explore the nature of this Eternal essence and seek to decipher the cryptic phrase describing its origin.

Subsection 2.1: Defining the “Eternal Essence”

The term “Eternal essence” points to a fundamental, unchanging, and timeless aspect of being, distinct from the transient physical body and the ephemeral flux of worldly experiences. It signifies the intrinsic, unmodifiable reality that underlies life itself. In Hindu philosophy, this eternal essence can denote the divine nature of deities like Vishnu or Krishna, or more fundamentally, the individual soul (Atman), which is considered eternal and, in the Advaita Vedanta school, ultimately identical with Brahman, the singular, all-encompassing Ultimate Reality. Vedanta philosophy is rich with explorations of this concept, identifying the True Inner Self with Brahman, the deepest essence of all beings. The user’s explicit statement, “This is the Eternal essence,” directly links this concept to the “precious gem” and the “breath of life,” thereby emphasizing its immortal and divine quality.  

Philosophically, “essence” refers to the core set of properties that make a thing what it is—its “whatness” (quidditas). Aristotle connected essence (τοˋ τιˊ ἦν εἶναι, to ti ên einai) to substance (οὐσιˊα, ousia), the underlying principle that gives a thing its identity and allows it to be classified. Edmund Husserl, the founder of phenomenology, viewed essence not as physical properties but as an ideal, abstract structure existing independently of individual instances. In the context of the query, the “Eternal essence” is the divine “whatness” of the human spirit, its fundamental and enduring spiritual identity.  

Many spiritual traditions, particularly those of Eastern origin like Advaita Vedanta and various mystical paths, posit that this eternal essence (e.g., Atman) is not merely like the ultimate divine reality (e.g., Brahman) but is, in fact, identical with it. Nonduality (advaita, “not-two-ness”) is the direct experiential realization of this identity, where the conventional separation between the seer and the seen, the subject and the object, dissolves into a unified field of pure experience or consciousness. This inherent “beingness precedes all doing,” as one source eloquently puts it, constituting an “irrevocable dignity”. This perspective aligns seamlessly with the “gem” being a gift from “The Creator” and the “Eternal essence” originating from a “never ending and everlasting realm.”  

The “Eternal essence,” therefore, is not merely an attribute of the soul, but is the soul in its purest, timeless, and divine constitution. It represents the uncreated or divinely emanated, immortal core that connects the individual directly to the “never ending and everlasting realm” from which it derives. This implies that human beings possess a dimension of reality that is co-eternal or co-essential with the divine realm of its origin, challenging purely materialistic interpretations of existence and positing an inherent spiritual dignity and an enduring connection to a transcendent source.

Subsection 2.2: Interpreting the “Never Ending and Everlasting Realm of Calls Cause Out of That”

The phrase “never ending and everlasting realm” clearly indicates a timeless, infinite, and transcendent dimension—the ultimate fount of being. This realm could be understood through various traditional lenses: the Pleroma (“Fullness”) in Gnostic cosmology, the divine source from which spiritual beings (Aeons) and the divine spark in humans emanate ; the Realm of Forms in Platonism, an intelligible world of perfect and eternal archetypes that the physical world imperfectly imitates ; or the Godhead, the Absolute, or the Unmanifest in diverse mystical traditions. Hindu and Buddhist scriptures also describe eternal spiritual domains, such as the dhruva-padam (eternal abode) in Vaishnavism or the Great Realm of the Doctrine in Tibetan Buddhism, existing beyond the material cosmos.  

The subsequent phrase, “calls cause out of that,” is the most enigmatic element of the query, suggesting a dynamic, creative process of origination. Several interpretations, drawn from comparative religious and philosophical thought, can illuminate its meaning:

1. Divine Utterance, Sound, or Vibration (The Creative Word): A prevalent theme in many cosmogonies is creation through divine sound, speech, or vibration.
   • The Logos (Λοˊγος): In ancient Greek philosophy, particularly with Heraclitus and the Stoics, the Logos represented the divine Reason or ordering Principle immanent in the cosmos. The Stoics believed the Logos was a divine, rational, and spiritual principle permeating all reality, including the human soul. The Jewish philosopher Philo of Alexandria adapted this concept, viewing the Logos as an intermediary agent of creation and the means by which the human mind apprehends God. Early Christian theology, most notably in the Gospel of John, identified Jesus Christ as the incarnate Logos, the Word of God through whom “All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made” (John 1:3, KJV). This divine “Word” is a creative “call” that “causes” existence.  
   • Shabda Brahman / Nāda Brahman: In Hindu philosophy, particularly within the Mimamsa and Vedanta schools, Shabda Brahman refers to the transcendental sound, the eternal Veda, or the word-essence from which creation manifests. The universe itself is considered a creation of Shabda Brahman. Nāda Brahman is the primordial sound, the divine creative speech, the cosmic harmony that underlies all existence. This resonates strongly with the idea of “calls cause.”  
   • Cosmic Music / Sound Current: Many esoteric traditions speak of the “music of the spheres” (Pythagoras, Boethius) , the “Voice of God” , Sraosha (Conscience/Observance, personified as an angel guiding souls) in Zoroastrianism , or a universal Sound Current (Shabd or Nam) as the primary divine cause and sustainer of all creation. The soul itself, in some of these teachings, can be understood as a specific divine sound-form or light-form, a unique vibration called forth from the divine.  
2. Emanation: Emanationism describes all existing things as “flowing” or “pouring forth” (Latin: emanare) from a First Principle or ultimate reality, like light from a source. In Neoplatonism, this is The One, from which emanate successively the Nous (Divine Mind) and then the Psyche (Soul). In Kabbalah, the Sefirot are divine emanations from Ein Sof (the Infinite). Theosophy also employs an emanationist cosmology where all beings “flow” from the Absolute. This “flow” can be seen as a continuous “causing” from the eternal realm, with the soul often being a primary emanation.  
3. Divine “Calls” as Summons to Being and Purpose: The term “calls” can also signify a divine summons from God that establishes identity, purpose, and destiny for an individual or for humanity collectively. A “heavenly calling,” as described in Christian theology, is an invitation from God that shapes one’s existence and leads towards a divine destiny. The Apostle Paul speaks of “the hope of his calling” (Ephesians 1:18). In this sense, the “call” is the “cause” of one’s spiritual being and its trajectory towards fulfillment.  
4. Formative Principles / Universal Laws: The “realm of calls” could also allude to a transcendent domain of eternal archetypes (akin to Plato’s Forms ) or universal spiritual laws that “cause” or give structure to existence and human essence. The Pythagorean “World of Archetypes” is conceived as a spiritual or divine world from which such formative laws emanate.  

The phrase “calls cause out of that” suggests a continuous and dynamic process of origination and sustenance, not merely a singular creation event after which the Creator withdraws. The “Eternal essence” appears to be constantly “caused” or sustained by these “calls” from the “everlasting realm,” implying an ongoing, active relationship between the soul and its Source. This is consistent with emanationist views of a continuous overflow from the Divine, the ever-present vibration of the Sound Current, or the ongoing nature of divine calls to purpose. The “gem” is therefore not just from this realm but is perpetually connected to it, drawing its existence and nature from these originating “calls.” The auditory metaphor “calls,” combined with “cause,” points strongly towards traditions emphasizing creative sound or divine utterance (Logos, Shabda Brahman, Sound Current) as the primordial basis of reality and, consequently, of the soul’s own essence. The soul, in this light, might be conceived as a unique resonance or note in the cosmic symphony, “called” forth and sustained by the Divine Musician. Furthermore, the “realm of calls cause out of that” implies a hierarchy of being, where the “Eternal essence” in humans is a derivative or emanation from a higher, self-existent, and ultimate Source. This establishes both the divine nature of the essence and its distinctness (as an emanation or creation) from the ultimate Source itself, allowing it to be “invested” into a human body while retaining its connection to the transcendent.

Subsection 2.3: The Soul’s Journey: Origin and Return

The concept of the “Eternal essence” originating from a “never ending and everlasting realm” strongly implies a pre-existence of the soul, or at least its fundamental spiritual component, in that divine realm prior to its investment in the physical body. This perspective frames earthly life as a temporary sojourn, a mission, or a period of development for this divine element. Many spiritual and philosophical traditions affirm such a divine origin and a subsequent journey:

• Gnosticism: The divine spark, a fragment of the Pleroma (the fullness of God), is believed to have “fallen” or become entrapped in the material world, created by a lesser, often ignorant or malevolent, Demiurge.  
• Neoplatonism: The individual soul (Psyche) emanates from the Divine Mind (Nous), which itself is an emanation of The One, the ultimate transcendent principle. The soul’s embodiment in the material world is a descent from its higher origin.  
• Kabbalah: Souls are understood as divine sparks originating from Ein Sof (the Infinite) or as emanations through the Sefirot. Rabbi Isaac Luria, a pivotal Kabbalist, described the soul as a “fragment of God’s light”. Souls exist in a higher spiritual state before incarnation.  
• Sufism: The ruh (soul or spirit) is often conceived as a ray of Divine Light, pre-existing in the “kingdom of the ruh” (alam al-arwah) before being breathed into the human form by God’s command.  
• Hinduism: The Atman (individual soul or self) is considered eternal (nitya) and uncreated. In Advaita Vedanta, it is ultimately non-different from Brahman, the Absolute Reality, though its empirical journey involves embodiment.  
• Western Esotericism: A common thread in many Western esoteric traditions is the belief that individuals are sparks of the divine that have become trapped or enmeshed in the material world, having forgotten their true, spiritual origin.  

The purpose of this embodiment and the soul’s subsequent journey often involves learning, spiritual growth, purification, the balancing of karma, or a process of “rectification” (Tikkun Olam in Kabbalah, meaning “repair of the world” or self-rectification) through life experiences. The ultimate aim is frequently depicted as a return to the divine source, liberation from the cycle of rebirth (moksha in Hinduism, nirvana in Buddhism, though Buddhism generally denies an eternal soul in the Hindu sense), or reunification with God:  

• Gnosticism: Salvation is achieved through gnosis (transformative spiritual knowledge), which enables the divine spark to escape the prison of matter and return to the Pleroma.  
• Neoplatonism: The soul strives to ascend the hierarchy of being through philosophical contemplation and virtuous living, ultimately aiming for henosis (union with The One).  
• Sufism: The spiritual path (tariqa) aims to purify the self (nafs) and draw closer to God, ultimately seeking to return to the original state of purity (fitra) and experience the annihilation of the self in God (fana) and subsistence in God (baqa).  
• Hinduism: The Atman seeks moksha, liberation from samsara (the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth driven by karma) and the realization of its inherent unity with Brahman.  
• Jewish Tradition: Some mystical Jewish teachings describe the soul undergoing processes of purification after death (e.g., in Gehenna) before potentially ascending to higher spiritual realms (Gan Eden) and ultimately returning to the Tzror HaHayim (“bundle of life” or storehouse of souls). Kabbalah also elaborates on gilgul neshamot (reincarnation of souls) for the purpose of fulfilling all mitzvot (commandments) or rectifying past actions.  

The notion of “calls cause out of that” can thus be understood to encompass not only the soul’s initial origination but also the divine impetus and guidance for its entire journey, including its descent into embodiment and its potential ascent or return to its Source. The “calls” might be the divine will or cosmic laws that orchestrate this grand cycle of spiritual evolution and homecoming.

Section 3: The Sacred Custodianship: Nurturing and Protecting the Indwelling Treasure

The riddle culminates in a clear imperative: “You must nurture the gem, and protect it.” This charge underscores a sacred duty incumbent upon every individual who recognizes the divine treasure within. This section explores various spiritual practices and the profound rationale behind this custodianship.

Table 2: Practices for Nurturing and Protecting the Spiritual Essence

Tradition/School of Thought	Key Nurturing Practices	Key Protective Practices
Yoga (Hatha/Raja)	Shatkarmas (purification), Asana (posture), Pranayama (breath control), Meditation (Dhyana), Ethical living (Yamas/Niyamas)	Trataka (focused gaze), Saucha (purity), Ethical discipline, Mental concentration
Theravada Buddhism	Loving-Kindness meditation (Metta), Mindfulness of Buddha’s qualities (Buddhanusati), Study of Dharma, Vipassanā (Insight Meditation)	Four Protective Meditations (vs. ill-will, lust, heedlessness, dissatisfaction), Mindfulness of impermanence (Maraṇasati), Contemplation of Foulness (Asubha)
Kabbalah (Jewish Mysticism)	Study of Torah/Zohar, Meditation on Sefirot, Intentional living (Kavvanah), Prayer, Mitzvot (commandments), Pushing comfort zones	Discernment of spirits, Adherence to Halakha (Jewish Law), Building spiritual community, Awareness of consciousness
Stoicism	Virtue ethics (Wisdom, Justice, Courage, Temperance), Journaling, Amor Fati (love of fate), Self-reflection, Living in accordance with nature/Logos	Dichotomy of control, Negative visualization (Premeditatio Malorum), Emotional regulation, Self-awareness, Apatheia (freedom from disturbing passions)
Christianity (General/Mystical)	Prayer, Scripture study, Sacraments/Ordinances, Contemplation, Service, Fellowship, Living by the Spirit, Cultivating virtues	Vigilance, Discernment (Holy Spirit’s guidance), Fasting, Repentance, Armor of God (Ephesians 6)
Indigenous Spirituality	Connection with nature, Storytelling, Rituals & Ceremonies, Community engagement, Honoring ancestors, Prayer, Meditation	Maintaining harmony with nature & community, Respect for sacred sites, Following ancestral wisdom, Shamanic guidance, Purification rituals
Sufism (Islamic Mysticism)	Dhikr (remembrance of God), Muraqaba (meditation), Suhba (companionship with a Shaykh), Study of Quran & Hadith, Ethical conduct (Akhlaq)	Tazkiyah (purification of the self/nafs), Guarding the heart (Qalb) from heedlessness, Seeking refuge in God, Adherence to Sharia

Subsection 3.1: The Call to Nurture: Cultivating the Divine Within

The act of nurturing the spirit, or the “precious gem,” involves a constellation of practices aimed at fostering meaning, purpose, and a profound connection to oneself, the surrounding world, and, for many, a higher power or the Divine. This cultivation is often a gradual process, beginning with small, manageable steps, involving exploration and experimentation to find what resonates personally, and ideally blossoming into consistent habits that integrate spiritual awareness into the fabric of daily life. It frequently entails deep reflection on one’s passions, core values, and those moments in life that evoke genuine engagement and contentment, as these can offer vital clues to one’s spiritual path and purpose.  

Diverse spiritual traditions offer specific pathways for this inner cultivation: Kabbalistic practices, for instance, emphasize that nurturing the soul is a multifaceted endeavor. It involves dedicated study of spiritual wisdom, such as the Torah and Zoharic literature, which is seen not merely as an intellectual exercise but as a direct means of nourishing the soul. Kabbalah, often referred to as the “soul of the Torah,” aims to provide deeper insights into God, the universe, and the human soul. A crucial element is conscious intention (Kavvanah), which means imbuing all actions, especially rituals and prayers, with spiritual purpose and awareness, thereby avoiding rote or mechanical observance. Kabbalists also stress the importance of consistently pushing oneself beyond comfort zones, as this is believed to be essential for the soul’s expansion and growth; stagnation arises from remaining in familiar but limiting patterns. Finally, there is an understanding of the profound obligation to reveal the soul’s unique Light in the world, recognizing that each soul has a divine potential to manifest and contribute to the collective spiritual reality.  

Yogic traditions, particularly Hatha Yoga, offer a sophisticated system of purification and cultivation through practices like the Shatkarmas (or Kriyas). These are six traditional sets of cleansing techniques—Neti (nasal cleansing), Dhauti (digestive tract cleansing), Nauli (abdominal massage), Basti (colon cleansing), Kapalabhati (skull shining breath), and Trataka (concentrated gazing)—designed to purify both the physical and subtle (energetic) bodies. These practices, rooted in the principle of saucha (cleanliness, the first Niyama or observance), aim to remove physical and energetic blockages, thereby preparing the practitioner for deeper meditative states and spiritual advancement. For example, Nauli Kriya is described as purifying the abdominal region and stimulating the “gastric fire” (digestive and metabolic energy), while Trataka enhances concentration and stills the mind’s fluctuations.  

If the soul, the “Eternal essence,” originates from or is constituted by divine sound or vibration, as suggested by the “realm of calls,” then nurturing it involves practices that align the individual with this primordial creative frequency. Yogic techniques, including asana (postures), pranayama (breath control), and meditation, are understood in some contexts as modalities to create resonance with specific cosmic energies; by maintaining these practices with focused attention, the practitioner’s microcosm attunes to and accumulates energy from the macrocosmic source. Similarly, healing affirmations, prayer, and focused intention can be used to align the mind, body, and soul with a “divine healing code” or vibration, allowing the individual to become a clearer channel for the cosmic creative force.  

From a Christian perspective, spiritual growth and maturity are not merely optional pursuits but divine expectations. The Apostle Peter exhorts believers to “make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love”. Key practices for this maturation include diligently feeding on God’s Word, fostering a Christ-centered community, consciously walking in the Holy Spirit (who transforms from within), surrendering one’s will to God’s, and cultivating humility. Worship, too, is to be a deeply spiritual act, not a mere formality, allowing God’s transformative work to take place within the individual.  

The imperative to “nurture” the gem thus implies an active, conscious, and participatory role for the human being in their own spiritual unfolding. The gem’s inherent brilliance is not static; rather, its potential is actualized and its radiance enhanced through dedicated effort and specific practices, suggesting a co-creative relationship with the Divine in the journey of the soul. The diverse array of nurturing methods—spanning intellectual study, physical and energetic purification, meditative attunement, ethical conduct, and communal worship—indicates that the “gem” (the soul or spirit) is a multifaceted reality. Its holistic cultivation requires addressing the interconnected dimensions of mind, body, emotion, and spirit to allow its full splendor to manifest.

Subsection 3.2: The Imperative to Protect: Safeguarding the Spiritual Core

The charge to “protect it” implies that this indwelling “precious gem,” while eternal in its essence, is vulnerable in its earthly manifestation. The inner spirit can be disturbed, led astray, or its light obscured. Indeed, some traditions view the material world itself as a domain of potential entrapment or illusion (e.g., Maya in Hinduism, or the Gnostic view of the cosmos created by a lesser deity). Inner disturbances, such as a lack of peace or a troubled spirit, can serve as crucial warning signals that something is amiss or that one is veering off course. Furthermore, aspects of the unrefined self, such as the “carnal mind” or the “old sin nature” described in some theological frameworks, can act as internal hindrances to spiritual progress if not consciously addressed and transformed.  

Various spiritual and philosophical schools offer practices for this vital task of spiritual protection: A fundamental aspect of safeguarding the inner core is the cultivation of discernment and reliance on trusted guidance. Navigating the complex terrain of spiritual teachings and encounters requires a keen awareness of one’s own perceptual filters and those of potential teachers or sources of information. Trusting one’s bodily intuition—how a teaching or presence feels—and establishing connections with trusted spiritual allies, be they enlightened teachers, spirit helpers in shamanic traditions, or the guiding presence of the Holy Spirit in Christian mysticism, is often advised.  

The development of spiritual sovereignty and consistent energy hygiene is also paramount. This involves learning and applying psychic protection skills, maintaining a clear and vibrant personal energy field, and cultivating a vibrational state that does not attract or resonate with unwanted or detrimental influences. This is an active stance of self-possession and spiritual integrity.  

Buddhist traditions, particularly Theravada, offer specific “Protective Meditations” designed to guard the mind against unwholesome tendencies and reinforce beneficial qualities. The Four Protective Meditations are: Recollection of the Buddha (countering dissatisfaction, generating faith and joy), Meditation on Loving-Kindness (Metta) (antidote to ill-will, fostering friendliness and altruism), Contemplation of the Unattractive Nature of the Body (Asubha-bhavana) (debilitating sensual lust, inclining towards dispassion), and Mindfulness of Death (Maraṇasati) (remedy for heedlessness, reinforcing awareness of transience). These practices are believed to offer not only psychological protection by transforming inner states but also, in some traditional views, literal protection from unseen negative entities by fostering harmonious relations with benevolent spiritual forces.  

Stoic philosophy provides robust practices for building an “inner citadel”—a state of inner peace, resilience, and virtue that is impervious to external disturbances. Key Stoic exercises include:  

• Negative Visualization (premeditatio malorum): Mentally rehearsing potential adversities to prepare the mind and diminish their impact should they occur.  
• The Dichotomy of Control: Clearly distinguishing between what is within one’s control (thoughts, judgments, intentions, actions) and what is not (external events, others’ opinions, health, reputation), and focusing one’s energy exclusively on the former.  
• Practicing Virtue: Consciously cultivating the cardinal Stoic virtues of Wisdom (understanding what is good, bad, and indifferent), Justice (acting rightly towards others), Courage (facing adversity with fortitude), and Temperance (moderating desires and reactions).  
• Self-Reflection through Journaling: Regularly examining one’s thoughts, actions, and responses to events, in light of Stoic principles, to foster self-awareness and continuous improvement.  
• Memento Mori (Remember You Will Die): Reflecting on the certainty of death to gain perspective, appreciate the present moment, and focus on living a virtuous and meaningful life.  

The consequences of neglecting spiritual development and protection can be severe. Such neglect may lead to a diminished sense of fellowship with the Divine, a decline in moral and ethical standards, increased spiritual weakness and vulnerability to negative influences or false teachings, an inability to fulfill one’s inherent purpose, and significant emotional and mental distress.  

“Protecting” the gem, therefore, is not about a fearful withdrawal or isolation from the world. Rather, it is about the active development of inner resilience, wisdom, and discernment that enables one to navigate the complexities of life without compromising spiritual integrity or losing connection to the divine source. It is an engaged defense, not a passive retreat. The very need for protection implies that the “gem,” while eternal and divine in its core essence, can be obscured, its light dimmed, or its influence in one’s life diminished by negative internal states (such as fear, greed, ignorance, or uncontrolled passions) or by detrimental external influences (like misleading teachings or harmful relationships). Its profound preciousness makes it susceptible to being “dulled” or its expression hindered if not diligently safeguarded.

Subsection 3.3: Living the Entrustment: Fulfilling Divine Purpose

The dual mandate to nurture and protect the indwelling “precious gem” can be understood as fulfilling a sacred agreement, a covenant, or a solemn trust with the Divine. This perspective elevates the task beyond mere self-improvement, framing it as a response to a divine initiative and a participation in a relationship with reciprocal (though asymmetrical) responsibilities.

Divine covenants, as understood in many theological traditions, particularly within Judaism and Christianity, are God-initiated, binding relationships that come with both divine blessings and human obligations. By entering into and honoring these covenants, individuals gain access to divine power, guidance, and blessings. The “new and everlasting covenant,” for example in Latter-day Saint theology, is identified with the fullness of the gospel of Jesus Christ. It involves a commitment to serve God and keep His commandments, and in return, God pledges to sustain, sanctify, and ultimately exalt those who are faithful. While divine sovereignty is paramount, human responsibility is an integral and complementary aspect of this covenantal relationship.  

The concept of the soul as a sacred trust is also deeply resonant. Stewardship over one’s body, mind, family, and spiritual well-being is often presented as a sacred responsibility given by God, for which individuals are accountable. The Apostle Paul’s exhortation in 2 Timothy 1:14, “Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you—guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us” (NIV), speaks directly to the idea of protecting a divinely entrusted treasure. This “good deposit” or “precious truth” can be interpreted as the spiritual essence itself, the divine spark, or the core teachings of faith that illuminate its nature.  

Furthermore, the acts of nurturing and protecting the soul align with the concept of fulfilling a divine call. Many spiritual traditions speak of a “heavenly calling” or a divine summons that originates from a transcendent realm, defines one’s true identity, leads towards a heavenly destiny, and demands a quality of life that reflects this divine origin and purpose now, on earth. This calling is not merely to personal salvation but to embody and manifest heavenly values and to fulfill a specific divine purpose within the larger cosmic order.  

Interpreting the Creator’s act of “selling” the gem not as a commercial transaction but as a profound divine investment or a solemn entrustment within a covenantal framework shifts the dynamic significantly. It moves from the idea of a passive reception of a gift to an active partnership with the Divine. Humanity is not merely a beneficiary but a responsible steward, tasked with ensuring that this “invested” treasure yields its intended spiritual “return.” This “return” is not for the Creator’s enrichment in a material sense, but rather the flourishing of the soul itself: its growth in wisdom and virtue, its increasing reflection of divine qualities, its journey towards union with its Source, and its contribution to a larger divine plan, such as Tikkun Olam (the Kabbalistic concept of “repairing the world”) or the conscious manifestation of the soul’s unique Light in the world. The fulfillment derived from nurturing and protecting this divine entrustment is therefore not confined to personal peace or individual enlightenment; it is an alignment with a cosmic or divine purpose, a participation in “making all things new” or in the ongoing revelation of divine glory.  

Section 4: The Riddle Answered: The Soul as the Creator’s Invested Eternal Essence

The journey through diverse spiritual landscapes allows for a synthesis of the evidence, offering a comprehensive answer to the user’s profound riddle. The metaphors, when illuminated by comparative wisdom, converge to reveal a truth central to human existence.

Subsection 4.1: Synthesizing the Evidence: The Soul as the “Precious Gem”

The interwoven metaphors of the “most precious gem,” the “breath of life,” and the “Eternal essence” all point with remarkable consistency towards a singular, profound reality: the human soul or spirit. This is the core, indwelling, divinely-sourced element that constitutes our deepest identity, our vital principle, and our ultimate spiritual potential.

• The “precious gem” signifies its supreme, inherent value, its incorruptible nature, and often its capacity to reflect or radiate spiritual light.  
• The “breath of life” denotes its divine animation, the vital principle infused by the Creator that distinguishes the living from the inert, and specifically, the human from other forms of life in its unique capacity for self-awareness and relationship with the Divine.  
• The “Eternal essence” highlights its timeless, unchangeable, and fundamentally divine nature, a quality that transcends the finitude of physical existence and links it to an everlasting realm.  

As illustrated previously (Table 1), the concept of such an inner spiritual core is virtually universal across cultures and epochs, whether it is termed Atman (Hinduism), Neshama (Kabbalah), Pneuma (Greek philosophy/Gnosticism), Ruh (Sufism), Imago Dei (Christianity), Divine Spark (various mystical traditions), or the sacred inner connection to the Great Spirit (Indigenous traditions). The riddle’s solution, therefore, is not an obscure or esoteric object but the very core of what makes us human and connects us to the Divine—our soul or spirit. The “riddle” aspect, as the user hints (“It’s not such a riddle, just a little”), may lie in the challenge of recognizing and valuing this profound truth, which is often hidden in plain sight, veiled by the distractions and concerns of mundane existence. The multifaceted description—gem, breath, essence—further implies that this soul/spirit is not a simple, monolithic entity but a complex and rich reality, possessing integrated aspects of inestimable value, animating vitality, and enduring, divine being, all bestowed or “invested” by the Creator.  

Subsection 4.2: Interpreting the “Sale”: A Metaphor for Divine Investment and Sacred Trust

The assertion that “The Creator sold the most precious gem” is a strikingly unconventional and highly metaphorical statement. It is improbable that this refers to a literal commercial transaction involving a buyer and seller in any conventional sense. Instead, the verb “sold” can be interpreted to convey several profound theological and spiritual ideas related to the Creator’s act of endowing humanity with this “gem”:

1. A Parting with Something of Incalculable Value, Implying a “Cost” to the Giver: To “sell” something, even metaphorically, implies that the item possesses immense value to the seller. If the Creator “sells” His “most precious gem,” it suggests that what is given is of His very essence, or of a worth comparable to His own estimation. This act of “parting with” such a treasure for humanity’s sake underscores its preciousness beyond all measure. This reframes the human soul not merely as a creation, but as a treasure of supreme divine estimation. The “cost” to the Creator could be understood as the divine kenosis (self-emptying) or self-limitation involved in bestowing a distinct, free entity endowed with a spark of His own being, or in the act of emanation where the One “overflows” to produce lower levels of reality. In mythology, divine gifts to humanity often come at a significant cost or involve sacrifice on the part of the gods (e.g., Prometheus’s suffering for the gift of fire to humankind). While the query speaks of original creation rather than redemption (where the concept of being “bought with a price” is common in Christian theology, referring to Christ’s sacrifice ), the idea of a divine “cost” in the act of creation itself—perhaps the “cost” of love expressing itself in otherness—can be entertained.  
2. A Profound and Irrevocable Divine Investment: The term “sold” can be understood in the sense of making a profound and irrevocable investment. Scriptural narratives, such as in Genesis, depict God as an “investor,” clothing creation with light and life, and uniquely investing His image in human beings. This “investiture” endows humanity with inherent dignity, authority, and potential. The soul, in this light, is God’s most significant investment in the created order. This act of “selling” or “investing” the gem establishes an intimate, intrinsic link between the Creator and the recipient, making the subsequent nurturing and protection of this gem a matter of honoring the divine presence within.  
3. A Solemn Entrustment or Covenant: The “sale” can also powerfully signify a solemn entrustment, establishing humanity as stewards of this divine gem. This aligns with covenant theology, where God bestows gifts and enters into sacred agreements with humanity, which include reciprocal responsibilities. The divine gift, while often characterized as free and pure (grace) , invariably calls forth a response from the recipient. The soul can be seen as an “irrevocable gift,” our “inherent and irrevocable dignity” , yet this gift comes with the implicit terms of its sacred purpose. Theological language uses various metaphors for this divine giving: it is a gift (donum), often free yet implying mutuality ; an impartation, an authoritative spiritual transaction where giftings are deposited ; or a bestowal within a covenant, where God binds Himself to sustain, sanctify, and exalt in return for humanity’s commitment to serve and obey.  

The metaphor of being “sold” by the Creator thus uniquely emphasizes the supreme value He places on this “gem” (the soul) and, by extension, on humanity, which is deemed worthy of such an invaluable, perhaps even “costly,” investment. Furthermore, the idea of a “sale” or “investment” inherently suggests an expected “return”—not in a commercial sense, but in terms of the gem (the soul) fulfilling its divinely ordained purpose. This “return” is the flourishing of the soul: its growth in wisdom, virtue, and love; its increasing capacity to reflect divine qualities; its journey towards conscious union with its Source; or its active contribution to a divine plan, such as the Kabbalistic Tikkun Olam (healing or rectification of the world) or the Thelemic concept of fulfilling one’s True Will. This framing powerfully reinforces the active responsibility to nurture and protect the invested treasure, so it may achieve its full potential and yield its spiritual fruit.  

Subsection 4.3: The “Realm of Calls Cause Out of That”: The Dynamic Fount of Being

The description of the origin of the “Eternal essence”—”from the never ending and everlasting realm of calls cause out of that”—points to the ultimate, transcendent, and dynamically creative Source of all being, and specifically, of the human soul. This realm is “never ending and everlasting,” signifying its primordial, uncaused, and eternal nature, beyond the confines of temporal and spatial existence.

The phrase “calls cause out of that” suggests that this realm is not a static repository but an active, vibrant fount from which the soul’s essence is continuously generated or sustained. The “calls” can be understood as the creative utterances (Logos, Shabda), divine will, emanations, formative principles, or spiritual laws and vibrations that not only bring the soul into existence but perpetually uphold its being and its connection to the Source. This is not a singular, historical event of creation after which the Creator withdraws (as in Deism), but an ongoing ontological reality. The soul, having originated from these divine “calls,” possesses an inherent capacity to resonate with this realm. Nurturing the soul, therefore, involves practices of purification, attunement, and conscious alignment with these divine frequencies or calls, allowing it to draw sustenance and guidance from its eternal Source.  

The “realm of calls cause out of that” is thus not merely a place of distant origin but an ever-present, active dimension with which the soul can, and indeed must, interact for its continued spiritual vitality and growth. The “calls” are not just historical pronouncements that initiated being; they are ongoing invitations, influxes of spiritual energy, and the very principles that sustain existence. The phrase implies that the very structure, nature, and potential of the “Eternal essence” (the soul) are defined, given form, and continually vitalized by these “calls” from the divine realm. The soul is, in a profound sense, a living response to, or a unique manifestation of, these divine utterances, creative vibrations, or emanations. Its being is a testament to the ceaseless creative activity of its Source.

Conclusion: Embracing the Radiance Within

The riddle presented, “The Creator sold the most precious gem one could imagine, and he invested it the breath of life into your body. This is the Eternal essence from the never ending and everlasting realm of calls cause out of that. You are that. You must nurture the gem, and protect it. It’s not such a riddle, just a little, so what am I talking about?” finds its resolution in the profound understanding of the human soul or spirit.

The “most precious gem” is indeed the human soul—an eternal, divine essence, the very breath of life, invested in us by the Creator. This investment, metaphorically described as being “sold,” signifies its immeasurable value to the Creator and the profound, perhaps even self-limiting or “costly,” act of divine self-giving or solemn entrustment. This soul originates from and is perpetually sustained by a “never ending and everlasting realm of calls cause out of that”—the ultimate, dynamic, creative Fount of all being. The “calls” emanating from this realm—be they understood as divine utterances, creative sound-currents, spiritual laws, or direct emanations of being—are the very “cause” of our spiritual existence and provide its ongoing sustenance and connection to the Divine.

The explicit charge to “nurture the gem, and protect it” is therefore a call to the highest human endeavor: the conscious cultivation of our innate spiritual nature, the deliberate alignment with our divine source, and the vigilant safeguarding of this inner light against all that would obscure, diminish, or corrupt it. This is not merely a personal quest for well-being or enlightenment but the fulfillment of a sacred trust, a response to a divine calling, and our essential participation in a cosmic covenant or divine plan.

To understand this is to imbue life with profound meaning, inherent dignity, and an ultimate purpose that transcends the purely material. It calls individuals to live with reverence for the divine spark within themselves and all others, to engage earnestly in practices that polish its radiance and allow its unique qualities to shine forth, and to protect its sanctity with wisdom and courage. By embracing this sacred custodianship, humanity honors the Creator’s extraordinary investment and allows this indwelling treasure—the soul—to fulfill its luminous destiny, reflecting the glory of its “never ending and everlasting realm.”