Thoughtform
Textured understanding of thoughtform are evident in Vajrayana Buddhism, Bonpo traditions, esoteric philosophies such as Theosophical and New Age thought amongst other indigenous cultural traditions and shamanism, and may be understood in a number of ways. For some, thoughtforms are non-material object created from a combination of willpower, "bioenergy" (i.e., chi or prana), and astral substance (sometimes referred to as "ether"). Some understand, thoughtforms to be invisible (perceived only through clairvoyant sight), others perceive the play of the phenomenal world as a collective thoughtform.
Thoughtforms are central to the practice of all forms of magick, where ritualization is utilized to focus the intent of either a sole practitioner or a group. The thoughtform can be willed to take on a specific appearance, or perform a specific function. A complex thoughtform which is anthropomorphic or zoomorphic in appearance is referred to as a tulpa. A thoughtform of a deity or dæmon may be referred to as a godform.
An undisciplined individual, who does not even believe in magick, can unconsciously create a thoughtform in the event that a strong emotion (i.e., hatred, lust, love, sympathy, etc.) is directed at a specific person for an extended period of time.
Generally, a thoughtform will eventually deconstruct as it runs out of energy over time. This can be prevented through regular recharging sessions, or through a symbiotic link with either the creator or the target.
A meme is not a thoughtform.
Though Alice Bailey may have been inspired (and comparable to a terton) her collaborative work with Djwal Khul, A Treatise on Cosmic Fire, that evocatively described the process for working with thoughtforms, is not formally recognised by the Himalayan dharmic traditions.
References
Further reading
- Annie Besant and Leadbeater: Thought forms
- Smith, Russell James (2003). Tulpa. Writers Advantage. ISBN-10: 0595274900 / ISBN-13:978-0595274901 (a work of fiction)