The Science of Mind Teaching Symbol
A Map of the Creative Universe
The Science of Mind Teaching Symbol is a powerful visual that represents how we, as spiritual beings, co-create our reality with the Divine. The circle symbolizes the Wholeness of the Universe — infinite, complete, and ever-present.
The top third represents Spirit or the Self-Conscious Mind — the realm of Original Thought. Every idea begins here. The middle section is Spiritual Law — a creative force that receives our thoughts and, without judgment, brings them into form. Just like soil receives a seed, Law receives our belief. The bottom third reflects the Physical World, where our manifested experiences appear — health, relationships, finances, creativity, all of it.
The "V" shape shows the movement. The left side represents Involution — Spirit moving into form. The right side is Evolution — our experience moving back toward greater awareness of Spirit through life's journey.
Its literal definition is "The descent of Spirit, through Law, into form."
This symbol isn't just a diagram. It's a daily reminder of our spiritual nature and the creative power within us.
The History Behind the Symbol
This teaching symbol was designed by our founder, Ernest Holmes (1887–1960). It symbolizes the creative process of both Universal and individual Life, based on the profound idea that we are made in the image and likeness of the ONE.
Science of Mind was founded in 1927 by Ernest Holmes as a spiritual, philosophical, and metaphysical movement within the New Thought tradition. Holmes did not originally intend it to be a "church" but rather a teaching institution — which is why many member communities have traditionally referred to themselves as "centers."
The symbol is based on a diagram Holmes included in his book The Science of Mind to help explain the basic principles of how the universe is united and how Spirit, Soul, and Body interact.
Holmes named the teaching a science because he believed its principles were scientifically provable in practice. He wrote, "I would rather see a student of this Science prove its Principle than to have him repeat all the words of wisdom that have ever been uttered."
His core insight — that we have access to the power of Universal Mind by directing our thoughts and beliefs — became the foundation of what is now a worldwide movement, carried forward today by Centers for Spiritual Living, including CSL NOCO right here in Northern Colorado.
What the Symbol Teaches Us
By developing a new belief in the goodness and givingness of life, each of us can manifest a new way of being in the world — greater happiness, harmony, prosperity, anything we can imagine. Consciously using the Law of Mind toward these ends, we contribute something positive into the collective belief system of all humankind, setting an intention of higher good for all.
Explore more of the sacred symbols that inspire our community, or join us at CSL NOCO to experience these teachings in practice.