Ask And It Is Given
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Ask And It Is Given
Evander Ashcroft, Editor
"Ask And It Is Given" tackles the perennial subject of manifestation with a directness that is both its strength and its limitation. The book lays out a clear, step-by-step process for aligning one's energetic output with desired outcomes, a concept that has roots in various esoteric traditions but is presented here with modern accessibility. Its strength lies in the actionable advice, particularly the emphasis on emotional clarity as a signal of alignment. However, the absolute certainty with which it presents these principles can feel reductive to those familiar with the nuances of spiritual development, where paradox and struggle often coexist with progress. A passage detailing the "Vortex" as a distinct energetic space for desires is illustrative of its clear, almost mechanical, approach to metaphysical law. While effective for some, its lack of engagement with potential complexities or alternative perspectives might leave more seasoned practitioners wanting. It is a functional primer for those new to attraction principles.
📝 Description
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### What It Is
"Ask And It Is Given" presents a system of thought focused on the principle of attraction, suggesting that one's thoughts and feelings directly influence the reality experienced. The work posits that by understanding and consciously directing one's mental and emotional states, individuals can manifest desired outcomes in their lives. It emphasizes a proactive approach to personal creation, moving beyond passive observation of circumstances to active participation in shaping them.
### Who It's For
This text is intended for individuals seeking practical methods to improve their circumstances, whether in personal relationships, financial matters, health, or spiritual development. It appeals to those who believe in the power of the mind and are willing to engage in consistent practice to achieve their goals. Those interested in self-help, manifestation techniques, and the law of attraction will find its principles directly applicable.
### Historical Context
Published in 2004, "Ask And It Is Given" emerged during a resurgence of interest in New Thought and self-help literature that gained traction in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. While the core ideas echo earlier movements like Christian Science and the teachings of figures such as Wallace Wattles and Napoleon Hill, this work reframed them for a contemporary audience. Its approach aligns with the broader cultural embrace of positive psychology and manifestation principles, often discussed in parallel with figures like Esther and Jerry Hicks.
### Key Concepts
The central tenet is the Law of Attraction, which the book explains as a universal principle governing creation. It introduces concepts like the "Vortex" as a place where desires are held and prepared for manifestation, and the importance of "Emotional Guidance Systems" to gauge one's vibrational alignment with their desires. The work also discusses the role of "Allowing" – the state of non-resistance that permits manifestation to occur. It advocates for focusing on the feeling of already having what is desired to attract it more effectively.
💡 Why Read This Book?
• Learn the specific technique of using your "Emotional Guidance System" to discern your vibrational alignment with desires, a concept not found in generic self-help. • Understand the "Vortex" as a distinct energetic space where your desires are held and prepared for manifestation, offering a unique conceptual model. • Grasp the principle of "Allowing" as detailed in the book, which focuses on non-resistance to permit manifestation, a practical application of energetic principles.
⭐ Reader Reviews
Honest opinions from readers who have explored this book.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core principle of "Ask And It Is Given"?
The core principle is the Law of Attraction, stating that your thoughts and feelings directly influence your reality. The book teaches how to consciously direct these to manifest desired outcomes.
Who are the primary authors or proponents of the ideas in this book?
While the book is attributed to an unknown author, its concepts are widely associated with channeled teachings, particularly those attributed to Esther and Jerry Hicks, who popularized similar ideas around the same time.
When was "Ask And It Is Given" first published?
The book was first published in 2004, positioning it within the early 21st-century wave of New Thought and manifestation literature.
What is the 'Vortex' mentioned in the book?
The 'Vortex' is described as an energetic space where your desires reside once you have clearly focused on them and are vibrating in alignment with them, awaiting physical manifestation.
How does the book suggest improving one's financial situation?
It suggests focusing on the feeling of abundance and already having what you desire, using your "Emotional Guidance System" to maintain a positive vibrational state, thereby attracting financial prosperity.
Is "Ask And It Is Given" related to the teachings of Esther and Jerry Hicks?
Yes, the concepts and presentation style are very similar to the teachings of Esther and Jerry Hicks, often presented as channeled wisdom from Abraham.
🔮 Key Themes & Symbolism
Law of Attraction
The central theme is the Law of Attraction, presented not as a metaphor but as a fundamental, verifiable law of the universe, akin to gravity. The book posits that whatever you focus on, whether consciously or unconsciously, you are calling into your experience. This includes positive and negative aspects of life. The work insists that understanding this principle is the key to controlling one's destiny, moving beyond mere wishing to a state of active co-creation with the universe.
Emotional Guidance System
This concept functions as an internal compass, indicating one's vibrational alignment with their desires. The book explains that feelings of joy, love, and well-being signify alignment, while feelings of fear, anger, or sadness indicate misalignment. By learning to interpret and respond to these emotional cues, individuals can adjust their thoughts and actions to move closer to their desired reality. It’s presented as a practical tool for navigating the manifestation process.
The Vortex and Allowing
The 'Vortex' is described as a quantum space where the Universe gathers all that you have asked for and prepares it for your reception. The concept of 'Allowing' is crucial for manifestation; it means releasing resistance, doubt, and contradictory thoughts that might block the arrival of desired outcomes. The work emphasizes that once a desire is sent into the Vortex, the practice of Allowing involves trusting the process and maintaining a state of positive anticipation.
Conscious Creation
The book advocates for a paradigm shift from being a victim of circumstances to becoming a conscious creator of one's reality. It breaks down the creation process into three steps: Ask, Believe (which includes feeling and knowing it is coming), and Receive (which involves Allowing). This framework empowers individuals by suggesting they have inherent creative power, and their primary role is to focus their intent and maintain a receptive, positive emotional state.
💬 Memorable Quotes
“The Law of Attraction is always in effect, always responding to your vibration.”
— This highlights the core tenet that universal forces are constantly mirroring your inner state, emphasizing the continuous nature of energetic influence on one's life circumstances.
“Your desire is your prayer.”
— This concise statement suggests that the act of desiring something, when coupled with belief and emotional alignment, is the primary mechanism for initiating manifestation.
“When you are in alignment with your desire, you are in the Vortex.”
— This defines the 'Vortex' not as a place but as a state of being, where one's energetic frequency matches that of their aspirations, facilitating their arrival.
“You have to feel it before you can have it.”
— This emphasizes the critical role of emotional experience in the manifestation process, suggesting that embodying the feeling of already possessing the desire is key to attracting it.
“The Universe wants for you what you want for yourself.”
— This presents a benevolent view of universal forces, suggesting an inherent cooperative nature where one's own desires are mirrored and supported by the cosmos.
🌙 Esoteric Significance
Tradition
The work draws heavily from the New Thought movement, which itself has roots in 19th-century spiritualism, Transcendentalism, and Eastern philosophies. While not explicitly Hermetic or Kabbalistic, it shares the fundamental esoteric principle that consciousness is primary and that the manifested world is a reflection of inner states. It departs from some traditional lineages by focusing less on ritual or symbolic interpretation and more on direct, psychological manipulation of one's own energetic and emotional state.
Symbolism
The primary symbolic concept is the 'Vortex,' representing a non-physical locus where desires are prepared for manifestation. This can be seen as an esoteric concept akin to a spiritual waiting room or a quantum field of potentiality. Another key motif is the 'Emotional Guidance System,' functioning symbolically as an internal barometer, translating subtle energetic shifts into discernible feelings that guide the practitioner towards or away from their goals.
Modern Relevance
This work is highly relevant today, influencing contemporary practices in manifestation coaching, positive psychology applications, and various 'spiritual but not religious' communities. Thinkers and practitioners focused on abundance mindset, the power of visualization, and energetic alignment frequently cite or employ principles found in "Ask And It Is Given." Its accessible language makes it a foundational text for many exploring self-directed creation in the 21st century.
👥 Who Should Read This Book
• Individuals new to manifestation principles seeking a clear, actionable framework for understanding how to attract desired outcomes. • Those feeling stuck or dissatisfied with their current circumstances who are open to exploring the power of their thoughts and emotions. • Practitioners of self-help and personal development looking to integrate energetic and vibrational concepts into their existing routines and beliefs.
📜 Historical Context
Published in 2004, "Ask And It Is Given" appeared during a period of heightened interest in New Thought principles and the Law of Attraction, fueled by popular books and seminars. This era saw a confluence of self-help, spirituality, and pop psychology, making concepts of manifestation widely accessible. The work echoes earlier figures like Wallace Wattles and Napoleon Hill, who explored similar ideas in the early 20th century. However, "Ask And It Is Given" gained particular traction due to its direct, practical, and often channeled presentation, aligning closely with the teachings of Esther and Jerry Hicks, whose work also became prominent around this time. It engaged with a cultural milieu that was increasingly open to non-traditional spiritual paths and the idea of personal empowerment through mental discipline, often contrasted with more traditional religious doctrines or deterministic philosophical outlooks.
📔 Journal Prompts
Reflect on your current 'Emotional Guidance System' regarding a specific desire.
Describe the 'Vortex' as you imagine it holding your most cherished aspiration.
What thought patterns are hindering your 'Allowing' of desired experiences?
Articulate your most significant 'Ask' and the belief you hold about its reception.
How can you consciously direct your vibration towards joy, as suggested by the text?
🗂️ Glossary
Law of Attraction
A universal principle stating that like attracts like; your dominant thoughts and feelings draw corresponding experiences into your reality.
Vortex
An energetic space where the Universe gathers all that you have asked for, preparing it for your reception once you are in vibrational alignment.
Emotional Guidance System
An internal compass that uses emotions to indicate your vibrational alignment with your desires, guiding you towards or away from what you want.
Allowing
The practice of releasing resistance, doubt, and contradictory beliefs to permit the natural manifestation of your desires.
Vibration
The energetic frequency of your thoughts, feelings, and beliefs, which determines what you attract into your life according to the Law of Attraction.
Conscious Creator
An individual who actively and intentionally directs their thoughts and emotions to shape their reality, rather than passively experiencing circumstances.
Ask
The first step in creation; clearly identifying and focusing on a desire, thereby sending it out to the Universe for fulfillment.
