Mystery of Sex Polarity - 9. HIGHER PHASES OF SEX - William Walker Atkinson

The Mystery of Sex: or, Sex Polarity - 9. HIGHER PHASES OF SEX - William Walker AtkinsonIn William Walker Atkinson's *The Mystery of Sex: or, Sex Polarity* (1909), a supplementary volume to his Arcane Teaching series, Chapter 9, titled **"Higher Phases of Sex"**, represents a pivotal shift from the book's earlier explorations of sex as a universal, creative principle manifesting in plants, animals, and basic human physicality. After discussing the physical function of sex and warning against excesses like satyrism (uncontrolled, animalistic indulgence), Atkinson elevates the discussion to the refined, spiritualized expressions of this cosmic force. Here, sex is no longer confined to procreation or mere gratification but becomes a sublime energy that, when properly directed and transmuted, fuels higher human evolution, creativity, spiritual insight, and ultimate regeneration.Atkinson begins by asserting that sex, as the fundamental polarity of masculine (projective, active, giving) and feminine (receptive, nurturing, integrative) principles, operates on multiple planes: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. In its **higher phases**, the raw sexual impulse—often squandered in lower expressions—undergoes **sublimation**, a process akin to alchemy where base energies are refined into nobler forms. This sublimation does not deny or repress sex but channels its potent creative vitality upward, transforming it from a dissipating force into one that builds character, genius, and enlightenment.One core idea in the chapter is that sexual energy is the **life-force** itself, the same dynamic power behind all creation in the cosmos. When conserved and redirected, it becomes a reservoir of vitality that empowers intellectual pursuits, artistic inspiration, leadership, compassion, and mystical union. Atkinson draws parallels to ancient occult traditions, suggesting that adepts and mystics throughout history have mastered this transmutation, using sexual polarity not for physical union alone but for inner marriage—the harmonious blending of masculine and feminine aspects within the self. This inner union leads to wholeness, where the individual no longer seeks completion externally but radiates balanced power from within.He emphasizes that true higher sex manifests as **creative genius**. The artist, inventor, philosopher, or reformer often draws unconsciously from this sublimated energy. What society calls "inspiration" or "the muse" is, in Atkinson's view, the redirected current of sexual polarity flowing into mental and spiritual channels. For instance, intense creative output in literature, music, or science frequently coincides with periods of sexual restraint or redirection, where the energy that might otherwise be expended physically is instead poured into productive manifestation. Atkinson cautions, however, that forced suppression leads to imbalance and neurosis; the key is conscious, willing transmutation through mental focus, aspiration, and harmonious living.The chapter also explores sex in emotional and relational contexts at elevated levels. In advanced human relationships, polarity transcends physical attraction to become a spiritual magnetism. Partners embodying balanced masculine and feminine qualities create a synergistic field that amplifies growth for both. This is not mere romance but a sacred alchemy where mutual love harmonizes opposites, fostering mutual evolution. Atkinson ties this to the **Law of Love** (introduced earlier in the book), where love acts as the unifying force that draws polarities into fruitful union rather than conflict. In higher phases, sex becomes an expression of cosmic love, dissolving ego boundaries and revealing the oneness underlying apparent duality.Atkinson warns against common pitfalls in attempting these higher expressions. Many fail by swinging to extremes—either indulgence or ascetic denial—both of which distort the natural flow. He advocates moderation, self-mastery, and understanding of natural laws. The individual must cultivate poise, balancing activity with receptivity, assertion with surrender. Through practices like focused visualization, affirmation of inner wholeness, and alignment with higher ideals, one can gradually raise the vibration of sexual energy.Toward the chapter's conclusion, Atkinson links these higher phases to **regeneration**, the topic of the final chapter. He posits that mastering sex polarity enables not only personal renewal but also contributes to humanity's evolutionary ascent. By conserving and transmuting this force, individuals achieve greater vitality, clarity, and spiritual power, ultimately approaching a state of cosmic consciousness where sex is fully spiritualized. This regeneration is both individual and collective; as more people embody these higher phases, society itself evolves beyond base instincts toward enlightened harmony.Throughout, Atkinson's tone remains reverent and idealistic. He presents sex ...