At this point, however, we are met by another fact.  Cosmic activity takes place only in certain definite areas.  Solar systems do not jostle each other in space.  In a word the Sound, which thus starts the initial impulse of creation, is guided by Intelligent Selection.  Now sounds, directed by purposeful intention, amount to Words, whether the words of some spoken language or the tapping of the Morse code—­it is the meaning at the back of the sound that gives it verbal significance.  It is for this reason, that the concentration of creative energy in particular areas, has from time immemorial been attributed to “The Word.”  The old Sanskrit books call this selective concentrative power “Vach,” which means “Voice,” and is the root of the Latin word “Vox,” having the same meaning.  Philo, and the Neo-Platonists of Alexandria who follow him, call it “Logos,” which means the same; and we are all familiar with the opening verses of St. John’s Gospel and First Epistle in which he attributes Creation to “The Word.”

Now we know, as a scientific fact, that solar systems have a definite beginning in the gyration of nebulous matter, circling through vast fields of interstellar space, as the great nebula in Andromeda does at the present day.  AEons upon aeons elapse, before the primary nebula consolidates into a solar system such as ours is now; but science shows, that from the time when the nebula first spreads its spiral across the heavens, the mathematical element of Law asserts itself, and it is by means of our recognition of the mathematical relations between the forces of attraction and repulsion, that we have been able to acquire any knowledge on the subject.  I do not for an instant wish to suggest that the Spiritual Power has not continued to be in operation also, but a centre for the working of a Cosmic Law being once established, the Spiritual Power works through that Law and not in opposition to it.  On the other hand, the selection of particular portions of space for the manifestation of cosmic activity, indicates the action of free volition, not determined by any law except the obvious consideration of allowing room for the future solar system to move in.  Similarly also with regard to time.  Spectroscopic analysis of the light from the stars, which are suns many of them much greater than our own, shows that they are of various ages—­some quite young, some arrived at maturity, and some passing into old age.  Their creation must therefore be assigned to different epochs, and we thus see the Originating Spirit exercising the powers of Selection and Volition as to the time when, as well as to the place where, a new world-system shall be inaugurated.