Evil is an attack against human spiritual development and enlightenment. All evil, badness, neurosis - it has one motive and one motive only, which is to destroy - to destroy your chance of arising above yourself.

In this quote, Vernon Howard, a philosopher and spiritual teacher, reflects on the destructive nature of evil and its impact on human spiritual development. Howard suggests that all forms of evil, whether they manifest as badness, neurosis, or other negative behaviors, share a common goal: to hinder an individual’s growth and prevent them from achieving enlightenment. According to Howard, evil works by attacking the very potential for personal and spiritual transformation.

The phrase "to destroy your chance of arising above yourself" highlights the idea that evil prevents individuals from transcending their limitations and reaching a higher state of being. Howard emphasizes that the ultimate purpose of evil is to keep people trapped in a cycle of self-doubt, ignorance, and negative patterns, blocking them from evolving into a more enlightened version of themselves. This destruction of potential keeps individuals from accessing their higher spiritual nature.

By linking evil to spiritual stagnation, Howard positions it as an obstacle to personal growth. Neurosis, a term that refers to mental or emotional disorders, is also seen as a form of evil because it limits a person’s ability to overcome their inner conflicts and achieve peace or understanding. This perspective suggests that personal and spiritual healing involves recognizing and removing the forces that hold us back, whether they are external or internal.

Ultimately, Howard’s quote emphasizes the importance of spiritual growth and the need to guard against forces, both within and outside of ourselves, that attempt to keep us from transcending our limitations. By recognizing these destructive tendencies, individuals can free themselves from evil and work toward achieving a higher state of enlightenment and personal fulfillment.