In metaphysical literature, the silver cord, also known as the sutratma or life thread of the antahkarana, refers to a life-giving linkage from the Higher self (atma) down to the physical body. It also refers to an extended synthesis of this thread and a second (the consciousness thread, passing from the soul to the physical body) that connects the physical body to the etheric body, onwards to the astral body and finally to the mental body.[1]
During astral projection, some claim they can (at will or otherwise) see a silver cord linking their astral form to their physical body. This cord mainly appears to a beginning projector as an assurance they will not become lost. However, even experienced projectors find it useful, claiming it is a fast way to return to the body. The term is derived from Ecclesiastes 12:6-12:7 in the Old Testament, from the KJV:
Or from the NIV:
This verse (Ecclesiastes 12:6) is variously translated, and there is a lack of consensus among Bible commentators as to its meaning. Matthew Henry's commentary, for example, states that the silver cord refers simply to the "spinal marrow." [2]
The silver cord is mentioned by mystics, especially in contexts of dying and of near-death experiences.
The attachment point of the cord to the astral body differs, not only between projectors but also from projection to projection. These points correspond to major chakra positions. According to the observations of Robert Bruce, there is not a single point of connection to the denser body, but rather a locally converging collection of strands leading out of all of the major chakras, and some of the minor ones (Astral Dynamics, p398).
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Former Moody Blues singer Mike Pinder sings of the silver cord in his solo album Among The Stars with the lyric "All aboard, the silver cord, the tour's about to start. See the famous asteroids and a thousand million stars."
Gojira, the French Metal band used the phrase 'The Silver Cord' as an instrumental song title on their 2009 album The Way of All Flesh (album). An album stating the band's views on death and possible life after such. Using phrases such as "On a wounded astral body" and other references all over the album
In Jethro Tull's A Passion Play, the lyrics "the silver cord lies on the ground" are used to indicate the death of someone observing his own funeral.