Astral projection Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/əˈstrɑːl prəˈdʌkšən/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

Astral projection, also known as out-of-body experience (OBE), is a paranormal claim in which an individual’s consciousness or spirit is believed to temporarily leave their physical body. This phenomenon is often reported to be a subjective experience, where the individual perceives themselves as floating or existing outside their physical body.

Examples

• She had an astral projection while meditating, feeling herself rise out of her body.
• He claimed to have astral projected into a different realm, where he met spiritual entities.

Synonyms

• Out-of-body experience (OBE)
• Ecstatic trance

Antonyms

• Materialism
• Physicality

Etymology

The term “astral projection” is derived from the Greek word “astral” meaning “relating to the stars” and the Latin word “proiectio” meaning “projection”. This term was first coined in the 19th century by the Theosophical Society, a spiritual organization founded by Helena Blavatsky and Henry Steel Olcott.

Usage Notes

Astral projection is often used in a spiritual or paranormal context. When referring to this phenomenon, it is essential to use this term in an article or conversation, as it is specific to the claimed experience of consciousness leaving the physical body.

Cultural References

Astral projection has been referenced in various forms of media, including literature, film, and music. Notable examples include the works of authors like Edgar Cayce and William James, who wrote extensively on the subject. In popular culture, astral projection has been depicted in TV shows like “Stranger Things” and movies like “eXistenZ”.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• “Leaving one’s body”
• “Out-of-body experience”

Related Words or Phrases

• Near-death experience (NDE)
• Premonition
• Precognition

Collocations

• “Astral projection exercises”

Frequency of Use

Astral projection is a relatively rare term in modern language, particularly in everyday conversations. However, it is commonly used in spiritual or paranormal communities and circles.

Common Misspellings

• Astral project
• Astral проекция
• Astral projectionism