Pronunciation: (AH-lay-ah-LAH)
Ahle'ala teaches that every living creature has a soul, which consists of the self and is manifested through the ki. The body is believed to be nothing but a manifestation, or a projection, of the soul, which is accomplished by expending one's ki. It also teaches that the natural world is held together by the ki of a creature, every rock, the flowing stream, the rushing breeze, even the planet itself
Ahle'ala teaches that the soul is eternal. When a creature dies, the soul is untethered from the body but will eventually return to the physical world, manifesting itself again. It is believed that by continuously improving the self and gaining enlightenment, a soul can transcend the form of the humanoid or animal body, materializing instead as part of the natural world. In this form the soul is still believed to be sentient and rational, transcending the need for a physical body for perception and interaction with the universe. As such, respect for the natural world and its balance is a key tenet
Ahle'ala includes a set of ideals to which followers must commit their lives. These pillars enshrine the idyllic self that all rational beings should strive to achieve. This struggle is known as the path to enlightenment, also called the Fivefold Path to Enlightenment, or simply the Fivefold Path
Proper Name: Palhi Pona (PALL-hi po-NAH)
Associated Chakras: Heart, Lotus
Only by keeping one's actions pure can balance be attained and progress towards enlightenment be made. Harming other creatures brings suffering and pollutes the soul. For this reason, the Ahle refuse to take the life of another creature or to indirectly participate in taking a life. Even in self defense, taking life is to be avoided at all costs. The Ahle also do not raise animals for food, nor do they hunt wild animals. Stealing is also considered to be serious harm
Aside from these restrictions, this pillar also involves positive and good actions. This includes acts of charity, hospitality, and self sacrifice
Proper Name: Lahwa Pona (LAH-wah po-NAH)
Associated Chakras: Crown
Awareness and understanding of the world around you is critical to the search for enlightenment. Cultivating a perspective of objectivity is also a crucial aspect of Ahle'ala. Self deception leads to stagnation and suffering. Proper growth can only be made when we view every aspect of the world and the self as it truly is. This clarity of understanding applies also to one's own emotions and the emotions of others
Though not required, meditation and the incantation of mantras are often used as tools to sharpen the mind
Proper Name: Tokhi Pona (TOE-k-hee po-NAH)
Associated Chakras: Throat
Communication with other creatures is an essential part of the path to enlightenment. Deceptive, abusive, demeaning speech, and divisive speech all block growth and pollute the pool of ki. From the positive side, learning how to effectively and eloquently communicate promotes growth. Using speech to uplift others and guide them towards enlightenment are important tools
Proper Name: Wilhe Pona (WHEEL-hay po-NAH)
Associated Chakras: Heart, Navel
The drive to change and improve is a foundational part of the path to enlightenment. Pure intentions lead to good actions and speech. It is not enough that one's actions and speech are good, if done out of duty or against the desires of the heart. The Ahle also seek to root out impure desires or impulses, to bring their nature into balance with their beliefs
Proper Name: Wahwa Pona (WAH-hah po-NAH)
Associated Chakras: Sacral, Root
There are many obstacles on the path to enlightenment, which must be overcome. The development of one's abilities flows naturally from a strong will. The Ahle aspire to reach the heights of physical strength, coordination, mental discipline, force of will, and strength of ki
