The Election of Pope Leo XIV and Israel’s Choice of a King: A Lesson in Relying on Imagination Over External Authority

The recent election of a new Pope offers a striking parallel to the story of Israel’s choice of King Saul. Both events reflect the tendency to seek external authority rather than trusting in the creative power of imagination and the inner guidance we all have access to.

Israel's Choice: Relying on the External Instead of Imagination

In 1 Samuel 8, the Israelites, dissatisfied with the judges, asked for a king to rule over them, despite God's warning about the consequences of such a choice. They wanted a visible, physical leader like the other nations, rather than trusting in the internal guidance they had through their relationship with God. Although God allowed their request, He made it clear that placing their faith in an external king would bring burdens (1 Samuel 8:19-20).

From Neville Goddard’s perspective, this moment represents the outer mind’s tendency to look outward for leadership and validation. Rather than recognising the power of imagination and the creative force within them, the people of Israel sought a human ruler to guide them. This reflects a common tendency to turn to external sources of authority, rather than trusting in the transformative power of imagination.

Samuel: A State of Awareness That Listens to the Inner Voice

In stark contrast to the people’s choice of a king, Samuel represents the state of awareness that listens to the inner voice—imagination—rather than looking outward. Samuel’s role as a prophet was to listen to this inner guidance and act upon it. While the Israelites sought a physical ruler, Samuel exemplified the power of inner awareness and connection to the creative power within.

In Neville Goddard’s terms, Samuel can be understood as a symbol of the consciousness that is attuned to the imagination. He represents the state of being that recognises the power within to create and direct reality. Samuel’s example shows that true guidance comes not from external authorities but from tuning into and trusting the imagination within. In this sense, Samuel’s leadership was not external, but internal—leading from the awareness of the creative power within him.

The Papacy: A Modern Reflection of the Desire for External Authority

Similarly, the election of the Pope mirrors Israel’s choice of a king. The Pope is considered by many to be the earthly representative of God's authority, the ultimate interpreter of truth. Just as the Israelites looked to Saul to lead them, many people today turn to the Pope for spiritual guidance, looking to an external authority to define their reality.

However, Neville Goddard’s teachings emphasise that true spiritual authority is found within. While figures like the Pope may offer guidance, relying solely on external sources of authority prevents individuals from recognising the creative power they already possess. The imagination, as the God-given faculty, is the true source of direction, and we are encouraged to trust it fully.

Literal Interpretation and External Authority

The role of the Pope often involves interpreting scripture literally, which parallels the Israelites’ desire for a tangible, physical king. From a Neville Goddard perspective, focusing too heavily on literal interpretations and external authorities limits the creative potential of the imagination. Instead of recognising that imagination is the true creative power, reliance on external authority stifles spiritual growth and personal transformation.

Trusting Inner Guidance

The election of the Pope serves as a reminder of where we place our trust. While leaders can offer guidance, Neville Goddard teaches that each of us has the power to shape our own reality through the power of imagination. Shifting our focus from external authorities to our own inner creative power allows us to align more fully with the consciousness that manifests the life we desire.

Conclusion: Shifting from External Authority to the Power Within

The election of a Pope, much like Israel’s choice of Saul, highlights the tendency to seek visible, external leadership. Yet Neville Goddard’s teachings remind us that the true creative power lies within us. By trusting in our imagination and tuning into our inner guidance, we can transcend reliance on external authorities and align ourselves with the power of creation that resides within us.