A UFO religion focused on past lives, interplanetary teachings, and future peace.
Founded in 1954 by Ernest and Ruth Norman, the Unarius Academy of Science represents a unique blend of UFO beliefs, spiritual healing, and a distinctive understanding of time and the universe. The name “Unarius” is an acronym for “Universal Articulate Interdimensional Understanding of Science,” reflecting the organization’s ambitious scope and unconventional approach to spirituality and cosmic knowledge.
Origins and Founding Principles
Ernest and Ruth Norman began their spiritual mission in the mid-1950s, establishing the foundation of what would become an enduring new religious movement. Ernest, claiming psychic abilities, reported connections with extraterrestrial beings from Mars and Venus, describing these planets as homes of “great teachers” and “ascended masters.” He purportedly received “transmissions” detailing advanced civilizations on these celestial bodies, forming the basis of Unarius’ cosmology.
The couple’s teachings were further enhanced by their claims of having lived past lives as notable historical figures, including Jesus and Mary Magdalene. This concept of reincarnation and past-life experiences would become a cornerstone of Unarian philosophy, influencing their approach to personal growth and spiritual development.
The Pulse of Creation Series and Cosmic Literature
A significant contribution to Unarian teachings came in the form of the “Pulse of Creation” series, a collection of seven books that describe seven spiritual planets, including Venus. These texts, beginning with “The Voice of Venus,” detail Ernest’s alleged psychic journeys and encounters with advanced extraterrestrial beings. The series introduces the concept of “energy bodies” and higher vibratory planes, establishing a complex cosmology that blends elements of science fiction with spiritual concepts.
Ernest Norman also authored other influential works, such as “The Truth About Mars” and “The Infinite Concept of Cosmic Creation.” These books further expanded on his visions of life on other planets and the principles of what Unarius terms “interdimensional physics.” This body of literature forms the core of Unarian philosophy, providing followers with a comprehensive worldview that encompasses both the physical and spiritual realms.
Leadership Transition and Expansion
Following Ernest Norman’s death in 1971, Ruth Norman, adopting the spiritual name Uriel, assumed leadership of the organization. Under her guidance, Unarius experienced significant growth and evolution. Ruth expanded on the existing teachings, claiming to channel messages from historical figures such as Nikola Tesla, Albert Einstein, and Louis Pasteur. This expansion of the doctrine added layers of scientific and historical legitimacy to Unarian beliefs in the eyes of its followers.
Ruth Norman’s leadership was characterized by her flamboyant personality and elaborate costumes, which she claimed were inspired by her past lives as various historical figures. Her charismatic presence and unique style helped to attract media attention and new followers to the movement. During this period, Unarius began producing numerous educational videos and public access television programs to spread their message to a wider audience.
Prophecies and Extraterrestrial Expectations
One of the most notable aspects of Unarius under Ruth Norman’s leadership was the introduction of prophecies about the arrival of extraterrestrials and the transformation of Earth. She predicted that a spacefleet from an “Intergalactic Confederation” would land before 1974, ushering in a new era of peace and enlightenment. This event, referred to as the “Space Brothers’ landing,” became a central tenet of Unarian belief, although the predicted date has been postponed multiple times over the years.
The anticipation of extraterrestrial contact remains a cornerstone of Unarius teachings, with members believing that advanced beings from other planets will eventually make contact with Earth, bringing about a new age of cosmic harmony and spiritual evolution.
Cultural and Artistic Expressions
Unarius is notable for its vibrant cultural and artistic expressions, which serve as a means of conveying its teachings and attracting new followers. The organization has produced various films and psychodramas as part of their educational efforts, depicting past lives and extraterrestrial encounters. These creative endeavors not only serve to illustrate Unarian concepts but also provide a unique form of spiritual therapy for participants.
The Unarius headquarters in El Cajon, California, features elaborate murals and displays depicting their vision of extraterrestrial life and cosmic principles. These visual elements play a significant role in creating an immersive experience for members and visitors alike, reinforcing the group’s otherworldly teachings through tangible, artistic representations.
Practices and Beliefs
Central to Unarius philosophy is the concept of “past-life therapy,” a process through which individuals recall and resolve issues from their previous incarnations to improve their current life. This practice is believed to help members overcome negative karma and achieve personal growth. The organization offers workshops, seminars, and correspondence courses to facilitate these past-life regressions and integrate the insights gained into everyday life.
Unarius teachings incorporate elements of science fiction, New Age spirituality, and pseudoscience. They claim that advanced civilizations exist on other planets within our solar system, including Venus and Mars, but that these beings exist in higher vibrational frequencies invisible to human perception and technology. This belief in multiple dimensions and vibrational frequencies forms the basis of their “interdimensional physics” theory.
The Unarius Academy Today
Despite the passing of its founders and the non-fulfillment of its most prominent prophecies, the Unarius Academy of Science continues to operate and attract followers. The organization holds regular events, including an annual Interplanetary Conclave of Light, which celebrates their teachings and reaffirms their belief in the coming of the Space Brothers.
The group’s headquarters in El Cajon, California, serves as a learning center and museum, housing a collection of Unarian art, literature, and historical artifacts. This center acts as a hub for member activities, including classes, therapy sessions, and celebrations of Unarius anniversaries and milestones.
Unarius has adapted to the postmodern age, maintaining an online presence and continuing to produce educational materials. The organization emphasizes healing through remembering past lives and understanding the science of energy, positioning itself as a bridge between spiritual wisdom and scientific understanding.
Image via The Cinematheque
