CHAPTER VIII – Knowledge of God Comes from Within

Chapter VIII of “The Planet Mars and Its Inhabitants” presents Mars as an ideal society devoid of crime, where all property is communal and the concept of selfishness is entirely absent. Mars is depicted as a world teeming with life, its surface covered with dwellings, factories, and storehouses, yet it operates without the need for security forces such as watchmen or police. This harmonious existence is attributed to the universal understanding among Martians that all possessions are gifts from the Father and are to be shared among all inhabitants, leaving no room for theft or envy.

The chapter criticizes the Earth’s societal structure, comparing its inhabitants’ selfishness to a regressive, primitive state indicative of a departure from divine grace. This condition is described as atavism, a throwback to a more primordial state, highlighting Earth’s spiritual downfall. The text suggests that the presence of higher spirit beings on Earth aims to awaken humanity to its degraded condition and guide it towards redemption.

Addressing spiritual practices, the chapter outlines how Martians engage in worship without the structures of a church or an ecclesiastical hierarchy. Martians are portrayed as monotheists who develop a personal connection with God from a young age, emphasizing individual spirituality over structured religious systems. The text mentions Jesus Christ as a revered figure, acknowledging his historical and spiritual significance while critiquing Earth’s sectarian churches for hindering individuals’ spiritual growth by fostering dependency rather than encouraging personal spiritual exploration.

This depiction of Mars proposes a society where spirituality and communal living intertwine, contrasting sharply with Earth’s fragmented and materialistic culture. The chapter critiques earthly religions and societal structures, advocating for a more spiritually autonomous and communal way of life as exemplified by Martians.