Hathor and The Seven Holy Cows: Symbols of Fertility and Power

In today's video we're going to learn about the cosmic significance of cows, a little bit about the goddess Hathor and why the universe is basically just a big old cow or possibly seven very large cows.

yup. we're talking about cows.

 

let's do this!

Title -Symbol of Fertility:

In ancient Egyptian culture, cows were revered not only for their usefulness but also for their symbolic meaning. Seen as vital contributors to both society and the natural world, cows were often held in the same high esteem as some of the most respected deities of the pantheon. The cow's role in agriculture was fundamental to the survival and prosperity of Egyptian civilization. These gentle animals provided milk, which was a staple food, and their presence was crucial for plowing fields and ensuring successful harvests year after year. Their consistent contributions to daily life and the overall economy made the cow an emblem of sustenance and life-giving power. Furthermore, cows were seen as the embodiment of maternal qualities. They were caring, nurturing, and essential for the continuation of life, just as a mother cares for her children. This nurturing aspect of the cow was not lost on the ancient Egyptians, who observed these animals raising and protecting their calves with tender affection—a mirror to human behavior.

The importance of this nurturing and life-giving role transformed the cow into a powerful symbol of fertility. In a society where the rise and fall of the Nile and the resultant fertility of the soil were matters of life or death, fertility symbols like the cow were not merely symbolic—they were integral to the Egyptian understanding of the world. Ancient Egyptian art frequently depicted cows within scenes of agricultural abundance, surrounded by lush vegetation, or as part of important religious narratives. Some temples and tombs even included images of cows as part of their decoration, further embedding the idea of the cow as a symbol of fertility and provisioning in the cultural consciousness. In sum, the reverence for the cow in this ancient society was a direct reflection of the animal's vital roles in both the material and spiritual life of the Egyptians. The cow's depiction as a nurturing provider in myths and art was a testament to its enduring legacy as a symbol of fertility and the sustenance of life itself.

Title -Hathor's Association: 

Hathor's presence in ancient Egyptian mythology is as expansive as it is profound. Often depicted as a cow or as a woman with the elegant ears or horns of a cow, Hathor embodied the principles of motherhood, affection, and elation. Her image held such esteem that she was painted on the walls of many temples and tombs across the ancient land, ever-watchful, ever-nurturing. Considered one of the most influential deities of her time, Hathor connected deeply with the Egyptian people. As a divine figure, she oversees realms of music and dance, beauty, and the festivities that often accompany such delights. Yet, beyond the joyous revelries, her protection and guidance were sought by those in the most pivotal stages of life—from birth to death. This connection to the journey of life, this representation as a universal mother, was no coincidence. Hathor's identity was intertwined with the everyday experiences and dreams of the ancient Egyptians. She resonated with the need for love and joy and offered a face and form to these intangible cravings. A mother, to the Egyptians, was not merely a bearer of children; she was a source of rich sustenance and boundless love – a reality Hathor encapsulated as a divine cow.

It is telling that even in those times, the cow was not just an animal to be reared for meat or labor. In Hathor, the cow became sacred, her each attribute revealing another layer of the goddess's vast domain. And in the faces of mothers and the nurturing they provided, the people saw the divine countenance of Hathor, smiling back with cow's ears watching over their nation. In our journey through the annals of history, understanding the importance of deities like Hathor aids our comprehension of the culture that venerated them. She was more than myth, more than an image of worship; she was an essential character in the narrative of an entire civilization's social and spiritual development. Through her, we gain insight into the values that wove the fabric of their society—a society that placed fertility, motherhood, and joy among its highest ideals.

Title -The Seven Cows of Hathor

In the realms of ancient mythology, the number seven often wheels significance, shaping the very fabric of divine narratives. In the lush pantheon of ancient Egyptian deities, the goddess Hathor stands out with her unique connection to the celestial bovine. Myth states that Hathor could manifest herself as seven sacred cows, each a beacon of her expansive domain. Let us shift our gaze now to these seven cows of Hathor, magnificent in stature and paramount in meaning. As deities in their own respects, each cow was a vessel of matronly grace, nourishing the land and its people as Hathor herself would nourish the universe. They were no ordinary creatures; their forms were etched in the heavens, emblazoned among the stars, providing essential elements to life as Egyptians understood it.

The first cow bore the mantle of the sky, its vastness reminiscent of Hathor’s enveloping embrace. A protective canopy over the world, the cow’s skin mirrored the dome of heavens, a sight both comforting and inspiring for those who sought Hathor's blessing. The second through to the seventh cows were believed to be physical embodiments of the seven Hathoric metals, elements deeply rooted in Egyptian craftsmanship and alchemy. Gold, representing the flesh of the gods, was reflected in the second cow, a symbol of incorruptible value and splendor. The third, associated with silver, shimmered with moonlight's soft glow, signifying purity and clarity. Then came the copper cow, its lustrous sheen like the morning sun, vital and vivacious. The fourth cow stood as a testament to the functional beauty within the mundane, for copper was prized both for its beauty and practicality.

The fifth cow carried the essence of lead, signifying protection and endurance. Despite its humble appearance, lead was crucial in safeguarding the Egyptian people from harm, just as Hathor safeguarded her children from the chaos beyond. Iron, strong and unyielding, resonated through the sixth cow. Its presence spoke of power, the strength of will and the fortitude to withstand the trials of life. The seventh and final cow embodied the mysteries of electrum, a glittering amalgam of gold and silver. Rare and treasured, this cow was the custodian of the elusive, the embodiment of wealth and the inaccessible, constantly sought but never fully grasped. Each of these celestial cows fortified a cosmic principle, firm within Hathor's nurturing oversight. Through the daily and seasonal cycles, they served as everlasting reminders of the abundant gifts from the heavens, whether through fertile fields, healthy offspring, or the reassuring regularity of the celestial sphere.

These divine cows were not idle bystanders in the narratives of mankind. They interacted with humanity, granting fortune and favor, weaving a relationship between the divine and the mortal, between the eternal skies and the transient earth. The intertwining of Hathor's bovines in Egypt's spiritual fabric reaches us even across millennia, reminding us of a time when the cosmos itself was seen as a living, nurturing entity, a vast and nourishing sky dotted with divine cows, watched over by the loving eyes of Hathor.

The Emerald Tablet and the Philosophers' Stone: Alchemy's Greatest Secrets

Today we’re going to learn about the Emerald Tablet, a legendary artifact that has captured the imagination of scholars and mystics throughout the ages. We will trace its ancient attribution to the mythical Hermes Trismegistus, decipher its renowned phrase "As above, so below," and unearth the legendary accounts of its discovery. All from the comforts of our chairs or beds or wherever you may be listening to this.

The origins of the Emerald Tablet, also known as the Smaragdine Table, are as mysterious as they are profound. It's believed to have been created between the 6th and 8th centuries AD, yet the exact details of its birth remain elusive. Although we can't pinpoint the Tablet's creation with precision, we attribute this significant piece to Hermes Trismegistus. Hermes was a figure of great importance, revered as a sage, a philosopher, and perhaps most notably, as an alchemist. His name itself is a fusion, uniting the wisdom of the Greek god Hermes and the Egyptian deity Thoth—both considered gods of writing and magic. This merging of Greek and Egyptian understanding is not by chance. The time when the Emerald Tablet was said to be written was an era of synthesis, where the melding of cultural and philosophical ideas between civilizations was common.

Given the secretive nature of alchemical texts, the Tablet's enigmatic reputation adds to its legend. It stands as a testament to the era's search for knowledge that spanned continents and cultures, seeking to distill the very essence of nature itself. The legacy of Hermes Trismegistus and the Emerald Tablet is not merely in their alleged historic existence but in their profound impact on centuries of thought, uncovering layers of symbology and sparking inspiration in those who sought the deeper meanings of existence. While we cannot conversate with the ancients to unveil the complete history, we can certainly appreciate the enduring intrigue surrounding the Emerald Tablet, a work that to this day, remains a symbol of universal wisdom and the quest for transformative knowledge.

The Emerald Tablet isn't just a historical document; it's a profound piece of philosophical work steeped in allegories and symbols. To the untrained eye, the text may appear mysterious, yet for those familiar with Greek and Egyptian traditions, it's a treasure trove of hidden meanings. Let's take a closer look. The Emerald Tablet, much like the parables of ancient times, uses symbolic language to express ideas that go beyond the literal interpretation of words. Picture, if you will, a world where each symbol holds the key to a deeper understanding. A bird in flight might represent the human soul's quest for freedom, while the relentless river can symbolize the passage of time. In a similar vein, the Emerald Tablet speaks a language where every emblem bridges the material world with profound spiritual truths. It draws from the Greek tradition of using analogy and metaphor, employed by philosophers like Plato, who often used allegorical tales to express complex ideas.

Within the clandestine folds of history lies the influential legacy of Hermetic philosophy, itself a cornerstone to the enigmatic Emerald Tablet. Hermeticism, a tradition steeped in wisdom attributed to the sage Hermes Trismegistus, is a confluence of mystical, philosophical, and religious insights that originated in the Greco-Egyptian period. At the heart of Hermetic philosophy is the profound principle of cosmic unity, the belief in an interconnected universe where every part reflects the whole. This holistic perspective is encapsulated in the enduring axiom, "As above, so below," a phrase immortalized in the text of the Emerald Tablet. This maxim suggests that the happenings in the heavens mirror those on earth, and that by understanding one realm, we gain insight into the other. The expression "As above, so below" is not merely a curious saying but a key to unlocking the workings of nature and the cosmos. It implies a symbiotic relationship between the macrocosm and the microcosm, serving as a bridge between the tangible world and the intangible domains of the spirit and mind. In essence, Hermetic teachings propose that a deep understanding of the natural world is congruent with realizing spiritual truths.

Though shrouded in allegory, the Emerald Tablet's allusions to these principles allowed for a vast exploration of reality, unifying domains of existence thought to be separate. Hermeticism posits that humanity holds the potential to harness this cosmic unity, suggesting that through knowledge and spiritual enlightenment, one can achieve a divine state, transcending the material plane. This age-old wisdom espoused by the tablet transcends mere historical curiosity and continues to inspire seekers of esoteric knowledge. The expanse of Hermetic thought reaches far and influences myriad philosophical and spiritual systems, asserting that life is a microcosm of the greater cosmos, an idea that continues to resonate through centuries.

Stepping into the alchemical study, the Emerald Tablet presents us with a most intriguing and arcane concept: the transmutation of base metals into gold, a metaphorical journey akin to the elevation of the human spirit. Its verses encapsulate a profound process, cryptic yet charged with meaning, revealing the steps an alchemist must take to achieve this legendary transformation. This transmutation is far more than mere physical alteration; it conveys a dual importance. It is not only about the altering of substances but also symbolizes the refinement of the soul. As alchemists were known to labor tirelessly in their quest to convert lead into noble gold, so too is the individual encouraged to foster their own inner growth and purification. Alchemy, in the message of the Emerald Tablet, implies a journey of perfecting the imperfect, liberating the pure from the impure – a notion that resonates deeply with the personal quest toward self-improvement and enlightenment. This sacred art, therefore, becomes a conduit for personal transformation, a path laden with spiritual implications as much as chemical experimentations.

This symbolic transformation commences with the prima materia, the prime material, believed to be the most fundamental element from which all things are formed. The text suggests that by understanding and manipulating this prima materia, one can perform the miracle of alchemy. Thus, the Emerald Tablet serves as a guide, albeit enigmatic, instructing seekers in the art of alchemical transmutation, inviting them to explore not just physical reactions in their retorts and alembics, but also the metaphysical reactions within their own souls, towards attaining a state of golden wisdom and purity.

The Emerald Tablet, a jewel of Hermetic wisdom and a cornerstone in the edifice of alchemical lore, has had a profound effect on the evolution of alchemy, from the Islamic golden age to the scholarly halls of medieval and Renaissance Europe. It's fascinating to observe how this cryptic text crossed cultural and geographical boundaries, taking root in the rich soils of the Islamic world. There, scholars like Jabir ibn Hayyan, also known as Geber in the West, poured over its content, drawing inspiration to further their quest to unlock the secrets of nature. The principles contained in the Emerald Tablet catalyzed advancements in chemistry, medicine, and the elusive pursuit of the Philosophers' Stone. The impact did not stop with the Islamic alchemists. As the renaissance of classical learning swept through Europe, the Tablet's influence only grew stronger. In the 12th century, the Latin translation of the Emerald Tablet emerged, further igniting the minds of scholars and mystics across the continent.

Among the luminaries who contemplated its verses was Albertus Magnus, an esteemed figure in medieval alchemy. His extensive work laid the groundwork for those who followed, bridging the gap between ancient wisdom and the emerging scientific approach of his time. Then came Paracelsus—the enfant terrible of alchemy—whose fiery writings and revolutionary thought were partially kindled by the enigmatic words of the Tablet. Rejecting the classical four elements of earth, air, fire, and water, Paracelsus embraced the tria prima—sulphur, mercury, and salt—as the foundational substances of all things, a concept that resonates with the triadic nature of Hermes Trismegistus himself. Together, these towering intellects and many others shaped the course of alchemy. Through their interpretations and experiments, they sought to unravel the celestial riddle "As above, so below," and in doing so, they carried the torch of the Emerald Tablet's wisdom into future generations, forever altering the landscape of esoteric and scientific thought.

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What is Limbo? Exploring Christianity's Borderland

today we’re going to learn about the origins and evolution of the concept of Limbo, its ancient roots, and what its placement on the outskirts of Hell reveals about early beliefs of the afterlife. We’ll touch on the Greek Asphodel Meadows, the Jewish beliefs about Sheol and the contributions of early thinkers like St. Augustine and Thomas Aquinas. We’ll also look at how literature and events like the Reformation influenced views on Limbo, and ultimately, learn how contemporary theology has reshaped our understanding of what Limbo is.

It all begins with the Latin root of the word 'limbus,' meaning 'hem' or 'border.' Limbo has been perceived as existing at the very edge of Hell—a boundary that demarcates the realm of the damned from other, less harrowing fates.  This spatial metaphor reflects much more than a mere linguistic point; it reveals how ancient civilizations approached the enigmatic concept of the afterlife. This was an era where the lines between the world of the living and the dead were blurry, necessitating zones of transition, places that were neither here nor there.

For instance, let’s consider the ancient Greeks with their own version of an in-between state, known as the Asphodel Meadows. Here, those who had lived lives neither exceptionally virtuous nor egregiously wicked were thought to reside. This realm wasn't filled with punishment nor reward but was a place of eternal mediocrity, where souls existed indefinitely. It's curious to note how these distinct ancient cultures converged on the idea of such intermediary states. Each culture's interpretation adds another layer of understanding to our own concept of Limbo.  Turning to the Jewish concept of Sheol, we find yet another correlate. Sheol was envisioned as a somber place where all the dead—righteous or not—would go, a common destination that echoed the neutrality of Limbo. This was still far from the purgatorial or infernal fates that would later define Christian eschatology, but it certainly paved the way for the Christian brothers to develop these ideas.

Before Limbo was cemented into medieval theology, early Christian apocryphal texts, such as the so-called 'Gospel of Nicodemus,' hinted at intermediates. These were regions where the righteous awaited redemption, echoing the principles that would eventually characterize Limbo. It’s in these nascent texts and thoughts we see the seeds of Limbo taking root—waiting to grow into the theological framework shaped by some of Christianity’s most influential thinkers in the Middle Ages.   In understanding Limbo's etymology and early concepts, we grasp more than the origin of a term; we glimpse the evolution of thought about the borderlands of the afterlife—an evolution deeply enmeshed in human's quest to understand what, if anything, awaits us after our mortal journey ends.

Phul: Unveiling the Moon God's Influence on Healing, Emotions, and Change

Did you know that the moon has long been associated with healing, emotions, and change in cultures around the world? 

the Moon is not just a guardian of the night sky, but a powerful symbol that has governed our emotions, guided our intuition, and signaled times of change throughout the ages. Phul, The Lord of the Moon, is an ancient entity that has been said to influence everything from the precious metal silver and the vast bodies of water that cover our Earth, to the practices of healing and medicine that hark back to a time of potions and lunar herbs. SO, that's what we're going to be learning about today.

Since the dawn of civilization, the moon has stood as a silent, yet compelling force in the night sky—a celestial body shrouded in mystery and imbued with significance. In ancient mythology, the Moon God Phul, occupied a hallowed position with substantial sway over the nuanced facets of human experience. Phul, was revered as an omnipotent deity whose reach extended into the realms of healing, emotions, and the inexorable tide of change that sweeps through human life.  Across human culture, the moon was held in high regard, a testament to its universal appeal and the shared human experience under its glow. From the banks of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, where Sumerians lifted their eyes to the silver orb, to the far reaches of Mesoamerican civilizations, where the Maya orchestrated their complex calendar with lunar cycles in mind, the moon’s pull could be felt.

For countless generations, the moon has been regarded as a celestial body with the remarkable ability to influence healing. This luminous orb that hangs in our night sky, casting a soft glow over the Earth, was believed to possess remedies for both the body and the spirit. Across the different cultures, people looked to the moon as a source of comfort in their times of distress.  The healing narratives surrounding the moon are as numerous as the cultures that tell them. For example, in ancient times, it was common practice to bathe in moonlight, seeking respite and rejuvenation. People believed that the subtle, silver light of the full moon had unique, therapeutic properties that could help to restore balance and well-being.  In some cultures, the phases of the moon were essential to determining the right time for gathering herbs. It was thought that certain lunar phases would imbue plants with stronger medicinal qualities. Harvesting by the light of the moon was not just a practical necessity before the advent of artificial light; it was a deeply spiritual process, integral to the efficacy of the remedies prepared from those herbs.

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Phaleg Explained: Insights into the Olympian Spirit of Mars

The name Phaleg carries within it echoes of ancient Greek, hinting at a history interlaced with martial themes and warlike prowess. Stemming from the phrase "Phalangai," which translates to "divisions of armies," the etymology of Phaleg is a nod to organized military might and the stratagems of war.  This linguistic linkage is far from superficial, as the name Phaleg itself is intrinsically connected to one of the most formidable deities of antiquity—Mars, the god of war. Mars, known to the Greeks as Ares, personified the raw energy of warfare, embodying the spirit of battle and conflict. In ancient lore, he was both feared and revered, a complex figure representing the necessary force in the protection and expansion of civilization, yet also the chaos that such conflicts bring.  Phaleg's association with Mars extends beyond the mere symbolism of war. To the ancients, names were not just labels; they were conduits of power, descriptors that captured the essence of the entity they represented. In this sense, Phaleg's name is a verbal embodiment of the spirit of Mars—commanding, martial, and indomitable.

Historically, tracing the origins of such a name is an attempt to unravel the continuities of cultural transmission that have persisted through time. It's a decryption of the ways in which the attributes of figures like Mars have permeated collective consciousness, taking on new shapes and titles, such as Phaleg, in their passage through the annals of time. The Greeks and Romans, societies with a pronounced veneration for the art of war, allowed figures like Mars and Phaleg to ascend into their pantheons and spiritual practices, echoing the significance of military discipline and bravery.  Phaleg's martial embodiment is not merely an artifact of history but serves also as a metaphor for the ongoing human struggles, encountered in individual endeavors. Just as armies of old marched forth under the banner of Phaleg, guided by strategies and a desire to overcome, so too do individuals today tap into that ancient wellspring of courage and vigor when facing their own battles.

Thus, the name and origin of Phaleg serve as a powerful symbol, a lineage of valor extending from the mythic to the mortal, from the celestial arenas where gods clashed with titans, down to the very real human experience of confronting adversity with strength and tenacity.

In history and  myth, Phaleg stands as a formidable force governing the aspects of war and conflict. His name alone conjures images of ancient battlefields and strategic confrontations. Phaleg’s influence is far-reaching, touching on the very essence of warfare, instilling those engaged in battle with the much-needed virtues of courage and fortitude.   At the heart of Phaleg's domain is the intrinsic human condition of struggle and the quest for victory, a theme as old as time itself. In times where might was right, and territories were won through the clashing of swords and shields, Phaleg’s presence was invoked to tip the scales of combat. His role was not just as a bystander of war but as a potentate who infused soldiers with the valor to face their adversaries, the discipline to hold the line, and the wisdom to know when to strike or retreat.