Virgin Birth(Symbolism, Mythology, and Mystery)

The doctrine of Virgin Birth is an extremely ancient and common
motif (theme) found in the numerous mythologies, legends, and
religions throughout our planet.

However, before we begin to explore the doctrine of Virgin Birth, it
is important that we understand the Alchemical, Hermetic, Gnostic,
and Esoteric meaning of the Word Virgin; a designation which
comes down to us from the earliest dawn of antiquity.

Virgin, or Virginity is the pure; the untainted; the unadulterated.
And the only True essence which fits this description of Virginity
is Spirit. Specifically, the Virgin is that Esoteric Spiritual essence
which is untainted or unadulterated by union with matter.

Therefore, Virgin Birth is Creation which occurs in the Spiritual
Realm. It is pre-manifested Thought of the highest degree.

One of  the oldest accounts of Virgin Birth comes to us by way of
the ancient Egyptian Mystery concerning Osiris and his wife-sister
Isis.

After Seth murdered Osiris, and cut his body into fourteen parts
which he scattered throughout creation, Isis scoured the entire
world collecting Osiris' parts in order to reconstruct the body of
her husband.  She was able to locate every part of Osiris' body
except one - his penis.

After she located all of Osiris' severed parts - save one - and
reconstructed his body, she then hovered over the reconstructed
body of her dead husband, became impregnated, and gave birth
to Horus.

This Ancient Egyptian Mystery illustrates to us that this was not
a physical birth. It was a Spiritual Birth; it was an Immaculate
Conception.

This Egyptian Mystery is the same Lesson which comes to us
by way of the Symbolic Trinity (Father, Son, and [Holy]Spirit).
It is also the same Lesson which comes to us by way of
The Three Gunas (Sattwa, Tamas, and Rajas). And, it is the
same Lesson which comes to us from Hermetic texts (Nous,
Chaos, and Logos).

In the Egyptian Mystery Osiris is the Father (the creator), Sattwa,
and Nous. Horus is the Son (the created), Tamas, and Chaos. Isis
is the Spirit (of creation), Rajas, and Logos.

A great deal of Symbolic Wisdom is contained within the Egyptian
Mystery of Isis and Osiris.

The slaying of Osiris is Symbolic of the end of one life, or Cycle,
so that another life, Cycle, or Incarnation can begin. As Osiris is
the Egyptian Neter who personifies re-Incarnation, He represents
the continuing Cycles of re-incarnation we must progress through
until all of our Inner Demons are slain and Spiritual perfection
is accomplished.

The number 14 represents the fourteen segments of the waning
moon, it is therefore Symbolic of the waning portion of a Cycle.

The fact that the penis of Osiris was never recovered by Isis
teaches us that the "birth" created between Isis and Osiris is
a spiritual and abstract creation which comes about by way of
Osiris "dying" in the physical and becoming transformed into a
higher essence so that His Seed can reproduce itself, with the
Spiritual assistance of Isis, on the next higher realm. This is
a continuing Cycle which forever repeats itself until Spiritual
completion is attained.

This continuing Cyclical principle of death, transformation, and
re-birth into a higher realm is the theme which is Remembered,
and honored, through the performance of Initiation Rituals and
Rites of Passage. It is this Spiritual and Esoteric process which
is represented by the Egyptian Symbol of the Ankh.

Isis, the Virgin, is the unseen creative essence which stimulates
creation, and re-creation, in the Spiritual, mental, and abstract
realms. Without the Spiritual stimulation of creative energy
which Isis provides, the ability to create could not exist between
the creator and the created. Therefore Isis Symbolizes the
Spiritual creative principle which is invoked in Initiation Rituals
and magical Ceremonies.

Horus Symbolizes the abstract, Esoteric, and Spiritual Creation
which is the result of Virgin Birth. And because Horus is the
highest essence which is created between Spirit (Isis) and the
higher and higher re-incarnations of Osiris, Horus is the Symbol
and essence of direct ascension. Horus Symbolizes the Path
which is available to, and can be Traveled by, the select few
who Choose to resolve all of their Incarnations in one lifetime.

Comments and Emails: I welcome comments and emails from
people with similar thoughts and feelings. My email address is
located in the upper-left area of this page. Comments can be
posted by using the "Comment" link located below each article.
Also: If you found value in this article please feel free to forward
it to other like-minded individuals, organizations and sites.

Disclaimer: None of my articles should be considered to be
either advice or expertise. They are simply personal opinions
and no more. Everyone is encouraged to seek competent
advice from a licensed, registered, or certified professional
should such advice or service be required.

© copyright Joseph Panek 2011

Flying(Dreams, Mythology, and Symbolism)

"I fly because it releases my mind
from the tyranny of petty things."
- Antoine de Saint-Exupery

"Angels can fly because they carry no burdens."
- Eileen Elias Freeman,
"The Angels' Little Instruction Book"

Most of us have had dreams of flying; of soaring to breathtaking
heights. In addition, the mythologies and legends of numerous
cultures throughout our world speak of winged-serpents, flying
horses, winged-angels, and flying carpets.

Flying is an inbred part of both our consciousness and our
Subconscious...our dreams. And because it is such a deeply
embedded part of our dreams, it means that flying is more than
just a mere curiosity. For, to be a part of our dreams, Flying must
also be an archetypal part of our DNA. This means that Flying
must be an original pattern, concept, myth, or Divine Principle
which has been a part of our collective unconscious since the
earliest ages of our most remote ancestry.

With these Thoughts in mind, let us look into the Symbolism and
mythology of Flying.

Symbolically, and in dreams, Flying represents: freedom, joy,
confidence, and independence.

Esoterically, it represents: the soaring mind, higher consciousness,
elevated perception, total Awareness, Spirituality, and the
All-Seeing Eye. Therefore Flying is a Spiritual reminder of the
Divine Essence, and unlimited potential, which exists within us
and forever accompanies us as our higher-self...our God Within...
our Atman.

As a Symbol for Ascension, Flying is similar to the Ladder.
However, where the Ladder represents indirect Ascension
achieved one-rung-at-a-time by way of many re-incarnations,
Flying represents the rapid, and direct,  Ascension which can
be achieved in one Incarnation.

Flying, as rapid and direct ascent, represents the freedom and
ability to soar at will above the mundane and superficial. It means
that all chains and obligations to the material realm have been
tossed away. All Lessons have been properly Learned and their
Wisdom thoroughly absorbed. We are now free to Fly-Away to
anywhere, and any-when, we Choose; for all bonds to the material
have been completely discarded.

As a note: further Symbolism for direct Ascension versus indirect
Ascension comes to us by way of two Neters from Ancient Egypt.
Osiris (the Ibis) represents the process of indirect Ascension
through many re-incarnations. Horus (the hawk) represents the
process of soaring to direct Ascension, which some are able to
achieve, in only one Incarnation.

An interesting quote regarding direct Ascension comes to us from
the Episode "Meridian" in the Stargate SG-1 series: "When the
mind is enlightened, the spirit is free and the body matters not."

The Winged Horse Symbolizes "the heightening power of natural
forces" ***.

The horse is an ancient Symbol for Travel and journeying. Adding
wings to the horse, therefore, enables it to not only Travel faster
but to also Travel into higher realms. The Winged Horse, therefore,
is a magical and mystical creature which has the spiritual ability
to carry a worthy and well-qualified Initiate away from the world
of gross matter and into the higher, more sublime, and rarefied
realms which are the domain of Spirit and Divinity.

The Winged Horse and the Unicorn are both mystical and
magical horse-like creatures that have the ability to Travel
between realms. But, unlike the Winged Horse, the Unicorn
does not carry anyone.

Winged Angels are Symbolic representations of enlightened
beings who have the ability to Travel between all realms and
act as Spiritual Guides, or Messengers

In addition, Angels are a much later representation of the
Egyptian Neter.

The Winged Serpent Symbolizes the Union of matter with
Spirit which is the inherent make-up of all persons, plants,
animals, and minerals which occupy the realm of duality and
matter. It is a Symbolic reminder that even the lowliest creature
contains the spark of Spirit within it.

The Flying Carpet: How many of us have been enchanted by
the "Tales of the Arabian Nights" wherein the hero, or heroine,
steps onto a Magic Carpet and is instantly transported anywhere
they desire?

Symbolically, a Carpet is a safe, restricted, special, and sacred
space which cushions us from, and separates us from, the earth
or floor beneath us; it also provides comfort and support.

Therefore the Flying Carpet is the Spiritual Support which
insulates us from the mundane and allows us to soar above
the troubles and obstacles which permeate the realm of matter.
In other Words, the Flying Carpet Symbolizes escape from the
mundane, gross, and superficial. It is the Symbolic vehicle that
can be used to Ascend to the higher and more sublime realms of
our most fascinating and spellbinding dreams. It carries us into
the realm of higher Awareness and allows us to perceive great
distances from a higher, and much purer, point-of-view.

In addition, because the Carpet is a flat surface, its Symbolism
is similar to the Truncated Pyramid.

*** From: "A Dictionary of Symbols" by J.E. Cirlot, page 251
in reference to Pegasus.

Comments and Emails: I welcome comments and emails from
people with similar thoughts and feelings. My email address is
located in the upper-left area of this page. Comments can be
posted by using the "Comment" link located below each article.
Also: If you found value in this article please feel free to forward
it to other like-minded individuals, organizations and sites.

Disclaimer: None of my articles should be considered to be
either advice or expertise. They are simply personal opinions
and no more. Everyone is encouraged to seek competent
advice from a licensed, registered, or certified professional
should such advice or service be required.

© copyright Joseph Panek 2011

The Pelican (As A Symbol)

There is an ancient legend regarding the Pelican that, in Times of
drastic need, it will pierce its breast to feed its young with its own
blood. Therefore, this ultimate "out-pouring" of the Pelican for its
loved ones makes it a Symbol for Self-Sacrifice and resurrection.
And because of this, the Pelican often appears in crucifixion
scenes.

The piercing of the breast is a common theme in mythology and
world religions.

Most of us are familiar with the story of Jesus hanging on the
cross wherein someone in the crowd hurls their spear and pierces
Jesus' breast; whereby His blood feeds His faithful followers.

This theme also appears in the legend of Odin (Wodin / Wothan)
who cut open his breast while hanging suspended upon the
World Tree, Yggdrasil.

In Alchemy, the Pelican functions as a Symbol of the selfless
striving for purification.

But what is the meaning of the piercing of the breast? Where does
it come from?  And, why the Pelican?

The Pelican collects fish and stores these fish in its large bill. When
its bill is full, the Pelican returns home to feed its young with these
fish.

In order for the Pelican to empty its bill, it must press its bill
against its breast in order to force out the contents. This makes it
Appear as if the Pelican is stabbing itself in its breast.

And because the Pelican appears to be "stabbing itself in its breast "
when it empties its bill to feed its young it has become a Symbol
of Self-Sacrifice.

When it comes to the term "Sacrifice", it is important to keep in
mind that there are two very different and distinct definitions for
this term. There is common sacrifice, and there is Esoteric Sacrifice.

Common sacrifice is the corrupted and debased definition which is
is "fed" to us by the various factions of society whereby we are told
that we must give willingly, freely, and often to every person and
every organization which makes demands of us. This type of
guilt-ridden Sacrifice is covered in great detail in the article on:
"Guilt, Threats, and Obligations".

Esoteric Sacrifice, on the other hand, is a completely different
Lesson and Instruction. Esoteric Self-Sacrifice is the free and
willing giving of ourselves from within to those who are Truly worthy
and well-qualified. This is the Lesson alluded to in the Symbolism
of the Pelican. For the Pelican's Self-Sacrifice is the Sacrifice
which comes comes from within itself and is "poured out" to those
who have proven themselves to be worthy and well-qualified.

This mystical Truth regarding common sacrifice versus Esoteric
Sacrifice is made very clear to us in the Words of Jesus in His
sermon on the mount, when He said:

"Nor cast your pearls before swine,
lest they trample them under their feet,
and turn and tear you in pieces." (Matt. 7:6)

Comments and Emails: I welcome comments and emails from
people with similar thoughts and feelings. My email address is
located in the upper-left area of this page. Comments can be
posted by using the "Comment" link located below each article.
Also: If you found value in this article please feel free to forward
it to other like-minded individuals, organizations and sites.

Disclaimer: None of my articles should be considered to be
either advice or expertise. They are simply personal opinions
and no more. Everyone is encouraged to seek competent
advice from a licensed, registered, or certified professional
should such advice or service be required.

© copyright Joseph Panek 2011

Arrogance

"One who knows does not speak.
One who speaks does not know"
- Tao Teh Ching, Lesson 56

"Bear in mind that those who are finer and nobler
are always alone - and necessarily so - and that
because of this they can enjoy the purity
of their own atmosphere."
- Albert Einstein

As we Travel through our Current Incarnation we come to recognize,
time and again, that there are two sides to every idea, issue, and
concept.

Furthermore, we also find that a trait which can present itself in a
positive light in one person can present itself in a negative light in
another person.

A trait is a tool. And, just like any other tool, a trait can be used to
either create or destroy. For example: a hammer, by itself is simply
a tool. However, a hammer can be used to either build (positive) or
destroy (negative). Neither of these outcomes make the hammer a
good tool or a bad tool. What makes a hammer Appear to be either
positive or negative is the way it is used.

This same Truth applies to how we Choose to use the traits which
we incorporate into our personality.

With this introduction in mind, let us now take a look at the trait of
Arrogance and how it expresses itself through different people.

All things which exist within the realm of Duality have a dual nature,
or purpose. The same holds true for the trait of Arrogance; it has a
positive aspect and it has a negative aspect.

Arrogance can be described as aloofness, indifference, and the
Appearance of acting superior to others. Neither of these aspects,
by themselves, are either positive or negative.

What does make Arrogance either positive or negative is Intent.
Negative Arrogance forces and imposes itself upon others, while
Positive Arrogance simply distances itself from others.

Negative Arrogance:

Negative Arrogance is the kind of personality, or behavior, that we
have come to associate with the term Arrogance. It is by far the
most common, and it is the type of Arrogance which most of us
are familiar with.

Negative arrogance is nothing more than one huge and pompous
"ego trip" in which a person behaves in a way that attempts to show
to the world that he, or she, is "better" than everyone else. These
are the petty tyrants and aristocratically minded persons who are
forever attempting to dominate and impose their ways upon others
through force, cunning, and deceit.

Those who possess Negative Arrogance generally make such a
pest of themselves that others eventually let them "have their way"
in the hope that they will go away satisfied.  However, these types
of people are never satisfied and are always coming back for more
attention, accolades, and acceptance.

And though these persons eventually do attract an "entourage",
they are the kind of people who, for the most part, are disliked,
distrusted, and avoided by the purer and nobler minds.

Positive Arrogance:

Positive Arrogance is an extremely rare trait. And though the
individuals who possess Positive Arrogance may Appear to be
aloof and indifferent, it is for an entirely different reason.

These individuals possess Insights into, and Awareness of, ideas
and concepts which are a total mystery to others. These are the
rare few who, because they maintain a completely open mind, are
the beneficiaries of insights, imaginings, visions, and creativity
which are ignored by the average person, the mainstream "expert",
and their egotistically arrogant "know-it-all" counterparts.

And because the Visions, Horizons, and Dreams of these individuals
are so wide and far-reaching, they simply have no Time to waste, or
interest to give, to all of the pettiness and fanfare which dominates
society and attracts the masses.

The individuals who possess Positive Arrogance are the Lone Wolfs,
Trailblazers, and the Wizards and Wanderers of their particular
Time in history.

These individuals are often frustrated that they can so easily "see"
and understand the great abstract concepts which are far beyond the
grasp of society and it mainstream "experts". Their Incarnations are
often materialistically unrewarding but always spiritually rewarding.
These Lone Wolfs Choose to distance themselves from humanity
and only mingle with society when it is absolutely necessary. And
it is for this reason that these individuals, who truly are superior,
appear to the world to be aloof, indifferent, and "arrogant".

Closing Thoughts:

Whenever we hear something spoken by a person who appears
to be presenting themself, and their ideas, in an aloof, indifferent,
superior, and "arrogant" manner, we should ask ourselves the
following questions.

Is it an Arrogance that comes from an "ego trip" of someone who
is attempting to dominate us and impose their will upon us? Or...
Is it an Arrogance that comes from Wisdom, earned knowledge,
and unwavering sureness; which are products of independent
examination, experimentation, analysis, and discovery?

If what we are hearing comes from the former, it is Negative
Arrogance and should be looked upon with extreme caution. If,
however, what we are hearing comes from the latter, it is Positive
Arrogance deserves our full consideration.

To know, and to be Aware, are gifts which are bestowed upon
those persons who can handle the singular, solitary existence.
These are the True Individuals who are in pursuit of noble Quests
and who follow the lure of distant Horizons.

The Wiser and more knowledgeable we Become, the less we have
in common with the rest of the world. This brings about frustration
and impatience not only with the common masses, but with our
perceived "peers" as well. These frustrations are what cause the
Truly Superior person to appear aloof, alone, and indifferent.

These frustrations also cause these individuals to distance
themselves from society and incorporate into themselves the
trait of Positive Arrogance.

These Independent Thinkers and Lone Wolfs continue their Seeker's
journey for Truth andWisdom in the purer atmosphere of their own
company. They Become the Hermits, the Wizards and Wanderers,
and the Trailblazers of history, myth, and legend.

These legendary and historical Heroes pursue their lofty Quests
and distant Horizons alone. And eventually they ascend, again
alone, to their well-deserved higher planes of purer existence.

Comments and Emails: I welcome comments and emails from
people with similar thoughts and feelings. My email address is
located in the upper-left area of this page. Comments can be
posted by using the "Comment" link located below each article.
Also: If you found value in this article please feel free to forward
it to other like-minded individuals, organizations and sites.

Disclaimer: None of my articles should be considered to be
either advice or expertise. They are simply personal opinions
and no more. Everyone is encouraged to seek competent
advice from a licensed, registered, or certified professional
should such advice or service be required.

© copyright Joseph Panek 2011

The Egyptian Pyramid - Part 2(Symbolism and Metaphor)

"Where the telescope ends the microscope begins,
and who can say which has the wider vision."
-Victor Hugo

In "The Egyptian Pyramid - Part 1" we examined the Symbolism
and metaphor associated with the Triangular-shape of the Pyramid.
In this article, we will explore additional Esoteric aspects of that
wondrous and mystical structure we call the Pyramid.

In this article we will examine the following:
1. The numerology of the Pyramid;
2. The unfinished (truncated) top;
3. The invisible capstone;
4. The "All-Seeing Eye" (which appears on the U.S. Dollar bill);
5. The invisible descending Pyramid.

Numerology:

The structure of the Pyramid contains the numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5.

The number 1 is represented by the top, or peak, of the Pyramid.
1 is the number of Unity, the Source, and Genesis; it is the
number of the unmanifested aspects of Divinity.

The number 2 is represented by the two points of the axis that
exist at the peak of the Pyramid and its base. In addition to
representing duality the number 2, in this instance, represents
the World Axis, or World Tree. It is by way of this axis, or Tree,
that energy is exchanged between the Spiritual Realm above and
the world of matter below .

The number 3, represented by the Triangular shape of the Pyramid,
is the number of Creation which is explained in Vedic texts by way
of The Three Gunas.

The number 4, which is represented by the four sides of the
Pyramid, is the number which represents both matter and the
The Four Elements of matter: Fire, Earth, Air, and Water.

The number 5, which by looking downward at the Pyramid from
above and seeing the four sides and the mid-point of its peak,
represents the quintessential (fifth-essential) Fifth Element.
When viewed in this manner, the Symbol of the Dot-Within-The-
Square is similar to that of The Dot Within The Circle.

Additionally, the number 5, which was the sacred number of
Pythagoras and his followers, and was Symbolized by them by
way of the pentagram, represents the Fifth Element referred to
as ki, qi, chi, prana, Aether, akasha, the Hebrew yod, and the
akh of Ancient Egypt.

This Fifth Element is the unmanifested and ever-flowing energy of
Divinity which rains down upon, and provides all aspects of Divine
Energy to, all things which exist in the seen, and unseen, realms
of the cosmos.

The Unfinished Top:

The top of the Great Pyramid is flat, unfinished, truncated. We
see this Symbolism represented of the back of the U.S. one-dollar
bill. This unfinished top represents unfinished work.

This Symbolism is a Lesson that teaches us that our inner-work,
while we still occupy the realm of matter and duality, is never
complete until we reach the state of being which enables us to
ascend to the sublime realms of the eternal heavens above.

The Invisible Capstone:

Pyramids are used as Capstones. Capstones represent a finished
work of great importance. We find Capstones mounted at the top
of obelisks. An obelisk is a vertical rectangular structure with a
Pyramid at its top.

Obelisks are erected at the geographical center, mid-point, or heart
of a city, nation, or civilization. The place where an obelisk is
located is the most important and central point, or heart, of a
culture; a central point which must must be defended at all costs.
The Washington Monument is the obelisk which represents the
heart of the United States.

Obelisks contain the numbers 3 and 4. The number 4 being the
four sides of the rectangle forming the obelisk (numerologically,
the square and rectangle are similar) while the number 3 being
the Triangle of the Capstone (Pyramid) at its top.

The obelisk bonds together the spiritual number 3 with the number
4 of matter; forming a union of our spiritual and material selfs both
as individuals and as a civilization.

The Invisible Capstone appears above the unfinished Great Pyramid
on the back of the U.S. one-dollar bill. In this depiction, the
Invisible Capstone Symbolizes the highest point of ascension and
Awareness we can achieve while still occupying the realm of duality
and matter. The next higher point above this invisible Capstone is the
realm of Ascension where re-incarnation is no longer required of our
spiritual self.

The All-Seeing Eye:

The All-Seeing Eye, also called the "Eye of Horus", represents the
Path of Direct Ascension (whereas Osiris represents the Path of
ultimate Ascension through numerous re-Incarnations).

The All-Seeing Eye appears on the back of the U.S. one-dollar bill.
It is located within a Triangle atop of, but not touching, the
unfinished Pyramid.

As the All-Seeing-Eye appears in a Triangle, or Pyramid, this tells
us that it is a Spiritual essence. Also, because the Pyramid which
houses it is above, and not touching, the unfinished Pyramid below,
it reminds us that the All-Seeing Eye, while still being associated
with the world of duality and matter, is no longer a part of that realm.

This location of the All-Seeing-Eye represents the point where the
world of matter comes into contact with the realm of the abstract
and unknown.

The All-Seeing Eye, being atop the highest point of the Pyramid,
Symbolizes the Vision which "sees" clearly in not only all directions
but below and above as well.

However, "seeing" does not merely mean "looking at". This kind of
seeing means total and full Awareness: the ability to both observe
and understand what is occurring in all directions, on all levels, and
in all realms.

At this point, the mortal intellect Becomes prepared to ascend into
the realm of Spiritual Awareness...alone! The mind and Spirit
transcend. Knowledge gives way to Wisdom. Seeing Becomes
total Spiritual Awareness.

At this level we are no longer entrapped within the physical realm
and are about to ascend into the upper, inverted, and invisible
Triangle above, which is the domain of Divinity and higher spiritual
beings.

The Invisible Descending Pyramid:

Picture this: an hour-glass with its bottom-half visible and its top-
half invisible. The middle of the hour-glass, where its two points
meet, is where all the action takes place. This mid-point where the
sand from the invisible upper realm descends into the visible lower
realm; this Symbolizes the point of manifestation, Incarnation, and
re-Incarnation.

When all of the sand finally flows into the lower realm, and the job
of the hour-glass (Time) is complete, we then turn the hour-glass
over and return the sand back into the invisible realm from whence
it originally came; this Symbolizes Ascension and Transcendence.

This is the Symbolism associated with the invisible and descending
upper Pyramid mounted atop the visible and ascending lower
Pyramid.

Creation occurs in two directions: downward and upward. The top,
invisible, and downward pointing Triangle (Pyramid) represents the
realm of Divinity and Unity as It creates, and manifests, downward
into the realm of matter. The bottom, visible, and upward pointing
Triangle (Pyramid)  represents the realm of matter where we work
on freeing ourselves of our material and physical burdens and
perform the inner-work necessary to Ascend ourselves back into
the Spiritual Realm from whence we originally came.

These two Pyramids also represent the visible World Tree and its
invisible, Spiritual counterpart. The invisible Spiritual Tree has its
roots in the heavens and its branches in the realm of matter.
The visible World Tree has its roots in the realm of matter and
its branches in the heavens above. This Symbolizes the ability
of all energies, essences, and beings to both ascend into the
upper realms and descend into the lower realms in a continuous
on-going process of creation and Ascension.

One final note: if we take the upper Triangle and superimpose it
within the lower Triangle we have the Symbol for the "Star of David"
which represents the bonding of spirit within matter, the masculine
with the feminine, the yin and yang, and the Union of Duality.

(See Also: "The Egyptian Pyramid - Part 1")

Comments and Emails: I welcome comments and emails from
people with similar thoughts and feelings. My email address is
located in the upper-left area of this page. Comments can be
posted by using the "Comment" link located below each article.
Also: If you found value in this article please feel free to forward
it to other like-minded individuals, organizations and sites.

Disclaimer: None of my articles should be considered to be
either advice or expertise. They are simply personal opinions
and no more. Everyone is encouraged to seek competent
advice from a licensed, registered, or certified professional
should such advice or service be required.

© copyright Joseph Panek 2011

The Egyptian Pyramid - Part 1(Symbolism and Metaphor)

"The most beautiful thing we can experience
is the mysterious."
- Albert Einstein

Pyramids! We find these mysterious, immense, and fascinating
structures throughout the world. We gaze at them in wonder and
ask ourselves: who built them? how were they built? what were
they used for? and, when were they built?

We may never know the True answers to all, or any, of these
perplexing questions; and this is what mystifies us. However, by
delving into the Symbolism of the Pyramid we can begin to un-Veil
some of the Esoteric and Ancient meanings contained within that
mysterious and sacred structure we call the Pyramid.

The word "pyramid" is a Greek word. And because it is a Greek
word, which is a much later language than Ancient Egyptian, this
tells us that this was not the original name that these structures
were called in antiquity. For the Greeks came to Egypt at a far
later Time after the Pyramids were built.

However, as words change from one language to another, at least
a portion of their original essence tends to remain as language
is passed down through Time, different civilizations, and various
languages.

When we look at the etymology of the word "pyramid" we notice
that the root of this word is pyre. Pyre means Fire. And Fire can be
further translated Symbolically, Alchemically, and Mythologically
as: enlightenment, illumination, primal energy, the Creative Seed,
and Divine Principle.

When we trace the original Name for Pyramid back to Ancient
Egyptian hieroglyphs, we come upon the glyph Per-Neter, or Per-
Neteru, which translates as "House of Divine Principles". And
Divine Principles are the primal essences, the original Creative
Seeds, and Natural Laws which exist throughout the cosmos and
give energy, purpose, and expression to all things.
(See: "The Egyptian Neter")

The Pyramid also represents, Symbolically, the primordial mound
which appears in numerous creation myths throughout the world.
The primordial mound is the first matter that rose out of the depths
of the sea of Chaos (the Great Subconscious) to create the material
realm. This primordial mound, upon rising from the primal Waters,
separated these Waters below from the sky above.

When we view the Great Pyramids of Egypt from one of their sides
we notice that they are massive upward-pointing Triangles. An
upward-pointing, or ascending, Triangle has one point at its top
and two points stretched out equally at its wide base below. We
also notice that the Pyramid has four sides, is stepped, and is built
upon solid bedrock.

With all of these points in mind, let us now delve into the Symbolic,
and metaphorical, Lessons contained within the Pyramid.

Ascending Triangle: As an ascending Triangle, the Pyramid is
one of the basic and revered shapes contained within Sacred
Geometry. A Triangle has three sides. And, Esoterically, the
number Three is the number of creation (See: "The Three Gunas")

In Alchemy, the upward pointing, or ascending, Triangle is the
Symbol for the Element of Fire; which, again, represents
enlightenment, illumination, force, energy, and the Creative Seed.

Solid Bedrock: The Great Pyramid is built on solid bedrock; not
shifting sand. This teaches us that, just as the Pyramid requires
a solid and stable foundation to support itself, we too require a
solid and stable foundation beneath our character if we are to be
firm and unwavering in our Thoughts and Actions. For we cannot
ascend to great heights if our character is not set on solid principles
(bedrock). Those of us who build our character on shifting sand
always find ourselves shaky, unstable, and ready to collapse
under the most minimal stresses which daily life, and Time,
bring upon us.

Wide Base: The Pyramid is widest at its base. And "base", in this
instance is a very appropriate Word. This large and wide base is
Symbolic of where a very large part of humanity spends most if its
Incarnation. The base is Symbolic of where the masses congregate,
struggle, fight, argue, and mingle. And although everyone "wants"
to get themselves out of this lower segment of society, or what is
often referred to as the "rat race", very few accomplish this feat.
Most people find that they are simply incapable while others just
can't quite figure out how to "get over the hump" that leads to the
higher levels.

Four Sides: Each side of the Pyramid faces only in one direction.
Symbolically, this means that those people occupying one side
of the Pyramid have only a limited, and one-sided, view of Events.
Furthermore, the view of those occupying the bottom (the base)
is more restricted than is the view of those who have ascended to
higher levels.

And, as the "view" of those persons who occupy one side of the
Pyramid is limited to only one direction, these persons are
incapable of "seeing" all that is occurring throughout all "four
corners" of creation.

This restricts the ability of these persons to make sound and
rational decisions for they are restricted from viewing what is
happening all around them. Therefore the one-side Symbolizes
limited Awareness, short-sidedness, and a narrow point of view.

Stepped: The Pyramid is "stepped". The steps of the Pyramid are
therefore similar to the steps of the Ladder; which is another
Symbol for Ascension. These steps teach us that knowledge,
Wisdom, and Ascension must be earned one-step-at-a-time. These
steps also represent "resting stops" where we may find ourselves
lingering occasionally while we acquire the necessary skills to
Ascend to the next higher level. But, by their very nature, the steps
of the Pyramid provide every individual who is willing to accept the
Quest the solid footing necessary to transcend the world of
pettiness, superficiality, and the mundane.

Those of us who work  diligently on the mental and spiritual aspects
of our Divine Nature ultimately acquire the skills, knowledge,
Awareness, and Wisdom necessary to scale the higher, narrower,
and more sublime levels of the Pyramid.

As we Symbolically ascend the levels of the Pyramid we are better
able to see the other directions which were previously hidden from
our view. Things also Become considerably more peaceful and less
crowded.  The air at these higher levels is purer. The individuals,
beings, and essences we come into contact with at these
Ascending levels are more sublime. And, as an added bonus,
the view from the top of the Pyramid is unlimited, unique and
awe-inspiring.

In "The Egyptian Pyramid - Part 2" we will explore:
1. The numerology of the Pyramid;
2. The unfinished (truncated) top;
3. The invisible capstone;
4. The "All-Seeing Eye" (which appears on the U.S. Dollar bill);
5. The invisible descending Pyramid.

Comments and Emails: I welcome comments and emails from
people with similar thoughts and feelings. My email address is
located in the upper-left area of this page. Comments can be
posted by using the "Comment" link located below each article.
Also: If you found value in this article please feel free to forward
it to other like-minded individuals, organizations and sites.

Disclaimer: None of my articles should be considered to be
either advice or expertise. They are simply personal opinions
and no more. Everyone is encouraged to seek competent
advice from a licensed, registered, or certified professional
should such advice or service be required.

© copyright Joseph Panek 2011

Guilt, Threats, and Obligations

"A person cannot be free who submits themself
to the shackles of others."
- Joseph Panek

Here are two questions which deserve our deepest and most
sincere consideration

First Question: How many things have we done in our lives, and
are possibly still doing, that we really do not want to do?

Second Question: How many things have we NOT done, and have
not experienced, in our lives that we deeply regret not having done
and experienced?

For many of us the list of answers to these two questions is
probably very painful and quite long.

Whenever we do something that we do not want to do, or not do
something that we desire to do, we are behaving in a way that is
not in Harmony with our Divine Nature.

When we behave in any way that is not in Harmony with our Divine
Nature we automatically bring people, places, things, moods, and
energies into our lives that weigh heavily upon our peace-of-mind,
drag us from our personal Path, prevent us from experiencing our
personal Destiny, and cause us to relinquish our individual
Sovereignty and Free Will.

In short, whenever we do things we do not want to do, or do not
do the things we truly want to do, we are bringing negative energy
into our lives.

At first, these Actions simply subdue us. However, over the long
term, these behaviors become our entrapments. And these
entrapments eventually end up destroying the Divine Gifts we
were bestowed with when we entered our Current Incarnation:
individual Sovereignty, childlike curiosity, intoxicating enthusiasm,
wondrous enchantment, and limitless imagination.

When we consider all of these things, we are naturally drawn to
a Third Question:

Why is it that we tend to blindly do the things we do not want to
do, yet at the same time staunchly avoid doing those things we
deeply and truly desire to do?

To answer this question we need to evaluate the following three
culprits: Guilt, Threats, and Obligations.

Guilt, Threats, and Obligations are the three poison pills that society
feeds to the Conformist, the Ignorant, and the unsuspecting. These
mind-altering poison pills change us from actually being happy to
simply acting happy. They alter our minds to cheerfully embrace
the many insurmountable responsibilities, and externally-imposed
expectations, that choke off our spontaneity, enthusiasm, dreams,
imagination, and joy for life.

And although the natures of Guilt, Threats, and Obligations can
overlap and become indistinguishable from each other in many
instances, and even lead to the same Consequences, let us try
to examine each one of these powerful tricksters separately.

Guilt: The use of Guilt can be subtle, deceptive, and deadly. It is
the eternally favorite poison pill of all self-serving persons, factions,
and organizations whose sole purpose is to impose themselves
upon, and thereby dominate, others.

Through the wielding of Guilt we are bludgeoned into actually
Believing that everyone else but us deserves, needs, and requires
something; that it is our "personal responsibility" to simply give, or
Sacrifice, for the sake of some "poor and unfortunate" other.

We see Guilt imposed upon us daily by political factions, religious
groups, and the uncountable number of self-interested "charitable"
organizations who unrelentingly feed us large morsels of Guilt in
order to sustain, finance, and promote their self-serving interests.

In addition, Guilt is also imposed upon us by self-serving persons
who continually attempt to intimidate us with comments such as:
"You only think of yourself."
"You're just selfish. Why do you refuse to share your (fill in the
blanks) with others?"
"I promised everyone you would be there." (Really! who are you to
speak for me?)
"If you move away from home, you will be stabbing me in the heart
with a dagger." (How many of us have squandered years of our
lives because of this Guilt-trip?)

Threats: We may think of Threats as only being physical and
violent in nature. However the most subtle and powerful Threats are
the ones we succumb to under the guise of jealousy, envy, and
ultimatums. Some examples are:
"If you won't do this for me, I'll find someone else who will."
"You must act immediately. Otherwise someone else will snatch
this opportunity."
And, perhaps the most famous: "Limited time offer."

Obligations: Obligations, impositions, and the expectations of
others all fall into this one category. These are the Paths we allow
ourselves to be coerced into following which are not in Harmony
with our True Self (our Divine Nature). Again, some examples:
"You come from a family of lawyers. You owe it to your family to
go to law school." (But I want to be an artist!)
"Its time for you to grow up; get married, have a family, buy a house
(go into debt), and give me grandchildren."
And the ever-eternal: "Everybody else is doing it."

Sovereign, Free, and Expansive minds do not allow Guilt, Threats,
or externally-imposed Obligations violate their Incarnations.

These Lone Wolfs and Non-Conformists understand that Guilt,
Threats, and Obligations are Self-Limiting and make people very
old at a very young age.They also realize that by bringing these
foreign, negative, and dis-Harmonious energies into our lives we
Become saturated with mountains of responsibilities, expectations,
and impositions which society is all-too-happy to heap upon the
unwary and unsuspecting. Mountains which must be either slowly
chiseled away or submitted to with a broken spirit.

Whenever a person or faction assaults us with Guilt or Threats,
or when they attempt to force upon us their Deceptive and self-
serving demand that it is "our personal obligation" to do what
they insist of us, let us be quick to recognize these poison pills
for that they truly are: externally-imposed entrapments designed
to strip us of our individual Sovereignty and enslave us to the
self-serving and fickle whims of those whose sole intention is to
dominate us.

Once we realize that Guilt, Threats, and Obligations are simply the
ogres, trolls, Demons, and dark forces which occasionally disturb
our Journey, we can then either bypass them or slay them and
continue our Sovereign trek down that unique Path which leads us
to our  Personal Destiny.

So the next time someone attempts to hand us the poison pills of
either Guilt, Threats, or externally-imposed Obligations let us keep
one fact in mind. In the long "waiting line" of humanity there is
always someone willing to relinquish their Sovereignty,and
embrace Self-Imposed Limitations for the "privilege" of allowing
Guilt, Threats, and Obligations to become a part of their life.
There is no reason why that someone should be us.

Peace, Contentment, and Freedom are achieved by us when we
are in Harmony with our Divine Nature. And one of the simplest
ways we can accomplish this is by doing only those things we
truly want to do and by avoiding doing all those things we really
do not want to do.

Comments and Emails: I welcome comments and emails from
people with similar thoughts and feelings. My email address is
located in the upper-left area of this page. Comments can be
posted by using the "Comment" link located below each article.
Also: If you found value in this article please feel free to forward
it to other like-minded individuals, organizations and sites.

Disclaimer: None of my articles should be considered to be
either advice or expertise. They are simply personal opinions
and no more. Everyone is encouraged to seek competent
advice from a licensed, registered, or certified professional
should such advice or service be required.

© copyright Joseph Panek 2011

Human Behavior Patterns(The Laws of Probability)

"To understand is to perceive patterns."
-Isaiah Berlin

There is a Time to analyze and there is a Time to recognize. And
though these two processes may sound the same, they are
entirely different.

To recognize something is to accept that something for what it, in
fact, is. This is the mastery of Truth.

To analyze something is to microscopically question that something
to extremes. This simply amuses our ego and gives us "something
to talk about".

When it comes to Human Patterns, or Human Behavior, our
addiction for analysis often results in an abandonment of common
sense. Analyzing Human Behavior, instead of accepting it for what
it is, often blurs our senses to the obvious and unquestionable
facts which are staring us in the face.

Isn't it interesting how we, as human beings, Choose to Perceive
Patterns? On one hand, we Choose to recognize some Patterns for
what they Truly are. While on the other hand we Choose to analyze
other Patterns until we become confused and dizzy.

For example: we know that the sun rises in the east; we know that
if we let something slip from our hands it will fall to the ground; and
we know that if we plant a petunia Seed it will grow into a petunia
flower and not an oak Tree. We understand, and accept these
natural Patterns as Truths and facts and we hardly, if ever, ask
"Why?".

However, when it comes to Human Patterns (Human Behavior) we
take an entirely different stance or attitude; we automatically look
for, and attempt to dissect, the "Why?" of the situation and casually
Ignore the fact of the situation.

Why is this so? Why do we accept nature's Patterns for what they
are yet refuse to accept Human Behavior Patterns for what they are
...a Pattern?

Since our earliest childhood society, and all of its factions, groups,
and organizations, has Instructed us to recognize things for what
they are.

Yet this same society has, on the other hand, Indoctrinated us to
give people the "benefit of doubt", at the expense of Truth, when
it comes to their Behavior Patterns.

We have been trained, mostly through Guilt, to Forgive and forget
when we should be taught to be Aware and understand. For
Awareness and understanding are our most reliable allies.

A person's past is a testimonial to their future. If a person is a liar
or a thief, this is what they are. There is no "sugar coating" of these
facts. Yet, how many of us blindly give these individuals the "benefit
of a doubt" only to rue our Decision and cry out "Why?".

We then get together with our like-minded groups and exhaust
ourselves attempting to analyze why this person lied to us, or
why this person has stolen from us. Yet no matter how deeply
we analyze an individual's Behavior Pattern we can never come
to the real answer of "Why" that person did what they did. For
each person's subjective motives are as different and varied as
there are people on this planet.

Therefore, those of us who analyze behavior instead of recognizing
Patterns, and those of us who give the "benefit of doubt" instead of
accepting obvious Truths, suffer repeatedly for our blind Ignorance.

And for those of us who continually embrace illusion at the expense
of Truth we regretfully, and constantly, find ourselves wailing out
"poor me".

Before we allow some person or entity access into our lives, or
into the lives of our family, it is critical that we see these persons
or entities for what they Truly are, and not for what we "think they
should be".

Behavior Patterns of people, whether as individuals or as groups,
remains very constant. It is our Sovereign responsibility to be
Aware of an individual's obvious Behavior Pattern, which represents
a high probability of how that person will behave, and not simply
give someone a capricious "benefit of a doubt", which is a low
probability of how that person will behave.

To do otherwise is to toss aside the Laws of Probability which
govern the behavior of all Patterns, Cycles, persons, and things
which occupy the physical realm.

To Ignore Human Behavior Patterns, along with the Laws of
Probability associated with these Patterns, is to subject ourselves
to a lifetime of continual victimization. And if we Honestly look at
the personal tragedies of our Past, we are likely to discover that
they are the result of the people we allow into our lives and the
obvious Behavior Patterns we Choose to Ignore.

For, in the end, whether we Choose to accept this fact or not,
a Pattern is a Pattern is a Pattern.

Comments and Emails: I welcome comments and emails from
people with similar thoughts and feelings. My email address is
located in the upper-left area of this page. Comments can be
posted by using the "Comment" link located below each article.
Also: If you found value in this article please feel free to forward
it to other like-minded individuals, organizations and sites.

Disclaimer: None of my articles should be considered to be
either advice or expertise. They are simply personal opinions
and no more. Everyone is encouraged to seek competent
advice from a licensed, registered, or certified professional
should such advice or service be required.

© copyright Joseph Panek 2011

Interconnectedness - The Karmic Web(Symbolism and Metaphor)

"Always in motion is the future."
-Yoda, Jedi Master, "Star Wars"

Ancient texts from India tell us of Indra's Web. It is a string of
Interconnected Pearls which vibrates at all points when it is
touched at any point.

From Mythologies and tales from other parts of the world we
encounter the Spider's Web which, like Indra's Web, vibrates
at all points when someone, or something, touches it.

What these Symbols are teaching us is this: Our Actions vibrate,
and continue to reverberate, throughout all of creation the moment
we commit an Act.  This reminds us that we must be very careful
of the Actions we put into motion; for they can bring Consequences
that not only affect our future, but also the future of others who may
be in the vibrational path of our Actions.

In addition, just as our Actions can have Unexpected Consequences
on others, the Actions of others can have Unexpected Consequences
upon us. Everything is Interconnected; everything is inter-twined;
every Action has its vibratory, and Karmic, Consequence.

A good way to picture the vibrations, and Interconnectedness, of
Actions is by way of the "Pebble Cast Into The Pond".

Imagine tossing a Pebble into a pond. The Pebble is basically
motionless from where it is tossed into the pond. It simply sinks
to the bottom and comes to a rest. However, the Pebble,
although appearing to be relatively insignificant, can have far-
reaching Consequences. In this seemingly insignificant way, the
Symbolism of the Pebble is similar to the Symbolism of the
Feather.

The ripples, the Consequences, caused by this seemingly
insignificant Pebble continue outward to form an expanding
Circle that ultimately affects the farther reaches of the pond.

Now, imagine this: At the same Time that we are casting our
Pebble into the pond, another person casts another Pebble into
the pond in the vicinity of where we cast ours. Now the expanding,
Circles created by the two Pebbles are going to create an
unexpected effect upon each other. Plus they will now both have
expanding Consequences upon the pond. This represents the
independent, and most likely innocent, Actions of only two
Pebbles.

Now, consider multiple people casting multiple Pebbles into the
same pond. These multiple Pebbles create multiple vibratory and
expanding Circles which have multiple and incalculable
Consequences upon each other. The pond never stops rippling.

And just as the pond never stops rippling from the many pebbles
(disturbances) cast into it, neither does either the Spider's Web, or
Indra's Web, stop vibrating from all of the Actions and disturbances
tossed upon them by the multitude of humanity. A humanity that is
vibrating these Webs every moment of every day.

And to carry this Symbolism and metaphor even one step further,
today's Consequences are not only affected by the Actions of
others, but also by the Actions of those who lived in the Past.

And consequently, the Actions (vibrations) created by people
today can very likely create Unexpected Consequences upon
those who live in the future.

Indra's Web, the Spider's Web, and the Pebble In The Pond,
Symbolize the Web of Life.

Every one of our Actions has a vibration, a ripple effect, that not
only affects today, but eternity as well. The moment we perform
an Action it is recorded in the Akashic Hall of Records with our
name next to it. And as our Actions affect not only today, but
vibrate well into the future, they can have a profound affect on
Times and Events not yet manifested.

With so many individuals currently vibrating so many parts of
the Web of Life, along with such a vast amount of unresolved
vibrations from the Past, it is easy to understand why we are
engulfed and overwhelmed with Consequences both expected
and unexpected.

With these Thoughts in mind, it is vitally important that we weigh
the potential Consequences of our Actions before we "toss our
Pebble into the Pond".

Comments and Emails: I welcome comments and emails from
people with similar thoughts and feelings. My email address is
located in the upper-left area of this page. Comments can be
posted by using the "Comment" link located below each article.
Also: If you found value in this article please feel free to forward
it to other like-minded individuals, organizations and sites.

Disclaimer: None of my articles should be considered to be
either advice or expertise. They are simply personal opinions
and no more. Everyone is encouraged to seek competent
advice from a licensed, registered, or certified professional
should such advice or service be required.

© copyright Joseph Panek 2011

The Goat, The Goat's Horn, and The Bezoar (Symbolism and Mythology)

The Goat, along with the Goat's Horn, provides us with an
abundance of Symbolism and Mythology. The Goat is also a
Metaphor which expresses itself in our daily lives.

The Goat is a sure-footed animal that is as much at home on
mountain slopes and mountain tops as it is on flat ground. In this
aspect, the Goat is a Symbol of agility. And, in its ability to
scale a mountain, it is a Symbol of determination.

The male Goat, because of its reproductive prowess, is a Symbol
of virility, vitality, potency, and stamina.  It therefore represents
the energy of the creative and regenerative Seed: traits which are
expressed in the Mythology and Symbolism of the Greek Goat
God Pan. Pan is the forest Deity that is the creative and
regenerative spirit for all the plant and animal life which inhabit
His domain.

The famale Goat is a Symbol of nurturing and nourishment.

The she-Goat Amalthea is the nurturing Goddess who was the
wet-nurse, or nursemaid, of the Greek God Zeus. From the she-
Goat we also get the Word, Nanny: a term we use today for the
person we charge and entrust with caring for our infants and
young children in our absence.

The milk of the female Goat is a sustenance fed to infants. Its
high quality and nourishment is a Compatible substitute for
mother's milk and for formulas which may not be agreeable to
infants.

The Horn of the Goat, both male and female, is both Symbolic
and practical.

It is the Horn of the she-Goat Amalthea, the wet-nurse of Zeus,
which is the Symbolic Cornucopia: the Horn of Plenty, the Horn
of perpetual abundance.

The Horn was also used as a drinking vessel in antiquity and is a
dual Symbol in that it is both masculine and feminine.

When pointed upwards, the Horn is the masculine, penetrating,
and assertive, phallic Symbol. When pointed downwards, it is the
feminine, receptive cup or chalice (womb).

This dual Symbolism, therefore, is representative of the yin/yang
energy. And the the combination of both the upturned Horn along
with the downturned Horn carries the same sacred Symbolism
and Esoteric meaning as the six-pointed "Star of David".

Those of us who are Harry Potter fans are familiar with the Bezoar.
A Bezoar is a stone which grows in the stomach of animals.
Bezoars removed from a Goat were considered the most potent
and were ground up and used as elixirs and antidotes for poisoning.

Bezoars were sought because they were believed to have the
power of a universal antidote against any poison. It was believed
that a drinking glass which contained a Bezoar would neutralize
any poison poured into it. The word "bezoar" comes from the
Persian pâdzahr (پادزهر), which literally means "protection from
poison." (from: Wikipedia.com)
 
As we can see, the Goat is not only a Symbolic and Mythological
creature, it is also an animal which provides practical and nutritional
benefits to mankind. And it is easy to understand why this animal
was so honored and cherished by ancient cultures throughout the
world.

Comments and Emails: I welcome comments and emails from
people with similar thoughts and feelings. My email address is
located in the upper-left area of this page. Comments can be
posted by using the "Comment" link located below each article.
Also: If you found value in this article please feel free to forward
it to other like-minded individuals, organizations and sites.

Disclaimer: None of my articles should be considered to be
either advice or expertise. They are simply personal opinions
and no more. Everyone is encouraged to seek competent
advice from a licensed, registered, or certified professional
should such advice or service be required.

© copyright Joseph Panek 2011