The Drum (Symbol and Metaphor)

"Time is the great devourer.
Beyond time, there is nothing to devour."
- Joseph Panek

The Drumbeat marks Time in the realm of matter. Time cannot exist
without matter, for all matter has a limited Time-span. On the other
hand, matter cannot exist without Time; for without Time matter
cannot experience the Cycle of manifestation, expansion, and
decay.

In our physical realm we use the beat of the Drum to dictate the
tempo of music. It is also used to set the cadence for marching
bands, oarsmen, and armies. It also represents the beating of
the heart and pulse in all living creatures.

In its most sublime essence, the Drumbeat Symbolizes the
heartbeat of the universe. In its most gross essence it represents
war and doom in which it is the rhythmic reminder that "the Time
has come..."

The Drumbeat is of such a low frequency that it vibrates not only
the air but also the ground and can be felt by mankind and
animals alike. Even those who cannot hear can still feel the beat
of the drum and use it to communicate.

The beating of the Drum brings the primordial rhythm of life to a
Ceremony. The dances, chants, and rituals of all indigenous
cultures employ the beating of the Drum to mark the beginning,
rhythm, and end of their traditional rites. Shamans use the beat
of the Drum to induce a state of ecstasy and to invoke spirits.

The terms "march to the beat of a different drummer" and "march
to the beat of our own Drum" are metaphors for taking
responsibility for, and marching to the rhythm of, our own Destiny.
These metaphors are the slogans of the Sovereign individual, the
Lone Wolf, and the Non-Conformist.

Shiva, the Indian deity, holds the Drum in his extended right hand.
The right hand is the hand used to bestow (see: "Hand and Cloud").
This Symbolism reminds us that Creation (manifestation) begins
with the first beat of the Drum and ends with the last beat; and
that Creative Destruction is a natural, ongoing process of the
material realm.

The Esoteric and Sacred Lesson conferred upon us by Shiva's
Drum is thus: All material things march to the beat of Time; they
have a beginning, a finite Time-span, and an end. When we
concentrate on Time (duality and matter) we shut out eternity
(unity). However, when we focus our concentration on eternity,
Time and matter become insignificant.

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

Debates and Debating

"Debates are the extreme polarization of a
central issue, and the eternal nemesis of Truth."
-Joseph Panek

As we work our way through our school years we are introduced
to a concept which is "theoretically" designed to assist us with our
Decisions and Actions.  And because this concept is a part of
our formal education, we accept it to be sound, reasonable, and
efficient.  However, this concept is, in reality, an exercise in futility
which hampers, stagnates, and Confuses us. This concept is the
"art" of Debating.

A debate is a structured visible and verbal competition in which
two individuals, or factions, present two polarizing sides of a
central issue.

Furthermore, debates are "scored" based upon how these
opposing sides "present" their argument and NOT on whether
they arrived at the Truth of the issue.

And because it is a visual and verbal competition, the judges and
audience are all-too-often deceptively swayed by the poise,
appearance, and "charisma" of the debaters.  These deceptions
encourage the viewers of the debate to willingly and gladly toss
aside the central Truth of the issue being debated and Believe the
debater who appears to be the most attractive and seductive.

When we consider these issues we find that the purpose of a
debate competition is NOT to get to the heart (the Truth) of the
issue being debated. The sole purpose of a staged debate is to
win the debate by whatever means necessary.

So, the question is: what is the primary purpose for staging a
debate in today's society?

As staged debates, in today's society, are either won or lost
based upon the perceived appearance of the debaters, it is safe
to conclude that debates are structured so as to discredit, cloud,
and Confuse the central issue (the Truth) of the topic being
debated.

And as the debaters are not concerned with getting to the Truth
of the issue being debated, their debate competition is naturally
divisive. It inflames and polarizes the spectators of the debate.

Many high schools and colleges have debating clubs. Students
in these clubs are taught to argue two sides of a simple issue.
Each side introduces various aspects to the original issue until
the issue is completely buried under a mass of confounding
arguments which simply serve to encourage divisiveness and
hide the Truth.

We see this drama played out unendingly in our court system,
politics, "news" media, group discussions, and in the conflicting
opinions of "experts" who are paraded before us on a daily
basis.

We are taught that debating is a skill. Unfortunately, in today's
society, it is a skill that is designed to cloud, or Veil, an issue.
Debating incorporates confusion into the main issue. It keeps
throwing conflicting issues onto the Truth and buries the Truth
beneath layers of clutter. This takes us in the exact opposite
direction which we should be Traveling: the direction of Truth,
clarity, and Wisdom.

By assigning one party to debate the opposite side of a simple
issue (the Truth), we are teaching our students and children to
attack the Truth, to take the opposite side of the Truth, to cloud
the Truth, and to become a "devil's advocate" for the sole purpose
of "winning" an argument. When, if fact, we should be encouraging
our children, our students, and ourselves to focus on, and Seek
out, the Truth.

Truth is the only issue which should concern us...not gossip,
"mud-slinging", hearsay, unfounded Opinions, unproven theories,
factless accusations, or discrediting someone else solely for the
purpose of getting enough "points" to "win" a debate.

Nor should we allow our children, our students, and ourselves to
be deceived by which debater has the best hair style, most
fashionable clothing outfit, and the smoothest voice.

For perceptions are very often deceiving. And Truth is rarely, if
ever, delivered to us by a "silver-tongued devil".

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

Stress (Self-Created vs. Externally-Imposed)

There is a classic psychology study, regarding Stress, involving
two monkeys, a bell, and an electric shock. It goes something
like this:

Monkey "A" was given an electric shock every other time the
bell rang. This monkey was able to adapt to the specific Cycle
of shock vs. no-shock and suffered minimal, if any Stress. No 
harm came to this monkey.

Monkey "B", on the other hand, was randomly shocked when
the bell rang. Therefore, this monkey could never anticipate which
ring of the bell would provide the electric shock and was unable
to adapt. Monkey "B" suffered extreme Stress and died of a heart
attack.

This experiment is an excellent example of the difference between
anticipated Stress, which we can control, and un-anticipated
Stress, which we cannot control.

By taking this line of thought one step further we can classify
Stress into two different categories: Self-Created Stress (which we
can anticipate and manage), and Externally-Imposed Stress (which
we can neither anticipate nor control).

Externally-Imposed Stress: This is the negative Stress that bears
down upon, and wears out, the majority of people. It is the
unexpected and fearful type of Stress that ages us before our Time
and destroys us both physically and mentally. It is a primary source
of heart problems, stomach problems, and psychological trauma.

Nearly everyone who has worked at a job has, at some time,
experienced Externally-Imposed Stress. No employee is immune
to Externally-Imposed Stress. It affects everyone from upper
management all the way down to the most common laborer.

It results from external Events, Decisions, and Actions which are
entirely unexpected and beyond our control.

Some examples of Externally-Imposed Stress are:
...the expectancy to meet deadlines which are continually being
changed, sped-up, or even cancelled
...unreasonable quotas
...merit reviews which our "superiors" continually bludgeon us with
that keep some menial promotion, or raise, just beyond our grasp
...political infighting.

The list of "rat race" Stress that affects the majority of adults is
endless.

How many adults sacrifice their Sovereignty for a thankless "job"
devoid of personal growth and integrity only to be rewarded with
Stress?

How many adults dully, and semi-consciously, look forward to only
one thing in their life: the "finish-line of retirement"?  Only to be then
kept alive by heart and stomach medication.

And, what is perhaps even worse, having almost never exercised
their minds, these same people often end up having little or nothing
to offer society, either mentally or spiritually, when they eventually
"retire".

Furthermore, how many of these people die shortly after reaching
that "finish-line of retirement" having wasted the gift of Incarnation?

The people who fall into this category are the Monkey "B" alluded
to at the beginning of this article.

Self-Created Stress: This is the expected and anticipated kind
of Stress that is part of the everyday life of the Lone Wolf, the
Trailblazer, Wizards and Wanderers, and all those who pursue
new Horizons.

These persons are the independent businesspersons, private
investors, inventors, explorers, and makers of history. These are
the individuals who face life on their own terms and accept all of
the failures, setbacks, and successes that are a part of their
personal and unique Incarnation.

These individuals understand and embrace the Stress which is
part of their special Journey. They understand that their Road
will sometimes be rocky before it becomes smooth; that some
unexpected crises must be experienced if they are to eventually
experience success in whatever Quest they pursue.

They live their lives, and make their Decisions, by relying on
their talents, skills, imagination, creativity, and experiences.
In other words they face the obstacles of life armed mainly with
their Wits.

And because they are constantly faced with options, Choices,
and anticipated crises, their mental faculties and Decision-
making muscles are sharply honed to handle Stress. Therefore,
for these people, Stress has a minimal affect on their mental
and physical well-being.

These are the individuals who can run their businesses, pursue
their experiments, and plan their next pursuit long after the
average person has succumbed to the boredom of "retirement".
And they do it with a gleam in their eyes and an enthusiasm in
their demeanor that is only found in a naive, excited, and curious
child.

These are the individuals who never think about the "finish line of
retirement" for they are much too busy looking forward to new
projects, ideas, and plans. For these people each new day is a
new dawn in which they expect and anticipate new Adventures.

These individuals are the Monkey "A" alluded to at the beginning
of this article who boldly says: "bring on that electric shock, I can
handle the Stress".

Conclusion: All aspects of our Divine Nature are like muscles.
They must be constantly exercised, used, and pushed to their
limit if we are to make them strong and resourceful. When we
stop using our skills, our mind, our imagination, and all of the
rest of our mental and spiritual muscles, they atrophy.

They wither, become weakened, and either tear or break at the
first sign of Stress. When this happens they are no longer a
viable and valuable component of our being.

Therefore, if we are to face life head-on, master Stress, and
truly enjoy our Journey through our Incarnation, it is our sole
responsibility to continually hone our mental and spiritual
muscles just as we would our physical ones. For only then
are we able to nimbly overcome the surprises and Stress
that are a normal part of all physical Incarnations.

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 Giant - As A Symbol (Mythology, Metaphor, and Archetype)

"If I have seen further than others,
it is because I was standing on the shoulders of giants."
- Isaac Newton

As was mentioned in the article on Devolution, nearly all ancient
texts tell of a Time, in the distant long-ago, when Giants walked
upon the earth and lived among mankind.

The question these texts arouse in us is: Who were these Giants?

To answer this question, it is important for us to understand
what the term "Giant" means in Symbolism, Mythology, and
Metaphor.

Even today we have metaphors which refer to Giants, such as:
"He was a giant of a man", "He was a giant among men", and
"He is a giant in his field".

As we can see from these metaphors, the term Giant does not
refer to supernatural physical size, but to greater than normal
talents and abilities.  In other Words, the term Giant, when
used in these contexts, refers to an exceptional person.

Therefore, metaphorically speaking, a Giant is any man or woman
who possesses powers, talents, abilities, creativity, or insights
beyond that of the average and ordinary person.

And as we live in a realm of Duality, the term Giant can be applied
to any person possessing an above-normal trait or aspect which is
either positive or negative. This means that a Giant can be either
a gracious benefactor or an evil monster.

In its negative aspect, the Giant Symbolizes any person who is
feared and loathed by mankind.

In this category of Giants we find the bullies, thugs, hoodlums,
mass murderers and tyrants. We also find forcefully dominating
individuals and factions along with brutal parents who appear as
Giants to a small child.

And as evil will always make itself more visible than good, Giants
have been historically portrayed and associated with evil and
dominating brutes and ogres.

In this category, the Giant is depicted as the oppressive tyrant
who is eventually overthrown by the citizenry...the little folk.
It is also associated with the neighborhood, or schoolyard, bully
who finally meets his, or her, come-uppance by mis-judging the
strength and valor of their adversary.

Ancient texts give us a very graphic description of these kinds
of Giants in the tale of David versus Goliath whereby the brutal
barbarianism of Goliath is slain by the nimble Wisdom of David;
reminding us that humble Wisdom is the slayer of brutish
Ignorance.

Giants can also Symbolize the savage elements of nature which
areeventually conquered (albeit temporarily) by mankind, and
civilization, in the never ending battle of humanity (mortals) versus
the elements (immortals).

In its positive aspect, the Giant Symbolizes any person who is
revered and honored by mankind. Some examples are:

The enlightened minds and subtle Genius found in visionaries,
Trailblazers, and those who pursue new Horizons and unimagined
Dreams.  These individuals possess the reasoning, understanding,
fortitude, Awareness, and foresight not found in the average person.

These are the Einsteins, Newtons, Pythagorases, Platos, Socrates,
and Columbuses whose accomplishments are forever emblazoned
upon the eternal pages of history.

The great benefactors such as are Symbolized by the Giant stature
of Saint Christopher carrying the Christ child upon his shoulder.

The Heroes of mythology, legend, folklore, and history who perform
noble deeds, pursue untarnishable Quests, and almost single-
handedly slay the negative essences and evil forces which are
forever attempting to dominate freedom-loving peoples in all parts
of the world, and at all Times of history.

The advanced beings and superior races who occasionally present
themselves to worthy and well qualified individuals in order to nudge
these persons along in their Quest; which also allows society to move
forward. Into this class of enlightened beings fall extra-terrestrials,
Angels, Divine Messengers and Spiritual Guides.

Giants, both positive and negative, have always been, and will
always be, with us. For, as long as we have the schoolyard bullies,
neighborhood thugs, and societal tyrants, we will also have the
far-seeing, creative, imaginative, heroic, and beneficent Giants of
progress, evolution, heroism, and enlightenment to slay the Goliaths
which brutally, but temporarily, stand in the path of Truth, Wisdom,
and Enlightenment.

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

Confusion

"Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated."
- Confucius

When it is deemed to be the appropriate Time for us to leave the
joyful world of childhood and enter the mundane world of adulthood,
we are tutored and Indoctrinated by a wide variety of adults. Adults
who live in complex and Confusing worlds. Yet, because they are
adults we, as children, look up to them with a degree of awe and
respect; for, after all, they are "adults", aren't they?

And even though we are still naive little kids, we see that they
anguish over the complexities and trials of adult life. We see that,
in many ways, they are Confused, frustrated, and are suffering for
answers to all of the issues which confound them in the world of
grown-ups. We see that, although they are adults, they do not have
all of the answers we imagine that they do have.

But again, because they are adults, we respect them and look up to
them for guidance and answers. The same guidance and answers
which they too are struggling to find. These are our teachers. And,
regardless of how pure their intentions are, the Truth is that no one
can teach another something which they themselves do not know.
No one can teach us clarity of Thought if they themselves are
confounded, Confused, and perplexed.

Yet these are the mentors who "guide" us into adulthood.

So the question is: if we are surrounded by a sea of Confusion,
where do we go to find Clarity, Truth, and Understanding?

Each one of us enters our Current Incarnation with special qualities
and interests. And it is probably safe to say that, regardless of how
someone (or someones) try to steer us, we ultimately proceed upon
a Path that is in general Harmony with our Divine Nature.

We tend to pursue a career and hone our skills in those areas which
give us delight, maintain our interest, and are consistent with our
personality.

Over Time, we become very good at our specialties and personal
interests. We truly Become, at least to some degree, an expert in
our Chosen field or hobby. We can Speak and Act with surety so
long as we stay within the areas of our expertise.

But, what happens when we are confronted with a Decision, or
dilemma, which is outside of the area of what we know?

We become Confused!

Confusion does not mean that we are stupid or incapable of
understanding new things. It simply means that we are beyond our
field of expertise; we are a "fish out of water"; we are attempting to
make Decisions on things we know little, or nothing about.

We all become Confused when we step outside our area of expertise.
These are the Times when we experience Simple Ignorance. Simple
Ignorance is the lack of solid, or bona fide, information, knowledge,
and options. And there is only one way to cure Simple Ignorance:
learn that which we are Ignorant of!

However, learning something entirely new may seem like a daunting
and impractical task for us. So, what do we do then?

If we are like most people, we compensate for our Simple Ignorance
by either accumulating enormous amounts of information and
Opinions on whatever it is that is Confusing us, or we seek out
someone else to "manage" our Confusion for us.

When we are rapidly accumulating vast amounts of information and
Opinions, we become perplexed, frustrated, and overwhelmed. Our
mind becomes cluttered, our perception becomes distorted, and our
judgement becomes clouded. This is the worst possible Time for us
to make a Decision on whatever it is that is Confusing us.

On the other hand, when we turn our personal Decisions over to
another person to "manage", we may, in fact, be relying upon
someone else to make Decisions for us who may not be much more
knowledgeable than us. Someone who also may have objectives,
such as fees and commissions, which are in direct conflict with our
best interest.

And finally, in Times of great Confusion, we may find ourselves
entering into uneasy Compromises which we may deeply regret
at some future Time.

So, with these Thoughts in mind, what is the best way for us to
handle Confusion?

It is important to keep one distinct possibility in mind. And that
possibility is that most presumed crises are really unimportant
Events which do not require any Action on our part. These imagined
crises will dissolve and fade away of their own accord.

We must therefore Truly ask of ourselves whether our crisis, or
Confusion, is real or imaginary. If we determine it is imaginary,
then it is probably in our best interest to simply "let it go".

However, when a major Event or Decision does confront us, this
is the Time for us to take a few deep breaths and dedicate our
ourselves to understanding, in depth, that which we need to know
in order to make a rational and safe Decision...regardless of how
much Time, energy, and effort it may require of us.

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

Tom Bombadil - Nature Spirit - Part 4 (Final Thoughts and Perceptions)

(Note: In order to appreciate the conclusions drawn in this article,
please first read: "Nature Spirits and Elemental Beings" followed
by "Tom Bombadil - Part 1 (His Symbolism and Appearance)"
then "Tom Bombadil - Part 2 (His Powers)"
then "Tom Bombadil - Part 3 (His Legend)".)

If a Nature Spirit Chose to reveal itself to us, would it do so in an
awesome and frightening manner? Or, would it instead reveal
itself to us as something pleasant, comforting, and disarming?

The answer to this question would probably depend upon the
situation, the type of Nature Spirit, and the character of the
individuals to which the Nature Spirit Chose to reveal itself to.

Nature possesses awesome powers. In its peaceful, undisturbed,
and unchallenged state, nature is beautiful, enchanting, and full
of frolic and wonder. However, behind its silent beauty, nature has
also the ability to be menacing, perilous, and threatening.

This is the combination we, and the Hobbits, are made fully Aware
of in the character of Tom Bombadil. For although Tom appears to
be a jolly, harmless, and comical fellow, with pleasant and
disarming characteristics, he also possesses awesome and
unimaginable powers; powers he expresses with crystal clarity
to the Hobbits.

Tom Bombadil, as a Nature Spirit, reminds us that there are always
Higher Powers which rule the many different aspects of nature.

And these Higher Powers cannot help but be amused at the follies
of mankind, in ALL of its forms, as they watch the "play of life"
continue to unfold with all of its ever-repeating acts, scenes, Cycles,
conclusions, and Consequences which are important only to those
who are currently standing upon the Stage of Life.

We find this charming amusement contained within the character,
or Nature Spirit, of Tom Bombadil. For although Tom possesses
awesome powers, he simply remains an unattached observer of
the follies which manifest themselves in the physical realm.

Tom simply looks on, with mirth and unattachment, as both
extremes of Duality continue their endless and futile struggle for
power and supremacy; which no one person, nation, or kingdom
has the right to possess.

At best these powers and supremacies can be only grappled over
and maintained for short periods of history.

Then, because of the never-ending Cycles of Eternity, and the
over-ruling power of Duality, those in possession of these fleeting
powers and supremacies fade into the Mists of history and
these fleeting powers and supremacies find their way, for another
short period of history, into the hands someone new. And so it
goes, on and on, throughout the long march of Time...Individuals
and nations, drunk with the illusion of material power, imagining
they can possess the un-possessable, and control the
un-controllable.

Tom Bombadil understands, and is immune to, this eternal Truth
which rules the material realm; for he is a Nature Spirit. This is
why Tom frolics, sings, dances, and laughs at the frivolities and
foolishness of the material realm of which he is The Master.

Now that Tom Bombadil's Symbolism, Appearance, Powers, and
Legend have been analyzed, one question remains unanswered.

Why has Tom Bombadil, as a forest Nature Spirit, Chosen to limit
his domain to only his ancient forest?

It would appear that there are three answers to this question:

1. There are other Elemental Beings which govern different types
of forests.
2. Tom has Chosen to govern only that which is most ancient,
leaving other forests to other Elemental Beings.
3. The final answer may never be known. For this answer may lie
with the Mythological Master himself; the creator of Middle Earth
and all which lies within it; the Nature Spirit of the novel itself;
J.R.R. Tolkien, the true "Lord of the Rings".

(Tom Bombadil appears in J.R.R. Tolkien's "Fellowship of the Ring")

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

Tom Bombadil - Nature Spirit - Part 3 (His Legend)

(Note: In order to appreciate the conclusions drawn in this article,
please first read: "Nature Spirits and Elemental Beings" followed
by "Tom Bombadil - Part 1 (His Symbolism and Appearance)"
then "Tom Bombadil - Part 2 (His Powers)".)

Now that we have discussed the Symbolism, Appearance, and
Powers of Tom Bombadil, let us now examine his Legend.

The first legendary description we have of Tom Bombadil comes
from Goldberry, Tom's female companion, who tells the Hobbits
that she is the "Daughter of the River". This statement tells us
that she is also a Nature Spirit and, by her close association
with Tom, she is Tom's feminine counterpart.

When Frodo asks Goldberry "Who is Tom Bombadil?", she
simply answers, "He is". This tells us that Tom is an Eternal
Constant, an Eternal Truth. In other words, a Nature Spirit.

Goldberry then goes on to say, "He is the Master of wood, water,
and hill". Frodo then asks, "Then all this strange land belongs to
Him?"

To which Goldberry replies, "No Indeed! That would indeed be a
burden. The trees and the grasses and all things growing or living
in the land belong each to themselves. Tom Bombadil is the
Master".

This tells us that Tom Bombadil is the Creative Spirit, or essence,
which brought his ancient forest into existence. And as the
Creative Essence, he also designated the laws by which all of his
creations must abide; not only in relation to themselves, but also
in relation to all the other creations which occupy his forest
community.

He grants all things contained within his forest complete freedom,
and Sovereignty, to express themselves in any way they wish; so
long as it is within the bounds of their specific natures. He only
interferes with his creations when it is absolutely necessary;
as in the case of Old Man Willow. Tom's Mastery, therefore, is
similar, in many ways, to that of a good ruler or a good parent.

Later, Frodo again presses Tom with the question, "Who are you,
Master?" To which Tom replies, "Eldest, that's what I am. Mark
my words, my friends: Tom was here before the river and the trees;
Tom remembers the first raindrop and the first acorn..."

This statement by Tom again informs us that he is an essence,
a Spirit, a Master, which is eternal.

Tom then goes on to express himself in the second person when
he tells Frodo, "He knew the dark under the stars when it was
fearless - before the Dark Lord came from the Outside."

"He knew the dark under the stars when it was fearless" refers
to the realm of Unity, the Time before creation.

"Before the Dark Lord came from the Outside": Note the
capitalization of the word 'Outside'. The introduction of the 'Dark
Lord' from the 'Outside' tells us that another eternal essence
affected Tom's realm of Unity and thereby created Duality. This
creation of Duality is the moment of physical manifestation; the
moment of the Seed penetrating the Womb; the moment of
conception; the moment of material creation.

Later, at the Council of Elrond, Tom Bombadil is referred to as
"older than the old", "oldest and fatherless", and "Last as he was
First".

The term "fatherless" is referred to often in mythology, legend,
and ancient texts. "Fatherless" means an Eternal Spirit.

In the phrase "Last as he was First", we again have capitalization
of the words "Last" and "First". This means that these Words
are not simply used as a part of a sentence, but to express
an Divine Essence which is both powerful, timeless, ageless,
and unchangeable.

As we can see, all of the terms used to describe Tom Bombadil
at the Council of Elrond, by Goldberry, and by Tom himself, define
Tom to be something eternal, everlasting, and beyond the follies,
rules, and restrictions of the physical realm. In other words, they
define Tom Bombadil to be a Nature Spirit!

In Tom Bombadil - Nature Spirit - Part 4 we will conclude with
some final thoughts and perceptions about Tom Bombadil -
Nature Spirit.

(Tom Bombadil appears in J.R.R. Tolkien's "Fellowship of the Ring")

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

Tom Bombadil - Nature Spirit - Part 2 (His Powers)

"All that is not eternal is eternally out of date."
- C.S. Lewis

(Note: In order to appreciate the conclusions drawn in this article,
please first read: "Nature Spirits and Elemental Beings" followed
by "Tom Bombadil - Nature Spirit - Part 1".)

After having defined Nature Spirits, and having analyzed the color
Symbolism and Appearance associated with Tom Bombadil, let us
now look at the powers and behaviors associated with Tom
Bombadil which further define him to be a Nature Spirit.

The first glimpse we have of the power and supremacy which Tom
Bombadil possesses within his forest domain is when Merry and
Pippin become trapped within Old Man Willow.

Tom listens to Frodo's and Sam's account of the incident with an
amused interest. Then, with a final authority, as one would see in
a parent scolding a naughty child, Tom orders Old Man Willow to
release his captives. Old Man Willow instantly obeys and Merry
and Pippin are released at once.

This incident makes us quickly aware of the complete power and
authority which Tom possesses over his forest domain. This is
consistent with the power that a Nature Spirit possesses over all
that resides within Its realm.

While resting in the house of Tom Bombadil the Hobbits experience
further displays of Tom's powers.

He tells the Hobbits not to fear any nightly noises they may hear
while they are his guests for nothing evil or harmful can penetrate
the walls or windows of his home.

He is conscious of their every waking and sleeping moment. And,
he makes the Hobbits aware of this when he tells them, "In the
night little folk wake up in the darkness, and sleep after light has
come!"

Tom speaks of Events which occurred in distant and long-forgotten
ages. And he is able to create vivid visions of these Events in the
minds of the Hobbits. Thus allowing the Hobbits to "see" these
long-ago Events which Tom had personally experienced.

Tom also describes to the Hobbits the lives, thoughts, and feelings
which are the heart and soul of his forest domain. Thereby giving
the Hobbits a better understanding of all that resides within his
forest realm.

It is through these stories, comments, and visions that Tom makes
the Hobbits aware of the mystical and magical powers he has at his
command; powers which are the natural essence of a Nature Spirit.

Now we come to Tom Bombadil and The Ring.

"Show me the precious Ring!", Tom suddenly says to Frodo.

Tom then places the much feared Ring round the end of his little
finger but does not disappear. This shows us that the Ring has no
power over Tom.

Tom then tosses this most powerful Ring into the air and causes
it to vanish! He is "toying" with this One Ring which is serious,
feared, and perilous to the creatures and inhabitants of middle
earth. Yet the powers of this One Ring are useless, amusing, and
in fact even silly to Tom.

These two incidents are a further reminder that not only does
anything which enters Tom's realm have no control over him, yet
Tom has complete control over everything which enters into his
domain. These are further indications that Tom Bombadil is a
Nature Spirit.

Frodo then places the Ring on his finger and disappears before his
Hobbit companions... but he remains fully visible to Tom Bombadil.
This shows us that Tom is the "Master" who knows, sees, and has
power over all that exists within, or enters into, his domain.

This is yet a further display that, as a Nature Spirit, Tom exists
well beyond, and is therefore immune to, the mundane rules and
restrictions, which govern both mankind and the material realm.

Later on, when the Hobbits leave the house of Tom Bombadil, we
see another awesome display of Tom's authority when the Hobbits
are overcome by a barrow wight in the barrow downs which are
within Tom's realm.

By the use of a summoning rhyme, taught to the Hobbits by Tom,
Frodo summons Tom, who immediately appears, rescues the
Hobbits, and banishes the wight from his domain.

Now we come Tom's self-admitted limits to his powers.

Tom proclaims that, although he is the Master of his forest,
"I am no weather-master". This tells us that Tom is a Nature
Spirit of his forest but not of the weather. For the weather is
the realm of, and governed by, another Elemental Being; the
Nature Spirit of weather.

Tom also states, "Out east my knowledge fails. Tom is not
master of Riders from the Black Land far beyond my country."
This is a further reminder that, as a Nature Spirit, Tom is only
Master of his particular, self-created, domain; the domain of
his ancient forest.

And though, being a Nature Spirit, he may have some powers
outside of his personal realm, he is not Master of, nor does
he have control over, that which occurs in any of the domains
beyond his borders.

These admissions by Tom are consistent with the Divine Principles
which govern all Nature Spirits and Elemental Beings. They are the
complete Master of only their specifically defined realm and have
minimal, if any, power outside the borders of their sole domain.

In "Nature Spirits and Elemental Beings" we have a specific
definition of these powerful, important, and eternal essences.

In "Tom Bombadil - Nature Spirit - Part 1" we analyzed the
Symbolism associated with Tom Bombadil.

In this article we have discussed Tom's powers and behaviors.

In "Tom Bombadil - Nature Spirit - Part 3" we will discuss the
legends associated with Tom Bombadil.

(Tom Bombadil appears in J.R.R. Tolkien's "Fellowship of the Ring")

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

Tom Bombadil - Nature Spirit - Part 1 (His Symbolism and Appearance)

"Nature always wears the colors of the spirit."
- Ralph Waldo Emerson

(Note: This is the first of four articles on Tom Bombadil)

Tom Bombadil is an enchanting, jolly, powerful, and highly
Symbolic character who is introduced to us in J.R.R. Tolkien's
"The Fellowship of the Ring".

Several very interesting and detailed essays have been written
about this "enigmatic" character in an attempt to un-Veil who
Tom Bombadil is, and what he represents.

This article defines Tom Bombadil to be a Nature Spirit.

However, before simply stating that Tom Bombadil is a Nature
Spirit, we must first have a fair definition of this term. The article,
"Nature Spirits and Elemental Beings", provides a specific and
detailed definition of the term "Nature Spirit".

Based upon that definition, let us now take a look at some of the
Symbolism, and Mystery contained within this wonderfully
mysterious character called Tom Bombadil.

When Tom first appears, he is described as: wearing an old
battered hat with a long blue feather, great yellow boots, a blue
coat, and having a long brown beard. Later, Tom is described as
having thick brown hair.

Furthermore, "his face was red as a ripe apple but creased into a
hundred wrinkles of laughter".

As can be seen, we are presented with an abundance of color
Symbolism in Tom's attire and Appearance. Let us now carefully
analyze this Symbolism:

Old battered hat:

It is important to keep in mind that Tolkien possessed a very deep
understanding of Mythology. This would also encompass the
understanding of Symbolism, of which Color Symbolism plays an
integral part.

Therefore, it is interesting to note that while Tolkien is very specific
in describing the colors, and in many cases even the size, of Tom's
other clothing, along with his physical features, he does not
mention the color of Tom's hat. He simply describes it as "an old
battered hat with a tall crown".

As meticulous as Tolkien is in his descriptions of nearly everything
else in his writings, this makes the color of Tom Bombadil's hat
an intriguing curiosity!

But, back to the "old battered hat".

Anything "old" Symbolizes timelessness, antiquity, and Wisdom.
"Battered" Symbolizes a time-worn, and time-tested, familiarity.

Long blue feather:

A Feather comes from the wing of a bird. Wings and birds are
Symbols for Spirit. The fact that the Feather is long tells us that it
belongs to a very large bird; a Great Spirit.

Blue is the color of Truth. It Symbolizes "that which IS".

Long brown beard and thick brown hair:

Brown is the color of the earth; of soil. This tells us that Tom is
associated with the earth and is therefore an Earth Entity; an
Earth Spirit.

The fact that Tom's hair is long and thick suggests virility, potency,
plentifulness, and generative powers.

Blue coat:

Again, blue is the color of Truth. Therefore Tom "wears" the Truth;
he is "that which IS".

Great yellow boots:

Yellow is the color which is associated with, represents, and is
interchangeable with Gold. Gold Symbolizes the incorruptible, the
untarnishable, the unchangeable, the unalterable, the everlasting.

In mentioning that his boots were "great", we are again presented
with the Principle of Greatness or Largeness, just as in the length
of his Feather mentioned above.

The boots are what Tom walks in and is supported by. They are
also responsible for leaving his Footprint.

Therefore the great yellow boots are Symbolic that Tom walks in,
and is supported by, the untarnishable, the incorruptible, and the
everlasting. Furthermore, the Footprint Tom leaves, by way of his
"great boots", is a reminder to others that he is a representative,
and Bringer, of these Divine Qualities wherever he Travels.

His face was red as a ripe apple but creased into a hundred
wrinkles of laughter.

Here, in Tom's face, we encounter a striking familiarity to St.
Nicholas (Santa Claus), whose "cheeks were like roses, his
nose like a cherry!" ***

Red is a masculine essence which Symbolizes vitality, activity,
power, energy, and life-blood. In other words, Tom's Red face
Symbolizes an active masculine life-force.

The "wrinkles" in Tom's face again Symbolize age, Time, and the
Wisdom contained within the wrinkles of Time. More specifically,
Tom's wrinkles represent Aged (and Ageless) Wisdom.

Based upon the Symbolism contained within Tom's clothing and
features alone, we have enough details to classify him as a Nature
Spirit. However, this only describe Tom's outward appearance.

We will now turn to Tom's behavior and powers in order to further
determine why Tom Bombadil is a Nature Spirit.

An analysis of Tom's behavior and powers appears in
"Tom Bombadil - Nature Spirit - Part 2".

*** "Twas The Night Before Christmas" by Clement Clarke Moore

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

Initiation Ceremonies (Ancient Symbolism)

Initiation Ceremonies have been an important part of the human
Spiritual Experience since the earliest beginnings of Time. They
are sacred, Esoteric Ceremonies bestowed upon only a rare few
individuals and are, without a doubt, the highest celebration of a
Rite of Passage.

Perhaps the oldest Initiation Ceremonies which we are aware of
are those alluded to have occurred in ancient Egypt.

These Ceremonies were memorized word-of-mouth rituals, recited
by Master Teachers, for the benefit of a worthy and well-qualified
Initiate. These rituals were forbidden to be written down and were
conducted in a secret, holy, and very private location; possibly
within the Great Pyramid itself.

History tells us of individuals who Traveled to Egypt for the sole
purpose of being Initiated into the Ancient Mystery Schools where
they received secret, sacred, and privileged knowledge. Among
the individuals we know to have been Initiated in Egypt are Plato
and Pythagoras.

Although the Mystery Schools may have originated in Egypt,
they eventually spread to other parts of the world where Initiation
Ceremonies where then performed in caves, sacred groves, and
"tombs".

All of these locations Symbolize the Great Feminine Womb into
which a worthy and well-qualified Initiate would enter as the Seed
of a previous existence in order to be "incubated", through a
process of deep meditation, and thereby be re-born into a new
and higher realm of existence.

These Initiation Ceremonies took place during the three days
of the new moon, the dark moon, the moon which W.B. Yeats
calls the "Silent Moon"; a time of darkness and meditation.

Mythology, legend, and folklore abound with tales of Initiation
Ceremonies. Whenever we read of someone becoming lost,
unavailable, or "dying" in a dark and contained place for three
days, we are almost assuredly reading about an Initiation
Ceremony.

Furthermore, mythology, religious texts, and folklore make
additional references to Initiation Ceremonies. Jonas spends
three days in the belly of a great fish. Jesus spends three
days in a sepulchre, or tomb. Odin (Wothan) hangs suspended
upon the World Tree, Yggdrasil, until he learns the secret of
the runes. And even Pinocchio gets himself swallowed by the
great whale, Monstro.

Here is an interesting allusion to a very powerful Initiation
Ceremony: We are all familiar with the story of Christ "dying"
and being placed within a sepulchre. After spending three days
in the sepulchre, the stone is "rolled" across the entrance to this
tomb and Christ "raises from the dead".

The Symbolism and metaphor contained within this parable
is very powerful.

In a nutshell: The sepulchre represents the Great Feminine
Womb. The dark entrance to the sepulchre Symbolizes the
three dark days of the new moon. The "rolling" of the stone
across the entrance Symbolizes the waxing of the moon as
it begins its new Cycle after three days of darkness. And,
Christ's "raising from the dead" Symbolizes the completion
of His Initiation Ceremony.

Please consider this: In many of the older texts Christ is
referred to as "The Christ". This infers a Title rather than a
name. If this is True, then it is not only possible, but highly
probable, that several individuals may have held the Title of
"The Christ". Especially when we consider that the Greek
word Christos (Christ) translates as "The Anointed One"
(The Master Teacher).

From this analogy it is but one small step to further conclude
that any person who was granted the Title of "The Christ" would
naturally have had to pass through some sort of a High Initiation
Ceremony prior to being "elevated" to that higher station which
that Title required of them.

When we carefully consider all of these thoughts, it is easy to
understand why the Initiation Ceremonies of the Ancient Mystery
Schools held such a high esteem, and why they were only made
available to a very select few men and women who were truly
worthy and well-qualified to receive this high honor.

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