All posts by Leo

Orphic

Orphic Hymn to Hekate

A New Annotated Translation by Adam Forrest
SOURCE: HermeticFellowship.org at http://www.hermeticfellowship.org/OrphicHymnHekate.html

For Oz, Laura, and Lorain, Three of Her Daughters



To Hekatê

Hekatê of the Path, I invoke Thee, Lovely Lady of the Triple Crossroads,
Celestial, Chthonian, and Marine One, Lady of the Saffron Robe.
Sepulchral One, celebrating the Bakchic Mysteries among the Souls of the Dead,
Daughter of Persês, Lover of Solitude, rejoicing in deer.
Nocturnal One, Lady of the Dogs, invincible Queen.
She of the Cry of the Beast, Ungirt One, having an irresistible Form.
Bullherder, Keeper of the Keys of All the Universe, Mistress,
Guide, Bride, Nurturer of Youths, Mountain Wanderer.
I pray Thee, Maiden, to be present at our hallowed rites of initiation,
Always bestowing Thy graciousness upon the Boukolos.


Hekatês

Einodian Hekatên, klêizô, Trihoditin Erannên,
Ouranian, Chthonian, te kai Einalian, Krokopeplos.
Tymbidian, Psychais Nekyôn meta bakcheuosan,
Perseian, Philerêmon, agallomenên elaphoisi.
Nykterian, Skylakitin, amaimaketon Basileian.
Thêrobromon, Azôston, aprosmachon Eidos echousan.
Tauropolon, Pantos Kosmou Klêidouchon, Anassan,
Hêgemonên, Nymphên, Kourotrophon, Ouresiphoitin.
Lissomenos, Kourên, teletais hosiaisi pareinai,
Boukolôi eumeneousan aei kecharêoti thymôi.

Notes

Line 1.Klêizô: This is an interesting verb, which can mean “to praise, to name, to call,” and “to invoke.” In the context of the Hymn, it is probably intended to convey “to invoke with praise.”
Line 2.Ouranian, Chthonian, te kai Einalian: This trio of epithets proclaims the power of Hekatê in all three divisions of the world in Greek cosmology, as represented in the threefold partition among the Three Brothers — Zeus, Hades, and Poseidon.
Line 3.Bakcheuosan: This verb is sometimes used to mean simply “to revel,” but in the context of the Orphic Mystery cults, which have the Mysteries of Dionysos at their very core, the literal translation which I have employed is almost certainly the correct one.
Line 4.Perseian: Perseia, “Daughter of Persês,” the Titanic father of Hekatê.
Line 4 bis.Agallomenên elaphoisi: “Rejoicing in deer”. A characteristic perhaps borrowed from Artemis.
Line 5.Nykterian: As Hekatê was called Nykteria, “She of the Night,” Dionysos was known as Nykterios.
Line 6.Thêrobromon: The meaning of this epithet is debatable. It may mean “She of the Cry of the Beast,” “She Who Roars Like a Beast,” “She Who Causes the Beasts to Roar,” etc. The second part of the epithet is one of Dionysos’ most well-known allonyms (Bromos or Bromios), “the Roarer,” which may (in His case, as contended by A.B. Cook) have originally referred to the roar of thunder, as Dionysos Zagreus is the Heir of Zeus.
Line 7.Tauropolon: “Bullherder” is a title She shares with Artemis.
Line 7 bis.Pantos Kosmou Klêidouchon: Klêidouchos, “Keeper of the Keys,” was a title of High Priestesses in some Greek cults, ergo the intended meaning of this epithet may be “High Priestess of All the Universe.”
Line 8.Hêgemonên: This title, “Guide,” is identical with that of one of the Greater Officers in the Order of the Golden Dawn in the Outer.
Line 8 bis.Nymphên: May mean either “Bride” or “Nymph.”
Line 8 ter.Kourotrophon: “Nurturer of Youths” is a title She shares with Artemis. In regard to this archetypal rôle of the Dark Goddess, it may be worth noting that in the Celtic Tradition preserved in the mediæval romances, it is the Nine Witches of Cær Loyw who teach Peredur, the Grail Hero, much of his heroic skill. And in Ireland, the Queen of Tir Scaith (“the Land of Shadows”) instructs the hero Cuchullain.
Line 9.Kourên: “Maiden; Daughter.” This may possibly be intended as an identification with Persephonê, the Korê.
Line 10.Boukolôi: It was decided to leave Boukolos (“Oxherd”) untranslated as a technical term, as we know from surviving inscriptions that Boukolos is the name of a high office in Orphic societies. Orphics may have called their group leaders Oxherds on the same analogy as that by which some Christians came to call theirs Shepherds (Latin, Pastores).
Astrology, Tarot

Astrological Signs and the Tarot Major Arcana

These are the astrological signs associated with the major arcana tarot cards:

Aries – The Emperor

Aries like to be in positions of power and to take charge of situations. The Emperor card is about how to be a proper force in ruling the state or government. One must be prepared to act on instinct, set limitations, act in a defensive manner, and take immediate charge with force — many things Aries does.

Taurus – The Hierophant

Tauruses are known to have a defined value system. Their set ways of looking at the world means that the Bull will never evade the ideology they believe in. No matter what else is going on in their life, they’ll stay true to values, spirituality, and beliefs that are a part of them.

Gemini – The Lovers

The Lovers is all about choice and the need to understand juxtaposing sides in order to effectively make decisions. Like the zodiac sign Gemini, this card gives us both narratives. The caveat is that we must use our Mercurial skills in understanding and making the right decision that can shape our lives for the better.

Cancer – The Chariot

The vehicle of movement (The Chariot) has stopped. Instead of moving forward, it’s opting to go in a different direction. Like the crab, The Chariot isn’t taking the straight path, rather moving from side-to-side. This card reminds us that situations and emotions may change, but the outcome remains the same. Sentiments are always in flux.

Leo – Strength

Taming the passion (this is depicted through the imagery of the lion) of others and oneself takes a lot of patience and energy. Be kind to yourself and to people. Maintain the “strength” to back away from arguments that occur because of desires and frustrations. 

Virgo – The Hermit

Being that Virgos are often seeking clarity, understanding, knowledge, and perfection, they’ll align with The Hermit. This card is all about reflection, shedding light on matters, and using one’s analytical mind to make proper decisions. Information is coming that will offer insight — wait and see what is being brought to consciousness and awareness now.

Libra – Justice

Like the zodiac sign Libra, the scales of justice are depicted in the tarot card. It is a reminder to be honest, fair, maintain balance, and ensure equality in all matters. If not, then karma will come full circle and make things right for you. Play by the rules and do right by others.

Scorpio – Death

The Death card represents transformation and growth. As we all know, Scorpio is the only zodiac sign who easily evolves with times and wants to change throughout the stages of their life. Moving towards a new view, self, or place in this world can be intense — but, also extremely helpful towards one’s personal well-being.

Sagittarius – Temperance

One cannot do everything in extremes. If they do, then things will go haywire. The Temperance card is a reminder to find moderation and peace within. This a reminder to Sagittarius that building greatness, knowledge, and understanding the ways of the world takes time. Don’t rush the process.

Capricorn – The Devil

All work and no play can lead one to feel as though they cannot escape annoying mundane, activities. It signifies relationships or situations that have become toxic. This horrible cycle needs to end. Letting go from power struggles and dominant situations is hard. Taking back one’s personal strength is challenging — but, can be done.

Aquarius – The Star

This card usually depicts a water-bearer (which is the symbol of Aquarius) by a stream. It is a card of promise, hope, and new beginnings — all of the attributes that describe the zodiac sign Aquarius. If you’re experiencing a difficult time or are in need of change, The Star card is a positive omen.

Pisces – The Moon

The Moon rules the tides and flow of the ocean, water, and our bodies (because we are composed of water). In this card, the crayfish is emerging from the water to see two dogs howling at the Moon. Therefore, it shows fear, confusion, and illusion (since the fish did not expect to see that scene).

SOURCE: https://www.teenvogue.com/story/tarot-cards-by-zodiac-see-which-tarot-cards-align-with-your-sun-sign

Uncategorized

Know Your Higher Self and the Master Within BEFORE You Create Your Magical Personality

Knowing your higher self or the Master within is easier said than done. This can only be accomplished through inner meditation and a strong sense of understanding and Oneness. Many mystics wish to jump straight into magical work. This is not necessarily a bad thing, but instead, it can become an option that can bring much chaos and confusion. Knowing Thyself is the most important esoteric principle, which can be attained in so many ways, such as, life’s experiences, meditation, reflection, communion, spiritual alchemy, Tarot, Kabbalah, magical and spiritual workings, and the list could go on.
To the subject at hand, magical work and esoteric studies can be so appealing to the seeker mystic and at first glance appears more interesting or more empowering, but this can be an illusion which can lead you on a path of chaos.
Focus first on your personal well-being physically, mentally, psychologically, all in the interest of stability and knowing yourself. Once you feel like you have meditation and yourself balanced, then it will make more sense to explore the magical realm and grow in a balanced way. For those who completely understand what is being said here, most likely have learned from experience, and for those who question this approach, do what you feel is best for you now and then look back on this article as a waypoint in life’s experience. Peace Profound.

Alchemy

THE ALCHEMICAL STORY OF THE RED AND THE WHITE ROSES (Dennings and Phillips)

THE STORY OF THE RED AND THE WHITE ROSES

Black Dragon was of the lower Earth. Among the harsh rocks which were his dwelling he had gathered great treasures of precious metals and of gems: jasper and turquoise. emerald and chalcedony, amethyst, sapphire, opal, citrine and many others. There were no pearls, however. Those gleaming sea-jewels are the very token and symbol of water, and water, except as it might be found mixed into mire, was a thing which Black Dragon feared and hated greatly. The land in which he dwelt was hot, stony and barren, so that any water which was not hidden was quickly scorched away by the sun; usually, therefore, Black Dragon could live as if water did not exist. He delighted in adding to his hoard of gems and loved to range them in heaps upon the sill of his lair so that the fierce light danced and leaped among their myriad colors, but he had another ambition, too, an ambition which increased with his store.


What he truly wanted was to deck himself in those rich jewels and to be seen by the people of the surrounding country, so that they should be amazed and should revere him as their god or at least as their king. He knew himself to be hideous to look upon, however, and perceived that, decked with jewels, he would provoke only disgust or derision, not admiration or worship. He therefore formed another plan and resolved to bide his time. He lay in wait, and in due course took captive the maiden known as Soul of the Earth, whom he carried off to the wilderness where he dwelt. Trapped and terrified, she speedily learned that help was not at hand and that no course was now open to her, save submission.

Then Black Dragon caused her to be clothed in gorgeous raiment. A jeweled crown was set upon her head, jewels were placed upon her brow and her neck and her bosom, her arms, hands, waist, ankles and feet. She was enthroned upon a throne of gold on a high dais, and heralds were sent forth to sound their trumpets and to cry aloud: COME, BEHOLD AND WORSHIP THE QUEEN OF THE WORLD! Travelers from all regions came and marveled at the great beauty of Soul of the Earth, and at the richness of her attire, and at the high golden throne whereon she was seated. Then when they were assembled, another herald cried: BEHOLD THE BEAUTY AND RICHES OF THE QUEEN OF THE WORLD, AND BOW DOWN BEFORE BLACK DRAGON, WHOM THE QUEEN OF THE WORLD OWNS TO BE HER LORD! Many there were who worshiped, but many also there were who bowed down only in fear of Black Dragon; and a murmur began to go forth against Soul of the Earth, so that she was called harlot and traitress for the part she played.


Now it happened that the King’s Son was journeying through that land. He was a valiant young man, whose badge and ensign was a red rose; so he himself had come to be known among the people b= the name of Red Rose. As he rode, he heard the trumpets of the heralds and the words which followed: “Come, behold and worship the Queen of the World!”—”I shall not worship, but I will behold,” declared Red Rose, and he joined in the troop which was going to gaze at Soul of the Earth.


The riches with which she was surrounded did not dazzle him, for he had seen such things before, but her beauty of face and form moved him to wonder, and to more than wonder. He beheld, too, the hideous bulk of Black Dragon upon the dais, and he became the more perplexed .
Then, looking more attentively at Soul of the Earth, he perceived that the golden chains upon her wrists and ankles were not harmless adornments, but were fetters indeed.


Likewise the thin veil which covered the lower part of her face was not intended merely to give mystery to the luster of her eyes, although with deep mystery they shone, but it served to disguise the seal which had been set upon her lips.


And then he saw that there were no pearls among her jewels. As he moved away through the crowd, he asked a bystander, “Why does your Queen wear no pearls?” “Black Dragon forbids even the name of the oceanstones,” muttered the inhabitant, and Red Rose understood what was to be done. He went to the jewelers of the place and sought to buy a pearl, but they had none to offer him. “I am the King’s Son, and I am called Red Rose,” he said: “_ ask not the price, but I would buy one single pearl.” “Sir, you need not to tell us your name, since its high fame is well known to us. We are yours to command, but there is not one pearl in all these lands, for fear of Black Dragon.” Then Red Rose left their company and went out into the wilderness, and under the heavens he cried aloud, “By the Splendor of the Sun I swear, I would give all I possess for one pearl, that with it _ might win Soul of the Earth from bondage!” And 10, a Shining One stood in the sunlight with a glorious smile, replying to Red Rose, “Will you give all that you have? The time is not yet: but come, I will show you the pearl.” He led Red Rose to a fair garden, where no water was to be seen, but it was led cunningly through channels in the rocks underground so that the roots of the plants were fed thereby; and in the midst of the garden was a bush upon which grew one white rose. Red Rose put out his hand to the blossom, and with a further word of encouragement the Shining One left him. In the center of the flower, sheltered by the petals, gleamed a single drop of dew.


The Prince gathered the rose and carried t carefully back to where Soul of the Earth sat enthroned. “I bring a gift to your Queen, richer than anything she yet has,” he told the crowd: and as they made way for him they murmured, “He brings a rose of alabaster, he brings a rose of ivory, he brings a rose of whitest jade!” So he approached the dais; and when he had come near, he threw the rose so that the drop of dew fell upon Soul of the Earth. Instantly the seal was gone from her lips, and the fetters shriveled like burnt grass away from her wrists and ankles. “ give you freedom, and a new name, O White Rose!” cried Red Rose: “now begone, begone to safety!” So she flung the gems and adornments from her, and fled. When Black Dragon saw what had happened, and knew himself powerless to prevent it, he called out to her, “Soul of the Earth, do not go from me! Is it not enough that I have given you jewels and gold, a crown and a seat of honor?” “It is not enough,” she replied, “for because of these things I am scorned and miscalled before the world.” And ever since that time, let no man intending evil put his trust in any woman whatsoever, for in an instant she mXy clothe herself in the strong innocence of Soul of the Earth, and spurn him.

THE STORY OF THE RED AND THE WHITE ROSES

Black Dragon was of the lower Earth. Among the harsh rocks which were his dwelling he had gathered great treasures of precious metals and of gems: jasper and turquoise. emerald and chalcedony, amethyst, sapphire, opal, citrine and many others. There were no pearls, however. Those gleaming sea-jewels are the very token and symbol of water, and water, except as it might be found mixed into mire, was a thing which Black Dragon feared and hated greatly. The land in which he dwelt was hot, stony and barren, so that any water which was not hidden was quickly scorched away by the sun; usually, therefore, Black Dragon could live as if water did not exist. He delighted in adding to his hoard of gems and loved to range them in heaps upon the sill of his lair so that the fierce light danced and leaped among their myriad colors, but he had another ambition, too, an ambition which increased with his store.

What he truly wanted was to deck himself in those rich jewels and to be seen by the people of the surrounding country, so that they should be amazed and should revere him as their god or at least as their king. He knew himself to be hideous to look upon, however, and perceived that, decked with jewels, he would provoke only disgust or derision, not admiration or worship. He therefore formed another plan and resolved to bide his time. He lay in wait, and in due course took captive the maiden known as Soul of the Earth, whom he carried off to the wilderness where he dwelt. Trapped and terrified, she speedily learned that help was not at hand and that no course was now open to her, save submission.

Then Black Dragon caused her to be clothed in gorgeous raiment. A jeweled crown was set upon her head, jewels were placed upon her brow and her neck and her bosom, her arms, hands, waist, ankles and feet. She was enthroned  upon a throne of gold on a high dais, and heralds were sent forth to sound their trumpets and to cry aloud: COME, BEHOLD AND WORSHIP THE QUEEN OF THE WORLD! Travelers from all regions came and marveled at the great beauty of Soul of the Earth, and at the richness of her attire, and at the high golden throne whereon she was seated. Then when they were assembled, another herald cried: BEHOLD THE BEAUTY AND RICHES OF THE QUEEN OF THE WORLD, AND BOW DOWN BEFORE BLACK DRAGON, WHOM THE QUEEN OF THE WORLD OWNS TO BE HER LORD! Many there were who worshiped, but many also there were who bowed down only in fear of Black Dragon; and a murmur began to go forth against Soul of the Earth, so that she was called harlot and traitress for the part she played.

Now it happened that the King’s Son was journeying through that land. He was a valiant young man, whose badge and ensign was a red rose; so he himself had come to be known among the people b= the name of Red Rose. As he rode, he heard the trumpets of the heralds and the words which followed: “Come, behold and worship the Queen of the World!”—”I shall not worship, but I will behold,” declared Red Rose, and he joined in the troop which was going to gaze at Soul of the Earth.

The riches with which she was surrounded did not dazzle him, for he had seen such things before, but her beauty of face and form moved him to wonder, and to more than wonder. He beheld, too, the hideous bulk of Black Dragon upon the dais, and he became the more perplexed.

Then, looking more attentively at Soul of the Earth, he perceived that the golden chains upon her wrists and ankles were not harmless adornments, but were fetters indeed.

Likewise the thin veil which covered the lower part of her face was not intended merely to give mystery to the luster of her eyes, although with deep mystery they shone, but it served to disguise the seal which had been set upon her lips.

And then he saw that there were no pearls among her jewels. As he moved away through the crowd, he asked a bystander, “Why does your Queen wear no pearls?” “Black Dragon forbids even the name of the oceanstones,” muttered the inhabitant, and Red Rose understood what was to be done. He went to the jewelers of the place and sought to buy a pearl, but they had none to offer him. “I am the King’s Son, and I am called Red Rose,” he said: “_ ask not the price, but I would buy one single pearl.” “Sir, you need not to tell us your name, since its high fame is well known to us. We are yours to command, but there is not one pearl in all these lands, for fear of Black Dragon.” Then Red Rose left their company and went out into the wilderness, and under the heavens he cried aloud, “By the Splendor of the Sun I swear, I would give all I possess for one pearl, that with it _ might win Soul of the Earth from bondage!” And 10, a Shining One stood in the sunlight with a glorious smile, replying to Red Rose, “Will you give all that you have? The time is not yet: but come, I will show you the pearl.” He led Red Rose to a fair garden, where no water was to be seen, but it was led cunningly through channels in the rocks underground so that the roots of the plants were fed thereby; and in the midst of the garden was a bush upon which grew one white rose. Red Rose put out his hand to the blossom, and with a further word of encouragement the Shining One left him. In the center of the flower, sheltered by the petals, gleamed a single drop of dew.

The Prince gathered the rose and carried _t carefully back to where Soul of the Earth sat enthroned. “I bring a gift to your Queen, richer than anything she yet has,” he told the crowd: and as they made way for him they murmured, “He brings a rose of alabaster, he brings a rose of ivory, he brings a rose of whitest jade!” So he approached the dais; and when he had come near, he threw the rose so that the drop of dew fell upon Soul of the Earth. Instantly the seal was gone from her lips, and the fetters shriveled like burnt grass away from her wrists and ankles. “_ give you freedom, and a new name, O White Rose!” cried Red Rose: “now begone, begone to safety!” So she flung the gems and adornments from her, and fled. When Black Dragon saw what had happened, and knew himself powerless to prevent it, he called out to her, “Soul of the Earth, do not go from me! Is it not enough that I have given you jewels and gold, a crown and a seat of honor?” “It is not enough,” she replied, “for because of these things I am scorned and miscalled before the world.” And ever since that time, let no man intending evil put his trust in any woman whatsoever, for in an instant she mXy clothe herself in the strong innocence of Soul of the Earth, and spurn him.

But White Rose, as she was now named, when she had left Black Dragon, fled away with the swiftness of fleeing Atalanta. She sped through the air over the Mountains of the Moon, until she came to the ocean of silvery water. Into that ocean she plunged; she washed away the last stains of her sojourn with Black Dragon, and then she swam on through the sea until she came to the shore of a most green land. The people of that country were amazed as she came from the sea, for she shone like the stars, and the queen of that country welcomed her as a sister. That region abounded in every kind of herb, and there were gentle lone giving m*lk and curd; there was also music and rejoicing continually. There. secretly, White Rose abode for a while.

Black Dragon, when his captive fled, pursued her for a short distance, but being of the lower earth he could not follow when she sped through the air. He therefore returned full of fury to seek for Red Rose, but the King’s Son, having made sure that White Rose had escaped in truth, had withdrawn to his own place. And both Red Rose and Black Dragon, each in his own way, sent forth for tidings of White Rose, but none could tell what had become of her.

Then Black Dragon cared no longer for his treasures and his lair in the wilderness, but began to roam through the land, breaking and destroying, and saying again all the evil that had been said of White Rose in the time of her captivity.

At last, therefore, Red Rose saw that an end must be made to this, so he took a strong lance and rode forth to do battle to the death with Black Dragon.

When they met, Black Dragon roared and snorted and lowered his head to charge, but he was heavy and at first moved slowly. Red Rose had leveled his lance, and upon his swift horse dashed in as thinking to slX= his adversary with a single blow, but Black Dragon’s hide was tough as leather and hard as iron. The lance was stopped as if Red Rose had charged against a granite cliff, and he was flung from the saddle by the shock. He sprang to his feet and drew his sword, barely in time before Black Dragon was upon him.

Now followed a long, close and deadly contest between the two. Those who had gathered to watch perceived that Red Rose was by far the more nimble but, being unable to pierce Black Dragon’s hide, could do no more than defend himself. This he did bravely with sword and shield, but not always successfully, since Black Dragon could attack with his claws and with his terrible fangs at the same time. Thus Red Rose had several great wounds, so that the blood flowed. and the bystanders for pity called out to him to flee.

“NXb, now I have earned my ensign and my name,” he said, “now am I Red Rose in truth.” But just then the monster swerved in upon him again, and with great fangs ripped his thigh, and so departed, leaving Red Rose lying in his own blood upon the rocky ground.

Although nobody had news of White Rose, however, she had continual tidings of the land which she had left. She had heard of Red Rose’s setting forth against Black Dragon, and at once, full of fear for the outcome, with two ladies of the green land, she took ship across the ocean and arrived at the place of conflict with what speed she might. There she was told that Red Rose was slain, and Black Dragon was for the time being departed into the wilderness. You may think how she and her companions lamented over Red Rose, but she would not linger there to be retaken by Black Dragon; so they carried Red Rose gently on to the ship, uncertain as they were whether he was in fact quite dead, and thus White Rose brought him with her to the green country.

They bathed and tended him, and knew that they could do nU more, yet still White Rose would not give up hope; so they set up four posts, and a canopy over them, and in this shelter they covered him with sweet herbs and left him.

As he lay there, his spirit hovering uncertain whether to tarry or to depart, there came to him suddenly that Shining One who had shown him how to save White Rose.

“Remember now your oath,” said the Shining One, “when you sware by Sol’s Splendor to g\ve all you possessed if a certain thing were done, and that th*ng was done. Now therefore in the name of my master the All-victorious Sun, I am come to claim your pledge. You challenged Black Dragon to combat, and if you were your own man he has slain you, you must confess it. By your oath however, your limbs and your body, your flesh and your blood belong to the Sun, and I say Black Dragon shall not rob him of what is his. Up, then; be whole and stand!” With these words, the Shining One took Red Rose’s hand and drew him to his feet, and, marvel of marvels, he was all whole, and stood firmly.

When he had thanked the other for his healing, Red Rose asked, “What should I do?” “Go against Black Dragon again if that is your will, but know that cold steel shall never prevail against him. What has gone before has been all child’s play, and women’s work, for women’s work is done by water, all washing and cleansing and scouring as this has been. Now, that white work is done. The red work is commenced, which you began by shedding yUur blood, but this is man’s work, and only by fire can it be completed. You have pledged yourself to the Sun, and to the Sun entirely you now belong; by the fire of the Sun therefore shall come the victory.” Thus saying, the Shining One departed.

Red Rose remained alone, pondering these words until their meaning was all clear to him. Then, his meditations at an end, he went to the queen of the country, and to White Rose and the other ladies. and thanked them for their care of him. Also he had them make for him a little pennant, with the sign of the Sun upon it. This done, he made ready to do battle again with Black Dragon. White Rose would have set out with him, but he forbade her, remembering the words of the Shining One, and bade her remain in that land to await his return. All being in readiness, he crossed again to the region which Black Dragon had laid waste.

Now, the shield which Red Rose carried was of bright steel, polished so that it shone like glass. When he had come close to Black Dragon’s lair, therefore, he gathered some dead leaves and twigs in an open place which was hidden from the cavern. Then he set his shield in such a way that, as the sun rose hot and bright, the shield gathered the fierce rays and flung them again upon the leaves and twigs.

Presently a little smoke coiled up from the heap, then more smoke, and at last a pallid wisp of flame. Red Rose brought more wood, and carefully fed it to the fire. When the fire which he had thus drawn from the sun’s rays was built great and strong, he brought his lance that was of hard ash-wood and began to heat the lance-head in the fire. All being ready at last. he mounted his horse, beat loudly upon his shield, and called Black Dragon forth to battle. Black Dragon came out with a loud roar; Red Rose took the lance, which was now a shaft of the sun’s fire, and leveled it for the charge. This time, the conflict was indeed settled at one blow: the sun-fire lance pierced clean through Black Dragon’s hard, tough hide, so that with one last roar he rolled over dead. The people who had stood to watch, and more who had been in hiding, gave a great cheer, for they had lived in dread of Black Dragon. Then they banked up the sun-fire into a large mound of burning logs. and dragged the unwieldy body onto this pyre that it might be destroyed utterly. And now a marvel occurred, for the sunfire had so penetrated and transmuted that bulk, that at once, released from the shape of Black Dragon, the elements thereof returned to their place in nature; and, with a sweet fiery odor as of frankincense and cinnamon they vanished.

Now, matters stood that Red Rose had saved White Rose from Black Dragon, and White Rose had saved Red Rose, and there was great love between them. So he was resolved to marry her, and declared their betrothal, and there was much rejoicing. Yet not everyone was content.

Some there were who said that the marriage would not be fitting, since he was the King’s Son and she was but Soul of the Earth; and others recalled the evil things that had been spoken of her, and said Red Rose ought not to marry one who had been so accused, albeit falsely. There was much debate therefore, until all parties agreed to refer the question for decision to the King’s Mother.

The King’s Mother was a gray woman who dwelt apart and in silence, but high dignity was hers and great honor.

Her father had been a powerful king in the elder times; much of sorrow she had known, and much of wisdom. She listened to the history of White Rose, and looked upon her; then she drew the young betrothed bride to her and set her at her side upon the huge, dark throne. Then there was nothing more at all for anyone to say upon this matter, and the marriage of Red Rose and White Rose was solemnized forthwith.

Nevertheless, it is not chiefly because of them that this story is told, but because of their son. For they had a son, who so much resembled his father, and so much his mother, that none could tell which he was more like. So people came to call him the Androgyne, although his true name was Splendor Solis. You may sometimes see a symbolic picture of him, showing him half in the likeness of his father and half of his mother; and he has wings, because he and they are of the spiritual world; and he bears crowns of peaceful dominion, but also a mighty sword and upon it a crown which is the prize of victory. Beneath his feet lie the misshapen and chaotic clan of Black Dragon, whose lawless remnants it was his task to quell. And another of his names is Lapis Ph*losophorum, the Philosophers’ Stone; for know you that that Stone is not an inert thing, but living.

Yet some say that this picture does not represent a son of Red Rose, but Red Rose himself after the Shining One raised him from the bier; and they say White Rose was in truth, as Red Rose often called her, his other self. These are mysteries, yet they make no difference to our story or to its telling. With many variations it is told, and must be so, since it is the inner story of each one who wins through to Adepthood.

Let the new adept beware, however, when he is released from his tomb, how he acts towards those around him.

When the Philosophers’ Stone is “projected” upon any material, a ferment occurs (we are told), after which the new material must be submitted to the furnace and will emerge transmuted into gold, or into whatever may be the highest development of its own kind. This is truly a wonderful power, but not all are ready for the furnace.

Certa*nly this is infallibly true, and the alchemists deserve all honor for perceiving it—that which has been transformed will itself cause transformation. The man or woman who has passed through the philosophical alchemy and has emerged with integrated personality bears ambiguous gifts to the world of which he or she is no longer fully native: in one hand a crown of peace, in the other a sword.


When he had thanked the other for his healing, Red Rose asked, “What should I do?” “Go against Black Dragon again if that is your will, but know that cold steel shall never prevail against him. What has gone before has been all child’s play, and women’s work, for women’s work is done by water, all washing and cleansing and scouring as this has been. Now, that white work is done. The red work is commenced, which you began by shedding yUur blood, but this is man’s work, and only by fire can it be completed. You have pledged yourself to the Sun, and to the Sun entirely you now belong; by the fire of the Sun therefore shall come the victory.” Thus saying, the Shining One departed .
Red Rose remained alone, pondering these words until their meaning was all clear to him. Then, his meditations at an end, he went to the queen of the country, and to White Rose and the other ladies. and thanked them for their care of him. Also he had them make for him a little pennant, with the sign of the Sun upon it. This done, he made ready to do battle again with Black Dragon. White Rose would have set out with him, but he forbade her, remembering the words of the Shining One, and bade her remain in that land to await his return. All being in readiness, he crossed again to the region which Black Dragon had laid waste .
Now, the shield which Red Rose carried was of bright steel, polished so that it shone like glass. When he had come close to Black Dragon’s lair, therefore, he gathered some dead leaves and twigs in an open place which was hidden from the cavern. Then he set his shield in such a way that, as the sun rose hot and bright, the shield gathered the fierce rays and flung them again upon the leaves and twigs .
Presently a little smoke coiled up from the heap, then more smoke, and at last a pallid wisp of flame. Red Rose brought more wood, and carefully fed it to the fire. When the fire which he had thus drawn from the sun’s rays was built great and strong, he brought his lance that was of hard ash-wood and began to heat the lance-head in the fire. All being ready at last. he mounted his horse, beat loudly upon his shield, and called Black Dragon forth to battle. Black Dragon came out with a loud roar; Red Rose took the lance, which was now a shaft of the sun’s fire, and leveled it for the charge. This time, the conflict was indeed settled at one blow: the sun-fire lance pierced clean through Black Dragon’s hard, tough hide, so that with one last roar he rolled over dead. The people who had stood to watch, and more who had been in hiding, gave a great cheer, for they had lived in dread of Black Dragon. Then they banked up the sun-fire into a large mound of burning logs. and dragged the unwieldy body onto this pyre that it might be destroyed utterly. And now a marvel occurred, for the sunfire had so penetrated and transmuted that bulk, that at once, released from the shape of Black Dragon, the elements thereof returned to their place in nature; and, with a sweet fiery odor as of frankincense and cinnamon they vanished .
Now, matters stood that Red Rose had saved White Rose from Black Dragon, and White Rose had saved Red Rose, and there was great love between them. So he was resolved to marry her, and declared their betrothal, and there was much rejoicing. Yet not everyone was content .
Some there were who said that the marriage would not be fitting, since he was the King’s Son and she was but Soul of the Earth; and others recalled the evil things that had been spoken of her, and said Red Rose ought not to marry one who had been so accused, albeit falsely. There was much debate therefore, until all parties agreed to refer the question for decision to the King’s Mother .
The King’s Mother was a gray woman who dwelt apart and in silence, but high dignity was hers and great honor .
Her father had been a powerful king in the elder times; much of sorrow she had known, and much of wisdom. She listened to the history of White Rose, and looked upon her; then she drew the young betrothed bride to her and set her at her side upon the huge, dark throne. Then there was nothing more at all for anyone to say upon this matter, and the marriage of Red Rose and White Rose was solemnized forthwith .
Nevertheless, it is not chiefly because of them that this story is told, but because of their son. For they had a son, who so much resembled his father, and so much his mother, that none could tell which he was more like. So people came to call him the Androgyne, although his true name was Splendor Solis. You may sometimes see a symbolic picture of him, showing him half in the likeness of his father and half of his mother; and he has wings, because he and they are of the spiritual world; and he bears crowns of peaceful dominion, but also a mighty sword and upon it a crown which is the prize of victory. Beneath his feet lie the misshapen and chaotic clan of Black Dragon, whose lawless remnants it was his task to quell. And another of his names is Lapis Phlosophorum, the Philosophers’ Stone; for know you that that Stone is not an inert thing, but living . Yet some say that this picture does not represent a son of Red Rose, but Red Rose himself after the Shining One raised him from the bier; and they say White Rose was in truth, as Red Rose often called her, his other self. These are mysteries, yet they make no difference to our story or to its telling. With many variations it is told, and must be so, since it is the inner story of each one who wins through to Adepthood . Let the new adept beware, however, when he is released from his tomb, how he acts towards those around him . When the Philosophers’ Stone is “projected” upon any material, a ferment occurs (we are told), after which the new material must be submitted to the furnace and will emerge transmuted into gold, or into whatever may be the highest development of its own kind. This is truly a wonderful power, but not all are ready for the furnace . Certanly this is infallibly true, and the alchemists deserve all honor for perceiving it—that which has been transformed will itself cause transformation. The man or woman who has passed through the philosophical alchemy and has emerged with integrated personality bears ambiguous gifts to the world of which he or she is no longer fully native: in one hand a crown of peace, in the other a sword .

Esoteric, Philosophy

Leo’s Other Principles

  • Be Mentality and Physically Healthy As You Will Be Of More Help To Others
  • Be Conscious In All Thoughts, Actions and Words
  • We Are All One and Separation is an Illusion and a self-imposed limitation
  • Contribute To Peace and Love Everyday Through Consciousness and Action
  • Respect and Treat People, Animals and Environment As We Would Have Them Do To Us
  • Fear Is The Opposite of Love…Release Fear…Embrace All
  • Make a choice, own it and learn from it…this will decrease stress and help you grow
  • You create your future and reality
  • Peace profound is when you are always at peace; within and your relation with the Divine Cosmic;+ and whatever happens
  • Love and Live every minute to it’s fullest and be ready to die every day with no regrets
  • It’s not what happens in life, but how you act or re-act or no-act
  • Meditation and Harmonization are Key
  • Universal Consciousness-Subconscious Consciousness-Subjective Consciousness-Objective Consciousness…BE CONSCIOUS
Esoteric, Philosophy

Principles of The Secret

Principles of The Secret

  • Love Yourself and Know That You Are Deserving
  • Know What You Want…Ask For What You Want…Release It…Live It Everyday…It Will Come
  • Law of Attraction…You Will Bring To You What You Are Inside and Out
  • There Are No Limits Except The Ones You Create
  • You Cannot Change How Others Are Only What You Are
Philosophy

Principles of The Four Agreements

Principles of The Four Agreements

  • Be Impeccable With Your Word
  • Don’t Take Anything Personal
  • Don’t Make Assumptions
  • Always Do Your Best
  • Re-evaluate Old Agreements and Establish New Agreements with God, Self, Family, Friends and Society
  • You Create Your Own Reality, So Start Creating Your Perfect Heaven On Earth
Hermetica

The Kybalion Summary

Seven Principles of the Kybalion

  • Mentalism: All is Mind
    • We are of One Whole and All is possible
  • Correspondence: As Above So Below
    • There is correspondence between the laws of phenomena of the various “planes” of being and life.
    • There is harmony, agreement and correspondence between the Physical, Mental and Spiritual Planes.
  • Vibration: Everything is Vibrating
    • Motion is manifest in everything in the Universe, that nothing rests, and everything moves, vibrates, and circles.
    • You can change vibration through Intent, Will and Focus.
  • Polarity: Everything is Dual, Everything has Two Extremes, and Everything has an Opposite.
    • All manifested things have two sides, two aspects, or two poles.
    • Everything “is” and “isn’t” at the same time, all truths are but half truths and every truth is half false, there are two sides to everything, opposites are identical in nature, yet different in degree, extremes meet, and all paradoxes may be reconciled.
  • Rhythm: Everything has Rhythm
    • Everything there is manifested a measured motion, a to and fro, a flow and inflow, a swing backward and forward, a pendulum-like movement.
    • There is rhythm between every pair of opposites, or poles, and is closely related to the Principle of Polarity.
  • Cause and Effect: Nothing is by Chance and Everything is subject to the Law of Compensation
    • There is a cause for every effect, and an effect for every cause.
    • There is no such thing as chance, that chance is merely a term indicating that the causes not recognized or perceived possibly because of the complexity of the contributing variables.
  • Gender: Positive-Negative, Masculine-Feminine
    • Gender aspect is necessary for generating, creating or manifestation and manifests itself on all planes.
    • Mastering or balancing of gender polarities within manifests as creative energies, balance and harmony.

HERMETIC AXIOMS

“The possession of Knowledge, unless accompanied by a manifestation and expression in Action, is like the hoarding of precious metals–a vain and foolish thing. Knowledge, like Wealth, is intended for Use. The Law of Use is Universal, and he who violates it suffers by reason of his conflict with natural forces.“ –The Kybalion

“To change your mood or mental state–change your vibration.” –The Kybalion

“To destroy an undesirable rate of mental vibration, put into operation the Principle of Polarity and concentrate upon tile opposite pole to that which you desire to suppress. Kill out the undesirable by changing its polarity.” –The Kybalion

“Mind (as well as metals and elements) may be transmuted from state to state; degree to degree; condition to condition; pole to pole; vibration to vibration.”–The Kybalion“Rhythm may be neutralized by an application of the Art of Polarization.” –The Kybalion

“Nothing escapes the Principle of Cause and Effect, but there are many Planes of Causation, and one may use the laws of the higher to overcome the laws of the lower.“ –The Kybalion

“The wise ones serve on the higher, but rule on the lower. They obey the laws coming from above them, but en their own plane, and those below them, they rule and give orders. And, yet, in so doing, they form a part of the Principle, instead of opposing it. The wise man falls in with the Law, and by understanding its movements he operates it instead of being its blind slave. Just as does the skilled swimmer turn this way and that way, going and coming as he will, instead of being as the log which is carried here and there–so is the wise man as compared to the ordinary man–and yet both swimmer and log; wise man and fool, are subject to Law. He who understands this is well on the road to Mastery.“ –The Kybalion

“True Hermetic Transmutation is a Mental Art.” –The Kybalion

“THE ALL is MIND; The Universe is Mental.” –The Kybalion.

THE KYBALION

“THE LIPS OF WISDOM ARE CLOSED, EXCEPT TO THE EARS OF UNDERSTANDING”

HERMES TRISMEGISTUS KNOWN BY THE ANCIENT EGYPTIANS AS “THE GREAT GREAT” AND “MASTER OF MASTERS”

There is no portion of the occult teachings possessed by the world which have been so closely guarded as the fragments of the Hermetic Teachings which have come down to us over the tens of centuries which have elapsed since the lifetime of its great founder, Hermes Trismegistus, the “scribe of the gods,” who dwelt in old Egypt in the days when the present race of men was in its infancy.

THE HERMETIC PHILOSOPHY.

“The lips of wisdom are closed, except to the ears of Understanding.” –The Kybalion

“Where fall the footsteps of the Master, the ears of those ready for his Teaching open wide.” –The Kybalion

“When the ears of the student are ready to hear, then cometh the lips to fill them with Wisdom.” –The Kybalion

THE SEVEN HERMETIC PRINCIPLES.

“The Principles of Truth are Seven; he who knows these, understandingly, possesses the Magic Key before whose touch all the Doors of the Temple fly open.” –The Kybalion

“THE ALL is MIND; The Universe is Mental.” –The Kybalion

“As above, so below; as below, so above.” –The Kybalion

“Nothing rests; everything moves; everything vibrates.” –The Kybalion

“Everything is Dual; everything has poles; everything has its pair of opposites; like and unlike are the same; opposites are identical in nature, but different in degree; extremes meet; all truths are but half‐truths; all paradoxes may be reconciled.” –The Kybalion

“Everything flows, out and in; everything has its tides; all things rise and fall; the pendulum‐swing manifests in everything; the measure of the swing to the right is the measure of the swing to the left; rhythm compensates.” –The Kybalion

“Every Cause has its Effect; every Effect has its Cause; everything happens according to Law; Chance is but a name for Law not recognized; there are many planes of causation, but nothing escapes the Law.” –The Kybalion

“Gender is in everything; everything has its Masculine and Feminine Principles; Gender manifests on all planes.” –The Kybalion

MENTAL TRANSMUTATION.

“Mind (as well as metals and elements) may be transmuted, from state to state; degree to degree; condition to condition; pole to pole; vibration to vibration. True Hermetic Transmutation is a Mental Art.” –The Kybalion

“The Universe is Mental” –The Kybalion

THE ALL.

“Under, and back of, the Universe of Time, Space and Change, is ever to be found The Substantial Reality–the Fundamental Truth.” –The Kybalion

“THAT which is the Fundamental Truth–the Substantial Reality–is beyond true naming, but the Wise Men call it THE ALL. “ –The Kybalion

“In its Essence, THE ALL is UNKNOWABLE.”–The Kybalion

“But, the report of Reason must be hospitably received, and treated with respect.” –The Kybalion

THE MENTAL UNIVERSE.

“The Universe is Mental–held in the Mind of THE ALL.” –The Kybalion

“THE ALL creates in its Infinite Mind countless Universes, which exist for aeons of Time–and yet, to THE ALL, the creation, development, decline and death of a million Universes is as the time of the twinkling of an eye.” –The Kybalion

“The Infinite Mind ‐of THE ALL is the womb of Universes.” –The Kybalion

“Within the Father‐Mother Mind, mortal children are at home.” –The Kybalion

“There is not one who is Fatherless, nor Motherless in the Universe” –The Kybalion

THE DIVINE PARADOX.

“The half‐wise, recognizing the comparative unreality of the Universe, imagine that they may defy its Laws–such are vain and presumptuous fools, and they are broken against the rocks and torn asunder by the elements by reason of their folly. The truly wise, knowing the nature of the Universe, use Law against laws; the higher against the lower; and by the Art of Alchemy transmute that which is undesirable into that which is worthy, and thus triumph. Mastery consists not in abnormal dreams, visions and fantastic imaginings or living, but in using the higher forces against the lower–escaping the pains of the lower planes by vibrating on the higher. Transmutation, not presumptuous denial, is the weapon of the Master.” –The Kybalion

“THE ALL” IN ALL.

“While All is in THE ALL, it is equally true that THE ALL is in All. To him who truly understands this truth hath come great knowledge.” –The Kybalion

THE PLANES OF CORRESPONDENCE.

“As above, so below; as below, so above” –The Kybalion

VIBRATION.

“Nothing rests; everything moves; everything vibrates.” –The Kybalion

POLARITY.

“Everything is dual; everything has poles; everything has its pair of opposites; like and unlike are the same; opposites are identical in nature, but different in degree; extremes meet; all truths are but half‐truths; all paradoxes may be reconciled.“ –The Kybalion

RHYTHM.

“Everything flows out and in; everything has its tides; all things rise and fall; the pendulum‐swing manifests in everything; the measure of the swing to the right, is the measure of the swing to the left; rhythm compensates.” –The Kybalion

CAUSATION.

“Every Cause has its Effect; every Effect has its cause; everything happens according to Law; Chance is but a name for Law not recognized; there are many planes of causation, but nothing escapes the Law.” –The Kybalion

GENDER.

“Gender is in everything; everything has its Masculine and Feminine Principles; Gender manifests on planes.” –The Kybalion

Tarot

Tarot Major Arcana Summary

The Major Arcana is a set of cards in a Tarot deck that represents significant life events, spiritual insights, and overarching themes that influence an individual’s journey. These cards make up 22 of the 78 cards in a standard Tarot deck. Each Major Arcana card stands alone with its own deep meanings and implications.

The Major Arcana starts with the Fool card and ends with the World card. The 22 cards and their basic interpretations are as follows:

  1. The Fool (0 or sometimes placed at 22): New beginnings, spontaneous action, leaps of faith, innocence, and potential.
  2. The Magician (1): Skill, creativity, determination, and the power to achieve goals.
  3. The High Priestess (2): Intuition, the subconscious, mystery, and inner wisdom.
  4. The Empress (3): Fertility, abundance, nature, femininity, and nurturing.
  5. The Emperor (4): Authority, structure, control, leadership, and paternal influence.
  6. The Hierophant (5): Tradition, conformity, morality, ethics, and belief systems.
  7. The Lovers (6): Love, harmony, relationships, choices, and alignment of values.
  8. The Chariot (7): Determination, control, overcoming obstacles, and moving forward.
  9. Strength (8): Courage, inner strength, compassion, and patience.
  10. The Hermit (9): Solitude, introspection, guidance, and wisdom from within.
  11. Wheel of Fortune (10): Cycles, destiny, unexpected change, and turning points.
  12. Justice (11): Fairness, truth, cause and effect, and law.
  13. The Hanged Man (12): Suspension, sacrifice, letting go, and new perspectives.
  14. Death (13): Transformation, endings, beginnings, and change.
  15. Temperance (14): Balance, moderation, patience, and purpose.
  16. The Devil (15): Bondage, addiction, materialism, and negativity.
  17. The Tower (16): Unexpected change, upheaval, chaos, and revelation.
  18. The Star (17): Hope, spirituality, renewal, inspiration, and serenity.
  19. The Moon (18): Illusion, fear, anxiety, insecurity, and the subconscious.
  20. The Sun (19): Joy, success, celebration, positivity, and a sense of self.
  21. Judgment (20): Rebirth, inner calling, absolution, and a fresh start.
  22. The World (21): Completion, accomplishment, integration, and fulfillment.

The order of the cards (called a journey or path) can be seen as a narrative – starting from the Fool (beginning of a journey) and ending with The World (end of a cycle, achievement of enlightenment).

In a Tarot reading, when a Major Arcana card appears, it’s often taken as a signal to pay special attention to that area of life or aspect of the self. These cards indicate major forces at work and can provide insights into the deeper layers of a situation.

Source: “Explain Tarot Major Arcana”,  ChatGPT