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OCCULT SCIENCES – MEANING AND HISTORICAL INTERPRETATION

Occult Sciences - Meaning and Historical Interpretation

The occult is a category of esoteric and supernatural beliefs and practices, encompassing phenomena involving a ‘hidden’ or ‘secret’ agency, such as magic and mysticism.

It can also refer to paranormal ideas such as extra-sensory perception and parapsychology.

The Occult, from the Latin word occultus, meaning “clandestine”, “hidden”, “secret”, is defined as “knowledge of the hidden”.

In common usage, occult refers to “knowledge of the paranormal”, as opposed to “knowledge of the measurable”, usually referred to as science. The words esoteric and arcane are sometimes used to describe the occult, although they do not have the same meaning.

The term “occult sciences” is often used in a broad and sometimes vague way, and the practices and beliefs associated with it can vary widely, often concerned with knowledge that is considered beyond the scope of mainstream science or common understanding.

It was used in 16th-century Europe to refer to astrology, alchemy, and natural magic, although the concept is present all over the world since immemorial times.

The term “occultism” emerged in 19th-century France and became associated with various esoteric groups and traditions.

It generally refers to a collection of practices and beliefs that explore hidden knowledge, unseen forces and dimensions, with the three major branches traditionally being alchemy, astrology and magic.

While these sciences have long been shrouded in secrecy, they have played a profound role in shaping philosophical thought, mystical practices, and even early scientific inquiry.

Often misunderstood or dismissed as superstition, these sciences have played a significant role in human history, blending philosophy and practical wisdom.

Many occult practices are rooted in esoteric traditions, which are characterized by their focus on inner knowledge and understanding.

The 3 Main Occult Sciences:

Alchemy: The practice of transforming base metals into gold and seeking the elixir of life.

Astrology: The study of the influence of celestial bodies on human affairs and events.

Natural Magic (Magia Naturalis): The use of rituals, incantations and practices to influence events or achieve specific outcomes, harnessing the powers of nature.

Other branches of Occult sciences are:

Numerology: the belief in an occult, divine or mystical relationship between a number and one or more coinciding events.

Divination: the practice of seeking knowledge or predicting the future through various methods, such as cartomancy, scrying or palmistry.

Spiritualism: the belief in communication with the spirits of the dead.

Witchcraft: the practice of using magic, often with a focus on nature and healing.

Hermeticism: a system that emphasizes the importance of knowledge and wisdom, often associated with ancient Greek and Egyptian traditions.

Kabbalah: a Jewish mystical tradition that explores the hidden nature of the divine and the universe.

Let’s explore these concepts in detail:

1. Alchemy: The Sacred Art of Transformation

Alchemy is one of the oldest and most profound occult sciences, rooted in ancient Egypt, Greece, India and later flourishing in the Islamic Golden Age and medieval Europe. Alchemists sought to transform base metals into gold and discover the philosopher’s stone, a legendary substance believed to grant immortality.

It carried deep symbolic meanings tied to personal transformation, enlightenment and inner purification. Figures such as Paracelsus and Nicholas Flamel contributed heavily to this field, blending chemistry with mysticism.

The alchemical process mirrors the stages of inner growth: calcination (breaking down ego), dissolution (facing the unconscious), coagulation (integration of opposites).

While modern science emerged from alchemy’s experimental methods, its symbolic depth remains relevant for seekers of self-realization.

2. Astrology: Mapping the Cosmic Blueprint

Astrology traces its origins to Babylonian star charts and Jyotish Vedic Astrology, and gained prominence mostly in Mediterranean and Asian cultures.

By observing celestial bodies and their movements, astrologers believed they could predict events, understand personality traits, and guide decision-making.

The zodiac system, planetary alignments, and horoscopes are some of the enduring legacies of astrology.

Modern astrology has evolved to include psychological insights, often used for self-reflection and guidance.

3. Natural Magic (Magia Naturalis):

Natural magic deals with natural forces directly, as opposed to ceremonial magic which deals with the summoning of spirits. Natural magic makes use of physical substances from the natural world, such as stones or herbs.

It includes disciplines that we would today consider fields of natural science, such as chemistry and botany.

Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa discusses natural magic in his Three Books of Occult Philosophy (1533), where he calls it “nothing else but the highest power of natural sciences”.

Magia Naturalis (in English, Natural Magic) is a work of popular science by Giambattista della Porta first published in Naples in 1558.

Its twenty books include observations upon geology, optics, medicines, poisons, cooking, metallurgy, magnetism, cosmetics, perfumes, gunpowder and invisible writing.

Other branches are:

Numerology: The Language and Power of Numbers

Numerology is the study of numbers and their mystical significance. It suggests that numbers hold vibrational frequencies that influence life patterns, character traits, and future events. Each number is believed to have symbolic meaning, with calculations such as life path numbers or destiny numbers serving as tools for insight and guidance.

For example, the number 1 signifies independence and leadership, while 7 embodies introspection and wisdom.

Divination: The Art of Revelation and Seeking Hidden Truths

Divination is a broad category encompassing methods like tarot reading, scrying, I Ching, and runes. Practitioners use symbolic tools and intuition to uncover hidden truths or foresee potential outcomes. Tarot, in particular, has grown in popularity due to its rich imagery and capacity to offer revelations.

Each method relies on symbolic language that taps into the subconscious, offering intuitive guidance.

In Hebrew, “Nachash” means “serpent” or “snake”, and is associated with divination, and is also used to describe the serpent in the Garden of Eden.

Spiritualism

Spiritualism was popular in the 19th and 20th centuries, according to which an individual’s awareness persists after death and may be contacted by the living.

The afterlife, or “spirit world”, is seen by spiritualists not as a static place, but as one in which spirits continue to interact and evolve.

These two beliefs—that contact with spirits is possible, and that spirits are more advanced than humans—lead spiritualists to believe that spirits are capable of advising the living on moral and ethical issues and the nature of God.

Witchcraft

Witchcraft is the use of alleged supernatural powers or magic by a person called a witch.

Traditionally, “witchcraft” means the use of magic to inflict harm or misfortune on others, and this remains the most common and widespread meaning.

Many indigenous belief systems that include the concept of witchcraft likewise define witches as malevolent, and seek healers (such as medicine people and witch doctors) to ward-off and undo bewitchment.

The reality is that there are “white witches”, practitioners who focus on benevolent magic, using their abilities for healing, protection, and positive energy, and “black witches”, who are associated with harmful magic.

Hermeticism

Hermeticism is a philosophical and religious tradition based on the writings attributed to the legendary figure of Hermes Trismegistus, encompassing occultism, magic, and a search for ancient wisdom, with roots in ancient Greek and Egyptian traditions and influential during the Renaissance. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of the universe and the potential for human growth through understanding and interacting with natural laws.

The Kabbalah: Sacred Mystical Wisdom

Stemming from Jewish esotericism, it is focused on the structure of the universe, the soul’s journey and the nature of God.

Kabbalistic teachings use sacred texts like the Zohar to unlock deeper mystical truths. The Tree of Life, a core symbol in Kabbalistic practice, maps out divine energies and paths of wisdom and enlightenment.

Zahir and Sufism

Ẓāhir is an Arabic term for what is external and manifest. Certain esoteric interpretations of Islam maintain that the Quran has an exoteric or apparent meaning, known as zahir, but also an underlying esoteric meaning, known as batin, which can be interpreted only by a figure of esoteric knowledge.

In Sufism, the actions of an individual are the zahir, and the intention in the heart is the batin. Zahir is the world of bodies whereas batin is the world of souls.

The zahir (exoteric) form and the batin (esoteric) essence co-exist, in that the zahir form is the manifestation of the batin essence. The zahir (outer form) without the batin (essence) is just like a mirage or an illusion.

Throughout history, these occult sciences have influenced art, literature, scientific thought and personal growth. Renaissance thinkers merged esoteric knowledge with scientific ideas.

These principles also shaped many influential occult societies.

They have endured for centuries because they speak to the universal human desire for meaning, transformation, and connection with unseen forces.

In modern times, the occult sciences have experienced a resurgence as people seek mystical meaning outside conventional frameworks.

Whether approached as symbolic tools for introspection or as genuine systems of exploration, these disciplines continue to captivate those drawn to the mysteries of existence.

By integrating these timeless practices into your life, you can create a deeply immersive experience that offers both mystical insight and practical wisdom.

While often shrouded in mystery, they reflect a timeless quest for deeper understanding, a journey that transcends the physical world and invites seekers to explore the unseen realms of consciousness and the self.

What do you think of Occult Sciences and what do they represent to you? Do you experiment with any of them? Let us know in the comment section, subscribe and share the post!!!

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Video version here:

Occult Sciences – Meaning and Historical Interpretation

Interesting sources, additional info, courses, images, credits, attributions and other points of views here:

Balancing and Healing the Chakras through Yoga https://www.udemy.com/course/balancing-and-healing-the-chakras-through-yoga/?referralCode=12C81A148616B419AA06

Mudras to Balance and Harmonize your Chakras and Energy Body https://www.udemy.com/course/mudras-to-balance-and-harmonize-your-energy-body/?referralCode=1A275C6E67E05E8C8130

Elemental Energy for Success and Well Being https://www.udemy.com/course/elemental-energy-for-success-and-well-being/?referralCode=A680413E03BEAD96E744

Book a Tarot reading here: https://www.suryaholistictarot.com/book-a-reading/

Check our soundtrack here:
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Websites:

https://www.alkemystica.com

https://www.lennyblandino.com

https://www.staciebronson.com/

Links and References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alchemy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astrology

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hermeticism

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natural_magic

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magia_Naturalis

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Numerology

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divination

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kabbalah

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serpents_in_the_Bible

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zahir_(Islam)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sufism

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spiritualism_(movement)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Witchcraft

https://thonyc.wordpress.com/2022/02/16/the-demise-of-the-occult-sciences/

PICS:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hermes_Trismegistus#/media/File:Hermes_mercurius_trismegistus_siena_cathedral.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hermeticism#/media/File:HermesTrismegistusCauc.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alchemy#/media/File:Aurora_consurgens_zurich_044_f-21v-44_dragon-pot.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alchemy#/media/File:Al-Jaahith_-_African_Arab_Naturalist_-_Basra_-_al_jahiz.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alchemy#/media/File:Esoteric_Taijitu.svg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alchemy#/media/File:Joseph_Wright_of_Derby_The_Alchemist.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alchemy#/media/File:Raimundus_Lullus_alchemic_page.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alchemy#/media/File:Fotothek_df_tg_0006104_Theosophie_%5E_Alchemie_%5E_Judentum_%5E_Kabbala.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astrology#/media/File:Marcantonio_Raimondi_-_Two_Women_with_the_Signs_of_Libra_and_Scorpio.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astrology#/media/File:P._26_’The_Zodiac_Man’_a_diagram_of_a_human_body_and_astrological_symbols_with_instructions_explaining_the_importance_of_astrology_from_a_medical_perspective.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astrology#/media/File:Robert_Fludd’s_An_Astrologer_Casting_a_Horoscope_1617.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_astrology#/media/File:Beit_alfa01.jpg

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Vintage_astrology_dark_blue.jpg

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:JYOTISHACHARYA_MUDIT_MISHRA.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heinrich_Cornelius_Agrippa#/media/File:Portrait_of_Agrippa_Wellcome_L0000100.jpg

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:%D0%9B%D0%B8%D0%BB%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%9A%D0%B0%D0%BC%D0%B0%D0%BB%D0%B8%D0%B5%D0%B2%D0%B0_2.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Botany#/media/File:Arabidopsis_thaliana_inflorescencias.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Botany#/media/File:Oryza_sativa_-_K%C3%B6hler%E2%80%93s_Medizinal-Pflanzen-232.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Classical_element#/media/File:Leibniz_four_elements.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Numerology#/media/File:Agrippan_numerology_table.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divination#/media/File:Rhumsiki_crab_sorceror.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spiritualism_(movement)#/media/File:Spirit_rappings_coverpage_to_sheet_music_1853.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Witchcraft#/media/File:John_William_Waterhouse_-_Magic_Circle.JPG

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kabbalah#/media/File:Portae_Lucis_1516.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sufism#/media/File:Tomb_of_Abdul_Qadir_Jilani,_Baghdad.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sufism#/media/File:Six_Sufi_masters.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_occult_symbols#/media/File:Green_lion_consuming_the_sun.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_occult_symbols#/media/File:WLA_vanda_Vishnu_as_the_Cosmic_Man.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_occult_symbols#/media/File:Squaring_the_circle.jpg

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/ai-generated-books-library-magic-8404320

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/ai-generated-priest-occult-religion-8644753

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/ai-generated-trial-witch-fantasy-8649795

https://pixabay.com/photos/crystal-ball-fortune-telling-ball-8392380

https://pixabay.com/photos/fortune-telling-tarot-to-come-up-4896472

https://pixabay.com/photos/mural-painting-wall-painting-art-2796296

https://pixabay.com/photos/girl-dress-building-ruins-5477610

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alchemy#/media/File:Splendor_Solis_22_sun_rising_over_city.jpg

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5 ANIMALS AND THEIR OCCULT SYMBOLISM

5 Animals and their Occult Symbolism

Throughout history, animals have been imbued with mystical significance, serving as symbols, messengers, and spiritual allies in the realms of the occult and esoteric practices. Their connection to the unseen world has inspired countless myths, legends, and magical traditions, weaving them into the fabric of human belief systems. From ancient grimoires to modern pop culture, the symbolic power of animals is undeniable.

In this exploration, we will delve into the occult connections of five everyday animals and uncover their esoteric meanings, tracing their appearances in literature, film, and spiritual traditions.

Number One: The black cat is perhaps the most iconic animal tied to the occult, its reputation steeped in mystery and superstition.

Black cats are known for being elusive, hiding in the shadows of dark alleys, moving with extreme precision, and being stealth hunters. These traits naturally connect them to what’s hidden, what’s unknown, what is secret and what is veiled.

In alchemy, the cat’s dark fur mirrors the darkness of the nigredo, where the impurities of the soul are confronted and released.

In tarot, we can see the black cat on the Queen of Wands, signifying the hidden and intuitive side of the Queen, but also implying that she has a more secretive and dark side to her.

At one time in history, black cats were revered and worshipped. They brought luck and were praised for killing venomous snakes, rodents and birds that damaged crops, and protecting the Pharaoh since at least the First Dynasty of Egypt. The Goddess Bastet was very closely associated with cats, bringing protection to anyone worshipping her.

It wasn’t until the Middle Ages that black cats were believed to be witches’ familiars, aiding their human counterparts in magical endeavors. Black cats were thought to be shapeshifters, moving between worlds unannounced and unseen.

During the witch trials in Europe and America, their association with the devil and witchcraft led to their persecution alongside accused witches. Too many innocent black cats lost their lives.

This symbolism endures today, with black cats often portrayed as either omens of bad luck or harbingers of supernatural events.

In Edgar Allan Poe’s short story “The Black Cat,” the animal serves as a chilling symbol of guilt and darkness, underscoring its association with the uncanny. Additionally, black cats have found their way into popular culture as magical companions, such as Salem in the television series Sabrina the Teenage Witch or Thackery Binx in the film Hocus Pocus. These portrayals continue to highlight their enduring connection to the occult.

Interesting fact – In cats, the gene for a black coat is dominant, which overrides the expression of the tabby gene, resulting in a black coat. This dominance means black is the most common coat color among cats, making black cats more prevalent than any other color. Also, due to genetic mutations, they seem to resist disease more than cats of other colors!

Number Two: Crows and ravens. Firstly, crows are the smaller of the two birds and groups of them are called “murders” – this was given to them in the middle ages for their association with scavenging on dead and decaying matter and with being found around battlefields, cemeteries, gallows and hospitals waiting for any kind of food source.

A group of ravens is called an “unkindness”, or sometimes “conspiracy” of ravens because they have an infamous history of being associated with bad omens, supersitions and other dark foretellings.

Crows and ravens, often conflated, or combined together, in symbolism, are revered for their intelligence and eerie presence. In Norse mythology, the god Odin is accompanied by two ravens, Huginn and Muninn, who represent thought and memory and serve as his eyes and ears across the world.

This connection to divine knowledge and prophecy is echoed in other traditions, where crows and ravens are viewed as psychopomps, or guiders of souls, escorting newly deceased souls to the afterlife. Their striking black feathers and keen intelligence make them natural symbols of mystery, transformation, and the unknown.

In literature, Edgar Allan Poe’s poem “The Raven” immortalizes the bird as a symbol of grief and unrelenting mystery, with its haunting refrain, “Nevermore,” resonating with themes of loss and the supernatural. Similarly, films such as The Crow (1994) emphasize the bird’s association with death and resurrection, reinforcing its esoteric significance.

In J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, ravens are also given a mystical role, specifically in their flight patterns. At one point, a group of ravens is seen flying against the wind, a phenomenon that serves as an omen and a signal of deeper forces at play. This imagery ties into the ancient belief that crows and ravens could defy natural order to deliver messages from the spiritual realm. In the context of Tolkien’s work, their deliberate flight against the wind symbolizes resistance, determination, and the breaking of ordinary rules, aligning with their archetypal role as messengers and harbingers in both literature and occult traditions.

Interesting fact: It is thought that Charles II was the first to insist there must be at least six Ravens at the Tower of London at all times, elsewise, the Monarchy would fall.

Number 3: Owls have long been linked to wisdom and the occult, their nocturnal nature and ability to see in the dark making them symbols of hidden knowledge. In ancient Greek mythology, the owl was sacred to Athena, the goddess of wisdom and strategy, and was often depicted alongside her. This association persists in modern depictions of the owl as a figure of insight and mystery. In the occult, owls are believed to be messengers between worlds, capable of perceiving truths hidden to others.

J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series leverages this symbolism, using owls as magical carriers of communication, further cementing their mystical reputation. Owls’ ghostly presence in the night sky and their eerie calls have also made them enduring figures in folklore, often viewed as omens of death or portents of significant change.

In ancient Roman folklore, owls were believed to foretell death if they hooted while perched on a rooftop. Additionally, placing an owl’s feather near a sleeping person was thought to compel them to speak and reveal secrets.

Interesting fact: In the western world the owl is associated with wisdom, but in Hinduism it is both auspicious and inauspicious. This is because the owl is the vehicle, or “vahana” of Laksmi, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity. There are some people in India that believe by taking away her “vehicle”, in other words, by sacrificing the owl in rituals, the Goddess will be unable to leave the home of that person and will have no choice but to bring them wealth and prosperity the entire year. Some also believe the owl to be Lakshmi’s sister Alaksmi, the Goddess of misery, poverty and strife. In either case, these animals should be held in high reverence, respected and left alone as symbols of wisdom, beauty and awe.

If you’d like more information on how you can help and donate to owls in India, check this link.

Number 4: The snake: The snake is another animal deeply entwined with esoteric practices, embodying duality and transformation and is used frequently in occult contexts. Its shedding of skin has long been interpreted as a symbol of renewal and rebirth, making it a powerful emblem in alchemy and spiritual transformation. It is seen in symbols like the Ouroboros, the snake that bites its own tail, symbolizing eternal cycles like life and death.

In Hinduism, the snake (or serpent) is associated with Kundalini energy, a coiled force that lies dormant at the base of the spine and, when awakened, leads to spiritual enlightenment. Snakes also appear in the Bible as both tempters and symbols of wisdom, as seen in the Garden of Eden story.

It is associated with healing and wisdom and linked to the ancient caduceus, a staff with two snakes, which represents balance, harmony, and the union of opposites.

His symbol is often associated with Hermes (or Mercury) in Hermetic traditions, signifying wisdom and the path to spiritual enlightenment but also representing commerce and negotiation.

In ancient Greek mythology, the snake is linked to Asclepius, the god of medicine and healing, who carries the rod of Asclepius – a classic symbol of medicine.

This duality—of wisdom and danger—makes the snake a complex and multifaceted symbol. Films like The Serpent and the Rainbow (1988) draw on the snake’s association with magic and transformation, while classic texts like Aleister Crowley’s writings often feature serpentine imagery to describe spiritual ascent.

In the Harry Potter series, Nagini is a snake that serves as a Horcrux for Voldemort. The word Nagini, is in fact, the name for a female member of the Naga, a class of semi-divine snakes in Indian religion and mythology.

Interesting fact: Despite being so intertwined with occult practices and used as a powerful symbol since the dawn of man, the fear of snakes (ophiophobia or herpetophobia – fear of reptiles) is one of the most common phobias worldwide. It’s averaged that 1/3 of all adult humans have a fear of snakes.

Number 5: The wolf occupies a prominent place in the esoteric imagination, embodying wildness, instinct, and transformation. In many shamanic traditions, wolves are seen as guides, teaching humans how to reconnect with their primal instincts and the natural world.

This connection is particularly strong in Native American spirituality, where the wolf is often regarded as a symbol of loyalty, protection, courage and wisdom. They were guardians and messengers of the forest as well as teachers and guides. Many tribes had wolf clans, such as the Ojibwe (Oh JIB way): The word for “wolf” in Ojibwe is “ma’iingan” (my-IN-gan ). The Ojibwe tribe, found in the Great Lakes region referred to the wolves as a brother or sister along with the viewpoint that whatever happened to the wolves happened to one of the Ojibwe tribe. Killing a wolf is likened to killing a brother or sister.

Wolves also feature prominently in Greek stories and in Norse, Scandinavian, Icelandic, Teutonic lore as shapeshifters, often linked to werewolves, blending human and animal nature in a single entity.

In Norse mythology, the wolf Fenrir was commanded by Odin to be bound with magical fetters, symbolizing the struggle between primal forces and divine order. This myth reflects the wolf’s association with raw power and the untamed aspects of nature.

This idea of transformation aligns with the wolf’s role in the occult as a totemic figure for personal growth and self-discovery. In literature, Jack London’s The Call of the Wild and its exploration of the untamed spirit mirrors this symbolism. Meanwhile, films like The Company of Wolves (1984) delve into the wolf’s connection to power and transformation, blending fairy tales with esoteric themes.

Interesting fact: Some Arctic wolves are thought to synchronize their howls with the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis), letting their haunting calls blend with the celestial display in a phenomenon rarely witnessed by humans.

These five animals—the black cat, crow or raven, owl, snake, and wolf—serve as bridges between the natural and supernatural, their symbolism rooted in ancient traditions and perpetuated through modern culture. Their recurring appearances in stories, myths, and films reflect humanity’s enduring fascination with the mysteries they embody. By exploring their roles in the occult and esoteric practices, we gain a deeper understanding of their magical significance and the ways they continue to captivate our imaginations.

So what is your favorite occult animal on this list? Have you had a previous experience with it? We’d love to hear about it in the comments below and don’t forget to share this post!!!

Video version here:

5 Animals and their Occult Symbolism

Interesting sources, additional info, courses, images, credits, attributions and other points of views here:

Balancing and Healing the Chakras through Yoga https://www.udemy.com/course/balancing-and-healing-the-chakras-through-yoga/?referralCode=12C81A148616B419AA06

Mudras to Balance and Harmonize your Chakras and Energy Body https://www.udemy.com/course/mudras-to-balance-and-harmonize-your-energy-body/?referralCode=1A275C6E67E05E8C8130

Elemental Energy for Success and Well Being https://www.udemy.com/course/elemental-energy-for-success-and-well-being/?referralCode=A680413E03BEAD96E744

Book a Tarot reading here: https://www.suryaholistictarot.com/book-a-reading/

Check our soundtrack here:
https://lennyblandino.bandcamp.com/track/nivuru-synthetic-waves

Websites:

https://www.alkemystica.com

https://www.lennyblandino.com

https://www.staciebronson.com/

Links and References:

https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/black-cat-facts/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cats_in_ancient_Egypt

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-london-48308322

https://www.birdzilla.com/learn/what-is-a-group-of-ravens-called/

https://birdfact.com/articles/what-is-a-group-of-crows-called

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psychopomp

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Owl_of_Athena

https://michpics.wordpress.com/2008/11/07/the-snowy-owl-on-the-roof/

https://vedicfeed.com/alakshmi/

https://mythologyworldwide.com/the-symbolism-of-snakes-in-mythology-more-than-just-reptiles/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kundalini_yoga

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Serpentandtherainbow.png

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ophidiophobia#/media/File:The_Punishment_Of_Loki.jpg

https://www.factretriever.com/snake-facts

https://harrypotter.fandom.com/wiki/Horcrux

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nagini

https://occult-world.com/werewolves/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Call_of_the_Wild#/media/File:JackLondoncallwild.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Company_of_Wolves#/media/File:Companyofwolvesposter.jpg

https://direwolfproject.com/dire-wolf/dire-wolf-mythology/

https://wildwisconsinwolves.omeka.net/natives

https://ojibwe.lib.umn.edu/main-entry/ma-iingan-na

https://parenting.firstcry.com/articles/20-fascinating-wolf-facts-for-kids/

https://www.britannica.com/topic/familiar

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The Kushite Empire (Kingdom of Kush) Sudan – Egypt

The Kushite Empire (Kingdom of Kush) Sudan - Egypt

The Kingdom of Kush, also known as the Kushite Empire, or simply Kush, was an ancient kingdom in Nubia, centered along the Nile Valley in what is now northern Sudan and southern Egypt.

The native name of the Kingdom was recorded in Egyptian as kꜣš.

The name Kush has been connected with Cush in the Hebrew Bible. According to the Bible, Nimrod, a son of Cush, was the founder and King of Babylon.

In Greek sources Kush was known as Kous or Aethiopia.

The region of Nubia was an early cradle of civilization, producing several complex societies that engaged in trade and industry. The city-state of Kerma emerged as the dominant political force between 2450 and 1450 BC, controlling an area in the Nile Valley as large as Egypt.

The Egyptians were the first to identify Kerma as “Kush” probably from the indigenous word “Kasu”. Over the next several centuries the two civilizations engaged in intermittent warfare, trade, and cultural exchange.

In the Kingdom of Kerma’s latest phase, lasting from about 1700 to 1500 BC, it absorbed the Sudanese kingdom of Saï and became a sizable, populous empire rivaling Egypt. Current Sai Island is located in northern Sudan.

Under Thutmose I, Egypt made several campaigns south, occupied Kush and destroyed its capital, Kerma.

Egyptians also undertook campaigns to defeat Kush and conquer Nubia under the rule of Amenhotep I (1514–1493 BC). The Kushites are described as archers:

“Now after his Majesty had slain the Bedoin of Asia, he sailed upstream to Upper Nubia to destroy the Nubian bowmen.”

Archers were the most important force in the Kushite military. Their arrows were often poisoned-tipped. Elephants were occasionally used in warfare, as seen in the war against Rome around 20 BC.

Around 1500 BC, Nubia was absorbed into the New Kingdom of Egypt, but rebellions continued for centuries. After the conquest, Kerma culture was increasingly Egyptianized. Nubia nevertheless became a key province of the New Kingdom, economically, politically, and esoterically. Major pharaonic ceremonies were held at Jebel Barkal near Napata.

According to Josephus Flavius, the biblical Moses led the Egyptian army in a siege of the Kushite city of Meroe. To end the siege, Princess Tharbis was given to Moses as a “diplomatic” bride, and thus the Egyptian army retreated back to Egypt.

With the disintegration of the New Kingdom around 1070 BC, Kush became an independent kingdom centered at Napata in modern northern Sudan. This more-Egyptianized “Kingdom of Kush” emerged and regained the region’s independence from Egypt.

The extent of cultural and political continuity between the Kerma culture and the chronologically succeeding Kingdom of Kush is difficult to determine.

The first Kushite King known by name was Alara, who ruled somewhere between 800 and 760 BC.

Alara was a King of Kush, who is generally regarded as the founder of the Napatan royal dynasty and was the first recorded prince of Kush. He never controlled any region of Egypt during his reign compared to his two immediate successors. Nubian literature credits him with a substantial reign since future Nubian kings hoped that they might enjoy a reign as long as Alara’s.

His memory was also central to the origin myth of the Kushite Kingdom, which was embellished with new elements over time. Alara was a deeply revered figure in Nubian culture and the first Kushite King whose name came down to scholars.

Later royal inscriptions remember Alara as the founder of the dynasty, some calling him “chieftain”, others “king”.

Alara was probably buried at El-Kurru, although there exists no inscription to identify his tomb. It has been proposed that it was Alara who turned Kush from a chiefdom to an Egyptianized kingdom centered around the cult of Amun.

Alara’s successor Kashta extended Kushite control north to Elephantine (near modern-day Aswan) and Thebes in Upper Egypt.

Kashta’s successor Piye seized control of Lower Egypt around 727 BC.

He ruled from the city of Napata, located deep in Nubia, modern-day Sudan.

“Amun of Napata granted me to be ruler of every foreign country,” and Amun of Thebes granted me to be ruler of the Black Land (Kmt)”.

“Foreign country” in this regard seems to include Lower Egypt, while “Kmt” seems to refer to a united Upper Egypt and Nubia.

KMT is probably the root of the word Kemet, where Al-Kimia (Alchemy) derives from.

The monarchs of Kush ruled Egypt for over a century until they were expelled by the Assyrian kings Esarhaddon and Ashurbanipal in the mid-seventh century BC.

King Esarhaddon, when conquering Egypt and destroying the Kushite Empire, stated how he “deported all Aethiopians from Egypt, leaving not one to pay homage to me”.

He was talking about the Nubian 25th Dynasty rather than people from modern-day Ethiopia.

The 25th dynasty was a line of pharaohs who originated in the Kingdom of Kush.

Most of this dynasty’s kings saw Napata as their spiritual homeland. They reigned in part or all of Ancient Egypt for nearly a century, from 744 to 656 BC.

The 25th dynasty was highly Egyptianized, using the Egyptian language and writing system as their medium of record and exhibiting an unusual devotion to Egypt’s religious, artistic, and literary traditions.

Earlier scholars have ascribed the origins of the dynasty to immigrants from Egypt, particularly the Egyptian Amun priests.

Tantamani was the last pharaoh of the Twenty-Fifth Dynasty. His royal name was Bakare, which means “Glorious is the Soul of Re.”

Soon after the Assyrians had appointed a king and left, Tantamani invaded Egypt in hopes of restoring his family to the throne. Tantamani marched down the Nile from Nubia and reoccupied all of Egypt, including Memphis. The Assyrians’ representatives were killed in Tantamani’s campaign.

This led to a renewed conflict with Ashurbanipal in 663 BCE. The Assyrians returned to Egypt in force and defeated Tantamani.

This event effectively ended Nubian control over Egypt, although Tantamani’s authority was still recognised in Upper Egypt until 656 BCE, when Egypt was unified. These events marked the start of the Twenty-sixth Dynasty of Egypt.

Thereafter, Tantamani ruled only Nubia (Kush). He died in 653 BCE and was buried in the family cemetery at El-Kurru, below a pyramid, now disappeared. Only the entrance and the chambers remain, which are beautifully decorated with mural paintings.

The Kushite pharaohs built and restored temples and monuments throughout the Nile valley, including Memphis, Karnak, Kawa, and Jebel Barkal. It was during the 25th dynasty that the Nile Valley saw the first widespread construction of pyramids (many in modern-day Sudan) since the Middle Kingdom.

King Aspelta moved the capital to Meroë, considerably farther south than Napata, circa 591 BCE, because it was on the fringe of the summer rainfall belt, and the area was rich in iron ore and hardwood for iron working. The location also afforded access to trade routes to the Red Sea. The Kushites traded iron products with the Romans, in addition to gold, ivory and slaves.

Around 300 BCE, the move to Meroë was made more complete when the Kings began to be buried there, instead of at Napata. One theory says that the monarchs wanted to break away from the power of the priests at Napata.

During this same period, the Kushite authority may have extended some 1,500 kms along the Nile River valley from the Egyptian frontier in the north to areas far south of modern-day Khartoum and probably also substantial territories to the east and west.

The fall of Meroe is often associated with an Aksumite invasion, although Aksum’s presence in Nubia was likely short-lived.

The Kingdom of Aksum was based in what is now northern Ethiopia and Eritrea, and spanning present-day Djibouti and Sudan. It was considered one of the 4 great powers by the Persian prophet Mani, alongside Persia, Rome, and China.

From the third century BCE to the third century AD, northern Nubia would be invaded and annexed by Egypt. Ruled by the Macedonians and Romans for the next 600 years, this territory would be known in the Greco-Roman world as Dodekaschoinos.

After the Romans assumed control of Egypt, they negotiated with the Kushites at Philae and drew the southern border of Roman Egypt at Aswan.

The Kingdom of Kush became a client kingdom of Rome, which was similar to the situation under Ptolemaic rule of Egypt. Kushite ambition and excessive Roman taxation are two theories for a revolt that was supported by Kushite armies.

The ancient historians Strabo and Pliny give accounts of the conflict with Roman Egypt in the first century BCE. According to Strabo, the Kushites sacked Aswan with an army of 30,000 men and destroyed imperial statues.

Then, the Kushites sent ambassadors to negotiate a truce with the Romans, obtaining a peace treaty on favorable terms. Trade between the two nations increased and the Roman Egyptian border was moved to Maharraqa.

This arrangement guaranteed peace for most of the next 300 years and there is no definite evidence of further clashes.

Kush began to fade as a power by the first or second century AD, drained by the war with the Roman province of Egypt and the decline of its traditional industries.  

It has been suggested that the Kushites reoccupied lower Nubia after Roman forces were withdrawn to Aswan. Thereafter, it weakened and disintegrated due to internal rebellion.

The Kingdom of Kush persisted as a major regional power until the 4th century AD when it weakened from internal rebellion amid worsening climatic conditions and invasions and conquest of the Kingdom of Kush by the Noba people who introduced the Nubian languages and gave their name to Nubia itself.

Around 420 AD, the elites began assuming royal insignia of their own, resulting in the later kingdoms of Nobatia (north), Makuria (center), and Alodia (south). Out of these 3, Nobatia is considered a small post-imperial remnant of Kush, maintaining some aspects of Kushite culture but also exhibiting Hellenistic and Roman influences.

Sometime after this event, the Kingdom of Alodia would gain control of the southern territory of the former Meroitic empire including parts of Eritrea.

Technology, medicine, mathematics and architecture

The natives of the Kingdom of Kush developed a type of water wheel that had a decisive influence on agriculture.

They also developed a form of reservoir, known as hafir.

The functions of hafirs were to catch water during the rainy season for storage, to ensure it was available for several months during the dry season as drinking water, to irrigate fields and for cattle.

Nubian mummies revealed that Kush was a pioneer of early antibiotics. Tetracycline was already being used by Nubians, while modern commercial use started in the mid 20th century.

The theory states that earthen jars containing grain used for making beer contained the bacterium streptomyces, which produced tetracycline, and Nubians could have noticed that people felt better by drinking beer.

Nubians had a sophisticated understanding of mathematics as they appreciated the harmonic ratio and established a system of geometry to create early versions of sun clocks.

Long overshadowed by its more prominent Egyptian neighbor, Kush was an advanced civilization in its own right. The Kushites had their own unique language and script, maintained a complex economy based on trade and industry, mastered archery and developed a complex, urban society with uniquely high levels of female participation.

Though Kush had developed many cultural affinities with Egypt, such as the veneration of Amun, and the royal families of both kingdoms occasionally intermarried, Kushite culture, language and ethnicity was distinct, even the way they dressed, their appearance and method of transportation.

They also created pyramids, mud-brick temples (deffufa), and masonry temples.

Pyramids are “the archetypal tomb monument of the Kushite royal family” and found at “el Kurru, Nuri, Jebel Barkal, and Meroe.”

The Kushite pyramids are smaller with steeper sides than northern Egyptian ones.

Kush also invented Nubian vaults, a type of curved surface forming a structure of pure earth without the need of timber.

Some scholars believe the economy in the Kingdom of Kush was a redistributive system. The state would collect taxes in the form of surplus produce and would redistribute it to the people. Others believe that most of the society worked on the land and required nothing from the state and did not contribute to the state.

Northern Kush seems to have been more productive and wealthier than the Southern area.

On account of the Kingdom of Kush’s proximity to Ancient Egypt and because the 25th dynasty ruled over both states in the 8th century BCE, the political structure and organization of Kush as an independent ancient state has not received as thorough as attention from scholars, and there remains much ambiguity especially surrounding the earliest periods of the state.

The study of the region could benefit from increased recognition of Kush as an entity in its own right, with distinct cultural conditions, rather than merely as a secondary reign on the periphery of Egypt.

What do you think about the Kingdom of Kush and its history? Let us know in the comment section and share the post!!!

Video version here:

The Kushite Empire (Kingdom of Kush) Sudan – Egypt

Interesting sources, additional info, images, credits, attributions and other points of views here:

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https://www.facebook.com/groups/1372429986896515

LINKS:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kingdom_of_Kush

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aethiopia

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Esarhaddon

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Twenty-fifth_Dynasty_of_Egypt

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sa%C3%AF_(island)

https://medievalsaiproject.wordpress.com/

https://lenditravel.com/destinations/sai-island/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/El-Kurru

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alara_of_Kush

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jebel_Barkal

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nubian_vault

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tantamani

PICS:

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https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Detail._Sam%27al_stele_of_Esarhaddon,_671_BCE,_Pergamon_Museum.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Esarhaddon#/media/File:The_Recognition_of_Esarhaddon_as_King_in_Nineveh,_illustration_from_’Hutchinson’s_History_of_the_Nations’,_c_1910-15.jpg

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tanotamun_portrait_in_Kerma_Museum.jpg

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Christian_Nubia.png

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Exhibition_I_am_Ashurbanipal_king_of_the_world,_king_of_Assyria,_British_Museum_(45973251301).jpg

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Nuri_Pyramids_Nu_-V,_XVI,_VII,_VIII,_IX,_X,_%26_XI_Kushite_(Napatan).jpg

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https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Colossal_statue_of_King_Aspelta_MFA.jpg

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https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ancient-egyptian-sundial.jpg

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Exterior_of_one_of_the_ancient_Nubian_tombs_at_El-Kurru_near_Karima.jpg

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Burial_Chamber_of_the_tomb_of_Tanutamani_(5)_(33554932640).jpg

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Egypt_-_Capture_of_Memphis_by_the_Assyrians.png

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nubia#/media/File:Nubia_NASA-WW_places_german.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nubia#/media/File:Nubian_Archers.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Egypt#/media/File:NE_565ad.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Triakontaschoinos#/media/File:Nubia_today.png

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nubian_vault#/media/File:Voute_nubienne_egypte.jpg

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The Megalithic Fortress of Arwad – Syria

The Megalithic Fortress of Arwad - Syria

Arwad, an island city situated off the coast of Syria in the Mediterranean Sea, is renowned for its ancient megalithic fortress. A strategic stronghold which has withstood the ravages of time, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the architecture, cultural practices, and historical significance of ancient civilizations in the region.

Historical Background

Also known as Arvad in ancient texts, it was then named Árados in Greek, which was Latinized as Aradus. In Arabic, it became Arwad . It’s also known as Ruad Island.

It is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Syria and its origins date back to the Bronze Age, with the island being continuously inhabited since at least the 3rd millennium BCE. The fortress itself was constructed during the height of Arwad’s prominence, around the 1st millennium BCE, reflecting its strategic importance in ancient maritime trade and defense.

The island was settled in the 2nd millennium BC by the Phoenicians. Under their control, it became an independent kingdom probably called Jazirat (meaning “island”) or Aynook. The city has been cited as one of the first known examples of a republic in the world, in which the people, rather than a monarch, are described as sovereign.

It was a major city-state, and the Phoenicians, known for their seafaring prowess and commercial enterprises, established Arwad as a crucial port city. The island’s location, just off the Syrian coast, allowed it to control important maritime routes and engage in trade with various Mediterranean civilizations, including Egypt, Greece, and Rome.

The fortress was built during a period of heightened geopolitical tensions and conflicts. The city-state faced threats from neighboring powers, including the Assyrians, Babylonians, and later the Macedonians and Romans. The fortress’s construction was thus a response to these external pressures and a testament to Arwad’s strategic military planning.

“The King of Arwad dwelt in the wide sea and fixed his dwelling like a fish in immeasurable waters.” –Ashurbanipal, King of Assyria-

Arwad apparently received the favor of the Seleucid Kings of Syria, and enjoyed the right of asylum for political refugees. Also, in some documents in connection with other cities and rulers of the near East, it is mentioned to show favor to the Jews.

This was after Rome had begun to interfere in the affairs of Judea and Syria, and indicates that Arwad was still of considerable importance at the time.

It formed an excellent base for the Phoenician commercial operations, into both the hinterland as far as the Euphrates, and also to Egypt. It was not until Roman times that the island declined, losing its commercial power to Antaradus (Ṭarṭus).

Tartus or Tartous with over 160,000 inhabitants is today the second most important town on the Syrian coast after Latakia. It is situated on the Mediterranean Sea, opposite Arwad Island.

Tartus was founded in antiquity as Antaradus (Anti-Aradus or the town facing Aradus), as a Phoenician colony of Arwad/Aradus. It was rebuilt in 346 AD by Emperor Constantine the I and flourished during Roman and Byzantine times. It became a major Christian stronghold and it is claimed to have the first chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

In the 12th and 13th century AD, Crusaders occupied Tartus, then known as Tortosa, converting it into a fortress-town, and successfully defending it against attacks. It finally fell to the Arabs, who razed the walls, in 1302.

In November 1300, Jacques de Molay, last Grand Master of the Knights Templar, and Amaury de Lusignan, Lord of Tyre, attempted to occupy the former Templar stronghold of Tortosa.

A force of 600 men, of which the Templars supplied about 150, failed to establish itself in the town, although they were able to leave a garrison of 120 men on the Island of Ruad (Arwad), just off the coast.

Nearly forty of these men were still in prison in Cairo, Egypt, years later, where according to a former Genoese fellow prisoner, they died of starvation, having refused an offer of many riches and goods in return for apostatizing.

Tortosa was the last stand the Templars had on the mainland of Syria towards Arwad, which they kept for another decade.

From the beginning of the Ottoman conquest, the town declined in importance until its port was rejuvenated in the 20th century.

Today, there is a Templar castle and an Arab castle, both dating from the 13th century, still to be seen on Arwad, which is now an entirely Arab island dependent for its livelihood on the fishing industry. Arwad can be reached by boat from Tartus.

Architectural Features

The megalithic fortress stands out due to its impressive and sophisticated architectural features. The term “megalithic” refers to the use of large stone blocks in construction, which is evident in its massive walls and defensive structures.

These walls, which are up to 12 meters (40 feet) high and 5 meters (16 feet) wide, were designed to withstand both sieges and assaults. They provided strength, but also durability, allowing the fortress to endure over millennia.

The walls were built using large, finely cut stone blocks, many of which are polygonal in shape. This construction method was highly advanced for its time and reflects the skill and sophistication of the builders. They were equipped with towers and bastions at strategic points. These towers provided elevated vantage points for defenders and allowed for effective surveillance and defense of the fortress.

The bastions were designed to enfilade enemy troops, creating a crossfire that was highly effective in repelling attacks.

The fortress had multiple gates, each fortified and protected by complex gatehouses. The main gate was particularly elaborate, featuring a series of defensive barriers and traps designed to slow down and confuse attackers. This gate was flanked by two massive towers, each with arrow slits and defensive platforms.

    Within the walls, the internal layout was organized for both residential and military purposes. The fortress contained living quarters for the garrison, administrative buildings, and storage facilities.

    The design of the internal spaces reflected a high degree of organization and functionality, ensuring that the fortress could support a prolonged siege, if necessary.

    Strategic Importance

    The strategic location of Arwad’s fortress was central to its historical significance. The island’s position in the Mediterranean Sea provided it with several key advantages.

    Phoenician Influence

    The island was a center of Phoenician culture, known for its shipbuilding and trade networks. Some of the inscriptions and artifacts found on the island provide insight into the Phoenician language and religious practices.

    Maritime Control

    Arwad’s location allowed it to control important maritime routes. The fortress overlooked the sea lanes used by merchant ships traveling between the eastern coasts and the wider Mediterranean region. By controlling these routes, Arwad could exert influence over trade and commerce, and secure its position as a major port city.

    Defense Against Invasion

    The fortress was strategically designed to defend against maritime and land-based invasions. Its elevated position on the island made it difficult for invaders to approach and launch a successful attack. The combination of thick walls, defensive towers, and the surrounding sea, created a formidable barrier that protected the city from numerous sieges and assaults.

    Economic and Political Power

    Arwad’s control over maritime trade routes contributed to its economic prosperity. The fortress not only defended the city but also symbolized its political and economic power. The presence of such a strong defensive structure indicated the city’s wealth and its ability to project power regionally and beyond.

    Ancient Harbor

    Arwad’s strategic position made it an important maritime hub in antiquity. The island has remnants of an ancient harbor system, which underscores its significance as a port city and its role in trade and military operations across the Mediterranean.

    Historical Significance

    Arwad played a significant role during various historical periods, including the Persian and Roman eras. It was often a point of contention and a strategic asset due to its location and fortifications.

    Cultural Continuity

    The island has been continuously inhabited for thousands of years, and it has retained much of its ancient character. Even in modern times, the local population still engages in traditional practices that reflect the island’s long history.

    Maritime Heritage

    Arwad has a rich maritime history, with evidence of ancient shipbuilding techniques and naval activities. The presence of ancient shipyards and related infrastructure highlights its role in maritime trade and warfare.

    These aspects of Arwad add depth to our understanding of its historical and cultural significance, making it a truly remarkable site with a rich heritage that extends beyond the well-known aspects of its megalithic fortifications.

    The fortress holds significant historical value. It is a testament to the advanced engineering and architectural skills of ancient civilizations and reflects the broader cultural and political context of the time. Its design influenced subsequent fortifications in the region and contributed to the development of military architecture in the ancient Mediterranean world.

    Excavations and studies of the fortress have provided important information about ancient construction techniques, defensive strategies, and the daily life of the inhabitants.

    The insights gained from studying Arwad’s fortress contribute to our understanding of ancient civilizations, their military strategies, and their cultural practices.

    As research and excavation continue, the fortress of Arwad will undoubtedly yield further revelations about its past and its impact on the ancient Mediterranean world.

    What do you think about The Megalithic Fortress of Arwad and other Megalithic structures in the world? Let us know in the comment section below and share the post!!!

    Video version here:

    The Megalithic Fortress of Arwad – Syria

    Interesting sources, additional info, images, credits, attributions and other points of views here:

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arwad

    https://www.aramcoworld.com/Articles/January-2016/Arwad-Fortress-at-Sea

    https://homsonline.com/EN/Citeis/Tartus.htm

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fall_of_Ruad

    https://www.megalithicbuilders.com/asia/syria/arwad-arwad-wall

    SOURCES:

    • Malcolm Barber, Trial of the Templars
    • Martin Bernal, Black Athena Writes Back (Durham: Duke University Press, 2001), 359.
    • Lawrence I Conrad, ‘The Conquest of Arwād: A Source-critical study in the historiography of the early medieval Near East’, in The Byzantine and early Islamic Near East: Papers of the First Workshop on Late Antiquity and Early Islam, edited by Averil Cameron and Lawrence I Conrad, Studies in late antiquity and early Islam, 1, vol. 1, Problems in the literary source material (Princeton: Darwin Press, 1992), 317–401.
    • Alain Demurger, The Last Templar
    • Hazlitt, The Classical Gazetteer, p.53.
    • Lebling, Robert W. 2016. “Arwad, Fortress at Sea”. Aramco World. January February 2016. Volume 67, no. 1. Pages 34–41.
    • Newman, Sharan (2006). Real History Behind the Templars. Berkley Publishing Group. ISBN 978-0-425-21533-3.
    • Jean Richard, Les Croisades
    • Sylvia Schein, “Gesta Dei per Mongolos”
    • Dave Eggers, Zeitoun
    • Krahmalkov, Charles R (2000). Phoenician-Punic dictionary. Peeters Publishers.

    PICS:

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    The Scarab Beetle: A Symbol of Mystery, Myth, and Magic

    The Scarab Beetle - Mystery, Myth and Magic

    Throughout history, certain creatures have captivated human imagination, inspiring myths, legends, and mystical beliefs. Among these creatures, the scarab beetle stands out as a symbol of profound significance in various cultures. Often associated with the underworld, rebirth, and transformation, the scarab beetle was closely associated with the sun god Ra and played a crucial role in the Egyptian belief system, particularly concerning magic and the underworld. In this exploration, we delve into the rich history and symbolic meanings of the scarab beetle, uncovering its profound influence on human culture and spirituality.

    Ancient Egypt: The Divine Khepri

    In the annals of human history, perhaps no civilization revered the scarab beetle more than ancient Egypt. Known as “Khepri” in Egyptian mythology, the scarab beetle was known for its unique life cycle and was deeply intertwined with creation and transformation.

    Khepri (ḫprj) is derived from the Egyptian language verb ḫpr, meaning to “develop”, “come into being”, or “create The beetle’s life began as a humble larva, eggs which had been laid in dung and which emerge fully grown. In this way, the scarab beetle seems to have been created out of nothing.

    This analogy of burrowing into the earth, resemble the sun sinking beneath the horizon. In this stage, Khepri was seen as representing the idea of death and the underworld. Egyptians believed that the sun god Ra traveled through the underworld during the night, only to reemerge at dawn, just as Khepri emerged from the earth.

    Khepri was depicted as a giant scarab or a man with a scarab for a head. Just as the scarab beetle rolled the dung balls across the earth, Khepri rolled the newly born sun across the sky, symbolizing the sun’s daily rebirth.

    Khepri was a solar deity and was often times seen as an aspect of Ra, along with another solar deity Atum. (A-toom) Khepri was the morning sun, Ra was the midday sun, and Atum was the sun in the evening.

    The ancient Egyptians believed that the scarab beetle possessed the power of transformation and rebirth, mirroring the sun’s journey. This symbolism was applied to the deceased as well, as they were believed to undergo a similar journey in the afterlife.

    Scarabs as Symbols of Good Luck

    Scarabs are well known as being symbols of good luck. Scarab amulets were popular and worn by both the living and the deceased. Three types of scarabs, that seem to have been used in funerary practices were known as heart scarabs, pectoral scarabs and naturalistic scarabs. These scarabs were placed on the mummies to protect and guide the deceased’s soul safely through the underworld. The scarab’s significance in Egyptian funerary rites emphasized its role in the afterlife, where the dead would undergo a transformation much like the beetle’s metamorphosis from a lowly dung roller to an elegant, winged insect.

    Commemorative scarabs were sometimes given as royal gifts or propaganda in support of Egyptian political purposes and had been found inscribed with royal names.

    Egyptian scarabs were carried by traders into Mesopotamia and the Mediterranean to sell as good luck charms, so, Egyptians weren’t the only culture to ascribe great importance to the scarab beetle. In ancient Greece, the scarab was associated with the god Ares, symbolizing protection and good fortune. It was believed to have protective properties, warding off evil spirits and bringing good luck to its wearer.

    Additionally, Sardinia had developed an industry for producing scarabs, which were then imported into ancient Rome, where they were often used as talismans and amulets, believing to possess powers of protection and healing. Rings made of scarab beetles were considered to be military symbols and used during battle. Many roman graves dated from 400 AD were found to have had artificial scarabs.

    Medicine

    Not only used for good luck, but also for healing, Some ancient papyrus documents even attest to the scarabs being used in traditional medicine. And in medieval Europe the beetle was used in folk medicine, often times extracting the Oil obtained from the larvae and being used as a cure for scratches and other wounds as well rheumatism and anemia.

    Transformation and Resurrection

    The scarab beetle’s association with transformation and resurrection is a common thread throughout its history. In many cultures, the scarab’s ability to roll balls of dung across the ground and then lay its eggs within them was seen as a metaphor for transformation. This lowly creature demonstrated the power of life emerging from death and decay.

    In ancient China, the scarab symbolized the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. It was considered a representation of transformation and spiritual awakening.

    Similarly, in some Native American cultures, the scarab’s presence was believed to herald positive change and transformation. Among the Hopi tribe, the scarab beetle was considered a symbol of endurance, as it could thrive in harsh desert conditions.

    Scarabs in the Underworld

    The underworld often played a significant role in scarab mythology. Similar to Egyptians, in the Mayan culture, scarabs were associated with the Sun God Kinich Ahau and were also linked to the underworld and death. It was considered a guardian spirit that could ward off evil forces and ensure safe passage to the afterlife. By Using, amulets and talismans on the deceased, or in the tombs, for protection and guidance.

    Magical and Occult Significance

    Scarabs are also featured prominently in the realm of the occult. Throughout history, these beetles have been used in various magical and mystical practices. They were often carved into amulets, inscribed with symbols and spells, and worn for protection or to invoke specific energies.

    In Western esoteric traditions, scarabs have been associated with the concept of transformation and personal growth, as well as having the power to overcome obstacles. Spells and rituals involving scarab imagery are designed to help individuals break free from stagnation, achieve personal growth, and embrace change in their lives.

    For this, Its symbolism is also sometimes present in alchemical texts, where it is associated with the transformation of base substances into gold, reflecting the alchemical goal of achieving spiritual enlightenment and perfection.

    Modern Symbolism

    In modern times and popular culture, the scarab beetle still holds symbolic significance, although it may not be as widely recognized or revered as it once was.

    In music, We can see the rock band Journey, from the 80’s, used the scarab beetle as their main logo and in the cover art of the albums, including their greatest hits, departure and escape.

    In literature, P. G. Wodehouse’s first Blandings novel – Something Fresh (1915) – involves the pilfering of a rare Egyptian scarab (a “Cheops of the Fourth Dynasty”) as a key plot device.

    In film, we see In Stephen Sommers action adventure movie’ The Mummy (1999), the scarab is depicted as an ancient, deadly beetle, killing whatever or whoever it sees and eating it’s entire body, including the organs.

    And for lovers of Tarot, there is Lo Scarabeo, the Italian Tarot card making company based out of Torino, Italy. Scarabeo being the Italian word for Scarab. Here, you can find tarot cards, oracle cards and more.

    And in video games we see the scarab beetle in Tomb Raider, The last revelation from 1999, with Lara Croft being attacked throughout the game by deadly scarab beetles and also Scarabs being used as the monetary unit of planet Sauria (originally known as Dinosaur Planet) in the 2002 video game Star Fox Adventures.

    In Conclusion

    The scarab beetle’s mythological, historical, and occult significance is a testament to its enduring power as a symbol of transformation, rebirth, and protection. From ancient Egypt to distant cultures around the world, the scarab has been revered and respected for its connection to the cycles of life, death, and resurrection. Its mystical appeal persists even in the modern era, where it continues to inspire individuals seeking personal growth and transformation. The scarab beetle’s journey through human history is a reflection of the timeless fascination with the mysteries of life, death, and the forces that shape our existence.

    What does The Scarab Beetle symbol represent for you? Let us know in the comments below, share the article…and come back for the next one!

    Video version here:

    The Scarab Beetle: A Symbol of Mystery, Myth, and Magic

    Interesting sources, additional info, images, credits, attributions and other points of views here:

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khepri

    https://ancientegyptonline.co.uk/khepri/

    https://www.britannica.com/topic/scarab

    https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1093&context=entomologypapers

    https://pixabay.com/videos/beetle-insect-bug-flowers-scarab-65825/