Showing 72 articles

The Philosophical Meaning of the Theory of Reincarnation

Author: Pierre Poulain

June 1, 2016

In most ancient civilizations – like in an important number of faiths – we find the idea of reincarnation, the process that follows physical death. Modern occidental cultures consider death as the opposite of life, and in logical consequence reject death. Death is considered an aim, a disaster, and today most of us are afraid [...]

The Various Faces of the Divine Feminine

Author: Sangeeta Iyer

May 26, 2016

O Mother, Thou who art present everywhere, Thou who art the embodiment of Power and Energy, I Bow to Thee! I Bow to Thee! I Bow to Thee! – Invocation to Shakti, the Feminine Principle The universe is a place of balance…Yin and Yang, night and day, summer and winter, masculine and feminine. A balance [...]

Nemetona

Author: Natalya Petlevych

April 19, 2016

Many hundreds of years ago when the Romans ruled over vast territories in Europe, a man from Treveri (Trier, Germany) named Peregrinus embarked on a long journey to Aquae Sulis (Bath). The gods were merciful to him and, upon arrival, thankful Peregrinus erected an altar stone to Nemetona and Loucetius Mars, to the Mistress of a [...]

Tuning to Nature

Author: Natalia Lema

February 8, 2016

In the ancient civilizations there was an approach to nature in which all beings were considered to be connected in a harmonious way. Stones, plants, animals, humans and divine beings were all part of Creation and the awareness of the thread that united them was more present in the minds of those who lived in [...]

The Eternal Sun

Author: Janki Shah

January 31, 2016

“All that exists was born from Surya, the God of Gods. Of what is and has been and is to be, and what moves or remains still – Surya alone is the source and the end.” -Rig Veda Almost every ancient culture thought it important to somehow preserve, communicate and transmit mythology related to this [...]

In Search of Excalibur

Author: Harianto Mehta

January 26, 2016

Like all mythology, that of illustrious King Arthur has endured the test of time, transmitting essential eternal values that serve to inspire human civilizations of all ages. From its tale, it is not always easy to demarcate between elements of documented history and magical folklore, but perhaps in this very enigmatic characteristic lies the motivation [...]

Eostre and Easter

Author: Pinar Akhan

January 24, 2016

As we approach Easter, the representations of this festivity are increasingly appearing all around us; bunnies, painted eggs and rabbit icons which are all the traces of an ancient celebration dedicated to the Goddess Eostre. St. Bede –  a lifelong monk who studied history, theology, chronology and poetry and dedicated himself to understanding the Anglo [...]

The Mask – a sacro-magical art form

Author: Agostino Dominici

January 13, 2016

The making and use of masks dates back several millennia. It is one of the most ancient and widespread art forms – one which has captured the imagination of countless people around the world. On a recent visit to Portobello Market in London, I found myself confronted by a remarkable display of antique Balinese masks. [...]

Inanna, the Queen of Heaven in ancient Mesopotamia

Author: Pinar Akhan

December 28, 2015

The principle of the life force on which everything depends, along with fertility, love and procreation were just a few of the principles that Inanna, one of the oldest Sumerian Goddesses, represents. Her name means Lady of Heaven and she was associated with the planet Venus, the morning and evening star. The rising and setting [...]

The Heroic Spirit

Author: Natalia Lema

October 11, 2015

Many of us associate the term ‘hero’ with a brave character mostly from stories, myths and historical events: a very special person who is able to overcome weaknesses and fears, displaying great courage and other virtues such as sacrifice and strength. We might even think about a sort of warrior who is victorious, saves others [...]

The World of the Aztecs

Author: Elena Löber

October 10, 2015

The Aztecs – or rather the “people from Aztlan”, a translation from the Nahuatl word ‘aztecatl’ – are largely still a mystery for us. Their strong and determined character, their practical sense and the value they ascribed to the strength of will enabled this people to develop a highly advanced culture and conquer vast parts [...]

Thebes – Book Review

Author: Manjula Nanavati

May 2, 2015

THEBES, BY Prof. Jorge (giorgio) Angel Livraga Rizzi Perhaps no other civilization captures the imagination of intellectuals and dilettantes alike, as does Ancient Egypt. Arguably one of the earliest, longest lasting and most influential civilizations of history, it is recognized for its stupendous artistic, scientific, social, and spiritual achievements. In this slim volume Livraga gives [...]