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Sun in Libra – The Tree of Grace

Posted in Qabalah, The Temple of the Sun, The Temple of Venus, Venus with tags Air, astrology, cardinal, esoteric writings, Libra, Qabalah, Temple of the Sun, Temple of Venus on September 29, 2014 by themagickalpen

Image: Josephine Wall

In the early morning light
My beauty is graced by
Song bird’s beating wing
And awakening of leaf and life.

The noon-day sun cascades
Over my upstretched limbs
Heating and refining the
Visage of my furrowed bough.

Dusk descends and I strain
And stretch reaching up
Towards last Sun’s light.

And as darkness falls the
Memory of the day’s renewal
Weighs the measure of growth
In my aspiration towards
Heaven’s brilliant Gate.

As we enter the Temple of the Sun, Qabalistically we are entering into connection with the central sphere on the Tree of Life, Tiphareth. The name given this sphere is Beauty and the energy is one of synthesis through sacrifice and integration through refinement of the sum of all of its parts. This is much the same energy that we experience in the course of a Solar year. The energy of each of the Zodiacal signs, their element and modality are modified and expressed through the brilliance of the Sun. And, in keeping with the evolutionary process of movement from one sign to the next, each is informed by the previous sign’s energy and contributes a part of its dynamic into the sign that follows. Please see the end of this post for recommendations about learning more about the Tree of Life.

Libra and Venus on the Tree

Astrologically, we have learned that Libra is ruled by the planet of nature’s beauty and refined grace, Venus. We experienced the energy of each interaction we have, every thought and idea, and every act of creative expression as a form of the planet Mercury’s endeavors to inform, share and interconnect. Now, within the harmonious balance of Libra, the feminine aspect of these qualities is transformed as mind is replaced by heart and the feelings evoked and responses chosen are honed by Venus’ hand of creation’s beauty.

Within the Qabalistic Tree, Libra and Venus hold sway in the Sphere of Netzach and the Paths of the Tree – 14th and 22nd. When we speak of the energy of Libra as offering the space of refinement and grace within the energy of the Tree, we are considering the natural tendency of Libra to offer up its exquisite sense of balance and creative efforts spawned by the desire to give expression to the emotion that is flowing. This energy is expressed in the seeking of balance within each of the spheres and the wild beauty of their expression as a source of transformation. This desire to create and express is found in the fires of the Qabalistic sphere of Netzach.

Netzach (Venus) and Tiphareth (Sun)

Tiphareth and the Sun

Each of the Sephiroth and connecting Paths of the Tree of Life holds correspondence with a planetary and/or zodiacal energy. The physical Sun stands centrally within our solar system, providing light and heat. Tiphareth provides the space of transformation and the full force generator that distributes what is processed so it may be utilized and transmuted by whatever it emanates its energy into. This is the sacrificial aspect of this sphere. This is the action of enlivening within its own source to ensure the continuation of the creative process begun within the other components of the Tree. So we begin in this central hub of universal energy and move out towards the flow of energy represented by the essence of Victorious Creative Fires that is the sphere of Netzach.

Netzach: The Sphere of Refined Creation

Deep within the heart
Of the emerald jewel
Lay the great mysteries
Of time and love.

The lamp is lit
And glows within
Edges sharp where
Line and point
Intersect poignantly
At the place of equilibrium.

From the wellspring rises
Form of beauty and
Intelligence refined
As Pleiades dance
In response to the
Sound of planets’
Symphony.

And, all is held gently
Contained in beauty’s grace
As she unites with clarity of
Mind and focus of heart.

Netzach is the Seventh (7) Sphere. Within the energy of the number 7 lay the many paths of higher expression and development. Seven is the number of the Pleiades, the number of the Elder Planets of Astrology, the Seven Sacred Vowels and the Seven Major Chakras within the subtle bodies. This is also the number of synthesis, having moved from the harmonious balance of the number six to a point of gathering all of those experiences into a place of multiple options and outcomes for further expression and exploration. Netzach’s English name is “Victory”. There are many ways in which we may become Victorious in our expression, but in all circumstances the vital ingredient is that of continually weighing and measuring the worth and effect of what we set out to conquer.

Netzach is assigned the element of Fire. Within the energy of Netzach we can identity this Fire as that of longing, desire and the impetus that coerces the creative urge towards manifestation. Creativity in all of its forms, most particularly the arts and nature’s beauties flow from the refined efforts of Netzach. These fire flow strongly through the Natural world and Netzach reaches deeply into Gaia’s womb of creation to draw inspiration from Her living body.

The Sphere of Self-Awareness

The energy of Netzach is one of Consciousness that has come to a place of awareness of its own inherent nature or state of being. Balance or living the place of the middle way can only be achieved when we acknowledge the areas where we over indulge and those areas where effort is lacking. To formulate this discernment requires being fully apprised of our own basic nature. Once this has been established the necessary fine tuning, balancing and bringing to a state of equilibrium can occur. Netzach is the sphere of love, beauty and refinement. It is through the process of refining the parts of self that we can finally acknowledge and truly love the beauty of the resultant outcome. And, that conscious awareness of the newly found self is our place of greatest Victory.

The 22nd Path: Libra and Venus

My fires will burn away what
You have aggressively sought.

I will give way to your power
I will seek your healing
I will come to understand
Your necessary action.

And the Soul that will emerge
Will have steadfastly persevered
Having claimed its victory and
Triumphed over its personal inequity.

The 22nd Path is one of equalizing. The energy of the spheres of connection provides the means to clearly and concisely remove what is excess before it reaches the central core of harmony and synthesis. The second phase of sacrificial release will be imposed by the energy of Tiphareth in its distribution back towards Geburah as the process begins anew. The midpoint of coalescence of the combined energies functions to calibrate what is set forth on flow of offering.

The Planetary/Zodiacal Energy

Venus/Libra

Venus is the ruling planet of the astrological sign of Libra (and Taurus). As we have seen, Venus as ruler of astrological Taurus provides the incentive(why/who) for creating a solid and stable manifest foundation. Wanting a place of security and home for those you love and care for are the primary focus of Taurean energy.

The planet Venus was called Phosphorus by the Greeks, which translates to “Lightbearer” and Nogah in Hebrew and means “The Shiner”. Venus shines most brightly in the sky in the morning. Within the energy of the Tree and acting through the sphere of Netzach, Venus is the light that illuminates and refines what the mind would keep devoid of emotional connection. Its action is one of stimulating the flow of passion and the desire to create in a productive way, by infusing each inventive thought with the fires of carefully applied will.

To read more about Venus’ energies, review the posts in:
The Temple of Venus

Libra is of the element Air and approaches each new task giving first attention to the architectural thought that will provide the blue prints for completion. As Venus’ energy emerges, the fires of creative inspiration fueled by emotional response take hold and the strivings are now that of producing something of rare and lasting beauty. The same approach of balance and beauty is applied in creating the beautiful mind that balances intellect and logic, rational and inventive thought. If all is successful what issues from this skillful juggling will be the finest representation of what is being expressed and each part will harmoniously be balanced by and with the other.

These energies placed upon the 22nd Path ensure that what is drawn into the synthesized core of Tiphareth has received justifiable cutting away within Geburah. The exacting balance of Libra’s energies work to maintain conscious awareness and preserve what will prove useful as it enters the burner’s of Tiphareth’s Sun.

Another Path of Expression: Venus on the 14th Path

The 14th Path: A Supernal of Communication

Remain strong as upholder of the polarity
That is birthed from the seed of force
And held in the womb of endless form.

This is the fire of creation and the
Breath of life that expands and fills
The dark waters where life is held
Waiting for its birthing tides to begin.

The 14th Path holds the honor of providing the base of the spheres of primordial creation (the Supernal Triangle). This path is the space of polarization through the actions of Binah (Feminine) and Chokmah’s (Masculine) energies as the conception of what will be brought into manifestation in the energetic birthing from the Great Mother, Binah. This flow of energetic exchange is directed towards a singular goal of unifying what lay in opposition to produce the space of neutrality where positive and negative give pause and ultimately produce the spark of creative outpour.

The Planetary Energy
Venus

Cool soft lavender,
Blending and merging
Into a sea of powder blue caress
Loving faces with arms outstretched
The butterfly kiss of a child’s soft lips
On rosy red cheeks flushed with love.
Soft, silky panels enfolding gently
Like a lover’s embrace
And vibrant color of passion and
Scent of Sandalwood of soft skin of ecstasy.

The heart yearns to unite with another
And the sweet intoxication
Of a moonlight tryst
Beckons and awaits the paramours.

Kiss, caress, transcendence and
Heart-felt love spilling forth
To all humanity declaring itself
As a magnet of attraction
Desiring nothing but the Beloved.

And who is the “Beloved”
It is the harmonizing energy that
Surrounds it is what captures the
Spirit and carries it aloft
Poised on wings of breath.

The Beloved we all yearn for
Is the shimmering reflection of
Our Higher Self bathed in
The light of Divine embrace
Transformed in the Womb of the Mother
And revealed only when we surrender
To our heartfelt longing.

Read the poem above and allow the images to flow of your own making. This is the energy of the 14th Path in its action as creators.

Tarot Key III – The Empress

Image: Dreamscape Tarot by Stephanie Law

Note: Each of the Paths of the Qabalistic Tree has the assignation of a Tarot key placed upon it as further correspondence to its energy. The Paths 11-32 are represented using the Major Arcana cards.

Tarot Key III – The Empress is the Mother of all life. She sits in quiet repose and strength in the verdant landscape of her own domain. She is the sexual energy that is ripe being both pregnant in her fertility and exquisite in the afterglow of promised union. Placed upon the 14th Path, the Empress offers the vision of what will become and will bear fruit from her union with Chokmah and the manifest and spiritual fruits this union will yield. She is the promise of continued life and expression of that life in all of the elemental worlds over which she reigns supreme.

When we consider the nature of Venus’ energies and Her intended goal of creation, the Empress embodies the wisdom that arises from experience and maturity. She is no longer the flattered ingénue who is easily flattered and anxious to begin the courtship of a romanticized physical journey. She has the composure of selectively and carefully weighing all of the suitor’s gifts before choosing the appropriate vessel to receive the fires of her passionate embrace.

In Conclusion:
As we consider the attributes of Libra and its ruling planet Venus and their impact on the Tree of Life the prominent focus is one of awareness and appreciation of all aspects of the Tree as it seeks to balance its varied nature. The key lay in the responsiveness of desire’s will and the reaction to that desire with catalytic intent. As we come to know more of our wild beauty and connection to nature in all of its permutations, we find the grace of being able to see the beauty in the imperfections.

The ability to apply the finely honed process of carefully weighing the possibilities and stripping away the glamour of unbalanced potential is the gift of discriminating mind that is found in Libra. Its desire to refine through balanced harmony flows through the Tree seeking the source of its inception and the Fires of union that gave it life.

As the light of Tiphareth (Sun) shines brightly and radiates its vision of magnetic attraction throughout the multilayered branches of a tree that reaches far and wide in its expanse and impact we are reminded that in this vision of creation’s most exquisite form and its desire to share the gift of that expression, we are the manifest product of its own loving nature.

Resources:

If you are not familiar with the Qabalistic Tree of Life, I would recommend reading through the article posted in my other blog, The Magickal Pen entitled “Geburah’s Might” to give you the necessary overview for an introductory base of working knowledge about the Tree. It can be found here:

WitchVox: 13 Keys- The Victory of Netzach

The Magickal Pen: Geburah’s Might

13 Keys to the Qabalistic Tree of Life

Reading:
The Inner Chamber Series. R. Fennelly
Volume One: It’s Written in the Stars (2013)
Volume Two: Poetry of the Spheres (2013)
Volume Three: Awakening the Paths (2014)
Order at author’s website: Robin Fennelly

Next Post

Full Moon in Aries- Back to the Beginning

October 8.2014

Sun in Cancer – A Home on the Tree

Posted in Magick, Qabalah, The Temple of the Sun with tags astrology, cancer, celestial, cosmic, esoteric writings, Pisces, Qabalah, Water on July 6, 2014 by themagickalpen

I welcome you with open arms
And the expanse of my branches
Shades and protects you from all
That would call you to harm
And these gifts ebb and flow
From the dreamscape of time
As you settle into the Cosmic
Home that carries you to
Your hidden inner shores.

Cancer and the Moon on the Tree

Astrologically, we have learned that Cancer is ruled by the grand luminary-The Moon. Her energy flows through our mundane lives in a very physical way as we can see the efforts of her waxing and waning in her monthly cycle and feel the pull of her watery tides in the waters of our emotional bodies and the waters that comprise much of our planet. Within the Qabalistic Tree, Cancer and the Moon hold sway in the Sphere of Yesod and the Paths of the Tree – 13th, 18th and 29th. When we speak of the energy of Cancer providing a home within the Tree we are speaking to the ability of this potent astrological sign to connect at the depths of emotion, to have a very specific flexibility of expansion and contraction and to provide the precise space in which creative process may be quickened and nurtured. The pure energy of the Moon Herself is expressed in the sphere of Yesod – Foundation.

Yesod: The Sphere of Foundation

Yesod is the ninth (9th) sphere on the Tree. The number nine, itself, holds great meaning in the energy of this sphere to transform and bring to a state of ending what will be reborn anew and forever changed. In Hebrew, the word Yesod means “foundation” and the “sod” portion alone means “mystery”. This should give clue as to the energies of the Qabalistic sphere of Yesod. It is the stuff of dreams, fantasies, memory and the dwelling place of true magick. This sphere holds the key to the unknown and the unknowable. Physical form and manifest product reside in the descending connecting sphere of Malkuth, but the focus and energy which makes it “living matter” is contained within the essence of Yesod. As we descend from the higher spheres and move through the varied energies of each of the preceding and come to rest in Yesod, we have arrived at the plane of the astral. This is the working field of the “dream” of creation that creates the thoughtform of the manifest expression. Yesod serves as the storehouse of these images only, without the benefit of the life energy needed before these images can move into a realized state of manifestation in Malkuth.

Yesod is considered the sphere of the Moon. And, just as the physical moon of our world goes through its tides and cyclical changes and has great effect on our physical earth; this principle is also true within the sphere of Yesod. Dreams and the subconscious provide the building blocks that move through layers of murky water before they may be seen in clarity and their true form. This is the testing ground, so to speak and until assurances are received as to the viability of these fleeting images, action is not taken towards growth and moving forward. What we have learned of Cancer is similar in nature. Without the assurance and affirmation from those we love and trust, the fledgling individual is unsure as they progress out into the world in search of their own future and destiny.

Although Yesod is assigned the element of Air and what we have found of Cancer is watery in its presentation this is the breath of current that becomes the ephemeral experience of sensing what surrounds you, yet being unsure of where it has originated and where it is going (much like the vastness of the sea). You are simply caught in the airiness of its path. The ebb and flow of Cancer’s application is much like the breezy day, that begins with gentle caresses that move into a frenzied state of blustery conditions and finally quiets back to a state of calm. Opening these flood gates of memory stimulated by the subconscious and collective unconscious can often leave the dreamer in a state of feeling as though they just weathered a potent storm. This is the undercurrent of energy flowing through Yesod.

The Power of the Moon

The Moon was man’s first timekeeper and generated awareness of the seasons, the water’s ebb and flow, evolution and change. It also gave light to the awareness of the cyclic nature of life and the natural surroundings. On the Tree, moving through the energies of Yesod is to move in accord with the Cosmic Law of Rhythm; the natural cyclic nature of all things and the evolution and transformation at the level of the Soul through these waters of higher life. The Moon is placed on the 13th, 18th and 29th Paths of the Tree. Each iteration of its energy is informed and changed by the spheres of connection and the dynamics of the flow needed to continue the process of emanation.

To read more about the Moon’s energies, review the posts in: The Temple of the Moon

Yesod (Moon) and Tiphareth (Sun)

Yesod and Tiphareth

Tiphareth and the Sun

The 18th Path: Cancer and the Moon

Open your flood gates that
The birthing waters may
Cleanse and heal.

Release the power of your
Might and transform the
Wrath of injustice.

All is not viable
And into all vessels
The understanding of
Right action flows of
Its own accord.

The 18th Path provides the energy of synthesis of archetypal form and the action of individualizing. Binah offers the flow of promise of the potential of Divine form drawn into a space of selective shaping of what will ultimately be matter that has its own identity within that of its spiritual nature. This energy is dynamic in both receipt and return and the goal is one of greater understanding of the process of creating the manifest from what is the ephemeral image and conception of that form. Binah forms its concept of what the attributes and energy of its Divine child will be and Geburah offers the active energy that can bring that concept into a form more closely resembling that of a manifest being.

These energies require adaptability on the parts of the connecting spheres. If the archetypal image remains rigid in its desire or the individualized product insists on its final outcome, neither pure essence will have sway and nothing productive will come of the exchange. The adaptability required forms the basis of re-alignment of the intentions of each that are feeding into the mix and this re-alignment enables form to become actualized.
Cancer’s Ebb and Flow

The Moon is the ruling planet of the astrological sign of Cancer. The watery landscape, intuitive flow and flexible wax and wane of the emotional tides are held within the structure of the 18th Path. This is the primary need for the soothing waters of healing (Binah, the Dark Mother) to temper the sword of wielding (Geburah-the space of “tough love”) that offers as product a tool that holds its own. These are the waters that heal any wound that has been opened and carries the wounded to a place of safety and ease of rest. As the tides of healing recede what is left in their place is newly leveled ground that is ready to receive the next inrush of life affirming energy. This is the goal of coming together as community and family. This is the product of realization of being fully supported in your efforts of outreach and trusting that there is always that support to return to when healing from life’s exacting measure is required.

The 13th Path: The Path of the Moon

The Sun rose in the reflection
Of its own grand nature
And the brilliance of the
Benevolent One smiled down.

Magick flowed as prism of light
Within the sacred column of
The steadfast seeker and the
Sun-filled breath of the Divine
Spoke the words of power
As the seeker offered up
The sacrifice of devotion.

The Moon is placed upon the 13th Path and the placing of this adaptable movement of flow within the path of connection between the Crown of Kether and the harmony of Tiphareth gives the needed support of expansion and contraction towards reaching its goal of manifestation. The measure of downpour from the Source recedes and expands in its downward reach as the distributive effort of Tiphareth takes what portion is needed and carries it back to inform and enlivening its process of distribution. Think of the ebb and flow of the tides and their action of pulling in towards the shore the debris and treasures from the expanse of the source of ocean. When the tide retreats it leaves behind some of what has managed to be firmly entrenched in sand and carries incrementally back out again a combination of what is contained on the shoreline. Each working in turn with the other and each changing the landscape, even if only minutely from what it was.

The 13th Path is one of realization and the revelation of the mirror reflection of Tiphareth’s strength of will amplified, yet part of the ultimate brilliance of Kether’s downpour. This becomes the refining tool of cultivating self-consciousness. Not simply self-awareness, but the deeper gnosis of affinity and the understanding of the nature of consciousness and its connection to Spirit. The synthesized product of this interaction is one of unification. It is the unified and realized individual that can leave the safety of home and make his/her mark on the greater world creating new homes and new families of experience as product of this ease with self.

The High Priestess

Note: Each of the Paths of the Qabalistic Tree has the assignation of a Tarot key placed upon it as further correspondence to its energy. The Paths 11-32 are represented using the Major Arcana cards.

Tarot Key II -The High Priestess sits in the Temple of the Moon and takes on the triune form of catalytic energy and transformation. She sits in the space of action as the Middle Pillar incarnate as synthesized balance of male and female, force and form. Her knowledge of the mysteries is honed in the waters of deep intuitive knowledge and her persona is that of the cycle of the moon. Placed upon the 13th Path, the High Priestess serves as reminder of the need for spiritual devotion and discipline as guardian of the great mysteries of life itself. In her feminine form she represents the power to sustain newly quickened life and stands as the ultimate gate of passage towards return to the source of creation. This Tarot key exemplifies the action of spiritual family and spiritual home. Within those energies the seeker may raise to the exalted form of catalyst. This is the space of balance that is achieved as we unify Spirit and matter within. And, this is the revelation that this home is opened only by the key that we hold as member of this spiritual family.

Another Path of Expression: The Moon on the 29th Path
The Moon/Pisces

My soul seeks the beauty of
Your refined and elegant grace.

My body yearns for the wisdom of
Love and the heat of the creative fires.

My Spirit hungers for the lessons
Found in the bliss of exquisite form.

The 29^th Path connects the spheres of Netzach (Victory) and Malkuth (Kingdom). This is the path of drawing down into the manifest and physical realms (Malkuth) the creative expression of what is defined by love, refinement and aesthetic beauty (Netzach). This is the path of feeling (Netzach) descending into matter (Malkuth). The Moon is placed upon the 29^th Path. Pisces is the astrological sign placed upon this path and represents the completion of the zodiacal wheel. Both of these energies are the fullness of emotional expression and intuitive sight. We are all familiar with the energy of the Moon, the waxing and waning of her phases and the power of her tides. Pisces adds the intensity of compassion and a grace of flow that signals the endings of one phase and the birthing waters that will signal the next.

This energy is what will stir the passions towards greater and deeper expression of what is refined and beautiful. This is the energy that fuels the soul’s need and inspires the outpouring of this emotional state of pure joy into a state of victorious expression.

As we learned in previous posts, Pisces is the third of the water Triad that includes Cancer and Scorpio as well. And, as we have also seen, there is interaction – by relation – kind of like Cancer and Pisces being third cousins with the common relative of the Moon. The home that is created here within the Tree is one of all loving and unconditional compassion. The yearning of Cancerian energy for the loving home and family is realized in the refined expression (Netzach) of a love that is pure of heart and focused on the best interest of what is in manifest form (Malkuth).

In Conclusion:

As we consider the attributes of Cancer and its ruling planet the Moon and their impact on the Tree of Life the prominent focus is one of honing the intuitive and healing nature that promotes unconditional love. Cancer brings a desire to love and to be loved and the sense of community that fosters this energy. The Moon shines in Her wisdom bringing the feminine polarity that is both creation and destruction of what does not serve and unconditionally will not thrive. The abundance of water that is reflected in Cancer and in Pisces as partners to the Moon’s energies upon the paths speaks to the natural flow of involution from the Crown and Spirit of Kether down into the manifest form of Malkuth. And, the place of filter for disbursement of this divine elixir is that of Yesod, the sphere of the Moon and the gate where the dreams of a stable and supportive home may come into manifest reality.

As the light of Tiphareth (Sun) shines brightly and radiates its vision of magnetic attraction throughout the multilayered branches of a tree that reaches far and wide in its expanse and impact we are reminded that in this light of opening is the contracted response of embrace and closing in to hold near and dear what is drawn lovingly into that embrace.

Next Posts:

TUESDAY, JULY 8.2014

BONUS: PATHWORKING – THE HALL OF CANCER

July 13.2014

Temple of the Sun: The Magick of Cancer

Resources:

If you are not familiar with the Qabalistic Tree of Life, I would recommend reading through the article posted in my other blog, The Magickal Pen entitled “Geburah’s Might” to give you the necessary overview for an introductory base of working knowledge about the Tree. It can be found here:

The Magickal Pen: Geburah’s Might

WitchVox: 13 Keys: The Foundation of Yesod

13 Keys to the Qabalistic Tree of Life

Reading:

The Inner Chamber Series. R. Fennelly

Volume One: It’s Written in the Stars (2013)
Volume Two: Poetry of the Spheres (2013)
Volume Three: Awakening the Paths (2014)

Order at author’s website: Robin Fennelly

Sun in Taurus: An Anchor of Light in the Tree

Posted in The Temple of the Sun, Venus with tags anchoring, astrology, cardinal, celestial, duality, earth, esoteric writings, fire, fixed modality, Qabalah, Taurus, Temple of the Sun on April 27, 2014 by themagickalpen

My strength flows through leaf and branch
I offer the stability that allows for growth
I am steadfast in my fertility and power to create
My body is the temple that gives life form
My roots dig deeply into anchoring the light
That emanates from Mother’s sacred womb
And Father’s potent seed.

As we enter the Temple of the Sun, Qabalistically we are entering into connection with the central sphere on the Tree of Life, Tiphareth. The name given this sphere is Beauty and the energy is one of synthesis through sacrifice and integration through refinement of the sum of all of its parts. This is much the same energy that we experience in the course of a Solar year. The energy of each of the Zodiacal signs, their elements and modality are modified and expressed through the brilliance of the Sun. And, in keeping with the evolutionary process of movement from one sign to the next, each is informed by the previous sign’s energy and contributes a part of its dynamic into the sign that follows.

Tiphareth and the Sun

Each of the Sephiroth and connecting Paths of the Tree of Life, holds correspondence with a planetary and/or zodiacal energy. The physical Sun stands centrally within our solar system, providing light and heat. Tiphareth provides the space of transformation and the full force generator that distributes what is processed so it may be utilized and transmuted by whatever it emanates its energy into. This is the sacrificial aspect of this sphere. This is the action of enlivening within its own source to ensure the continuation of the creative process begun within the other components of the Tree. So we begin in this central hub of universal energy and move out towards the flow of energy represented by the foundational anchor of the astrological sign of Taurus.

If you are not familiar with the Qabalistic Tree of Life, I would recommend reading through the article posted in my other blog, The Magickal Pen entitled The Might of Geburah to give you the necessary overview for an introductory base of working knowledge about the Tree. It can be found here:

The Magickal Pen: Geburah’s Might

Tiphareth and the Sun

Taurus and Venus on the Tree

Astrologically, we have learned that Taurus is ruled by the planet Venus. Venus also rules the astrological sign of Libra (Air and Cardinal Modality). This bears note when we look at Venus on the Tree. Her planetary energy is found in three places- the sphere of Netzach, Paths 16 and 14. With this duality of astrological rulership, the influence of Air (Libra) and Earth (Taurus) are molded by the energy of relationship, durability and striving towards flow of balance. Although one of these signs may take the lead in directing the expression and form of Venus’ energy, the other is always present as the informing silent partner.

The Foundations of Victorious Venus

On the Tree of Life, the sphere of Netzach holds the pure energy that is the active principle of Venus expressed through earthy Taurus. The English name for this sphere is Victory. The work of Netzach is one of refining and balancing the energies of emotion and response to what has been achieved and what could be considered victorious about that achievement. The sphere of Netzach is the place of establishing the balance of hedonistic and aesthetic ideals. Love is the primary focus, but not at the expense of over indulgence in physical pleasure. These points of focus are all very Taurean in their energy, being firmly and concretely of the physical realms. This is also the place of expression of Love of Nature in all of her forms. The connection between beauty and the energies that are contained within the force of Nature is a strong one. Even in the Natural world’s more disruptive expression, the order and intelligence in design applied in her shaking free from her mantle those disruptions of energy is done with a sense of order, intent and aestheticism. Nature is expressed through Taurus in the overt attribution of an animal, the Bull, to its energies and the dominant theme of physical and manifest expression.

This sphere is noted as the Vision of Beauty (and harmony) of nature and all of its components, human, animal, mineral and plant life. There is also a sense of appreciation of all the finer things and the highest ideals to be achieved. This is present in both the physical concepts of the sphere as well as the spiritual and etheric levels. This is the place of triumph over the baser self. Of organized effort to bring refinement and the orphic delights of the arts to fill the container or structure that is being created before it is released into the place of the intellect that can further define and order it.

Netzach (Venus) and Tiphareth (Sun)

Netzach is assigned the element of Fire as is the Sun of Tiphareth. Within the energy of Netzach we can identity this Fire as that of longing, desire and the impetus that coerces the creative urge towards manifestation. This is the Fire that initially burns very hot and very bright but if not tended carefully will spread out of control and consume that which created it.

Venus’ energy reigns supreme within this sphere with Taurus as an adjunct to that energy and although, Taurus is an Earth sign, the energy of earth is expressed through the Fires of Venusian interactions. Here the theme of Fire is that of the underpinnings that is the molten core within the earth. The Fires that heat the soil to quicken the seeds held within, which in turn stretch upward towards Sun’s light. Although not directly connected via a path that is of Taurean or Venusian dynamic, Tiphareth and Netzach react and radiate one to the other through the 24th Path.

Path 24
A Path of Fire

The 24th Path represents the synthesis of the fire of the heart (Netzach) and strength of sacrifice (Tiphareth) working in dialogue and exchange with one another. If we think in terms of heart felt will and the courage of personality centered sacrifice, this is the action of moving from a place of balanced compassion (Netzach) that willingly offers its energy up to become part of a filtered and transfigured outpour (Tiphareth). The underlying strength of Turaus held in this configuration of Netzach/Venus and the Sun of Tiphareth is the process of regeneration that takes the raw stuff supplied and renews and restores each to its enlivened form.

Read more about Netzach and Venus at:
Temple of Venus: The Victory of Netzach

The 16th Path of Connection: Taurus/Venus

The spheres of Chokmah (Wisdom/The Zodiac) and Chesed (Mercy/Jupiter) are connected by the 16th Path on the Tree of Life. There is great determination (Taurus) held within the 16th Path. It is the upper most support of The Pillar of Mercy and in emanation downwards, what is cultivated within this path is what will later inform the interactions (Venus) between Chesed and Netzach. The energy of Earth (Taurus) within the 16th Path is that of durability, strength and control. The collaborative energies of Wisdom (Chokmah) of the mysteries of the creation of the cosmos(Zodiac) and the Mercy (Chesed) cultivated from experience, choice and expanded(Jupiter) perception from the foundations selected to coalesce these energies that are not only fertile but also prolific in their sustaining powers.

The Hebrew Letter placed on the 16th Path is Vau, which means Nail in English. A nail is used as a tool of binding or attaching one thing to another. The expectation is that this attachment will be durable and long lasting and not easily pried apart. The same is true of the spiritual energy placed upon the 16th Path. As a connecting path on the Pillar of Mercy, this is the path of anchor and endurance. What is cultivated within the merciful being will be elevated to a place of access to what may spawn further creations of this sort. The nail acts to hold firmly these energies so that nothing may separate their dynamic energy as the flow of their combined truths move down into the manifest world of expression.

We could summarize this energy in this way: The stable (Fixed modality) container of Taurus’ manifest form expressed in the refined and creative (Venus) aspect of merciful and benevolent emotion (Chesed) expands from its source (Chesed) and aspires upwards towards the cosmos (Chokmah) to co-mingle with the force of release and seeding (Chokmah) of all that sustains life and maintains order of the heavens and thus by its loving (Venus) reflection also on earth.

Another Path of Expression: Venus on the 14th Path

The planet Venus is placed on the 14th Path, which connects the spheres of Chokmah (Wisdom) and Binah (Understanding). The 14th Path holds the honor of providing the base of the Supernal Triangle of the spheres Binah, Chokmah and Kether. This path is the place of polarization through the actions of Binah (Feminine) and Chokmah’s (Masculine) energies as the conception of what will be brought into manifestation as these coalesced energies emanate from Binah. This flow of energetic exchange is directed and towards a singular goal of unifying what lay in opposition to produce the space of neutrality where positive and negative give pause and ultimately produce the spark of creative outpour. This is the fecundity and fertility of Taurus as it supports the action of Venus.

This path represents the element of Earth (Taurus) raised to the level of Divine action. Form has become formless in its ascent and what we conceive of as foundational earth, its structure and all of its evolving components have now evolved as the support and structure required for the blending of male and female, positive and negative, force and form. We think of earth as being the strength and the constant through which viable substance may pass and yield the fruits of that fertility. This is also true of the 14th Path. Through the support and structure of this path the fruits of emanation are yielded.

In Conclusion:

If we consider the attributes of Taurus and its ruling planet Venus and their impact on the Tree of Life the prominent focus is one of anchoring in the physical experience. Taurus is the reminder of the joys and power in being manifest in form and having the ability to recreate that form of manifestation. This is the space of fertility and the creation of an anchor of stabilizing and immovable (remember the stubborn Bull) nature of digging deeply in and strengthening the roots.

As the light of Tiphareth (Sun) shines brightly and radiates its vision of magnetic attraction throughout the multilayered branches of a tree that reaches far and wide in its expanse and impact Taurus reaches deeply into the fertile soil crafting the foundational work that once begun takes root and spreads into all facets of your mundane experience.

Next Post:
Tuesday, April.29th
New Moon in Taurus: Dig Deep, Stand Strong and Soar

Resources:

The Magickal Pen: Geburah’s Might

WitchVox: 13 Keys: The Victory of Netzach

13 Keys to the Qabalistic Tree of Life

Reading:

The Inner Chamber Series. R. Fennelly

Volume One: It’s Written in the Stars (2013)
Volume Two: Poetry of the Spheres (2013)
Volume Three: Awakening the Paths (2014)

Order at author’s website: Robin Fennelly

Sun in Aries: New Life on the Tree

Posted in Magick, Solar, The Temple of the Sun, Uncategorized with tags astrology, cardinal, celestial, cosmic, esoteric writings, fire, Qabalah on April 6, 2014 by themagickalpen

The Magickal Pen: Geburah’s Might

Aries on the Tree

As we enter the Temple of the Sun, Qabalistically we are entering into connection with the central sphere on the Tree of Life, Tiphareth. The name given this sphere is Beauty and the energy is one of synthesis through sacrifice and integration through refinement of the sum of all of its parts. This is much the same energy that we experience in the course of a Solar year. The energy of each of the Zodiacal signs, their elements and modality are modified and expressed through the brilliance of the Sun. And, in keeping with the evolutionary process of movement from one sign to the next, each is informed by the previous sign’s energy and contributes a part of its dynamic into the sign that follows.

Tiphareth and the Sun

Each of the Sephiroth and connecting Paths of the Tree hold correspondence with a planetary and/or zodiacal energy. The physical Sun stands centrally within our solar system, providing light and heat. Tiphareth provides the space of transformation and the full force generator that distributes what is processed so it may be utilized and transmuted by whatever it emanates its energy into. This is the sacrificial aspect of this sphere. This is the action of enlivening within its own source to ensure the continuation of the creative process begun within the other components of the Tree. So we begin in this central hub of universal energy and move out towards the flow of energy represented by the astrological sign of Aries.

Aries and Mars

The Ruling planet of Aries is Mars. On the Tree of Life, the sphere of Geburah holds the pure energy that is the active principle of Mars. The work of Geburah is one of culling and release of what no longer serves. If we think of this in application to Aries and the youthful energy exemplified, we could equate this description with the impetuous nature of youthful energy, and in this state of impetuosity viable matter may be discarded and overlooked as not be relevant. To some degree this speaks to lack of experience about what something of value looks like and some is just simply the by-product of “haste makes waste”. The paradox of this is that often what unintentionally is left behind becomes the base that is used to create something incredibly useful. Sometimes we need to see with the eyes of one whose only directive is to enjoy the process as they go along and be utterly amazed by where it leads.

Geburah is also attributed as having the Vision of Power. Aries, when infused with the boldness and brilliance of the Sun’s energy can become the great catalytic force that runs through the initial quickening of inventive action, mind and heart. The power that is exerted can be directed and focused in a specific way to be used as a tool of inspiration. Think of the captivating power of a newly born baby and the feelings evoked in celebration of this new life. Think of the encouraging power of one who so utterly and faithfully believes in your success that it becomes your self-fulfilling prophecy, carefully and skillfully reinvented with each new achievement.

The 22nd Path of Connection: Aries/Mars and the Sun

The spheres of Geburah (Mars) and Tiphareth (The Sun) are connected by the 22nd Path on the Tree of Life. Each of the connecting paths on the Tree acts as the bridge of synthesis between the spheres of connection and their pure essence. Additionally, each path has a Hebrew Letter designated as expression of its energy. The Hebrew Letter for the 22nd Path is Lamed, which means Ox-Goad. An ox-goad is a tool used to prod the animal towards movement so that the necessary work may be accomplished. This is the action achieved through the balance of rest and work; providing the space for energy to build and the space for that energy to be used productively towards an end goal. This is the path of conduit that draws from each of its sources and sets up the dialogue of beginning between the Mars energy of Aries (Geburah) and the Sun (Tiphareth). The result is expressed something like this:

The ebullient (Cardinal modality) outpouring of Aries’ kick-starter dynamic is tempered, synthesized and reformatted within the energy of the Sun’s strengthening and structure (Tiphareth). And, once having received the application of the Sun’s light returns back into Aries’ fuel line as premium grade readying the vehicle of its transport to blaze those new trails, recharged, energized and ever mindful of the new horizons ahead.

Another Path of Expression: Aries on the 15th Path

The astrological sign of Aries, proper, is placed on the 15th Path, which connects the spheres of Chokmah (Wisdom) and Tiphareth (Beauty). We now know more of Tiphareth’s (Sun’s) energy on the Tree and this, in relation to the maturity of Chokmah is what the goal of aspiration is for Aries as it comes to its later degree before transiting into the stability of Taurus. The Hebrew Letter placed on the 15th Path is Heh, which means Window in English. A window allows light to pass through it or to be reflected from its surface. We may stand safely behind it, remaining hidden if desired, from the rest of the world and stand as observer or call out to passers-by making our presence fully known.

We now see Aries as the beginning of the zodiacal wheel and have equated that with the chronological expression of infancy through early childhood. At some point the young child develops a greater acumen of the impact of their actions and learns to control (albeit, still not completely) some of their earlier impulses as they begin to interact from a broader knowledge that others have needs as well. The placement of Aries upon this path forms the initial stages of understanding that we are part of something larger than ourselves and as such we must begin the steps towards building the more mature foundations of who we will become. The wisdom of Chokmah is one that realizes that we should not abandon the enthusiasm, desire and inquisitiveness of our younger selves but should instead use that as the initial impulse to synthesize and bring to greater clarity the knowledge and wisdom of our shining selves (Sun) in the full glory of the openness and receptivity of the child (Aries).

In Conclusion:

There is much I have omitted here regarding the Spheres and Paths of the Qabalistic Tree; especially through the lens of the Solar Year and the potential held in the melding of the two disciplines of Astrology and Qabalah. As we move through the year, you will have at its end the basic tools of knowledge to pursue further study of either or both as you wish. And, in the spirit of Aries there is always another new experience to be explored, tested and added towards your growth into a mature and whole spiritual being.

Next Sunday’s Post: The Magick of Aries

Resources:

The Magickal Pen: Geburah’s Might

WitchVox: 13 Keys: The Beauty of Tiphareth

WitchVox: 13 Keys: The Might of Geburah

13 Keys to the Qabalistic Tree of Life

Reading:

The Inner Chamber Series. R. Fennelly

Volume Two: Poetry of the Spheres (2013)
Volume Three: Awakening the Paths (2014)

Order at author’s website: Robin Fennelly

All Hail! The Temple of the Sun is Upon Us!

Posted in Magick, Solar, The Temple of the Sun, Uncategorized with tags Aries, astrology, cardinal, celestial, cosmic, esoteric writings, fire, numerology, polarity, Qabalah, RA, solar, Temple of the Sun on March 20, 2014 by themagickalpen

Hymn to RA

All Hail to Thee, Mighty RA
Blaze of noon day sun.
Your fiery orb high in the
Sky above as we kneel
Beneath the heat of
Your radiance.

All the Gods bow to your radiance
All the Goddesses sing hymns of praise
To Your glory and man
Lays prostrate in humility
And devotion at the altar of
Your making.

Sweet music of adoration and offerings
Brought forth from the Black Land
Rise up in praise and thanks for
Your Sustaining Light.

All darkness flees at the touch of Your hand
All ceases its movement as Your expansive
Rays stretch across the morning sky.

The lotus opens to receive Your Touch
And the sands glisten as rare jewels
As You gaze upon each grain washed
Clean in the boundless ocean that
Reflects the brilliance of your face.

All Hail to Thee
Amun-RA
All Hail to Thee
Who sits high
Above the world.

Khepra in the East
Atum in the West
Whose eye holds the
Point of Life and the
Trifold Arc of Power.

Your eyes see all and
You are the place of return
Within the glowing blackness
Of the Midnight Sun.

All Hail to Thee
All Hail to Thee
Amun, Amun, Amen!

Sun in Aries
3.20.2014

Today is a particularly auspicious day. In addition to the Sun’s Transit into Aries and the start of a new zodiacal cycle, it is International Astrology Day, the Spring Equinox and on a personal note, my twin daughters’ birthday. All of these occurrences bringing a strong energy of focus on today, March 20.2014! The invocation to RA above demonstrates the potency and regal nature of the solar principle and it is in the Spirit of this energy that we will travel the Greater cycle of the Sun as we move through its many faces clothed in the intent and style of each of the astrological signs.

These posts will be broken down into 4/weekly offerings to include:

* The primary energy of the astrological sign (posting on the date of Transit)

* New Moon Magick (posting on the date of lunation)

* Magickal Overlays Pt. 1- Qabalah and Tarot (Sunday)

* Magickal Overlays Pt. 2- Numerology and more (Sunday)

Because we are just entering the Temple of the Sun, there will be five posts this solar month. Today’s post will explore the dynamics of the Sun itself and an additional post on Sunday will discuss the application of the astrological sign Aries as the ruler of this solar month. The number 5 is an appropriate way to begin this journey, as it is the number of disruptive and transformative change, both of which are two of the intentions for this solar study.

The Sun

As pagans, we are continually reminded of and work with the energies and mysteries of the Moon. We have ritual, offer devotion and live in the light and through the cycles of Her many phases. By contrast, the Solar Mysteries are generally continued within the Sabbats and the occasional working that requires the assistance of a solar deity. Doing work that will deepen and strengthen our connection to both of these cycles establishes a point of balance that is informed by the strengths of each and the interweaving of their subtleties to produce work that is synthesized and illumined by light and dark.

The Sun is the brightest star in the heavens. In esoteric matters we often hear reference of the Sun behind the Sun or the Midnight Sun. It is both celestial body, physical in its energy and impact and archetypal in its energy as Deity, energetic force and place of primal force that holds the mystery of creation.

There are many attributions that are given to the Sun. in magickal work, we think of the sun’s energies in the forms it takes as the solar deities we work with, the heat and light the sun provides at a physical and manifest level and the impact of the solar meridians and chakra on our subtle energetic anatomy. As the polarity to the feminine intuitive and healing Lunar qualities, we see the power of the Sun as the masculine strength that is woven through folklore, mythology and the vastness of the varied and diverse spiritual streams. The Sun stands at the central core of all of our workings. It is the dynamic fire that fuels our will towards intent and acts as the combustible source that enlivens whatever that working may be.

These are just a few of the ways we make connection with the archetypes of the Sun. Regardless of what form these solar energies take, the underpinning keys that hold true are those of strengthening, enlivening and ultimately transforming anything held in its power. There is, as well, the timely caution to not stray too close to the full potency of the light of the sun lest it burn the fragile skin we are contained within. In counter to that we also carry the lessons of the Phoenix, whose sole (soul) work is that of the destruction of itself, reduction to the refined essence of its components and the rising up from the ash of flesh and bone to be reborn anew. Let’s take a closer look at some of these vehicles of change.

In ritual and magickal or devotional work we call to the Deities that will best inform and serve what we hope to manifest. The solar deities are those who are called forth to enliven, strengthen and ignite change in a very specific and transmutive way. The Egyptian Solar God, RA reigned supreme and took many forms, including that of the rising and setting of the physical Sun, the sustainer of all life. Each aspect held the key to another level of transformation that those who followed the energy of his Solar flame could hope to lay claim to. The Celtic Goddess, Brighid as a solar deity was keeper of the sacred triple flame and ignited the creative spark in her seekers. Her blade was one of healing that cauterized that which had been excised. She was mistress of the Forge and as such applied the heat of her action to temper the malleable steel of our form and bathed it in the soothing waters too cool and set what had been crafted. The Greek God, Helios was considered to be the Sun itself, traveling much like RA through the day lit sky in a chariot drawn by fire breathing horses. These are the Gods/desses that light the way and blaze the path towards transformation. In ceremonial work, the Liber Resh Vel Helios was written for members of Aleister Crowley’s Order to be performed four times daily as devotional and adoration of the Sun. Its intent was that of focus of the mental process from a heliocentric view, greater connection to the energies of the sun and attunement to The Great Work.

At the level of spiritual evolution and transformation of the energetic bodies it is the solar connection that assists in the building of a Light enlivened physical or manifest body. This energy is gifted through the Etheric body via the vital force gathered from the sun. This energy of the sun presents in three streams of force:

• The Fohat which is the physical manifestation of electricity and of the electromagnetic state in application. This form of solar energy directly impacts the neurological systems of the body that, in turn stimulate and open the pathways of communication, both at physical and spiritual levels.

• The flow of Prana, which provides a state of vitality to the body and is the penultimate and primary life force that transforms the fluids of the body.

• The Kundalini or serpent Fire that transmutes, refines and quickens the impact of the Endocrine System. It is the union of the solar and lunar pathways working each in accord and in friction with the other that sends the life force upwards to nourish and flow through the pathways of the 7-Stars (aka: the glands/organs of the Endocrine system).

In energetic practice, it is the action of calling upon the accumulated Fohat that serves to enliven the individual’s Prana that can then in turn be used to raise and quicken the Serpent Fires of the Kundalini. As this polarized flow of energy of both the lunar and solar currents is pulled up into the crown center, it bathes the pineal glands in its milky elixir and acts as interface to opening to cosmic and expanded consciousness.

At the level of the Chakras- the vortices of energy that draw in and emit the refined spiritual light, the Sun is associated with the Solar Plexus. This chakra is the core center of our inner sun or seat of great power. It is within the solar plexus that awareness of the raising of energy is first noticed. It sits at the center of gravitational balance, keeping us strong and secure in our footing as we move forward. And, it is this chakra that acts to energize and strengthen our actions and fires of will. If engaged fully it is the opener of the heart center of compassion and works in conjunction with the throat center so that will, heart and mind are expressed in an effective manner.

In the overlay of the system of the Qabalah, the sun stands as the central sephira (sphere) of the Tree of Life as Tiphareth. This is the place of sacrifice and reassembling from the wisdom of the inpouring of the other spheres of connection that enter and pass through Tiphraeth. It is the sphere of Beauty, the beauty being held in the synthesis and transmutation by application of the solar principle. On ascending the Tree towards the Godhead of Kether (The Limitless All) the next sphere of connection is Geburah on the Pillar of Might. The heat of the sun is now aligned with the cauterizing blade of the surgeon that cleaves to heal. In descent towards the manifest realm of Malkuth (Foundation) Tiphareth pours into Netzach on the Pillar of Mercy, the fires of refinement. The Solar Principle is gathered here as the soon to be manifest form is fired in the kiln’s of selective balance and desire to create. And on the Middle Pillar of the Tree Tiphareth reaches up through knowledge (Da’At) and the resultant self-awareness to return to the formless source of Kether. On return circuit, the solar energy of Tiphareth reaches down into the sphere of Yesod, affecting discernment and exerting will that is devoid of illusion and misdirection as it is brought into the physical world.

Astronomically, at the time of the Solstices and the Equinoxes we are offered the dynamics of bringing a state of balance between the polarities of sun and moon; night and day. The solstices herald the dominance of one over the other, still being ever mindful of the need for each to maintain this cycle of excess and release. The equinoxes provide a dynamic of seeing solar (day) and lunar (night) in harmonious balance, each providing the pause of equilateral tension as the movement into waxing or waning begins anew.

There are as many ways to attune to this cycle as there are the overlays and characteristics that comprise it. I routinely use these energies in my daily spiritual practice. This may take the form of simply sitting outside at lunchtime and calling into myself the spiritual (Prana) and physical (Fohat) energy of the Sun. I breathe in the rays of the sun, pulling them into the Solar Plexus and then exhaling them into distribution throughout my body. I envision this process radiating out ad into all of my subtle bodies. I have used crystals to hold the specific energy of the sun for later use in ritual work calling upon a Solar Deity’s assistance in quickening the start of a new project. This is particularly effective during a solar eclipse; bringing together a sphere that has been charged with the building lunar energies and another holding the energies of the solar cycle. This eclipse only occurs when the moon is in its New Phase, and is signified by the passing of the moon between the earth and the Sun. I can call upon this combination of energy to create the pathway of the Sun strengthening the heart’s desire (The Moon) as it aligns with the manifest plane of earth.

A few years ago, our Coven embarked on a deepening of our understanding and use of the solar mysteries in a year-long plan. We used as our foundation the Egyptian Pantheon and the cycle of RA and the movement of the Solar Barque (Solar Boat) across the sky through specially crafted rituals. We honored Khepra-Ra at the Vernal Equinox as keeper of the Dawn and new beginnings. We invoked Amum-RA at the Summer Solstice as quickener and peak solar force of noon. The Autumnal Equinox held the energy of RA-Atum in the solar form of Dusk and the setting of the sun to rest and integrate what had been enlivened. And, we entered the Du’at at Samhain in preparation for the calling forth of the Midnight Sun at the time of the Winter Solstice. The products of this work were an uplifting of the foundations we had laid towards a better understanding of the primal nature of the solar energies and their impact in all of our workings.

I have included at the beginning of this introductory post an invocation that I wrote years ago that was used at the start of the Solar Mysteries cycle of workings. If you are so inclined, make formal dedication to this study and feel free to use this invocation as an opening to the Gateway of an energy that is potent in its outpouring and serves to inform and illuminate all aspects of our being. In Solar Light!

Posting on Sunday, March 23^rd.

Birth Rite: The Sun of Aries

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The Temple of Venus- The Victory of Netzach

Posted in The Temple of Venus, Venus with tags celestial, cosmic, esoteric writings, Qabalah, Temple of Venus on December 13, 2013 by themagickalpen

This week we will take a look at the expression of Venus through its attribution on the Qabalistic Tree of Life. Venus is the Planetary energy of the sphere of Netzach. In order to fully understand the nature of this sphere you must have a bit of knowledge about the Tree of Life, itself and the other spheres that form the greater whole. Although this broader information may not seem to directly relate to the Temple of Venus it is an important piece of this dynamic planets energetic signature. The lesson to be gained from this exploration is an affirmation of the expansive, yet stable quality of Venus’ outpouring of compassionate mind and heart. In other words, replace the name of Netzach with that of Venus wherever you see it used!

Applying this overlay of a mystical system that expands and easily maps in accord with its topic of application in much the same way Venus envelopes and enfolds all that enters its realms, opens new doors of experience and interconnectedness found within all of the planetary temples. The inherent wisdom of these energies permeates all levels of understanding, philosophy and teachings. The semantics may differ, but if you have the basics down, you can easily identify Venus’ (or any of the planets) place in the equation. So, as we open further to the beauty of Venus in all of its forms let’s begin our journey into the Tree of Life.

Note: The introductory QBL information below is a reprint of what was offered in the temple of Mercury. Although, it may seem redundant in nature, reinforcing and restating this preliminary information will begin to set into place a pattern of deeper understanding and the connection of the planetary energies with the tree of Life. Even, if you are familiar with the Tree of Life, rereading the basics will often reveal new layers of meaning that have developed as you have progressed in your understanding. With subject matter such as this, any opportunity to review is an opportunity to grow!

Qabalah Boot Camp – Just the Basics

spectrum. Within the Tradition to which I belong, The Assembly of the Sacred Wheel, the principles of the Qabalah are strongly and consistently used throughout all of our covens and the enhancement to the magickal workings and rituals is undeniable and the change evoked through its deeper exploration is palpable among those who incorporate it into their lives.

The Qabalistic Tree of Life describes the descent of the divine into the manifest world, and methods by which divine union may be attained in this life. It can be viewed as a map of the human psyche and of the workings of creation, both manifest and un-manifest. Some of its components are:

10 Sephiroth (Spheres) each having their own specific energetic signature and action.

22 Paths that connect the spheres and act as the synthesizing conduits of connection

3 Pillars of Application of that energy. The Pillar of Severity (Hod-Geburah-Binah), The Pillar of Mercy (Netzach-Chesed-Chokmah)- The Middle Pillar (Malkuth-Yesod-Tiphareth-Kether)

4 Worlds of Action– Each of the spheres exists in each of the four worlds and has a slightly different emphasis of intent depending on which of the worlds is acting upon it.

The Qabalistic story of the creative action of manifestation from the Source of All/Godhead down to the realm of physical and manifest form can be described in this way:

In the beginning there was nothingness- the absence of substance and form (Ain); and as the nothing became aware of itself it also realized the limitlessness nature (Ain Soph) of its being. This realization expanded and with more awareness came the birthing of limitless light (Ain Soph Aur). This limitless light felt the urge to create- and from it emanated Divine Intelligence – Kether. All things needing balance- in its wisdom Kether split and from this source of being the remaining nine (9) spheres became emanations of the varied permutations of Wisdom, Understanding, Mercy, Severity, Beauty, Victory, Glory, Foundation and finally coming to rest in the Kingdom of Earth- Malkuth.

10 Sephiroth (Spheres) of Emanation

The Sephiroth are States of Being and act as vessels to contain the Divine energy that spills forth from the God-Head or Crown of Kether (being the highest expression of the Divine) down into Malkuth, the densest and manifest physical world of Man. The spheres at the top of the tree are more refined in energy – more transparent and expressive of pure Light. As we descend down the tree each sphere gains more density- less clarity of brilliance of light until we come to rest in the earth plane of Malkuth. Each sphere has both an English and Hebrew name and countless correspondences attributed to each. These are keywords only to a larger tome of mystery. The pictures below show the diagrams of:

Fig. 1– The Tree, the names of the spheres, the number in order on the Tree

Fig. 2- The Planetary Correspondences to Each Sphere

Sphere 1-Kether – The Crown- The Crown of Attainment- the ‘Cause of causes”- the unknowable- The Mystical Consciousness- (Modern- Uranus)

Sphere 2-Chokmah– Wisdom- The Word of God- true Will untainted by the material nature- The Radiant Consciousness- The Zodiac (Modern- Neptune)

Sphere 3-Binah– Understanding- The Great Sea- absolute belief- The Sanctified Consciousness- Saturn

Sphere 4-Chesed– Mercy- Majesty- The place of greater awareness and pure compassion-The Settled Consciousness- Jupiter

Sphere 5-Geburah– Might – Strength and Justice- excision and the necessary cutting away- The Rooted Consciousness – Mars

Sphere 6-Tiphareth– Beauty- Sacrifice- the receptive place of the flow of emanations from Kether- The Transcendental Influx Consciousness- The Sun

Sphere 7-Netzach– Victory- The Beauty of Nature- The Hidden Consciousness – Venus

Sphere 8-Hod– Glory- Splendor- the sphere of science and craft- the analytical nature and communicative learning- The Perfect Consciousness – This is the place of Mercury

Sphere 9-Yesod– The Foundation- sphere of the subconscious- the Lunar Gates- dreams and illusion – the astral – The Pure Consciousness – The Moon

Sphere 10-Malkuth– The Kingdom- the plane of physical existence and manifest reality- the elements and all of manifest Life- The Scintillating Consciousness – Earth

The Sphere of Compassion

Deep within the heart
Of the emerald jewel
Lay the great mysteries
Of time and love.

The lamp is lit
And glows within
Edges sharp where
Line and point intersect
Poignantly within the
Space of equilibrium.

From the wellspring rises
Form of beauty and
Intelligence refined;
As Pleiades’ dance
In response to
The sound of planets’
Harmonious symphony.

And, all is held gently
Contained in beauty’s grace
As she unites with clarity of
Mind and focus of heart
Birthing the perfected one
Whose victory mirrors
The beauty of the sun’s
Radiance streaming
Down from above.

The Planetary ruler of Netzach is Venus, so it is fitting that this sphere is considered the sphere of beauty, relationship and love. It is also the place of establishing the balance (Libra) of hedonistic and aesthetic ideals. Love is the primary focus, but not at the expense of over indulgence in physical pleasure. This is also the place of expression of Love of Nature (Taurus) in all of her forms. The connection between beauty and the energies that are contained within the force of Nature is a strong one. Even in the Natural world’s more disruptive expression, the order and intelligence in design applied in her shaking free from her mantle those disruptions of energy is done with a sense of order, intent and aestheticism.

Netzach is known as the sphere of Victory. The principle of victory here is not one of wanton take-over and infringement of another’s space, but rather victory that is found within the triumph over obstacles, whether perceived or real. This over coming is brought to a place of clarity and scrutiny primarily through the action of revealing the true nature of the experience. The resulting balance that occurs is the interaction between Hod and Netzach, academia and pleasure, science and art. This is the work of a polarizing effect. The balance of male and female principles, expansion and contraction, mercy and severity of nature are those obstacles which when brought to a place of control and exertion of will form the basis of foundation for creative outpour.

Netzach sits at the base of the Pillar of Mercy, being the closest sphere towards the manifest form of Malkuth on this pillar. This is the perfect vantage point for drawing down into itself the Higher expressions of Love held within the spheres above it (Chesed and Chokmah) and then setting to its work of harmonizing and refining (the scales of Libra) this energy to create a thing a beauty that inspires the emotions reach upwards in adoration. This is Mercy in its highest expression; the cultivating of what will inspire so that all may reach the pinnacle of their potential.

The Element of Fire

The sphere of Netzach is assigned to the element of Fire; despite the appearance that its should be a sphere of Water given the strong component of heart centered emotion and creative outpouring. Within the energy of Netzach we can identity this Fire as that of longing, desire and the impetus that coerces the creative urge towards manifestation. The nature of this Fire is to quicken and then spread and reach towards distribution through the flowing waters of Hod (Mercury and Mind). This is the Fire that initially burns very hot and very bright but if not tended carefully will spread out of control and consume that which created it.

The Intelligence of the Heart

Intelligence of the Heart refers to the concept that was explored by scientist and metaphysician, R.A Schwaller DeLubicz during his studies of Egyptian spiritual and alchemical practices. For most, the concept of intelligence is confined to the physiology of the mind and those senses that the mind effects. To the ancient Egyptians, the “heart” was the holder of these attributes of intelligence and deep gnosis.

This way of thinking is deeply reflective of the principles of heart centered Netzach and its force of impact upon the rational mind. Without this innate intelligence that serves to provide the deeper understanding (realized through expansion and issuance of those qualities of Divine Love) pure reason will never have the necessary glue to produce thoughts of substance and viability. They will always remain within the world of ephemeral and lofty ideals that never come to full fruition.

The Illusion of the Sphere: Lust, Promiscuity and Manipulation

The Illusion of Netzach is that of lust and promiscuity. The highly idealized and divinely infused love contained within the sphere of Netzach can readily be used as a means of only gratifying oneself under the guise of spiritual practice. Many an unscrupulous spiritual leader has seduced the unwitting practitioner into sexual servitude by promising a way to higher enlightenment through the energies of the sex act.

In reality, the sacred sexual practice of Tantric Yoga would fall within the sphere of Netzach. In contrast to the vice of the sphere, in this practice of Tantra, sexual union and the highly refined and potent energies it produces are solely used for the purpose of spiritual development and benefit with the practitioners receiving very specific trainings in technique and undergoing various levels of initiation.

Manipulation is most easily accomplished through matters of the heart. Where logic may have thwarted the efforts, when love and compassion come into the picture reason, logic and concern for one’s own well-being often go out the window. We see too often the scenario of the abused spouse remaining in the relationship despite the warning signs of safety and financial loss. The emotional bond is a strong one and the vice of Venus’ energy can be all pervasive and all consuming (remember the Fire attribution!) in leaving nothing in its wake but destruction and death.

Connecting to Venus Through Its Expression in Netzach

It has been said that spiritual growth occurs in accord with the flexibility and resilience of the heart working in conjunction with Higher Mind. We saw with Mercury that much of its intent is directed via an outpouring of communication. Taking what is within and modulating it in adaptation to whatever the desired goal is. Venus works from an opposing principle. Her goal is to gather into herself all of the outer experience of the world, turn the exploration within to the deepest chamber of the heart, transform and transmute it and then send it back out into the world in a form that will attract and engender similar action in all that are held within its loving embrace.

Love is what serves as bridge between disparate energy. Love is the great healer in times of greatest need. Love calls to the soul and brings it to its victory in what can be accomplished in a given lifetime. Heart begins the conversation that inspires those to the Great Work and its is the sustaining of the heart center in that work that allows false pride, selfish ego and personality to fall away revealing the mystery of the Divine within. We call upon the Fires of Netzach to quicken our resolve and it is within the core of their flames that we find the wisdom of the Heart.

An Exercise in Claiming Your Victory

This week’s exercise involves journaling. The tactile and kinesthetic quality of journaling is one that fuses the emotions with the thoughts flowing through the hands as word is set to paper. When we journal we are allowing ourselves to open deeply to what is held in our heart’s mind and capturing the essence of those feelings in safe space and private working. In this exercise you will be calling up a personal moment of Victory to be relived and recorded.

Journaling

Select a time in your life when you felt you had great insight and clarity into a situation. The word “victory” in this sense relates to moving through the illusion of what you think is true and seeing and sensing a deeper level of meaning and understanding from this newly opened perspective.
As you write about this experience, allow any additional insights that you may have to flow uncensored.
Then, after finishing, go back and take a look at what you have written. How much more clarity or definition can you add to this writing. What new insights arise as you red through what you have written?
Do this for several more rereads. Finally, go back to the beginning writing and make note of the differences, additions, and deletions you may have made after spending some time looking more deeply into the facets of this writing gem.

Next week: Venus stations Retrograde on the day of the Winter Solstice- December 21@ 4:53pm (EST). What does this mean and how to use its influence?

Resources

WitchVox:

13 Keys: The Victory of Netzach

Thirteen Keys to the Qabalistic Tree of Life: Overview

On-line course of study:

A Year Within the Tree of Life

Book:

The Inner Chamber Volume Two: Poetry of the Spheres-Qabalah
R. Fennelly.Serpent’s Gate.2012

1 Comment »

The Temple of Mercury-The Glory of Hod

Posted in Magick, Mercury, The Temple of Mercury with tags Air, celestial, cosmic, duality, esoteric writings, Hod, Meditation, Mercury, Qabalah on October 16, 2013 by themagickalpen

This week we will take a look at the expression of Mercury through its attribution on the Qabalistic tree of Life. Mercury is the Planetary energy of the sphere of Hod. In order to fully understand the nature of this sphere you must have a bit of knowledge about the Tree of Life, itself and the other spheres that form the greater whole. Although this may not seem to directly relate to the Temple of Mercury it is an important piece of this dynamic planets energetic signature. The lesson to be gained from this exploration is an affirmation of the flexibility of Mercury’s mind and style of communication. In other words, replace the name of Hod with that of Mercury wherever you see it used!

Applying this overlay of a mystical system that expands and easily maps in accord with its topic of application just as fluidly as Mercury’s movement, opens new doors of experience and interconnectedness found within all of the planetary temples. The inherent wisdom of these energies permeates all levels of understanding, philosophy and teachings. The semantics may differ, but if you have the basics down, you can easily identify Mercury’s (or any of the planets) place in the equation. So, in the spirit of drilling deeper into what Mercury looks like in another of its forms, take a journey into the Tree of Life.

Qabalah Boot Camp – Just the Basics

The subject matter of the Qabalah is one that many people do not easily gravitate towards; either deterred by the sheer mass of its scope or feeling that this particular overlay of system has no reference to the purely magickal systems. Although, rooted in the Judaic mystical system the Kabbalah (spelling is Judaic form)/Qabalah (spelling used to distinguish as Western Hermetic overlay) this construct of energy, thought and working is a suitable companion to any magickal and spiritual system. The sheer fact that a statement such as that can be made offers testament to the enduring scope and permanence of its application over a broad and diverse spectrum. Within the Tradition to which I belong, The Assembly of the Sacred Wheel, the principles of the Qabalah are strongly and consistently used throughout all of our covens and the enhancement to the magickal workings and rituals is undeniable and the change evoked through its deeper exploration is palpable among those who incorporate it into their lives.

10 Sephiroth (Spheres) each having their own specific energetic signature and action.

22 Paths that connect the spheres and act as the synthesizing conduits of connection

3 Pillars of Application of that energy. The Pillar of Severity (Hod-Geburah-Binah), The Pillar of Mercy (Netzach-Chesed-Chokmah)- The Middle Pillar (Malkuth-Yesod-Tiphareth-Kether)

4 Worlds of Action– Each of the spheres exists in each of the four worlds and has a slightly different emphasis of intent depending on which of the worlds is acting upon it.

The Qabalistic story of the creative action of manifestation from the Source of All/Godhead down to the realm of physical and manifest form can be described in this way:

10 Sephiroth (Spheres) of Emanation

Fig. 1– The Tree, the names of the spheres, the number in order on the Tree

Fig. 2- The Planetary Correspondences to Each Sphere

Sphere 1-Kether – The Crown- The Crown of Attainment- the ‘Cause of causes”- the unknowable- The Mystical Consciousness- (Modern- Uranus)

Sphere 2-Chokmah– Wisdom- The Word of God- true Will untainted by the material nature- The Radiant Consciousness- The Zodiac (Modern- Neptune)

Sphere 3-Binah– Understanding- The Great Sea- absolute belief- The Sanctified Consciousness- Saturn

Sphere 4-Chesed– Mercy- Majesty- The place of greater awareness and pure compassion-The Settled Consciousness- Jupiter

Sphere 5-Geburah– Might – Strength and Justice- excision and the necessary cutting away- The Rooted Consciousness – Mars

Sphere 6-Tiphareth– Beauty- Sacrifice- the receptive place of the flow of emanations from Kether- The Transcendental Influx Consciousness- The Sun

Sphere 7-Netzach– Victory- The Beauty of Nature- The Hidden Consciousness – Venus

Sphere 8-Hod– Glory- Splendor- the sphere of science and craft- the analytical nature and communicative learning- The Perfect Consciousness – This is the place of Mercury

Sphere 9-Yesod– The Foundation- sphere of the subconscious- the Lunar Gates- dreams and illusion – the astral – The Pure Consciousness – The Moon

Sphere 10-Malkuth– The Kingdom- the plane of physical existence and manifest reality- the elements and all of manifest Life- The Scintillating Consciousness – Earth

The Sphere of Communication

The Planetary ruler of Hod is Mercury, so it is fitting that this sphere is considered the sphere of communication. Within its rationale and reasoning are the tools that may be used in discovering the deeper mystery contained within information. It is through the crystal clarity of pristine thinking that enables better and more efficient means of communicating what knowledge has been extracted. It is also this modality that makes Hod the ideal energetic support for ritual work.

The Element of Water

The sphere of Hod is assigned to the element of water; despite the appearance that its should be a sphere of Air given the pure thought, reasoning power and intellect. Simply put this is the action of Water of Air. The watery aspect insures fluidity and movement as well as the eroding and smoothing away of what is presenting obstacle. This is the breath of mind that is carried on the varied and great streams of consciousness that diverge and reunite again as new tributaries and channels are opened. Regardless of the route they all resynthesize and become part of the One as the destination of return to Source is achieved.

Capacity of the Mind

Hod is the first sphere on the ascent of the Tree that has multiple paths of connection including the place of sitting at the base of the Pillar of Severity. It is also connected via a Path to Tiphareth (the central sphere of the Tree) to the left of Netzach (the base sphere of the Pillar of Mercy) and reaching upwards out of the Moon sphere of Yesod. Just as the mind and brain have many chambers, corridors and paths contained within, Hod offers many routes of emanation from its core to be opened and awakened as the place where structure, order, categorization, analysis and making sense of it all. Hod also serves as the distributor of what work has been accomplished in the manifest realm of Malkuth and the discernment of Yesod upwards towards its more refined spheres.

The Illusion of the Sphere: Falsehood, Dishonesty

The Illusion of Hod is false ego based on faulty knowledge. It is the allowance of what is subjective and personality-filtered information to fill the coffers of our minds disguised as unbiased thought. Furthermore, claiming credit for those brilliant seeds of inspiration when they are nothing more than the over inflated toutings of one craving acknowledgement for being wise, breeds the dishonesty of validation that is not merit based, nor is it sound in its reasoning.

As the time honored thought on this matter goes- true wisdom cannot be found within the knowledge of book learning and course study. True wisdom is what is the result of experiencing at the level of connection to a Higher Consciousness what has been learned through books and study and transforming it into an enlivened part of oneself that cannot be disputed, argued, reasoned away or often even explained to others who have not also had similar experience on the path towards Wisdom.

Connecting to Mercury Through Its Expression in Hod

Many of the modalities we use to establish connection to the greater and lesser worlds, inner and outer worlds are directed through the energy of Mercury as its core component. We desire the ability to understand and comprehend what we perceive by way of information and we act to recreate those moments when we experience clear, palpable and penetrable communication from a Divine source. We evoke and invoke Deity by way of fusing mind and heart with desire and will and establish sacred space through communication of movement, action, intent and the power of the word and breath.

As example, Mindfulness Meditation is an expression of Mercury’s mental prowess. The premise is simple in the goal of simply offering acknowledgement to each thought that presents itself in the continuous stream of consciousness; and by so doing allowing them to flow easily beyond the field of distraction. As simple as the premise is, the difficulty in wrangling the mind to “think” in this highly organized and methodical way is one of determination and dedicated discipline. I think this is Mercury in its pure essence of form. Speed that must be directed in order to slow the cognitive functions in alignment with what the desired product of manifestation hopes to become.

An Exercise in Opening to The Mind

As you move through your day, take a few minutes in the morning, at lunchtime and before bed to check in with your thinking self. Try to be aware of where some of these perceptions and thoughts have originated. Were they the products of interaction with others? Were they the products of you sitting quietly and mindfully “brainstorming” the solution to a problem? Were they the products of inspired reading or did they seem to flow from the muses themselves?

Although we use the faculty of thought regularly throughout the day, the quality and receptivity of that process are often the results of being on autopilot, without much attention to what is actually happening. Try to set aside some time each day (15 minutes is a good starting point) to sit quietly and be fully engaged in what thoughts, ideas and inspirations are moving through you. Write down these ideas. They are often the seeds of a great idea or even potential answers to something that at a subconscious level may have been of concern. By establishing a routine time to simply “be” with your thoughts, you are facilitating a greater opening to the Universal and Cosmic ideology that surrounds us. And, once that connection is made, you are then opening to the Divine.

Next week: Mercury Goes Retrograde on October 21@6:29am (EDT) What does this mean and how to navigate its influence?

Resources

WitchVox:

13 Keys: The Glory of Hod

Thirteeen Keys to the Qabalistic Tree of Life: Over view

On-line course of study:

A Year Within the Tree of Life:

Book:

The Inner Chamber Volume Two: Poetry of the Spheres-Qabalah
By R. Fennelly.Serpent’s Gate.2012

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Temple of the Cosmic Spheres

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All Hail! The Temple of the Sun is Upon Us!

The Temple of Venus- The Victory of Netzach

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