Symbolism


Book Description

The use of symbolism is an art, not a science. Different people use symbols in a variety of ways and each symbol can have diverse meanings, even within the same culture. Not surprisingly, determining the meaning of symbols can be difficult. This valuable reference defines the general symbolism of more than 15,000 terms, from ancient to modern, as well as specialized meanings in mythology, religion, art, literature, folklore, flower language, astrology, heraldry, numerology, and cultures the world over. From "0" to "Zu," each entry catalogs all possible connotations, listed by culture when appropriate, creating the most comprehensive symbolism dictionary available.




The Antiquary


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Human Sacrifice and the Supernatural in African History


Book Description

Since time immemorial, human beings the world over have sought answers to the vexing questions of their origins, sickness, death and after death; the meaning of natural phenomena such as earthquakes, eclipses of the sun and moon, birth of twins etc. and how to protect themselves from such mysterious events. They invented God and gods and the occult sciences (witch craft, divination and soothsaying) in order to seek the protection of supernatural powers while individuals used them to gain power to dominate others and to accumulate wealth. Human sacrifice was one way in which they sought to expiate the gods for what they believed were punishments for their transgressions. One example, the Ghana Asante Kingdom's very origins are associated with human sacrifice. On the eve of war against Denkyira, individuals volunteered themselves to be sacrificed in order to guarantee victory. Later, human sacrifice in Asante was mainly politically motivated as kings and religious leaders offered human sacrifice in remembrance of their ancestral spirits and to seek their protection against their enemies. The Asante Kingdom is one of several examples included in this study of human sacrifice and ritual killing on the African continent. Case studies include practices in Sierra Leone, Tanzania (Mainland), Zanzibar, Uganda and Swaziland. Advertisements relating to the occult was a common feature of Drum magazine, the popular South African magazine in Southern, Eastern and Central Africa in late years of colonial and early years of postcolonial periods, indicating a wide belief in these practices among the people in these countries? Each case examined is introduced by an expose of folklore that puts in perspective beliefs in the supernatural and how folklore continues to perpetuate them. Through careful study of these select cases, this book highlights general features of human sacrifice which recur with striking uniformity in all parts of sub Saharan Africa, and why they persist until today. He draws upon extensive written sources to expose these practices in other cultures including those in Western societies.




Pilgrimage to Iona


Book Description

A celebration of the beauty and mystery of Iona—a hallowed place of pilgrimage and spiritual self-discovery. With a history swathed in spirituality and mystery, the Scottish isle of Iona has always been revered as a holy place, the center of Scottish Christianity. Legends abound of Jesus and Mary Magdalene alighting and living here before the Crucifixion, and Christ is believed to have visited the island with his mother. Celebrating sacred Iona as a place of pilgrimage, Claire Nahmad explores the fascinating ancient link between Iona and Rosslyn Chapel, the extraordinary unfinished building near Edinburgh, another prominent destination for those interested in biblical, masonic and pagan history. Nahmad takes you on a journey of revelation, unlocking the golden secret of the island and unveiling the undisclosed legacy of the Knights Templar.




The Antiquary


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The Phaistos Disc


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SCORPIO


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INTRODUCTION TO THE ZODIAC SERIES: Special English Edition Personality and Soul Characteristics plus Rising Signs Discover your own myth and revitalise your life with the power of ESOTERIC astrology! Astrology comes of age with this remarkable set of 12 zodiac books (Each sign sold separately) that explore the inner person, the secret Self, as well as the personality that the Self presents to the world. You will be astounded to discover how far reaching the influence of the signs are on our lives, especially our sun (birth) and rising signs, and how much you are a product of the stars. These easy-to-read books are far more than a representation of the same old characteristics and qualities of the signs. With over 55 years of practical experience in astrology, research, teaching and interpretation, Dr. Douglas M. Baker is in a unique position to fully appreciate just what it is people want to know about themselves. In these works he shares his knowledge with us all, covering such subjects as: · The personality and psychology of the signs. · Helpful hints on raising the children of each sign. · Health and the zodiac. · Flower remedies and tissue salts related to each sign. · How your own sign is reflected in the world around you. · The talents and potential genius of the signs. · The Rising Sign – an indication of the life’s purpose. · The spiritual path of your sign. · The qualities and influences of your sign’s ruling planet. · Sample charts and their detailed interpretation These books will help you tap into reservoirs of energy that are linked to your own sign. Energy that will help you cope with the stresses and strains of modern life and bring you into closer contact with the real you, your inner self! This is your birthright because you were born in that particular sign. ARIES: March 21st to April 20th TAURUS: April 21st to May 21st GEMINI: May 22nd to June 21st CANCER: June 22nd to July 23rd LEO: July 24th to August 23rd VIRGO: August 24th to September 23rd LIBRA: September 24th to October 23rd SCORPIO: October 24th to November 22nd SAGITTARIUS: November 23rd to December 21st CAPRICORN: December 22nd to January 20th AQUARIUS: January 21st to February 19th




Art of the First Cities


Book Description

Catalog of an exhibition being held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art from May 8 to Aug. 17, 2003.