Symbol – The Universal Language – Part I

September 7, 2009 at 8:24 AM · Filed under Esoteric Commentary and tagged: Adepts, alchemy, archaeology, consciousness, Egypt, Freemasonry, hieroglyphics, initiation, Mystery Schools, schools of thought, symbol, symbolic

The use of symbols and the symbolic transmission of knowledge is an incredibly important tool and essential aspect of initiatic, esoteric and Inner traditions. Symbols have been used extensively and with great effectiveness since long before our current, accepted, world history record. I’d like to examine symbols, their role and relationship to mind, human mental development and the nature of consciousness in a small, three part series. Let’s get started. So, what is symbol? The word symbol is defined as a thing that represents something else by association. It can be seen as a type of universal language as it does not require specific words to be understood. In the context of initiatic and esoteric orders and teachings, symbol may take on the light of a basic moral truth, principle or lesson. Symbols exist naturally in nature and esoterically within the mind of mankind.

It is in the comprehension and understanding of symbol, that new ideas are brought forth. As we explore the workings of symbol, we will begin to piece together a holistic picture; an understanding that draws from sources ancient and revered, as well as examine key principles of initiation and consciousness itself.

Symbols are often understood at disparate depths of thought between individuals, which is an interesting point in itself and worth noting. The initiatic traditions foster evolving change and growth, through successive initiations and through the private works of the intiates themselves. It is also important to note that all initiations are ultimately personal and private. Symbols take on new meaning and combine to form complex understanding and knowledge within the minds of prepared students and initiates on the path, as they progress. Deeper or advanced meaning to symbolism has existed since the dawning of the initiatic tradition and it is in these deeper meanings that the nature of spirit and mind unfolds.

As I began to think about this series and the role of symbol, especially in regards to initiatic orders and students of philosophy and esoteric teachings, it made sense for me to draw from my background in Egyptian esoteric studies and hieroglyphics. We will pick up tomorrow with the symbolic message of the Egyptian temples and the many interpretive levels of symbols in that context. If you choose to, reflect on the symbolic nature of hieroglyphics and why an advanced culture would elect to pass their knowledge on, for future cultures, using this method of information delivery and why these symbols (hieroglyphics) can represent many things to many people.

To Be Continued.

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