The Journey IN and OUT
Elsewhere on this site, a theoretical model of existence was conveived with the use of only two logical steps:
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| Just two steps! |
In the book All Things Are Numbers, the same theoretical model of existence is built using an alternate progression of logic that contains a few more than two steps. By introducing more steps into the logical process, a few additional concepts are brought forth that shed additional light on the primordial nature of the resulting pattern of four circles and a point. This so-called "elaborate" method begins with a paradoxically beginningless beginning, and then works inward from there to describe a process of coagulation from the vast reaches of nothingness to the very local confines of somethingness.
Thus, by following this line of logic, we observe how the model of exstence that is created, is created from the outside in, toward a source that paradoxically does not exists until the lines of force being described converge to define it! By analogy, the path of these lines of force are compared to that of Salmon swimming upstream to a source they don't know. Eventually, as these lines of force converge inward toward a center, they create the various stages of the theoretical model of existence.
In this elaborate method, the theoretical model of existence that is created, is created from the outside in. Thus, outward expression is only realized after the convergence of these Salmon-like homing forces have met their finite destiny at the center of the model. Outward expression then creates a visible tangible model, whose principle parts are then diagrammed with the use of a point and four spheres... or circles.
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| Just four circles and a point! |
When we try to translate the three dimensional idea of "lines of force converging in and then radiating out" into a one dimensional number line, the act of coagulation, and the resulting return of content back into infinity, comes to resemble a cosmic engine of sorts, i.e. drawing in the fuel of infinity and exhausting it back out as a tangible product. By converting this process into a sequence of numbers, the idea of a cosmic engine becomes a vital translation of spherical forces into number line form. Here’s how.
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The Cosmic Engine
In translating the spherical forces of compression and radiance into a sequence of numbers along a line, we need to first remind ourselves of the the function of the number zero. On a number line, the number zero represents the infinite continuum, out of which Salmon-like forces emerge on their way along an inward journey toward a paradoxically yet-to-be-defined source (see Why Only Nine elsewhere on this site).
The 1/9 Sphere = Frame: As the continuum of infinity collapses into a model of consecutive concepts of concentric containment, the numbers 1 and 9 correspond to the first actual sphere of the finite model, while the number zero represents the infinite continuum of the surrounding nothingness from which the model emerges. Thus the numbers 1 and 9 represent a pause that occurs at this point, before the actual convergence of coagulation upon the finite center, thus defining the outer limits of the model’s theoretical ‘sphere of influence' or Frame.
The 2/8 Sphere = Flow: As we move inward, we find that the next concentric sphere to be translated into number line form is the one labeled with the numbers 2 and 8. Having reached this stage on our inward journey of compression, we make note of how our progress alternates from the non-action of the 1/9 pause, to the inertia-breaking action of finite convergence upon a center or midpoint. Because of its relation to inertia as an impetus to further development, the defining characteristics of the 2/8 stage is seen as automatic and instantaneous - i.e. an immediate involuntary response to an inevitable mandatory function. This “path of least distance” is then analogous to the idea of passing through the model’s theoretical ‘atmosphere,’ where resistance and obstacles are few and navigation is achieved with straight lines. Thus, like drops of rain falling from the sky, we pass, immediately and directly, to the surface as a straightforward act of Flow.
The 3/7 Sphere = Form: Next, as converging lines of force become more and more intense, and begin to meet, the area that will become the theoretical ‘surface’ of the mass begins to emerge. This area corresponds to the third sphere of containment, the 3 and 7. Here the model pauses again, and marks an important point of transition. Spherically speaking, this point is defined as the point at which relative stages of infinity and nothingness begin to decay, or transform, into the positive stages of a finite mass of something. This critical stage of development, where Negative actually changes to become Positive, where Wave changes into Particle, where Energy becomes Matter, creates for us a theoretical membrane of neutrality within the model that is important to observe. This theoretical membrane will eventually contain the substance of the finite mass like a ‘skin.’ But because of its metamorphically transitional status, it is also important to note, again, how it becomes a filter of sorts, creating a kind of peristaltic, one-way bias through the form of this Cosmic Engine idea, thereby making the 3/7 position analogous to the one way valves of the human heart. This theoretical membrane defines our Form.
The 4/6 Sphere = Force: As the action of convergence continues, homing forces begin to mix, blend and spiral together, creating a cluster within the area of the 4/6 sphere. Because of this combining and mixing action, we begin to view the path of coagulation as a much more mechanical path than before. Because of the substance of reality, we can see how the 4/6 path requires us to seek a ‘path of least resistance’ through the center of our finite form. Of course in an already formed model, working our way through this mass of spiraling convergence would be difficult and time consuming, compared to the immediate and direct path of the automatic, instantaneous 2/8. Thus, whereas the action of a 2/8 was compared to raindrops falling directly, the action of the 4/6 path could be compared to that same rainwater percolating through the rocks of Earth. Seeking a path of least resistence takes longer, but, because we are still engaged in a compulsory act of stabilization toward a point of definition, the mechanical action of building a mass continues on a seemingly optional, but still mandatory, scale of eventuality, or inevitability. Whether penetrating through an existing model or describing the compression of an evolving model, we encounter tremendous Force.
The 5 = Function: Finally, when we back up and look again at the path we have just followed, we can see how together, as a functioning entity, this representation of homing forces resembles the workings of a cosmic engine; as the 1/9 fuel of infinity is drawn in, by the automatic action of the 2/8 funnels, through the one way valves of the metamorphic 3/7 membrane, into the mechanical combustion chamber of the 4/6 mass. Assembled all together as an engine they Function.
But, as this is only half of a total cycle, we then need to observe how this fuel is also sent back out as radiant energy and space displaced, creating, once again, the model’s four ‘spheres of influence’ with one continuous, perpetual, peristaltic, endlessly ascending act of cosmic metamorphosis! As this one dimensional idea is again visualized as a three dimensional form, we can begin to see how the peristaltic, wave-like action of equidistant number pairs begins to radiate the music of the spheres!
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The Funnel, Tunnel and Maze
The cosmic engine is a very important concept to understand because it gives meaning to the abstract stages of logical development being created in our mind's eye. The idea that coagulation is an ongoing process of perpetual change, within a universe of infinite proportions, means that our model is not just a stagnant piece of logic but a representation of transient life, breathing in and out!
The cosmic engine is also a good example of how two types of number lines can be combined into one. In other words, the cosmic engine uses peristaltic progress to represent a consumption or passage of fuel through an entity. While at the same time this analogy remains clearly equidistant in form. But whereas this equidistant design may have alluded some, the cosmic engine can now be combined with a visual aid to complement its form... a visual aid I like to refer to as The Funnel, Tunnel and Maze diagram.
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| With this Cosmic Engine, there is Conservation of Energy. |
In the Funnel, Tunnel and Maze diagram, the path through an entity, like The Cosmic Engine, is seen as equidistant in design, but with a definite directional bias. When combined with the Cosmic Engine idea, the funneling part of this diagram becomes equivalent to the portion of progress responsible for igniting impending coagulation. This is symbolized by a shape equivalent in design to that of an intake valve on a real engine. While in equidistant design the exiting funnel represents the ever-expanding exhaust of space displaced by the resulting spheres of influence. Together these two funnels represent the 2/8 sphere of concentric containment where the idea of spherical emergence and delequesence becomes transformed into that of one dimensional convergence and divergence (see Apart/Together model elsewhere on this site). The Cosmic Engine is also good for understanding the idea of how the apparent "arrow of time" propels the number line. The 2 and 8 are like fans put into windows at opposite ends of our house to pull air through on a hot day. One fan faces in, the other fan faces out, so air gets pulled through. We move through the number line just like that air moving through the house. The 2 and 8 are the propellers of the number line.
Moving on, in the ‘tunnel’ part of this diagram we encounter another example of equidistant design as the 3/7 sphere of metamorphic transition is expressed by a simple tunnel of connecting influence. These tunnels represent the one-way valves of the Cosmic Engine where passage through is dependent upon content, and not the valve itself. In other words, one valve is devoted to transmitting content in, and the other to transmittig content out, thus creating the parastaltic phenomenon that keeps energy flowing through. Like the one-way valves of the heart, content does not back up. Time moves ever forward... or through. Time flows through these valves in a one way path. Likewise, we flow through, and because we eventually change along the way, our path out is not the same as our path in. Likewise, we too - in our experience of consciousness - are not the same on our way out as we were going in. Thus a theoretical valve that is set to "in" will not let us out. Only a valve set to "out" will let us out. The 3 lets us in. The 7 lets us out.
Next, as we enter the combustion chamber of the cosmic engine we encounter a zig zag pathway that represents, to us, the compression of ‘forces equivalent to a mass,’ and the 'path of least resistance' that must be found when attempting to pass through such a cluster of substance. It is this arena - from the 4 to the 6 - where the substance of any story takes place. This is where work is done. This is where dragons are fought. This is where the politics of people fight it out. All these encounter, involvements and experiences change everything. Nothing that comes into this arena can exit exactly as it came in. All are changed. The only constant is change. Nothing is certain, that's for sure.
Finally, the addition of the fifth symbol, at the center of the number line, represents the infinitesimal midpoint of progress where theoretical implosion changes, into the outward expression of a manifest form. As mentioned, these three symbols (the 4/5&6) represent the mechanical breakdown of opposing forces with respect to coagulation. In other words, by entering the theoretical confines of coagulation, and terminating at the infinitesimal midpoint of progress, all concepts must exit as their opposite, and as a result perpetuate each others existence. In this way the Cosmic Engine represents the idea of Conservation of Energy. Like humans breathing in oxygen and breathing out carbon dioxide, and trees breathing in carbon dioxide and breathing out oxygen, we expel what each other needs to live. Nothing is lost or destroyed, only made to change form as is passes through. This then becomes the mechanism of a perpetual motion machine!
The Orgasmic Eight
As a perpetual motion machine, the cosmic engine conveys the idea of peristaltic progress through an event in time. That's cool enough, but there is something about peristaltic conviction, and the idea of directional bias through a number line, that leads us to another very important pattern in nature. The signature of this pattern is that of an exploding end to the path of coagulation! On the number line we see this dramatic ending at the number 8 position, as the exhaust of the cosmic engine is propelled like an exploding mist through the exiting funnel of the Funnel, Tunnel and Maze diagram.
This explosive end we are referring to occurs because of the containment of the 4/6 mass by its ‘theoretical 3/7 skin’ and the need that mass has to radiate its influence back to its origins. As resistance to this containment builds, the 4/6 mass of the model reaches a point of intolerance or ‘critical mass’ that eventually demands a dispersal of its contents beyond this containment parameter. In the Geometric Progression, arrival at the last of three physical dimensions signified this critical intolerance, as the resulting Cube was then forced to radiate, or explode, into an all-dimensional Ball and Sphere, thus completing all possible forms of the cycle being described. In the Cosmic Engine and Funnel, Tunnel, Maze models a similar kind of explosion of content back to its origins occurs.
Additionally, as steps of coagulation change from that of initial collision and recoil, to that of compression and radiance we observe how this explosive end continues and repeats for the life of any entity - creating the ‘put, put, put’ of The Cosmic Engine! Of course in a ‘perfect’ model the repetitions of this explosive end are regular and predictable, like a real engine. But when the number line is used to describe events with irregular intervals of progress, anticipation of this explosive ending can sometimes create an orgasmic release of tension, as slowly culminating progressions build a theoretical mass that must eventually be released! (see The Sexual Progression elsewhere on this site).
The Great Egress
The only thing to add to all this, would be to point out the existence of a "trinity of development" that exists at the end of every number line, that governs the behavior of exiting energy. Elsewhere on this site, and elsewhere in books on tarot and cosmology, the process of creation is frequently described as a "trinity of development" involving universal cosmic forces that emerge like a lighting bolt of inspiration from out of the blue, creating manifestation in three ‘near simultaneous’ steps of development. In a tarot deck, The Magician represents the light of this inspiration... The High Priestess the transmission of this inspiration... and the Empress as the resulting creation. As this "trinity" progresses from 1, to 2, to 3, we can now observe how, in equidistant design, the number 7 comes to represent the beginning of a comparable closing trinity of ‘near simultaneous’ development.
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The Great Egress explains the spiritual aspect of both 3 and 7! The hand of God reaches out and touches us with a 1-2-3 trinity of creation. We in turn connect ourselves back to God with a 7-8-9 trinity of expression.
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In other words, by breaking through the ‘theoretical skin’ of the number 7 with our exploding mass, the all-dimensional, radiating 8 carries us to the end of our peristaltic cycle at the number 9. The suddenness, and involuntary nature of this exiting trinity is what contributes to the orgasmic 8’s explosive end, and makes for a very interesting signature in nature (see A Significant Signature of Nature elsewhere on this site). Periodic intolerance and critical mass create a number line with a definite purpose. When this pattern is applied to tarot, it enables us to explain, with the symbols of the cards, all of the explosions that affect mankind; i.e. physical explosions of matter, as well as spiritual explosions of a contemplative mind, augmenting toward a goal of enlightenment. In a tarot deck, The Chariot represents the beginning of this spiritual transport... the card of Strength, with its Lion being symbolic of Solar Energy, represents the nuclear-like intensity of the explosive end... while the aged Hermit atop a mountain represents the end of the progression and return to the nothingness that lays beyond.
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How about mc2 = E!
I'm not a scientist. I don't know that much about science or math, and can only barely understand most scientific theories. But one theory that looks like it might be applicable to this Cosmic Engine and Funnel, Tunnel, Maze ideas is Albert Einstein's theory of Matter and Energy being the same thing in different forms, and how either one can be changed into the other, as described in his famous mathematical equation E = mc2. I'm not completely sure, but I think that E = mc2 means that Energy is equal to Mass (of Matter), moving... at the speed of light squared. In other words, Mass, multiplied by the speed of light squared = the amount of Energy something contains. Saying it that way would of course reverse the equation to read mc2 = E. I don't know much, but I do recall that inverting equations that are meant to be equal is a completely legitimate operation. Thus, if allowable, I could well see the inverted form of this equation working out through the above mentioned models of existence!
In fact... in a way, there is already a similar mc2 = E formula written into the design of our theoretical model of existence... which becomes much more apparent when that model is translated into numberline form. In the Geometric/Dimensional model (seen elsewhere on this site) the number 2 represents two-dimensional inertia-breaking energy... while the number 8 represents all-dimensional radiating energy. Together, as representations of a single three-dimensional sphere in a spherical model, they represent the energy of waves coagulating inward to become a particle, or a particle radiating out in waves. In this way our model of existence portrays a popular notion of particle and wave being two expressions of the same thing. In the Einstein equation, a similar notion is put forth, describing Energy and Matter as two expressions of the same thing.
By using our Geometic/Dimensional model, and the Cosmic Engine/FTM models, we can see how the inertia-breaking Motion of a 2, applied to the aggregate Mass of a 4/5/6 cluster of substance, results in the Energy of an exploding 8. With Motion comes the concept of Time. With Matter comes the concept of Mass. With Energy comes the concept of Space displaced by an entity within a frame of reference. Thus the equation that we see imbedded into our model already would read: Motiontime applied to Mattermass results in Energyspace! To me, that sounds interestingly similar to the reversed form of Einstein's equation: mc2 = E... or c2m = E... which, if read backward would be E = mc2!
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| c2m = E, is that kosher? I would have written: motiontime applied to mattermass results in energyyspace! Is that the same thing? |
Like an atom, we have negative outsides and positive insides. Like a particle, we are pockets of energy waves coagulated into a mass. Thus, we can see how the speed of light at our 1/9 perimeter gets squared and Multiplied against the 4/6 Mass of our being to equal a 2/8 increase in Energy! I would argue this theory to be true for our theoretical models, whether I have understood scientific theory correctly or not. This is just a fun speculation and possible metaphor to use in understanding the theories being presented on this site regarding the nature of existence as seen through the proprietary lens of a certain tarot deck.
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| E = mc2, mc2 = E, E/c2 = m, m = E/c2, E/m = c2. Are all of these are really possible? |
Above, is a diagram that is almost mandala-like. Part of it - the triangles, are extracted from the Wreath mandala seen on the opening page of this site. Added to it are the three parts of the E = mc2 equation, positioned where they would belong if being described by the theoretical model of existence being presented on this site... with c2 over the number 2, E over the number 8, and m below the middle 5, representing the mass of our theoretical model of existence. By adding various operations of mathematics at the triangular points between, one could combine these components in various ways to create the various variations of the E = mc2 equation, such as: E = mc2, mc2 = E, E/c2 = m, m = E/c2, E/m = c2. I don't know if all these are really possible. My main interest is in using the mc2 = E variation to describe the living energy of a number line, and its spherical equivalent.
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Icons of Tarot
For those already familiar with tarot, the explosive end of a numberline can be see in the Major Trumps that were just utilized to describe the closing "trinity of expression" where the card of Strength is seen as symboic of nuclear-like Solar Energy. This idea of energy with an 8 can also be seen in the eight of Coins or eight of Staves. For example, in the Rider/Waite deck, the 8 of Pentacles is illustrated with a man working diligently at his craft. While some people choose to interpret this card as a simple representation of ‘work,’ I see it more as a representation of the radiating, energy of enthusiasm toward a culminating goal. Likewise, as already mentioned, the radiant energy of an 8 is also evident within the RWS card of Strength. While in an opposite direction, that of the RWS suit of Wands, we have an opposite representation of this kind of energy, with a handful of Wands falling to the ground after being hurled across a field. This I view as a representation of an explosive end toward a negative or terminating goal, i.e. a last ditch attempt or final burst of energy.
Another interesting correlation between these two models, and existing imagery of a deck like Rider/Waite/Smith, can be see in the equidistant similarity of the RWS 2 of Swords and 8 of Swords. Both of these cards show a figure wearing a blindfold. For those who are inclined to look at the Minor Suits as a string of 10 individual ideas, the similarity of these two cards might be seen as a nothing more than a simple redundance of artistic license. But... when viewed through the eye of a symmetrically arranged diagram like The Funnel, Tunnel Maze diagram, we can see how the concept of vision becomes an appropriate expresssion of the 2/8 sphere of development. Seeing in straight lines is a kin to the immediate and direct passage of lines of force through the model's atmosphere (like rain drops falling). Blocked vision is simply a variation of the concept of vision... creating, with blindfolds, an atmosphere too thick to see through, causing a halt to direct passage. Looking back at the Marjor Trumps, we wee how Vision is also a key component within The High Priestess card, also numbered 2 as well as some renderings of the card of Justice, when Justice is moved to position 11... also a 2 (11 = 1 + 1 = 2).
Another easy concept to draw from these models is the idea of power eminating from the mass of the model, and how the concept of mass, and power become associated with the numbers 4 and 6... in particular, The Emperor. The mass of an entity is where we find the guts, muscle and bones. The Emperor is all about muscle and guts and power.
Another easy concept to draw from these models is the idea of the metamorphically transitional membrane between negative outsides and positive insides being seen as a skin of sorts, and how skin implies feeling and sensitivity, and how feelings and sensitivity become qualities easily associated with The Empress.
Another easy concept to draw from these models is the idea of a sphere of influence that contains everything, making every entity a microcosmic universe unto itself. This is easily associated to the The Hermit and the idea of total knowledge that he embodies. It is also relatable to the idea of independence that many associate with the equidistant Magician.
Many other correlations can be seen between these models and existing tarot symbols, especially when combined with the numerous other models presented on this site. I recommend that you also read A Significant Signature of Nature.
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EXTRA CREDIT
For those who like the idea - presented by many spiritual philosophies - of Spirit descending into Matter, as well as the idea of Matter - or our very existence - being a physical prison of sinful filth, from which it is our sworn duty to escape back to Spirit, this reciprocal relationship between Matter and Energy is apropos. If viewed the Numerical Tarot way, the path from Magician to Hermit would represent a path to exalted Energy or Spirit, and the path from Wheel to Moon would represent a path to declining Energy or Spirit. The path from Magician to Hermit is full of life. The path from Wheel to Moon is full of death. This should be an attractive qualtity for those who feel that our mundane existence is a "Death-on-Earth" experience, while embracing theories of our existence after death being the real life of life (see Reincarnation elsewhere on this stie). For an additional hint of a progression like this being seen through the Major Trumps of tarot, I would suggest that you also consult the essay An Alchemistic Recipe seen elsewhere on ths site. |
