The Enchanted Initiate
A Journal of Traditional Symbolism, Hermeticism & the Occult Sciences

Pythagoras

Pythagoras, a renowned ancient Greek philosopher and mathematician, was the founder of Pythagoreanism, a school of thought that significantly advanced mathematics, astronomy, and philosophy, with spiritual and mystical implications. Born between 600 and 590 B.C., Pythagoras traveled widely, including to Egypt, Phoenicia, and India, where he absorbed diverse philosophical, mathematical, and mystical teachings. He is credited with the discovery of the diatonic scale and the application of mathematical principles to understanding musical intervals, as well as the theory of reincarnation and the significance of the dodecahedron as a foundational symbol of the universe.

Pythagoras established an influential philosophical and mathematical school, focusing on arithmetic, music, astronomy, and geometry, and emphasizing the universal connections between these disciplines. He believed in the spiritual significance of numbers and the symbolism of mathematical concepts. Pythagoras is also associated with the harmonic relationships between music, the cosmos, and ethics, and his teachings and symbols are revered in the Freemasonic tradition. He utilized music as a therapeutic tool and highly valued friendship, wisdom, and knowledge, founding a communal life within his school. The theory of reincarnation was among his significant doctrines, and he is often mentioned in classical texts as embodying philosophical wisdom and intellect, with many attributing to him the discovery of the numerical philosophy and systems described.

Concordance & Cross-References

Primary Correspondences & Figures

Wife Of PythagorasPerson

Pythagoras' wife provided inspiration to him during his life and continued to promote his teachings after his death Wife of Pythagoras was highly influenced by him and continued his teachings

CrotonaGeography

Pythagoras, the renowned Greek philosopher and mathematician, established an influential institution at Crotona upon his return from extensive travels. This school or university in Crotona became a significant center of learning, where Pythagoras educated others in his philosophies and mathematical discoveries. Crotona was where Pythagoras established his influential school

Plato→Person

Pythagoras and Plato are both central figures in the study of philosophical and mathematical teachings, their triad concepts connected Plato, the renowned ancient Greek philosopher, significantly integrated and adapted Pythagorean ideas into his own philosophical constructs, demonstrating a deep respect for the influential thinker Pythagoras. A key aspect of this integration was the emphasis on the role of music in moral and educational development within the state. Plato's understanding of music’s impact on the societal and individual level was profoundly shaped by Pythagorean principles, which posited that music has the power to influence the soul and thereby contribute to the greater harmony and well-being of the state. This alignment with Pythagorean thought can be seen in Plato's various works, where he advocates for the careful selection and regulation of musical compositions to promote virtue and wisdom among citizens.

Pythagoras and Freemasonry share historical and philosophical connections, both dealing with wisdom and symbolism Ancient Masonry influenced and was influenced by the philosophies of Pythagoras, in particular his focus on wisdom and symbolic practices

Mystery SchoolsConcept

Pythagoras was initiated into various Mystery Schools, connecting him to their lineage Pythagoras's initiation is part of a broader tradition of Mystery Schools that span various cultures

Master Or That ManRitual

Pythagorean disciples used 'The Master or That Man' as terms of respect when referring to Pythagoras

Egypt→Lineage

Pythagoras, the ancient Greek philosopher and mathematician, was initiated into the Egyptian Mysteries of Isis and delved deeply into the rich traditions of Egypt. His study and initiation into these religious and philosophical practices in Egypt are well-documented, highlighting the significance of Egyptian knowledge and beliefs in shaping his thoughts and contributions to various fields. Through his immersion in Egyptian traditions and the mysteries of Isis, Pythagoras likely enriched his philosophical and mathematical philosophies, making his contributions even more profound and manifold. Pythagoras was initiated into the Egyptian Mysteries of Isis

FriendshipConcept

Friendship was a core concept in Pythagorean philosophy, as articulated by Pythagoras, emphasizing the interplay between different forms of relationships and the idea of friendship as the most perfect relationship.

PythasisPerson

Pythagoras, the son of Pythasis, was born under unusual circumstances. According to the records, Pythasis' name was altered due to a prophecy, signifying the extraordinary nature of Pythagoras' birth. During Pythagoras' conception, his mother, Pythasis, encountered a divine figure, which was not only a significant event in her life but also a foretelling of Pythagoras' future contributions and the remarkable path he would follow.

Mystery Of Choice (υ)Concept

The Υ sign represented the choice between divine and earthly wisdom in Pythagorean philosophy, illustrating the importance of ethical and moral decision-making in one's life.

Monad→Lineage

Pythagoras sought understanding through the Monad, the ultimate source of wisdom that was both the foundation of the universe and individual souls.

Music→Concept

Pythagoras invented musical modes and used them for both scientific and therapeutic purposes. He is credited with establishing the link between music and natural laws.

BrahminLineage

Pythagoras studied under the Brahmins of Elephanta and Ellora as a pupil and initiate

Pythagorean AstronomyConcept

Pythagoras developed the field of philosophical astronomy, which included his concepts of the cosmos and celestial bodies.

Sea OnionSubstance

The sea onion was of significant importance to Pythagoras, both as a symbol of healing and in his voluminous writings on its medicinal properties.

Healing Powers Of PlantsConcept

Pythagoras valued the medicinal properties of plants, emphasizing the sea onion in particular, as part of his overall philosophy of healing.

Grand ManConcept

Pythagoras believed in the interaction between the Grand Man (the universe) and the individual (the little universe), suggesting a holistic view of existence and knowledge.

Sidereal BodiesSubstance

Pythagoras considered the sidereal bodies, including stars and planets, as living entities, indicating his belief in the divine nature of the cosmos and the sympathy of all things.

SunlightSubstance

Pythagoras used the sun, represented by the various compounds of seeds and fruits, as part of his diet for meditation and prayer, indicating a connection between his religious practices and his understanding of the natural world.

Odyssey And IliadRitual

Verses from the Odyssey and Iliad were part of Pythagoras' medical practice, used for specific ailments, showing the connection between literature and healing in his teachings.

FlutesSubstance

Pythagoras, the ancient Greek philosopher and mathematician, expressed strong opposition to the use of flutes among his disciples. According to historical accounts, Pythagoras and his followers considered the flutes to have a defiling influence and discouraged their use. This cautious approach towards certain musical instruments was rooted in the belief that flutes could have potentially negative emotional effects, potentially leading to moral or spiritual degradation among the group members. Therefore, the flutes, or "FLUTES," were not favored within the community established by Pythagoras, emphasizing the group's values and the careful management of sensory experiences to align with their ethical and philosophical principles.

Isis→Concept

Pythagoras incorporated Egyptian teachings, particularly those of Isis, into his philosophical work

Color→Concept

Pythagoras experimented with color and its healing properties, seeing it as a therapeutic tool in his holistic approach to health and wellness.

CubeSubstance

Similarly, Pythagoras was intrigued by symmetrical geometric solids, with the cube included in his studies.

ElementsConcept

Pythagoras and his followers believed that elements, particularly as they relate to harmonic ratios, were integral to understanding the structure of the cosmos and human experience.

Peter GowerPerson

Peter Gower, the Grecian who formed the lodge, and Pythagoras are associated through their roles as initiates who spread wisdom from Greece to England.

Tower Of JupiterRitual

Pythagoras called the central globe "The Tower of Jupiter" to symbolize its cosmic significance in his cosmology.

ModesConcept

Pythagorean philosophy introduced the concept of modes as harmonic scales with specific effects on the nature and state.

Oracle Of DelphiConcept

The Oracle of Delphi predicted Pythagoras's exceptional nature

TetrahedronConcept

Pythagoras was interested in the symmetrical geometric solids, including the tetrahedron, as a method of understanding the universe and the individual soul.

OctahedronConcept

Pythagoras was interested in the symmetrical geometric solids, including the octahedron, as a method of understanding the universe and the individual soul.

IcosahedronConcept

Pythagoras was interested in the symmetrical geometric solids, including the icosahedron, as a method of understanding the universe and the individual soul.

DodecahedronConcept

Pythagoras was interested in the symmetrical geometric solids, including the dodecahedron, as a method of understanding the universe and the individual soul.

MnesarchusPerson

Pythagoras is the son of Mnesarchus, a merchant

FedipiaPerson

Fediapia is another name mentioned for Pythagoras's mother, who gave birth to him

Brahmin MastersSubstance

Pythagoras studied with Brahmin masters for his philosophy and initiations

ElphantaGeography

Pythagoras studied in Elphanta, an Indian city, during his travels

Greek PhilosopherConcept

Pythagoras was known for his contribution and naming as the first philosopher

The pentagram was a symbol significant in the teachings and practices of Pythagoras and his school

HistoryConcept

Historians acknowledge Pythagoras's extensive travels and initiations in various cultures

LyreSubstance

Pythagoras used the lyre to practice harmonic medicine, believing it to be a powerful tool to purify the soul and cure ailments.

Music Of The SpheresConcept

Pythagoras is credited with conceiving the theory that the planets form a cosmic harmony, central to the concept of the music of the spheres.

Nine MusesConcept

Pythagoras's theory of spheric harmony is realized in the nine Muses, who embody the universal musical harmony he proposed.

AbraxasRitual

Abraxas, a Gnostic pantheos, is explained using a system closely related to the Pythagorean theory of number, suggesting a connection between the two.

EsotericismConcept

Pythagoras's teachings are a core part of esoteric wisdom, which encompasses his philosophical contributions

Phrygian ModeSubstance

The Phrygian mode, associated with the intoxication incident, was used by Pythagoras to stir emotions.

PhilolausPerson

Pythagoras influenced Philolaus, who was part of his school of thought

EudoxusPerson

Pythagoras influenced Eudoxus, who was part of his school of thought

ChaldeansLineage

Pythagoras was influenced by the secret lore of the Chaldeans when he traveled to Media and Persia

CanonicsLineage

The term Canonics describes Pythagoras and his followers, emphasizing their distinct approach to music based on rational principles.

Pythagoras, a prominent figure known for his contributions to mathematics, science, and philosophy, is also regarded as a key source of magical and scientific theories. According to historical accounts, his work extends beyond the realms of classical knowledge to include mystical and magical aspects. Haute Magie, a sophisticated system of magical practices, often references Pythagoras in its theoretical framework, integrating his mathematical insights with arcane knowledge. This synthesis suggests that Pythagoras's legacy encompasses a dualistic approach, blending empirical scientific and mathematical exploration with the mystical and magical realms, thereby establishing a foundational link between these seemingly disparate fields.

Sun→Lineage

Sol, often associated with Apollo, is mentioned in connection with Pythagoras, symbolizing divine knowledge and wisdom

Apollo→Ritual

Apollo is associated with the prophecy made about Pythagoras to his parents

Alchemical figures were inspired by Pythagoras' teachings on the dodecahedron

DemiurgusConcept

Both the concept of the Demiurgus and the Pythagorean theory of numerical philosophy are influential in mystical and religious thought, showing a possible connection between the concepts.

Aeolian ScaleSubstance

Pythagorean theory influenced the Aeolian scale, with each note deriving from the corresponding planet's movement in the music of the spheres.

DionysusConcept

Pythagoras is associated with the founding and patronage of the theater, as well as the architecture involving the god Dionysus

Harmonic SchoolLineage

The Harmonic School opposed Pythagorean principles, as they focused on taste and instinct rather than reason and mathematics in music.

Holy GhostRitual

Apollo's appearance is described as holy, similar to the Holy Ghost's role in Christian traditions

PhoeniciaGeography

Pythagoras's parents were from Phoenicia, indicating his origin

PhoeniciansLineage

Pythagoras's knowledge of trade and initiations can be traced back to Phoenician influences

Spoondaic ModeSubstance

Pythagoras used the Spoondaic mode as a therapeutic tool to calm emotions, particularly anger.

Pythagoras was an initiate in the Mystery schools, teaching divine knowledge and founding the Philosophical movement

144,000Substance

Pythagoras's numerical systems are relevant to the number 144,000 and its reduction, linking the numerical systems to his work.

Pythagoras indirectly influenced Aristotle through his works on philosophy

Both are mentioned as significant figures in philosophy, representing different traditions of thought

MummificationRitual

Pythagoras's teachings include the concept of mummification, linking it to the afterlife and spiritual practices

AnaxarchusPerson

Anaxarchus's story of protecting his secrets by biting his tongue provides an example of the vows of secrecy practiced by Masons, as described by Pythagoras

ArchytaPerson

Pythagoras indirectly influenced Archytas through similar ideas in philosophy

Triad→Concept

Pythagoras used the triad in summarizing his philosophical and mathematical teachings

StrygesSubstance

Pythagoras is associated with mystical practices that may involve Stryges

MathematicsSubstance

Pythagoras stressed the importance of mathematics for elevating the mind above emotional delusion

PherecydesPerson

Pherecydes was a teacher of Pythagoras in his youth

Toad→Substance

The toad is mentioned in the context of Pythagoras's teachings, symbolizing moral power or enthusiasm.

SuperstitionConcept

Popular superstitions can originate from the misinterpretations of Pythagorean symbols or teachings.

BethlehemGeography

By mentioning the proximity of Bethlehem to Sidon, there is an implied connection to Pythagoras in terms of their origin

EnemdoclesPerson

Pythagoras indirectly influenced Empedocles through similar early philosophical ideas

PleasureConcept

Pythagoras taught about pleasure being opposed to temperance

Alchemy→Substance

Pythagoras is mentioned as a potential alchemist in ancient tradition, although no historical proof of his alchemical practice exists

Pythagoras's knowledge and teachings are associated with the cultural and mystical traditions of ancient Greece and beyond

FreemasonsLineage

Freemason legend has connections to Pythagoras' ideas on geometry and the dodecahedron

Pythagorean MathematicsConcept

Pythagoras founded Pythagorean Mathematics, a secret system with a deep philosophical significance.

666Substance

Pythagoras, who used the number 10 as the basis of his numerical philosophy, is relevant to the number 666 and its reduction, linking the numerical systems to his work.

Numerical Values Of The Hebrew, Greek, And Samaritan AlphabetsConcept

The numerical values of the alphabets in various ancient languages, as described in the text, are relevant to the numerical philosophy discussed by Pythagoras.

HermodamasPerson

Hermodamas was a teacher of Pythagoras in his youth

Symbolic Geometric SolidsConcept

Pythagoras's knowledge of symbolic geometric solids is attributed to his study with the Egyptians, reflecting the influence of Hermes's teachings.

Mediate Correspondences

Sympathetic Chains & Distant Affinities

PythagorasthroughCrotonailluminatesPhilosophy →
I. Pythagoras & Crotona

Pythagoras, the renowned Greek philosopher and mathematician, established an influential institution at Crotona upon his return from extensive travels. This school or university in Crotona became a significant center of learning, where Pythagoras educated others in his philosophies and mathematical discoveries. Crotona was where Pythagoras established his influential school

II. Crotona & Philosophy

The philosophy of the Pythagorean school was established in the city of Crotona.

PythagorasthroughMonadilluminatesDuad →
I. Pythagoras & Monad

Pythagoras sought understanding through the Monad, the ultimate source of wisdom that was both the foundation of the universe and individual souls.

II. Monad & Duad

MONAD and DUAD are interconnected entities within a cosmological framework, with MONAD serving as a transformative and generative force that evolves into the DUAD. The process of transformation from MONAD to DUAD is a fundamental aspect of this cosmic model, signifying the stage of reproduction and procreation. In this context, the DUAD is described not only as the offspring of MONAD but also as the nurturing entity that facilitates the gestation of new life, symbolically referred to as Meru. This relationship between MONAD and DUAD is integrally linked to the formation of the Triad, demonstrating the dogma that encompasses their interaction. The Monad's passage into the Duad represents a critical event in the cycle of creation, where the former's potential is realized through the latter's capacity to incubate and birth new forms of existence. The Duad, in this dynamic, acts as both the child of the Monad and the maternal force that supports the growth and development of what follows. This intricate relationship suggests a holistic understanding of existence where each entity complements the other in the continuous cycle of creation and transformation. Thus, the Duad emerges not just as MONAD's offspring but also as its vessel for further propagation, forming the essential foundation for the Triad and the broader cosmological system it encompasses.

PythagorasthroughFreemasonryilluminatesHermes →
I. Pythagoras & Freemasonry

Pythagoras and Freemasonry share historical and philosophical connections, both dealing with wisdom and symbolism Ancient Masonry influenced and was influenced by the philosophies of Pythagoras, in particular his focus on wisdom and symbolic practices

II. Freemasonry & Hermes

Hermes is associated with the dissemination of knowledge inscribed on pillars following the flood, representing the continuity of wisdom in Masonic symbolism.

PythagorasthroughMonadilluminatesGod →
I. Pythagoras & Monad

Pythagoras sought understanding through the Monad, the ultimate source of wisdom that was both the foundation of the universe and individual souls.

II. Monad & God

God is a symbolic name for Monad, symbolizing the beginning and end, and stability, reflecting the divine in numerical essence God is derived from the combination of Monad and Duad; Monad is the Divine Father, Duad is the Great Mother

PythagorasthroughPlatoilluminatesChrist →
I. Pythagoras & Plato

Pythagoras and Plato are both central figures in the study of philosophical and mathematical teachings, their triad concepts connected Plato, the renowned ancient Greek philosopher, significantly integrated and adapted Pythagorean ideas into his own philosophical constructs, demonstrating a deep respect for the influential thinker Pythagoras. A key aspect of this integration was the emphasis on the role of music in moral and educational development within the state. Plato's understanding of music’s impact on the societal and individual level was profoundly shaped by Pythagorean principles, which posited that music has the power to influence the soul and thereby contribute to the greater harmony and well-being of the state. This alignment with Pythagorean thought can be seen in Plato's various works, where he advocates for the careful selection and regulation of musical compositions to promote virtue and wisdom among citizens.

II. Plato & Christ

Plato's dreams prepared the way for the advent of Christ, enriching the wisdom of his time

PythagorasthroughEgyptilluminatesHermes Trismegistus →
I. Pythagoras & Egypt

Pythagoras, the ancient Greek philosopher and mathematician, was initiated into the Egyptian Mysteries of Isis and delved deeply into the rich traditions of Egypt. His study and initiation into these religious and philosophical practices in Egypt are well-documented, highlighting the significance of Egyptian knowledge and beliefs in shaping his thoughts and contributions to various fields. Through his immersion in Egyptian traditions and the mysteries of Isis, Pythagoras likely enriched his philosophical and mathematical philosophies, making his contributions even more profound and manifold. Pythagoras was initiated into the Egyptian Mysteries of Isis

II. Egypt & Hermes Trismegistus

Hermes Trismegistus, a key figure in Hermeticism, lived in ancient Egypt

PythagorasthroughFreemasonryilluminatesDevil →
I. Pythagoras & Freemasonry

Pythagoras and Freemasonry share historical and philosophical connections, both dealing with wisdom and symbolism Ancient Masonry influenced and was influenced by the philosophies of Pythagoras, in particular his focus on wisdom and symbolic practices

II. Freemasonry & Devil

During the period when Freemasonry was persecuted by the Roman Church, it was associated with the worship and invocation of the devil through the association known as Mopses.

PythagorasthroughMonadilluminatesSubstance →
I. Pythagoras & Monad

Pythagoras sought understanding through the Monad, the ultimate source of wisdom that was both the foundation of the universe and individual souls.

II. Monad & Substance

Substance is a term used to describe the primary status of Monad in creation, closely related to the foundational aspects of numbers and existence

PythagorasthroughFreemasonryilluminatesRosicrucianism →
I. Pythagoras & Freemasonry

Pythagoras and Freemasonry share historical and philosophical connections, both dealing with wisdom and symbolism Ancient Masonry influenced and was influenced by the philosophies of Pythagoras, in particular his focus on wisdom and symbolic practices

II. Freemasonry & Rosicrucianism

Rosicrucianism and Freemasonry share significant connections in both symbols and philosophical concepts, according to the available information. The two entities are linked through their overlapping symbol systems and shared underlying ideas, suggesting a historical influence and collaboration between them. It is believed that some Rosicrucians contributed to the development of Freemasonry, though specific individuals and the extent of their influence are not delineated in the descriptions provided. Overall, while direct evidence or documentation confirming these connections is not detailed, the suggested interactions between Rosicrucianism and Freemasonry indicate a shared intellectual heritage and possible historical correspondences. Modern Freemasonry has absorbed some elements of Rosicrucianism and may carry on some of their symbolism

PythagorasthroughMonadilluminatesChaos →
I. Pythagoras & Monad

Pythagoras sought understanding through the Monad, the ultimate source of wisdom that was both the foundation of the universe and individual souls.

II. Monad & Chaos

Chaos is a symbolic attribute of the Monad, representing the indeterminate and formless state before creation