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blueheartbookclub · 6 months

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A Review of "The Eleusinian and Bacchic Mysteries" by Thomas Taylor

"The Eleusinian and Bacchic Mysteries" is an illuminating journey into the heart of ancient Greek religious practices, meticulously explored and vividly presented by the renowned philosopher and translator, Thomas Taylor. This dissertation, complemented by the evocative illustrations of A. L. Rawson, takes readers on a profound exploration of the mystical rituals that shaped the spiritual landscape of ancient Greece.

Thomas Taylor's scholarly expertise in Neoplatonism and his unwavering dedication to preserving the wisdom of the past shine brilliantly in this work. Through his meticulous translation and commentary, Taylor unveils the enigmatic rites and ceremonies of the Eleusinian and Bacchic Mysteries, providing readers with a window into the spiritual world of ancient Greece.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Taylor's work is his ability to convey the deep spiritual significance of these ancient rituals. He delves into the symbolism, mythology, and metaphysical underpinnings of the Mysteries, revealing how they were designed to facilitate personal transformation and spiritual enlightenment. Taylor's profound insights into the mysteries' inner workings give readers a profound understanding of their purpose and significance.

The accompanying illustrations by A. L. Rawson add another layer of richness to this dissertation. Rawson's artistry brings to life the mystical and mythological elements of the rituals, making the ancient world tangible and captivating. These illustrations serve as a visual guide, enhancing the reader's comprehension and engagement with the material.

"The Eleusinian and Bacchic Mysteries" is not merely a historical account but a spiritual odyssey. It invites readers to contemplate the enduring relevance of these ancient practices in the modern world. Taylor's work inspires us to reflect on the importance of initiation, transformation, and the quest for spiritual truth.

In conclusion, "The Eleusinian and Bacchic Mysteries" is a masterpiece of scholarship and spiritual insight. Thomas Taylor's dedication to preserving the wisdom of antiquity and his ability to convey its profound significance make this dissertation an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the spiritual and mystical traditions of ancient Greece. A. L. Rawson's illustrations add a visually captivating dimension to this already enlightening work. It is a must-read for seekers of wisdom, scholars, and those fascinated by the mysteries of the past.

"The Eleusinian and Bacchic Mysteries" by Thomas Taylor is available in Amazon in paperback 13.99$ and hardcover 19.99$ editions.

Length of the Book: 184 pages

Language: English

Rating 8/10

Link of the book!

Review by King's Cat

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blueheartbooks · 9 months

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A Review of "The Eleusinian and Bacchic Mysteries" by Thomas Taylor

"The Eleusinian and Bacchic Mysteries" is an illuminating journey into the heart of ancient Greek religious practices, meticulously explored and vividly presented by the renowned philosopher and translator, Thomas Taylor. This dissertation, complemented by the evocative illustrations of A. L. Rawson, takes readers on a profound exploration of the mystical rituals that shaped the spiritual landscape of ancient Greece.

Thomas Taylor's scholarly expertise in Neoplatonism and his unwavering dedication to preserving the wisdom of the past shine brilliantly in this work. Through his meticulous translation and commentary, Taylor unveils the enigmatic rites and ceremonies of the Eleusinian and Bacchic Mysteries, providing readers with a window into the spiritual world of ancient Greece.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Taylor's work is his ability to convey the deep spiritual significance of these ancient rituals. He delves into the symbolism, mythology, and metaphysical underpinnings of the Mysteries, revealing how they were designed to facilitate personal transformation and spiritual enlightenment. Taylor's profound insights into the mysteries' inner workings give readers a profound understanding of their purpose and significance.

The accompanying illustrations by A. L. Rawson add another layer of richness to this dissertation. Rawson's artistry brings to life the mystical and mythological elements of the rituals, making the ancient world tangible and captivating. These illustrations serve as a visual guide, enhancing the reader's comprehension and engagement with the material.

"The Eleusinian and Bacchic Mysteries" is not merely a historical account but a spiritual odyssey. It invites readers to contemplate the enduring relevance of these ancient practices in the modern world. Taylor's work inspires us to reflect on the importance of initiation, transformation, and the quest for spiritual truth.

In conclusion, "The Eleusinian and Bacchic Mysteries" is a masterpiece of scholarship and spiritual insight. Thomas Taylor's dedication to preserving the wisdom of antiquity and his ability to convey its profound significance make this dissertation an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the spiritual and mystical traditions of ancient Greece. A. L. Rawson's illustrations add a visually captivating dimension to this already enlightening work. It is a must-read for seekers of wisdom, scholars, and those fascinated by the mysteries of the past.

"The Eleusinian and Bacchic Mysteries" by Thomas Taylor is available in Amazon in paperback 13.99$ and hardcover 19.99$ editions.

Length of the Book: 184 pages

Language: English

Rating 8/10

Link of the book!

Review by King's Cat

0 notes

sixteenseveredhands · 1 year

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The Petelia Tablet, Greek, c.300-200 BCE: this totenpass (a "passport for the dead") was meant to be buried in a human grave; it bears an inscription that tells the dead person exactly where to go and what to say after crossing into the Greek Underworld

Made from a sheet of gold foil, this tablet measures just 4.5cm (a little over 1.5 inches) in length, and although it was found inside a pendant case in Petelia, Italy, it's believed to have originated in ancient Greece. It was meant to aid the dead in their journey through the Underworld -- providing them with specific instructions, conferring special privileges, and granting them access to the most coveted realms within the afterlife.

The Petelia tablet, displayed with the pendant case in which it was discovered

The tablet itself dates back to about 300-200 BCE, while the pendant case/chain that accompanies it was likely made about 400 years later, during the Roman era. It's believed that the tablet was originally buried with the dead, and that an unknown individual later removed it from the burial site and stuffed it into the pendant case. Unfortunately, in order to make it fit, they simply rolled it up and then snipped off the tip of the tablet. The final lines of the inscription were destroyed in the process.

The inverse side of the Petelia tablet

These textual amulets/lamellae are often referred to as totenpässe ("passports for the dead"). They were used as roadmaps to help guide the dead through the Underworld, but they also served as indicators of the elite/divine status of certain individuals, ultimately providing them with the means to obtain an elevated position in the afterlife.

The Petelia tablet is incised with an inscription in ancient Greek, and the translated inscription reads:

You will find a spring on your left in Hades’ halls, and by it the cypress with its luminous sheen.

Do not go near this spring or drink its water. You will find another, cold water flowing from Memory’s lake; its guardians stand before it.

Say: "I am a child of Earth and starry Heaven, but descended from Heaven; you yourselves know this. I am parched with thirst and dying: quickly, give me the cool water flowing from Memory’s lake."

And they will give you water from the sacred spring, and then you will join the heroes at their rites.

This is [the ... of memory]: [on the point of death] ... write this ... the darkness folding [you] within it.

The final section was damaged when the tablet was shoved into the pendant case; sadly, that part of the inscription does not appear on any of the other totenpässe that are known to exist, so the meaning of those lines remains a mystery (no pun intended).

Lamellae that are inscribed with this motif are very rare. They're known as "Orphic lamellae" or simply "Orphic tablets." As the name suggests, these inscriptions are traditionally attributed to an Orphic-Bacchic mystery cult.

The inscriptions vary, but they generally contain similar references to a cypress tree, one spring that must be avoided, another spring known as the "Lake of Memory," the sensation of thirst, and a conversation with a guardian (or another entity within the Underworld, such as the goddess Persephone) in which the dead must present themselves as initiates or divine individuals in order to be granted permission to drink from the Lake of Memory. They are thereby able to obtain privileges that are reserved only for the elite.

Though the specifics of this reward are often vague, it may have been viewed as a way to gain access to the Elysian Fields (the ancient Greek version of paradise) or as a way to participate in sacred rites; some totenpässe suggest that it may have allowed the soul to break free from the eternal cycle of reincarnation. Regardless, the overall objective was likely the same: to obtain a special status and acquire privileges that were inaccessible to most of the souls in the Underworld.

Sources & More Info:

Altlas Obscura: The Ancient Greeks Created Golden Passports to Paradise

The Museum of Cycladic Art: The Bacchic-Orphic Underworld

Bryn Mawr College: Festivals in the Afterlife: a new reading of the Petelia tablet

The Getty Museum: Underworld (imagining the afterlife)

The British Museum: Petelia tablet (with pendant case; chain)

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flaroh · 8 months

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Classicstober day 7: Persephone 🌸

#flaroh illustration #tagamemnon #ancient history #ancient greece #greek mythology #persephone #eleusinian mysteries #proserpina #hellenic mythology #hellenic pagan #classicstober23 #classicstober #classical reception

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kebriones · 7 months

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FREAKING TRIPTOLEMUS and his chariot which my entire family agrees looks like a wheelchair, which. The design potential!!!!

Pics from my eleusis visit from yesterday.

#eleusinian mysteries #triptolemus #ancient greek mythology

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ancientorigins · 2 months

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Most people are familiar with the story of Atlantis, the legendary sunken city as described by the ancient Greek philosopher Plato.

#lost #history #ancient #plato #greek #legend #mystery #kumarikandam

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mythologyofthepoetandthemuse · 11 days

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Faces/Gods/Heroes participating in the Eleusinian drama: Although we may not know exactly how the plot unfolded or what roles each hero or god played we find these present (our source is ancient art depicting facets of the Mysteries): Triptolemus, first priest of the Mysteries and son of the Eleusinian King Celeus, goddess Demeter, mother of Persephone (usually mentioned as Kore), Persephone, queen of the Underworld, Dionysus in his role as Pluto, Semele, mother of Dionysus. Elsewhere we find: Demeter accompanied by the child Pluto and her daughter Persephone, the hero Eubouleus, Triptolemus, Herakles, Dionysus, again Dionysus' mother Semele. Other persons: Aphrodite, goddess of the divine marriage to happen, Hermes and Athena, liitle child Iacchus, Zeus in his throne, close to him Hera.

Art: Demeter and Persephone by John D Batten

#mythology #art #symbolism #ancient greece #greek gods #mysticism #eleusis #greek myths #eleusinian mysteries #heroes #gods #demeter #pluto #persephone #semele #dionysus #john d batten #initiation

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raayllum · 4 months

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Chapter length: 8k Summary: Callum and Rayla finally talk. Ezran interrogates Viren, part one. a/n: tw for mental health related stuff in regards to rayla (implied depression, self loathing, and stuff that may veer into emotional self harm / passive suicidal ideation territory). i don't think any of it is super intense but i also don't know your circumstances, so please keep that in mind as you go forward. that said, it is discussed in a very hurt/comfort kind of way.

CHAPTER 7: At The End of the Tunnel

Callum led the way up and out of the tunnel, holding her wrist with one hand and his staff in front as a light source with the other. His hand was warm against Rayla’s skin, his gait steady over the rocky, uneven ground.

There was so much she wanted to stay —about Claudia, and her potential plans—and even more she was curious about—had Callum eaten? Had he slept? And why had the Earthblood elf boy saved them, truly?—but she was so tired.

Rayla hadn’t realized just how much adrenaline she’d been carrying in her body between worrying about Callum and constantly keeping her guard up around Claudia, with no sleep or food or hardly any water the past two days. But it hadn’t been for nothing, her free hand drifting to the hard lump in her pouch, five sun rubies in total crammed in next to the coins. All safe.

She squinted as a shaft of light appeared maybe ten feet ahead, the ground sloping upwards as they followed the phases of the moon back toward the surface. Relief washed over her in waves as the light grew brighter, bigger, haloing Callum’s silhouette of a windswept-haired head and broadened shoulders.

He picked up the pace, not looking back, as her muscles became mush. But they were almost there. She could keep going. Just a few more steps to the surface, and then—

Rayla’s foot caught on a rock. She stumbled. She slipped, both hands scraping against the ground.

Callum glanced back immediately, turning round and dropping to the ground in front of her, grasping at her arms, eyebrows knit with worry. “Hey, you okay?”

“I’m fine,” she croaked, holding still while he inspected the number of tiny scratches on her hands. The light of his staff illuminated the faint traces of blood.

#gee i wonder what ancient greek myth im referencing. a MYSTERY #rayllum #tdp #the dragon prince #ezran #morally ambiguous fam #fic: teach me how to name the bigger light #brotp: best crownguard #my fic #fic

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darkacademianew · 1 year

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Do you remember the scene where Richard and Francis discover a mysterious large cat-like animal? Why would Donna include a mention of the scary "cat" in The Secret History? Is there a possibility that our Greek group didn't kill the farmer? Or is there another, maybe symbolic explanation to this?

#the secret history donna tartt #the secret history aesthetic #the secret history #richard papen #charles macaulay #camilla macaulay #bunny corcoran #henry winter #francis abernathy #donna tartt #ancient greek literature #the little friend #the goldfinch #classic literature #literature #mystery #secret history #secret #book recommendations

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ennuyeuxbabe · 4 months

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can't believe people just live their day to day lives without thinking about the eleusinian mysteries??? like??? not even once????

#not even kore?#KORE?#persephone #mystery cult #eleusinian mysteries #cult #tagamemnon #queueusque tandem abutere catilina patientia nostra #demeter #ancient greece #greek mythology #greek gods #history #queue are made by history #archaeology

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sag-dab-sar · 7 months

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Working on researching more obscure non-Attic Ancient Greek religion be like:

Me: Which deity was worshipped most in this region

Google: a Goddess who was not named but used this title, Despoine, in the mystery tradition, later conflated with these other goddesses from these other mysteries

Me: Yeh but who was the original goddess, before the conflations

Google: Bitch I just said it was a mystery didn't I?

#despoine #arkadia #arcadia #ancient greek religion #greek mysteries #arkadian mysteries #she was a sister of persephone at first not equated #also its a epithet of artemis hekate and persephone #demeter was her mom #void post

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centurysong · 3 days

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i could've killed god after this roll

#loz speaks.#loz plays dnd.#kim tag.#thank you kim for having faith in the dice even when i didn't #and thank you also for including the noble epic of schelemeus in the oneshot i will be cackling about it for the next business week #gay ancient greek ghost story murder mystery cast my fucking beloveds

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mylifeisfruk4ever · 1 year

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Patroclus was a pervert.

He had a habit that made him connect to a specific website every night from midnight onwards. Some might say don't be melodramatic Pat, we all visit porn sites to release tension, don't be a goodie.

He was aware of it.

What people didn't know, however, was that the site that Patroclus visited was a camboy with a live streaming broadcaster.

And that camboy was his best friend.

#tsoa patrochilles #patroclus #patroclus x achilles #patroachilles #tsoa fic #fanfics #fanfiction #crossover #books #feels #au #modern au #modern achilles #modern patroclus #the song of achilles #ancient mythology #ancient greece #ancient mysteries #greek mithology

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thetelesterion · 5 months

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"He is Himself, both things that are and things that are not. The things that are He hath made manifest, He keepeth things that are not in Himself.

He is the God beyond all name; He the unmanifest, He the most manifest; He whom the mind [alone] can contemplate, He visible to the eyes [as well]; He is the one of no body, the one of many bodies, nay, rather He of every body.

Naught is there which he is not. For all are He and He is all. And for this cause hath He all names, in that they are one Father's. And for this cause hath He Himself no nome, in that He's Father of [them] all." -From the Corpus Hermeticum, translated by G.R.S Mead.

#mysticism #ancient mystery #ancient texts #ancient writings #polytheism #hellenic pagan #hellenic polytheism #greek polytheism #neoplatonism #neoplatonic #neoplatonist #hermes #paganblr #history #religion #classics #classical text

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ridiculously-over-obsessed · 5 months

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Attempting to get back into reading for fun now that I'm officially done with uni, so I got a chunk of books for Christmas/my birthday that I'm really excited about, but I'm also taking recs!!

Ones that I got for gifts to gauge the kind of thing I like:

Ballad Of Songbirds and Snakes - Suzanne Collins

The Locked Tomb 1-3 - Tamsyn Muir

Burned - Ellen Hopkins

Taking any and all recs but it'll be a while before I actually get to read them because I have a chunk of others to get through first ✌🏻🥰

Also!! Started a Goodreads but idk what I'm doing with it so I guess we'll figure that out as we go along dlkfjgfldkjg 😅

#max rambles a lot #max reads #idk i miss reading for fun honestly so let's get back to it!#i like dysopian and ancient greek mythology and thrillers #sometimes mystery or historical too #and obvs bonus points for it being gay

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mythologyofthepoetandthemuse · 11 days

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The mythical hero or demi-god associated with the Eleusinian Mysteries is named Triptolemus, Demeter gives the first grain to him so he can spread the cultivation of cereals to the rest of the world. Triptolemus (also known as Buzyges), son of the king of Eleusis Celeus and his queen Metanira. Demeter wanting to thank the family for their hospitality during her lament for Persephone, gifts to their son Triptolemus the chariot with the flying dragons as well as her sacred seeds. After his mission to teach agriculture around the world, Triptolemus returns to Eleusis and becomes the first priest of the Eleusinian Mysteries.

Ceres Giving Her Ghariot to Triptolemus by Antonio Tempesta, 1606.

#mythology #art #symbolism #ancient greece #greek gods #demeter #triptolemus #chariot #dragons #heroes #mission #greek myths #eleusinian mysteries #antonio tempesta #engraving

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