The Tarot of Eli 2, LLC: Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot- Four of Pentacles & The Tarot of Sacred Kingdoms- 4 of Pentacles.

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The Rider-Waite- Smith-Four of Pentacles Tarot card sticks to the mundane divination meaning of the Four of Pentacles which comes from the position of the Sun in Capricorn. Here light and warmth ensure material success; but nothing beyond the moment.

Smith illustrates this condition of assured material gain and earthly power completed, but nothing beyond. The powerful ruling personage is firmly placed, grasping a pentacle firmly to his chest, feet planted on other pentacles and one above his head, showing rule on the plane of matter, and a certain amount of possessiveness. He is dressed in the red of passion and wears the royal purple cloak. The Pentacles are the golden color reminiscent of the Sun. Here he is the fortress that protects the city behind, law and order supported by eternal vigilance, but nothing beyond seeking security.

In Western Hermetic Gematria, numbers hold significant symbolic meanings, often derived from a blend of numerology, mythology, and mysticism. The number 4 is no exception, and it is imbued with various attributes and correspondences. Here are some key characteristics of the number 4 in this context:

1. Structure and Stability

• Elemental Association: The number 4 is often associated with the element of Earth, symbolizing solidity, stability, and a grounded nature.
• Physical Manifestation: It represents the physical world and material existence, including the four directions (North, South, East, West), the four seasons (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter), and the four classical elements (Earth, Air, Fire, Water).

2. Order and Organization

• Geometric Significance: The square, with its four equal sides, is a symbol of balance and order. It implies a sense of wholeness and completeness in the material realm.
• Foundation: The number 4 is seen as the foundation upon which structures are built, symbolizing stability and reliability.

3. Manifestation and Realization

• Creation and Manifestation: In Hermetic thought, the number 4 represents the manifestation of ideas into the physical plane. It is the culmination of planning and groundwork that leads to tangible results.
• Practicality: It embodies the practical aspects of life, emphasizing discipline, hard work, and responsibility.

4. Divine Order

• Tetractys: The Pythagorean Tetractys, a triangular figure composed of ten points arranged in four rows, signifies the progression from unity to multiplicity, and the divine order underlying the universe.
• Kabbalistic/Qabalistic Connection: In the Kabbalistic/Qabalistic tradition, the number 4 can be associated with the fourth Sephirah, Chesed (Mercy), on the Tree of Life, which represents kindness, expansion, and the benevolence of the Divine.

5. Symbolism in Tarot

• Major Arcana: The Emperor (IV) card in the Tarot symbolizes authority, leadership, and the imposition of order and structure.
• Minor Arcana: The four suits (Wands, Cups, Swords, Pentacles) each consist of 14 cards, and the fours in each suit often indicate stability and structure in their respective realms (creative, emotional, intellectual, and material).

6. Astrological Correspondences

• Planets and Signs: In astrology, the number 4 is linked to the planet Uranus (associated with innovation and sudden changes that create new structures) and the sign of Cancer (which emphasizes home, family, and emotional foundations).

7. Mystical and Esoteric Meanings

• Sacred Geometry: The number 4 plays a critical role in sacred geometry, symbolizing the structure of the universe and the fourfold nature of creation.
• Hermetic Principles: It resonates with the Hermetic principle of Correspondence ("As above, so below"), indicating the mirroring relationship between the physical and spiritual worlds.

Understanding the multifaceted nature of the number 4 in Western Hermetic Gematria allows for deeper insight into its symbolic role in mysticism and esoteric traditions. It serves as a bridge between the material and spiritual realms, emphasizing the importance of structure, stability, and the manifestation of divine order in the physical world.

The Tarot of Sacred Kingdoms, 4 of Pentacles, depicts a scene of survival thinking and the power of illusion. Here a royal person is sitting on a throne, contemplating the hoard of wealth scattered about him. The facial expression on the royal is one of confusion as he is seeing only his fear of not having enough. The caveat here is that you should reexamine your identity, for you are not truly seeing things as they really are. People often overdress, and decorate themselves with all kinds of bobbles, to prove how valuable they are, which is merely a camouflage covering their fear of lack. His viewpoint of his own situation is clouded by fear and needs a reexamination of identity.

This card represents one who is possessed by their concepts of security, possession, and security. Here one is unwilling to let go of possessions and may even be contemplating how to get more.

Therefore, you might feel you don't have enough when you are more blessed than you realize. This is often the case with media induced word hypnosis, the divide and conquer practice of the Military Industrial Complex whose goal is to create the "crazed consumer" by identifying happiness as the next "new and greatest thing". Here one is ruled by an egregore rather than their true psyche.

By dividing the equilibrium and harmony of the Spirit-Mind-Body trinity of Self, one is sent on a false journey of "happiness seeking" through accumulation. This seeking outside of self is an illusion as Happiness is Whole Self, a trinity of harmony and the real ruler over all that is manifest, not some false outside authority that is known in metaphysical circles as and egregore.

An egregore is a concept in occultism and esoteric traditions referring to a collective thought-form or psychic entity created by the concentrated energy, emotions, and intentions of a group of people. It is often described as a kind of non-physical, autonomous being that emerges from the shared consciousness of individuals involved in a common purpose or belief system. The idea is rooted in various mystical traditions, including Western Hermeticism, Theosophy, and occult societies like the Golden Dawn.

Key Characteristics of an Egregore:

1. Collective Creation: An egregore is brought into existence by the shared focus, thoughts, and emotions of a group of people. This energy coalesces into a distinct, self-sustaining entity that reflects the intentions, values, and characteristics of its creators.

2. Autonomous Energy: Over time, an egregore may develop a life of its own, exerting influence on the individuals and group that created it. This can range from subtle guidance to a powerful force directing the group's actions.

3. Spiritual or Psychic Entity: Though it is not a physical being, an egregore is considered real on a psychic, spiritual, or astral level. In some interpretations, it can be viewed as a type of thought-form or tulpa, sustained through the focus and belief of the group.

4. Symbiotic Relationship: The egregore and its creators often share a symbiotic relationship. The group sustains the egregore with their ongoing thoughts, rituals, or emotions, while the egregore can influence the group's behavior or energy, often reinforcing its goals or ideals.

5. Manifestations in Various Traditions:

   • Occult Societies: In ceremonial magic and groups like the Golden Dawn or the Rosicrucians, egregores can be deliberately created and sustained through rituals, collective meditation, or magical work. The egregore may represent the spirit or guiding force of the organization.
   • Religious or Political Movements: Egregores can also form around collective belief systems, such as national identity, religious faith, or political ideologies. These collective thought-forms take on their own momentum and influence adherents in profound ways.

6. Examples in History and Modern Culture:

   • Corporate Egregores: Modern interpretations might suggest that corporations or brands can develop egregores, where the collective energy of employees, customers, and even shareholders creates a psychic entity that influences the culture and behavior of the company.
   • Religious or Spiritual Egregores: The idea can also apply to religious deities or saints, where collective worship and focus give rise to an egregore that exerts influence over the believers.

Egregores in Hermeticism and the Western Occult Tradition:

In Hermetic Qabalah and other Western esoteric traditions, egregores are sometimes seen as spirits or guardians of magical orders, groups, or even specific rituals. Practitioners may attempt to invoke, harness, or dissolve egregores depending on their purpose and intention. The egregore becomes a living symbol of the collective will and purpose of the group.

Potential Positive and Negative Effects:

• Positive: When intentionally created and directed toward positive goals, egregores can provide focus, protection, or spiritual guidance for a group, acting as a unifying force that strengthens cohesion and purpose.
• Negative: Egregores can also become destructive if their energy becomes malevolent or if the group loses control over the entity. They can manifest as dogma, blind fanaticism, or collective behaviors that lead a group astray.

In essence, an egregore represents the power of collective consciousness, illustrating how shared beliefs and emotions can create powerful psychic phenomena that influence both the spiritual and material realms.

In the Western Hermetic Mysteries there is an often referred to text known as the Emerald Tablet which suggests the power of group focus and the principle of "As above, so below".

The Emerald Tablet (also known as the Tabula Smaragdina) is a short but highly influential text in Western esotericism, often attributed to Hermes Trismegistus, a legendary figure who is a syncretic combination of the Greek god Hermes and the Egyptian god Thoth. The Tablet is considered one of the foundational works of Hermeticism, a philosophical and mystical tradition focused on the relationship between the divine and the material world, as well as the mysteries of alchemy, magic, and the nature of existence.

The Emerald Tablet is most famous for its concise articulation of the Hermetic principles—universal laws that govern both the physical and spiritual realms. Its teachings have influenced a wide range of disciplines, including alchemy, astrology, occultism, Western magic, and mysticism.

Origins and Context:

• Legendary Origins: The Emerald Tablet is traditionally believed to be a revelation from Hermes Trismegistus, a mystical sage considered the embodiment of wisdom and knowledge. Though its origins are shrouded in mystery, the Tablet is thought to have been written sometime between the 2nd and 8th centuries CE, though some accounts claim it dates back to even earlier Egyptian or Greek sources.
• Alchemy: The text became central to the alchemical tradition, especially during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, where it was studied for insights into the transmutation of base metals into gold and the attainment of spiritual enlightenment.

Structure and Content:

The Emerald Tablet is typically composed of just 12 to 14 cryptic statements, written in a concise and poetic style. Despite its brevity, it is rich with symbolic and metaphysical meaning. Some of its key themes include the unity of existence, the relationship between the material and spiritual realms, and the process of transformation (both alchemical and spiritual).

Key Teachings and Interpretation:

1. The Principle of Correspondence ("As Above, So Below"):

   • "That which is Below corresponds to that which is Above, and that which is Above corresponds to that which is Below, to accomplish the miracles of the One Thing."
   • This is perhaps the most famous line from the Emerald Tablet and one of the core teachings of Hermeticism. It conveys the idea that there is a deep and intimate connection between the macrocosm (the universe, the heavens) and the microcosm (the individual, the earth). Everything in the material world reflects and is influenced by the spiritual world, and vice versa.
   • This principle is the basis for many forms of magical and alchemical practice, suggesting that by understanding the workings of one realm, we can influence or understand the other.

2. Unity of All Things:

   • "All things come from the One, and the One comes from all things."
   • This statement points to the Hermetic belief in the unity of all existence. Everything in the universe is derived from a single source, often referred to as the One Thing or the Prima Materia (the First Matter). This One Thing is both the origin and the end of all things.
   • In alchemy, this idea is connected to the Great Work, the process of transforming base materials into higher forms, both physically (e.g., turning lead into gold) and spiritually (e.g., turning the soul into an enlightened state).

3. Transformation and Alchemy:

   • The Emerald Tablet also offers insights into the process of alchemical transformation—both on the material and spiritual planes. It suggests that by understanding the laws of nature and applying them, the practitioner can achieve transformation, not only in terms of physical alchemy (e.g., turning lead into gold) but also spiritual purification and enlightenment.
   • "Separate the Earth from the Fire, the Subtle from the Gross, gently and with great ingenuity." This refers to the alchemical process of distillation and purification, symbolizing the separation of spirit from matter, or the refinement of the soul from its base desires.

4. The Principle of Vibration:

   • "The father of it is the Sun, the mother the Moon; the wind carried it in its belly, the earth is its nurse."
   • This speaks to the idea that all things are in constant motion or vibration. The metaphor of the Sun (spirit) and Moon (matter) suggests that the interplay of opposites—active and passive, light and dark, spiritual and material—gives rise to creation and transformation.

5. Perfection and Completion:

   • "It rises from Earth to Heaven and descends again to Earth, thereby combining within it the powers of both the Above and the Below."
   • This describes the cyclical nature of existence and the process of reaching spiritual perfection. It refers to the ascent and descent of energy or consciousness—similar to the Kundalini rising or the alchemical Great Work, where one seeks enlightenment through spiritual ascent, only to return to the material world with greater wisdom.

6. The Great Work:

   • "Thus the whole universe was created."
   • The Tablet emphasizes the idea that the universe itself is the product of a grand alchemical process, a divine creation that reflects the unity of spirit and matter. The goal of the alchemist or spiritual seeker is to replicate this process within themselves, transforming their inner lead (ignorance or base nature) into gold (spiritual enlightenment).

Influence on Esoteric Traditions:

The teachings of the Emerald Tablet have had a profound impact on a wide range of esoteric disciplines:

• Alchemy: The Tablet became a guide for both physical and spiritual alchemy, offering cryptic insights into the process of transmutation. Alchemists viewed it as a key to understanding how to purify and elevate both matter and the soul.
• Hermeticism: As a foundational text in Hermetic philosophy, the Emerald Tablet encapsulates the principles of Hermeticism, including the belief in the interconnectedness of all things, the divine nature of humanity, and the process of achieving spiritual enlightenment.
• Magic and Occultism: The Tablet's teachings on the correspondence between the material and spiritual realms deeply influenced magical practices, especially in traditions like The Golden Dawn and Thelema. The concept of "As above, so below" became a guiding principle for rituals, spells, and invocations aimed at affecting both the inner and outer worlds.

Conclusion:

The Emerald Tablet is a mystical and esoteric text that explores the nature of reality, the unity of existence, and the process of spiritual and material transformation. Through its cryptic and poetic teachings, it offers profound insights into the Hermetic worldview, which sees the universe as interconnected, where human beings can influence and participate in the divine process of creation. Its influence on alchemy, magic, and Western esotericism remains profound, making it one of the most revered and studied texts in these traditions.

The quote from the Emerald Tablet stating that the "gods are creation of the created" can indeed be interpreted as referring to the concept of egregores, especially when viewed through an esoteric or Hermetic lens. This phrase suggests that gods, or divine forces, are born out of the collective consciousness or actions of beings that have already been created themselves—namely, humans or other sentient entities. Therefore, even possessions can be seen as an authority over the person who created the emotional concept.

In this context, let's break down the possible meaning and its relation to egregores:

1. The Nature of Creation in Hermetic Philosophy:

• The Emerald Tablet, a cornerstone of Hermeticism, explores themes of creation, the nature of the universe, and the connection between the macrocosm (the universe) and the microcosm (the individual).
• The phrase "gods are creation of the created" aligns with the Hermetic principle of Correspondence—"As above, so below"—which suggests that humans, through their thoughts, actions, and consciousness, mirror and participate in the processes of creation that occur in higher realms.

2. Interpretation of Gods as Egregores:

• In the context of egregores, this quote could imply that the gods (divine or supernatural beings) are manifestations created by the collective thoughts, emotions, and energies of human beings, or other sentient beings in the universe.
• As egregores are psychic or spiritual entities formed by the collective focus of groups of people, this interpretation suggests that the gods worshipped by humans may have originated from the concentrated psychic energy of those worshippers, evolving into powerful autonomous entities.

3. Gods as a Product of Collective Human Consciousness:

• The statement "the gods are creation of the created" echoes the idea that divine beings are formed by the consciousness of the beings who already exist. This would mean that humans, or sentient beings, have the power to create or bring into existence divine entities (similar to egregores) through worship, devotion, and collective belief.
• This is a central

The concept of sacred gods and egregores can overlap, but they are not exactly the same. Whether a sacred god could be considered an egregore depends on the belief system and the perspective through which one views the creation and existence of divine beings. Let's explore the distinctions and connections between these two concepts:

1. Sacred Gods in Traditional Religions:

• Sacred gods are generally considered divine, transcendent beings that exist independently of human thought. In polytheistic and monotheistic religions, gods are often believed to be eternal, omnipotent, or supernatural forces that govern aspects of the universe or human existence. These deities are worshipped and revered as real, independent entities.
• The creation of gods, in this sense, is not usually considered the result of collective human thought but rather as divine revelations, myths, or eternal truths passed down through religious traditions.

2. Egregores in the Esoteric and Occult Traditions:

• An egregore, by contrast, is explicitly seen as a collective creation of human consciousness. It emerges from the focused thought, emotions, and intentions of a group of people. It is a psychic entity formed through ritual, belief, and repeated mental energy.
• Egregores are typically viewed as products of human collective will or magical practices, and they often reflect the group’s shared ideals, desires, or goals. Over time, they may gain some level of autonomy but are still dependent on the continued focus of their creators.

Where Sacred Gods and Egregores May Overlap:

From an esoteric or occult perspective, especially within certain branches of Western Hermeticism, it is possible to interpret gods or divine beings as egregores that have been brought into being and sustained by the collective belief, worship, and ritual of their followers. In this framework, gods, especially lesser deities or local gods, may have originated as powerful egregores created by the concentrated devotion of a culture or religious group.

Possible Interpretations:

1. Gods as Ancient Egregores: Some esoteric traditions propose that certain gods may have started as egregores, gaining power and autonomy as their followers increased and their worship spread across cultures. The more energy a collective devotes to a deity, the more powerful and autonomous the deity may become. Over time, these egregores might take on their own independent existence, seemingly transcending their original human creators.

2. Pantheons as Collective Consciousness: In this view, entire pantheons of gods could be seen as representations of the collective unconscious or collective psychic energy of a people or culture. These gods would then be highly evolved egregores, created by centuries of belief, ritual, and myth-making.

3. Independent vs. Created Beings: In traditional religious contexts, sacred gods are not seen as being "created" by human minds. However, some occult practitioners might argue that the distinction between a god and an egregore is largely one of scale or perception. From this angle, highly worshiped gods may be considered transcendent egregores, or perhaps super-egregores, that have gained immense autonomy and power due to the magnitude of belief they attract.

Examples from Esoteric Thought:

• Theosophy and certain forms of Hermeticism have sometimes interpreted gods, saints, or other spiritual beings as egregores, formed and sustained by the devotion of religious communities.
• In ceremonial magic, gods invoked in rituals may be thought of as archetypal or egregoric forces, particularly when the practitioner views them as symbolic or collective representations of deeper cosmic principles rather than literal, independent entities.

Differences:

• Sacred gods in most traditional religions are considered eternal, omniscient, or pre-existing the human race, whereas egregores are created and empowered by human thought and ritual.
• Egregores are typically bound to their creators, whereas sacred gods, especially in monotheistic or polytheistic religions, are considered to exist independently of human belief.

Conclusion:

While sacred gods and egregores can share similarities—especially in the context of esoteric, Hermetic, or occult thought—there is a fundamental difference in how they are perceived. Sacred gods are traditionally viewed as pre-existing, independent, and transcendent (our Souls), while egregores are considered human-created, sustained by collective thought and intention (false souls). However, from a magical or mystical standpoint, certain gods, especially in polytheistic or localized religious traditions, could be interpreted as highly evolved egregores that have grown powerful through collective worship and devotion.

The traditional placement of the 4 of Disks card is the Sun in Capricorn. In astrology, the placement of celestial bodies in specific houses of the zodiac can influence various aspects of an individual's life. When the Sun is in the house of Capricorn, certain characteristics are associated with this placement. Here are some key traits:

1. Ambitious and Goal-Oriented: Capricorn is ruled by Saturn, which brings a strong sense of ambition and a drive to achieve long-term goals. Individuals with the Sun in Capricorn are likely to be determined and focused on their aspirations.

2. Practical and Disciplined: Capricorn is an earth sign, emphasizing practicality and discipline. Those with the Sun in Capricorn tend to approach life in a methodical and organized manner, making them well-suited for tasks that require structure.

3. Responsible Leadership: Capricorns often display leadership qualities and a sense of responsibility. People born with the Sun in Capricorn may find themselves in leadership roles, taking charge of situations and making decisions with a pragmatic approach.

4. Concerned with Reputation: Capricorns value their reputation and public image. Individuals with this Sun placement are likely to be cautious about how they are perceived by others and may strive to build a solid and respected image.

5. Patient and Enduring: Capricorns are known for their patience and endurance. When the Sun is in Capricorn, individuals may possess the resilience to overcome challenges and the ability to persevere through difficulties.

6. Traditional Values: Capricorn is associated with tradition and conventional values. Those with the Sun in Capricorn may hold traditional beliefs and appreciate stability in various aspects of life.

7. Career Focus: Career and professional success are often significant priorities for individuals with the Sun in Capricorn. They may be diligent workers, seeking recognition and accomplishment in their chosen fields.

It's important to note that the characteristics mentioned are generalizations, and the complete astrological profile of an individual involves consideration of the entire birth chart, including the positions of other planets, aspects, and the Ascendant. Individual experiences and expressions can vary widely.

When the 4 of Pentacles is thrown in a divination, it implies:

• One Is owning their own personal energy, physical potency, and vitality. The very act of which proceeds change.
• Is experiencing a feeling of holding on tightly to what one has, emotionally or physically.
•  Is experiencing the enfoldment of Power. Here the Ability to Do Work (Power) is unfettered, and the engineer is active.
• The querent is taking solid steps towards creating material security in the physical world.
• Is experiencing the axiom of the 4, "nothing ventured nothing gained". Holding too tightly to what you have, and not taking risks of change.

If reversed, it implies:

• Is experiencing a blockage of creative thought due to avarice, or excessive devotion to material things.
• Compulsivity.
• Stubbornness.
• Stagnation.

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