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

Cube

The CUBE, a geometric figure, is a polyhedron characterized by six square faces, twelve straight edges, and eight vertex corners, embodying perfect symmetry and symbolizing stability and strength according to the Pythagorean tradition. The CUBE is derived from the tetractys, a symbolic arrangement of the ten dots representing a triad and a unity, as it is formed using six of these ten dots, making it a geometric figure with deep symbolic significance.

In the context of the described narrative, there are contrasting symbols associated with the CUBE. While the white or uncolored CUBE generally symbolizes matter and is linked to the earth element, the black CUBE specifically symbolizes matter but is associated with deceit, indicating a dual or layered meaning depending on its color or context. This dual symbolism reflects the complex and nuanced nature of the CUBE in the narrative, where its inherent properties of matter and earth are contrasted with the concept of deceit, possibly highlighting themes of honesty versus deception or truth versus illusion.

Thus, the CUBE can be understood as a manifold symbol, encompassing both the universal principles of stability and strength, as well as the narrative-specific concepts of matter, earth, and deceit, illustrating the rich and varied symbolism it carries.

Concordance & Cross-References

Primary Correspondences & Figures

The Tetractys and the Cube are interconnected geometric configurations in a mystical and mathematical framework. The Tetractys, a triangular figure composed of ten points arranged in four rows, is foundational to this geometric principle. It is characterized by the formation of a cube through the strategic connection of six of its ten points, thereby illustrating the intricate relationship between the Tetractys and the cube. By interlinking these points, one can visualize how the Tetractys, in its geometric embodiment, gives rise to the three-dimensional structure of a cube, encapsulating both a mathematical and a symbolic relationship between these two entities. This relationship highlights the elegant interplay of geometry in the construction and transformation of these figures, reflecting the deeper philosophical and mathematical meanings associated with both the Tetractys and the cube.

Star→Ritual

The seven dots used in forming the cube and the star are interrelated, as both figures are derived from the same ten dots of the tetractys.

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

Man→Person

The man and woman are chained to the cube, symbolizing their entrapment and subjugation

Devil→Concept

The Devil is associated with the cube, symbolizing his influence and control over the material world

Woman→Person

The woman is chained to the cube, symbolizing her entrapment and subjugation

Hermit→Lineage

The cube with the torch represents a place of conflict between the material world and enlightenment

Symmetrical Geometric SolidsConcept

Cube is a specific Platonic solid that is part of the symmetrical geometric solids described by Pythagoras.

LanternSubstance

The hermit's lantern represents enlightenment that overcomes the darkness of matter symbolized by the cube

StaffRitual

The black cube and the hermit's staff together symbolize the journey from matter to higher knowledge

Sabbath→Concept

Cubes are used as symbols of the divine in religious practices on the Sabbath

Mediate Correspondences

Sympathetic Chains & Distant Affinities

CubethroughStarilluminatesSun →
I. Cube & Star

The seven dots used in forming the cube and the star are interrelated, as both figures are derived from the same ten dots of the tetractys.

II. Star & Sun

The sun card represents material happiness and success, which can be related to the hope and bright prospects represented by The Star

CubethroughStarilluminatesTarot →
I. Cube & Star

The seven dots used in forming the cube and the star are interrelated, as both figures are derived from the same ten dots of the tetractys.

II. Star & Tarot

The Star card connects to the star Sirius, which was associated with the opening of the new year in ancient Egyptian culture, reflecting a link to the divine and renewal of the cycle of life. The Tarot includes The Star which represents hope, new beginnings, and a path to renewal

CubethroughManilluminatesParacelsus →
I. Cube & Man

The man and woman are chained to the cube, symbolizing their entrapment and subjugation

II. Man & Paracelsus

Both Man and Paracelsus are described, connecting in traditional and symbolic significance

CubethroughPythagorasilluminatesAlchemy →
I. Cube & Pythagoras

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

II. Pythagoras & Alchemy

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

CubethroughTetractysilluminatesMysteries →
I. Cube & Tetractys

The Tetractys and the Cube are interconnected geometric configurations in a mystical and mathematical framework. The Tetractys, a triangular figure composed of ten points arranged in four rows, is foundational to this geometric principle. It is characterized by the formation of a cube through the strategic connection of six of its ten points, thereby illustrating the intricate relationship between the Tetractys and the cube. By interlinking these points, one can visualize how the Tetractys, in its geometric embodiment, gives rise to the three-dimensional structure of a cube, encapsulating both a mathematical and a symbolic relationship between these two entities. This relationship highlights the elegant interplay of geometry in the construction and transformation of these figures, reflecting the deeper philosophical and mathematical meanings associated with both the Tetractys and the cube.

II. Tetractys & Mysteries

The Tetractys represents the geometric and symbolic understanding of the universal essence that lay at the heart of the Mysteries.

CubethroughTetractysilluminatesSpirit →
I. Cube & Tetractys

The Tetractys and the Cube are interconnected geometric configurations in a mystical and mathematical framework. The Tetractys, a triangular figure composed of ten points arranged in four rows, is foundational to this geometric principle. It is characterized by the formation of a cube through the strategic connection of six of its ten points, thereby illustrating the intricate relationship between the Tetractys and the cube. By interlinking these points, one can visualize how the Tetractys, in its geometric embodiment, gives rise to the three-dimensional structure of a cube, encapsulating both a mathematical and a symbolic relationship between these two entities. This relationship highlights the elegant interplay of geometry in the construction and transformation of these figures, reflecting the deeper philosophical and mathematical meanings associated with both the Tetractys and the cube.

II. Tetractys & Spirit

The Tetractys symbol represents the relationship between the invisible and visible aspects of the divine essence within man.

CubethroughPythagorasilluminatesPentagram →
I. Cube & Pythagoras

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

II. Pythagoras & Pentagram

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

CubethroughManilluminatesAll →
I. Cube & Man

The man and woman are chained to the cube, symbolizing their entrapment and subjugation

II. Man & All

Man ceases manifesting on the material plane and withdraws into the indwelling spirit, representing a return to THE ALL.

CubethroughStarilluminatesMoon →
I. Cube & Star

The seven dots used in forming the cube and the star are interrelated, as both figures are derived from the same ten dots of the tetractys.

II. Star & Moon

Both the MOON and STAR cards in this context symbolize transitions, each reflecting a movement from one state to another. Specifically, the MOON card is associated with a journey from material imagination to spiritual truth, suggesting a shift from a more tangible or perceived reality to one that is more abstract and profound. Similarly, the STAR card represents a progression from the physical to eternal light, indicating a transformation towards a more enduring and divine existence. These transitions are depicted as periods of change where individuals may experience a loss of traditional certainties but are eventually led towards enlightenment or a higher truth. The moon card can represent hidden dangers, which can be related to the hope or bright prospects represented by The Star

CubethroughDevililluminatesGod →
I. Cube & Devil

The Devil is associated with the cube, symbolizing his influence and control over the material world

II. Devil & God

The devil is an angel cast out of heaven for wanting divinity, contrasting with the character of God