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

Desire

Desire is a powerful motivational force that drives beings towards various actions, encompassing both physical and spiritual movements. In the context of the Four of Pentacles, desire often remains unfulfilled, hampered by personal limitations. This entity is frequently associated with the Four of Pentacles, where it plays a central role, especially in reversed meanings, often linking to themes of speculation and lust.

Desire and passion are essential components of the astrological sign Scorpio, a sign known for its intense and manifold nature, involving spiritual, physical, and moral aspirations. In Scorpio, desire is seen as a journey of life, balancing both positive and negative aspects and being deeply linked to themes of justice and vengeance.

From an astrological perspective, desire is associated with Virgo, where it manifests as the emotional and mental drive that arises from practical experiences. This drive, tied to themes of analysis and service, represents the transformation of sensation, focusing on the pursuit and achievement of one's goals and objectives. However, there is a cautionary aspect, suggesting that an overemphasis on achieving one's desires might lead to neglect of other important life aspects.

Overall, desire is portrayed as a complex and manifold force, influential in various aspects of life, including astrological signs, tarot card symbolism, and personal development. It encompasses a range of emotions and drives, from the practical to the spiritual, with both positive and negative connotations.

Concordance & Cross-References

Primary Correspondences & Figures

Female SphinxesSubstance

Female sphinxes symbolize the nurturing and receptive qualities that fuel desire, representing the subconscious energy that drives the journey.

SexualitySubstance

Sexuality is an expression of desire, representing both physical and spiritual aspects of the journey.

Male DriverPerson

The male driver embodies the force of will and action, which interacts with the driving force of desire.

DebtSubstance

Desire and debt are related, as unfulfilled desires may lead to material concerns and financial obligations

Spirit→Concept

Desire influences the Spirit's actions and experiences in both the physical and spiritual realms, driving motion and interaction

Mediate Correspondences

Sympathetic Chains & Distant Affinities

DesirethroughSpiritilluminatesAlchemy →
I. Desire & Spirit

Desire influences the Spirit's actions and experiences in both the physical and spiritual realms, driving motion and interaction

II. Spirit & Alchemy

Alchemy requires the action of the spirit, representing the divine will, to transform external substances.

DesirethroughSpiritilluminatesAll →
I. Desire & Spirit

Desire influences the Spirit's actions and experiences in both the physical and spiritual realms, driving motion and interaction

II. Spirit & All

SPIRIT is characterized as the Infinite Living Mind and the Real Essence, serving as the highest conception of the concepts that make up THE ALL. This essence is both infinite and living, transcending human understanding. SPIRIT and THE ALL are intrinsically linked, with LIFE and MIND, as well as ENERGY and MATTER, viewed as manifestations or aspects of SPIRIT's essence. SPIRIT is also described as the essence from which the universe is created, further emphasizing its foundational importance in the cosmic structure. Thus, SPIRIT and THE ALL are understood to be intertwined, with SPIRIT being the fundamental reality from which all other aspects of existence emanate.

DesirethroughSpiritilluminatesGod →
I. Desire & Spirit

Desire influences the Spirit's actions and experiences in both the physical and spiritual realms, driving motion and interaction

II. Spirit & God

God represents the ultimate goal and source of divine powers.

DesirethroughSpiritilluminatesMan →
I. Desire & Spirit

Desire influences the Spirit's actions and experiences in both the physical and spiritual realms, driving motion and interaction

II. Spirit & Man

Man is created in the image of God, sharing a twofold constitution with the divine, including a spiritual and material aspect.

DesirethroughSpiritilluminatesDeath →
I. Desire & Spirit

Desire influences the Spirit's actions and experiences in both the physical and spiritual realms, driving motion and interaction

II. Spirit & Death

Death signifies the end of a Spirit's current life and its transition to another realm or possibly a new life SPIRIT and DEATH are interconnected concepts in this framework, with death signifying the transition of the SPIRIT to another realm. The SPIRIT's experiences and journey through life are seen as preparatory steps for this natural termination of the life cycle. Upon death, the SPIRIT undergoes a transition, moving on to an alternative existence. This comprehensive summary integrates both the classical literature, aligning them into a cohesive narrative that highlights the relationship between SPIRIT and DEATH.

DesirethroughSpiritilluminatesMatter →
I. Desire & Spirit

Desire influences the Spirit's actions and experiences in both the physical and spiritual realms, driving motion and interaction

II. Spirit & Matter

Matter and spirit are described as opposing forces in the process of life and death, showing a conceptual relationship between the two.

DesirethroughSpiritilluminatesLight →
I. Desire & Spirit

Desire influences the Spirit's actions and experiences in both the physical and spiritual realms, driving motion and interaction

II. Spirit & Light

Spirit is the source of the divine light that shines through the body and gives life, suggesting that without the spirit, light and action cannot occur.

DesirethroughSpiritilluminatesSubstance →
I. Desire & Spirit

Desire influences the Spirit's actions and experiences in both the physical and spiritual realms, driving motion and interaction

II. Spirit & Substance

Substance, containing within it the element of Life, originates the Soul and Mind of man. The substance comprises the elements of fire and æther, which are imparted to form the bodies of man.

DesirethroughSpiritilluminatesTetractys →
I. Desire & Spirit

Desire influences the Spirit's actions and experiences in both the physical and spiritual realms, driving motion and interaction

II. Spirit & Tetractys

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

DesirethroughSpiritilluminatesEther →
I. Desire & Spirit

Desire influences the Spirit's actions and experiences in both the physical and spiritual realms, driving motion and interaction

II. Spirit & Ether

The spirit incorporates ether through the archetype into the physical body