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

Phrygian Mode

The Phrygian mode is a specific harmonic mode associated with the key of Phrygian. According to historical accounts, it was believed to be linked with Jupiter, as mentioned by Pliny. This mode was also recognized by Pythagoras, who utilized it for its powerful emotional impact, famously associated with the story of an intoxicated youth. The Phrygian mode shares similarities with the Dorian mode but is distinguished by distinct emotional qualities. Overall, it is characterized by its unique harmonic structure that elicits strong emotional responses.

Concordance & Cross-References

Primary Correspondences & Figures

Modes→Concept

The Phrygian mode, another specific example of modes, is associated with the Phrygian key and its distinctive effects.

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

Mediate Correspondences

Sympathetic Chains & Distant Affinities

Phrygian ModethroughPythagorasilluminatesSun →
I. Phrygian Mode & Pythagoras

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

II. Pythagoras & Sun

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

Phrygian ModethroughPythagorasilluminatesAlchemy →
I. Phrygian Mode & Pythagoras

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

II. Pythagoras & Alchemy

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

Phrygian ModethroughPythagorasilluminatesMysteries →
I. Phrygian Mode & Pythagoras

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

II. Pythagoras & Mysteries

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

Phrygian ModethroughPythagorasilluminatesPentagram →
I. Phrygian Mode & Pythagoras

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

II. Pythagoras & Pentagram

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

Phrygian ModethroughPythagorasilluminatesIsis →
I. Phrygian Mode & Pythagoras

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

II. Pythagoras & Isis

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

Phrygian ModethroughPythagorasilluminatesFreemasonry →
I. Phrygian Mode & Pythagoras

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

II. 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

Phrygian ModethroughPythagorasilluminatesTriad →
I. Phrygian Mode & Pythagoras

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

II. Pythagoras & Triad

Pythagoras used the triad in summarizing his philosophical and mathematical teachings

Phrygian ModethroughPythagorasilluminatesAristotle →
I. Phrygian Mode & Pythagoras

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

II. Pythagoras & Aristotle

Pythagoras indirectly influenced Aristotle through his works on philosophy

Phrygian ModethroughPythagorasilluminatesEgypt →
I. Phrygian Mode & Pythagoras

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

II. 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

Phrygian ModethroughPythagorasilluminatesPlato →
I. Phrygian Mode & Pythagoras

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

II. 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.