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

Time

TIME is a manifold concept mentioned across various contexts. In the realm of philosophy and metaphysics, particularly associated with Immanuel Kant, TIME is recognized as one of his categories used by the human mind to organize and structure spatial and temporal perceptions. This means that TIME is a fundamental cognitive framework through which individuals perceive and organize their experiences in space and time.

In the spiritual and esoteric sphere, TIME is described as non-existent in the Desire World, the plane of existence for spirits. This implies that concepts related to duration, which are tied to the physical aspects of time, do not apply in this realm, as the spiritual existence transcends the linear notion of time.

Chronologically, TIME is sometimes linked to the principle of Father Chronos, symbolized by Saturn, emphasizing the dual role of being both a creator and a destroyer. This concept demonstrates the cyclical nature of time, with beginnings and ends, much like the cycle of the seasons or the life of a planet.

Theological and biblical perspectives suggest that TIME can be seen as a linear progression in which the word of God operates. This progression culminates in a definitive end, when time itself will bring about a significant transformation, possibly the end of the world and the dawn of a new state.

Iconographically, TIME is often depicted as an angel holding a cup of silver and a cup of gold, with a stream of various colors flowing between them. This visual representation symbolizes the continuity of change, encapsulating the past, present, and future as integral aspects of the ongoing process of time. The name of this angel is said to be Time itself, further emphasizing the personification of this concept.

TIME is a central concept that permeates different domains of understanding, from empirical and philosophical to spiritual and iconographic, each offering a unique insight into this fundamental aspect of existence.

Concordance & Cross-References

Primary Correspondences & Figures

World→Substance

The world evolves through time, coming to completion with the final word of creation

Cosmos→Concept

Cosmos arises out of the passage of time during which the Word of God forms the world from the primordial substance

Subject 32, Chronology, represents the study of time and its measurement, seeking to understand historical and temporal relationships.

The Ram, as a zodiacal sign, is connected to the concept of time, marked by the sun's progress and the annual cycles of life and renewal.

New Heaven And New EarthConcept

The future state of perfection will emerge at the end of time, marking the culmination of the Creative Fiat

Mediate Correspondences

Sympathetic Chains & Distant Affinities

TimethroughWorldilluminatesSun →
I. Time & World

The world evolves through time, coming to completion with the final word of creation

II. World & Sun

The Sun and The World are interconnected entities with deep spiritual significance. The Sun, often symbolized in tarot as the "Sun" card, embodies the vitality and energy of every aspect of life, representing renewal, growth, and well-being. This card is typically associated with positivity, health, and joy. On the other hand, The World card is a representation of the totality of cosmic life and signifies completion, unity, and the culmination of one's journey towards enlightenment and fullness. Together, these figures and symbols symbolize the journey of spiritual light and transformation, illustrating how individual vitality and the collective existence of all living things are intertwined in a broader cosmic framework. This interplay emphasizes the sympathy and completeness of the universe, suggesting that the health and vitality of each component contribute to the overall harmony and balance of the world. The sun symbolizes Christ, raising the world from the dead and restoring life

TimethroughWorldilluminatesTarot →
I. Time & World

The world evolves through time, coming to completion with the final word of creation

II. World & Tarot

The Tarot includes The World card representing unity with all creation and the realization of the divine

TimethroughCosmosilluminatesMysteries →
I. Time & Cosmos

Cosmos arises out of the passage of time during which the Word of God forms the world from the primordial substance

II. Cosmos & Mysteries

The Mysteries, based on both the Macrocosm and Microcosm, taught about the universe and its workings

TimethroughChronologyilluminatesAstrology →
I. Time & Chronology

Subject 32, Chronology, represents the study of time and its measurement, seeking to understand historical and temporal relationships.

II. Chronology & Astrology

Chronology and Astrology both study the timing and cycles of celestial events, encompassing the temporal and interpretative aspects. Chronology focuses on providing the temporal sequences and order of events, offering a structured timeline through the study of dates and time periods. Astrology, on the other hand, interprets these cycles and events, providing deeper meaning and insights into the influences of celestial bodies on terrestrial matters. Both disciplines intersect in their examination of the heavens, with Chronology serving as the foundational temporal framework, and Astrology as the interpretative layer that explores the symbolic and practical implications of celestial timing and movements.

TimethroughChronologyilluminatesPhilosophy →
I. Time & Chronology

Subject 32, Chronology, represents the study of time and its measurement, seeking to understand historical and temporal relationships.

II. Chronology & Philosophy

Chronology and Philosophy, both entities involved in the study of time and its philosophical implications, are intrinsically connected but serve distinct roles in understanding the nature of time. Chronology provides temporal context, offering narratives that detail the sequence and duration of events. In contrast, Philosophy offers a framework for conceptual analysis, exploring the deeper meanings, ethical dimensions, and theoretical underpinnings of time. Both disciplines examine the significance and meaning of time, complementing each other to provide a comprehensive understanding of temporal experiences and their philosophical implications. Through their collaboration, Chronology and Philosophy together offer a rich exploration of how time shapes human experience and thought.

TimethroughWorldilluminatesChrist →
I. Time & World

The world evolves through time, coming to completion with the final word of creation

II. World & Christ

The world awaited Christ's coming, prepared by divine forces and philosophical belief

TimethroughWorldilluminatesMan →
I. Time & World

The world evolves through time, coming to completion with the final word of creation

II. World & Man

The man, as an apocalyptic beast, accompanies the World card and adds the element of intellect to the full circle symbolism.

TimethroughCosmosilluminatesMatter →
I. Time & Cosmos

Cosmos arises out of the passage of time during which the Word of God forms the world from the primordial substance

II. Cosmos & Matter

Matter is often seen as a reflection of the cosmos in alchemy, leading to the creation of perfect, harmonious substances Matter is often seen as a part of the cosmos, leading to the creation of perfect, harmonious substances in alchemy

TimethroughWorldilluminatesHigh Priestess →
I. Time & World

The world evolves through time, coming to completion with the final word of creation

II. World & High Priestess

The High Priestess symbolizes deep wisdom and learning, preparing the aspirant for the final state of integration symbolized by The World.

TimethroughCosmosilluminatesEarth →
I. Time & Cosmos

Cosmos arises out of the passage of time during which the Word of God forms the world from the primordial substance

II. Cosmos & Earth

The earth experiences the truths of Heaven through the illusion of matter