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zero is a new number

How Zero Made New Babylon

The concept of zero, a seemingly simple mathematical notion, played a pivotal role in shaping the modern world, transforming ancient Babylon into a “New Babylon” of advanced mathematics, commerce, and scientific thought. This journey of… How Zero Made New Babylon

Dollar and the Rod of Asclepius

The Caduceus: A Symbol of Duality and Transformation

Dollar and the Rod of Asclepius
Dollar and the Rod of Asclepius

The caduceus, a staff entwined with two snakes and often topped with wings, is one of the most enduring and widely recognized symbols in human history. Its rich symbolism and varied interpretations have made it a powerful emblem across cultures and time periods, persisting into the present day.

We encounter this symbol frequently in our daily lives: in healthcare logos, Christian symbolism (both positive and negative), on currency, in banking, and government insignia. What’s intriguing is how rarely people know its meaning or historical context.

It’s almost as if we don’t even see the symbol until it’s pointed out. This article aims to do just that – to bring attention to this ubiquitous yet often overlooked symbol!

Meaning and Cross-Cultural Comparisons

Hermes with Caduceus
Hermes with Caduceus

The caduceus primarily symbolizes commerce, negotiation, and communication, associated with the Greek god Hermes (Roman Mercury). However, its meaning extends far beyond these initial associations.

In India, a similar concept exists in the form of Kundalini, represented as a coiled serpent at the base of the spine. This serpent energy is believed to rise through the chakras, leading to spiritual awakening and higher consciousness. The parallel between the rising Kundalini and the intertwined snakes of the caduceus suggests a universal understanding of serpentine energy as a transformative force.

Chinese medicine, particularly in chiropractic and acupuncture perspectives, recognizes the flow of energy through the body’s meridians. While not directly related to the caduceus, this concept shares the idea of a life force moving through channels, similar to the snakes winding up the staff.

Significance of the Wings

Caduceus with wings
Caduceus with wings

The wings atop the caduceus symbolize Hermes’ speed and ability to traverse between realms. They represent transcendence, the capacity to rise above earthly concerns, and the connection between the physical and spiritual worlds. This addition enhances the symbol’s representation of communication between different planes of existenceThe Caduceus: A Symbol of Duality and Transformation

Lady justice

The spirit of money

The Intersection of Religion, Economics, and Money Throughout history, religion has played a significant role in shaping economic policy, despite the separation of church and state in many Western countries. For over two millennia, money… The spirit of money

Celtic warrior

Celtic Britain and the beginnings of money in Britain

Britain’s lush lands have long since attracted trade and migration. The Celtic people who are the first recorded settlers and have been credited with ancient artefacts like stonehenge were known to trade with peoples from across the seas in valuable goods like Iron, Fur and Gold.

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