#pythagorean

“That the monad was the beginning of everything. From the monad proceeds an indefinite duad, which is subordinate to the monad as to its cause. That from the monad and the indefinite duad proceed numbers. And from numbers signs. And from these last, lines of which from figures consist. And from plane figures are derived solid bodies. And from solid bodies sensible bodies, of which last there are four elements; fire, water, earth, and air. And that the world, which is endued with life, and intellect, and which is of a spherical figure, having the earth, which is also spherical, and inhabited all over in its centre, results from a combination of these elements, and derives its motion from them; and also that there are antipodes, and that what is below, as respects us, is above in respect of them.”

The verses and the image of the Pythagorean Y (Upsilon) contain a challenge to students of classical and esoteric philosophy, as well as to mystics of every religion.

Of uncertain authorship, ascribed in a vague way to “Maximinus”, the verses have also been falsely ascribed to Virgil. Yet they are certainly ancient, and the main idea in them belongs to universal wisdom and literature.

They say:

“The Pythagoric Letter two ways spread,

Shows the two paths in which Man’s life is led.

The right hand track to sacred Virtue tends,

Though steep and rough at first, in rest it ends;

The other broad and smooth, but from its Crown

On rocks the Traveller is tumbled down.

He who to Virtue by harsh toils aspires,

Subduing pains, worth and renown acquires;

But who seeks slothful luxury, and flies,

Pythagorean theorem.

"Eduque as crianças e você não precisará punir os homens" - Pitágoras.

"Educate children and you will not need to punish men" - Pythagoras

Gross

As is often the case, inspired by a Pat Bellew post.