Arcana: The number of all ways

25/05/2023 10 min Temporada 2 Episodio 4
Arcana: The number of all ways

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Episode Synopsis

The number 4 is related to the Emperor card in tarot. It is also related to the square. There are four cardinal points, four winds, four pillars of the universe, four phases of the moon, four seasons, four elements, four humors, four rivers in paradise, four arms of the cross, four evangelists, and so on.The number 4 is an even number and can be formed by adding the numbers 2 and 2. Additionally, it is the first number that can be expressed as the sum of two equal numbers. In geometry, it represents the number of sides of a square. It is also the basis of the numbering system used in most countries around the world.In physics, the number 4 has significance in Albert Einstein's theory of relativity. In this theory, the idea is used that space-time has four dimensions: three spatial dimensions and one temporal dimension. These four dimensions are represented as a space-time continuum in which events can be described by four coordinates.In group theory in mathematics, groups of four elements are used to describe the symmetry of objects. For example, a tetrahedron has four faces and four vertices, making it a symmetrical object.In astrology, the number 4 is associated with the planet Saturn. It is believed that Saturn rules the hardest and most challenging aspects of life, such as hard work and responsibility. Therefore, the number 4 is often considered a number that represents discipline, structure, and stability.In many esoteric traditions, the number 4 is associated with the earth and natural elements. In Greek mythology, the number 4 is associated with the four elements: earth, air, fire, and water. In chemistry, the number 4 is associated with the four elements and the four states of matter: solid, liquid, gas, and plasma.In Jewish Kabbalah, the number 4 is considered a sacred number that represents totality and perfection. It is believed that the number 4 represents the four letters of God's name in Hebrew: YHVH. In tarot, the number 4 is associated with the Emperor card, which represents authority, control, and structure.In Hinduism, the number 4 is associated with the four yugas, or cosmic eras. It is believed that the current humanity is in the era of Kali Yuga, which is characterized by darkness and spiritual ignorance. However, it is believed that after Kali Yuga, a new era of light and knowledge will come.The number 4 has great significance in alchemy as it is associated with the four classical elements: earth, water, fire, and air. These elements represent the basic building blocks of everything that exists in the material world. Each element has its own qualities and distinctive characteristics, which are reflected in their role in the alchemical process of transmutation. Earth, for example, is seen as the principle of stability and solidity, while water is seen as the principle of fluidity and adaptability.Fire represents transformation and purification, while air represents freedom and mobility. Alchemists believed that by combining these elements appropriately, they could create a substance that possessed unique properties and that would allow them to achieve perfection or enlightenment.In alchemy, the ultimate goal was to transform matter into its purest state, which was achieved through a series of carefully designed processes. These processes were divided into four distinct stages, each of which was associated with an element and a state of matter.The first stage, known as nigredo, represents the solid state and is associated with the element earth. In this stage, the matter is subjected to initial purification and separated from any impurities or foreign matter.The second stage, called albedo, represents the liquid state and is associated with the element water. In this stage, the matter is subjected to further cleaning and refinement, allowing any unwanted residue to be removed.