#The Art of Worldly Wisdom

[philosophybits]

The real philosopher has only one plan of action: virtue and prudence; for the only good and bad fortune lie in prudence or rashness.

Baltasar Gracián, The Art of Worldly Wisdom

[quotessentially]

From Baltasar Gracián’s The Art of Worldly Wisdom

[philosophybitmaps]

[travelpadmy-blog]

Top 10 Key Lessons from the Book: The Art of Worldly Wisdom

#goodbooksNB #Maestro81Top 10 Key Lessons from the Book:📓 The Art of Worldly WisdomBy Baltasar Gracian 🎯 1: Character Trumps Intelligence – Intelligence alone isn’t enough; you must cultivate the right character. Your conduct and wisdom go hand in hand for true success. 🎯 2: Pursue Knowledge – Your worth is deeply connected to what you know. Wisdom empowers you to achieve anything, while…

[blackswaneuroparedux]

The purpose of all literature is to make the reader see and feel and understand himself and the world.

T.S. Eliot

[jjba-smash-or-pass]

[o-link]

Le but de toute littérature est de permettre au lecteur de se voir, de se sentir et de se comprendre lui-même ainsi que le monde. T.S. Éliot

[burst-of-iridescent]

South Asian and Hindu Influences in ATLA (Part 2)

disclaimer: i was raised culturally and religiously hindu, and though i've tried to do my research for this post and pair it with my own cultural knowledge, i'm not an expert on hinduism by any means. should i mess up, please let me know.

please also be aware that many of the concepts discussed in this post overlap heavily with religions such as buddhism and jainism, which might have different interpretations and representations. as i'm not from those religions or cultures, i don't want to speak on them, but if anyone with that knowledge wishes to add on, please feel free.

Part 1

In the previous post, I discussed some of the things ATLA got right in its depictions of desi and hindu cultures. unfortunately, they also got plenty of things wrong - often in ways that leaned towards racist caricatures - so let's break them down, starting with...

Guru Pathik

both the word "guru" and name "pathik" come from sanskrit. pathik means "traveler" or "he who knows the way" while guru is a term for a guide or mentor, similar to a teacher.

gurus were responsible for the very first education systems in ancient india, setting up institutions called gurukuls. students, referred to as disciples, would often spend years living with and learning from their gurus in these gurukuls, studying vedic and buddhist texts, philosophy, music and even martial arts.

however, their learning was not limited merely to academic study, as gurus were also responsible for guiding the spiritual evolution of their disciples. it was common for disciples to meditate, practice yoga, fast for days or weeks, and complete mundane household chores every day in order to instill them with self-discipline and help them achieve enlightenment and spiritual awareness. the relationship between a guru and his disciple was considered a sacred, holy bond, far exceeding that of a mere teacher and student.

aang's training with guru pathik mirrors some of these elements. similar to real gurus, pathik takes on the role of aang's spiritual mentor. he guides aang in unblocking his chakras and mastering the avatar state through meditation, fasting, and self-reflection - all of which are practices that would have likely been encouraged in disciples by their gurus.

pathik's design also takes inspiration from sadhus, holy men who renounced their worldly ties to follow a path of spiritual discipline. the guru's simple, nondescript clothing and hair are reflective of the ascetic lifestyle sadhus are expected to lead, giving up material belongings and desires in order to achieve spiritual enlightenment and, ultimately, liberation from the reincarnation cycle.

unfortunately, this is where the respectful references end because everything else about guru pathik was insensitive at best and stereotypical at worst.

it is extremely distasteful that the guru speaks with an overexaggerated indian accent, even though the iranian-indian actor who plays him has a naturally british accent. why not just hire an actual indian voice actor if the intention was to make pathik sound authentic? besides, i doubt authenticity was the sole intention, given that the purposeful distortion of indian accents was a common racist trope played for comedy in early 2000s children's media (see: phineas and ferb, diary of a wimpy kid, jessie... the list goes on).

furthermore, while pathik is presented a wise and respected figure within this episode, his next (and last) appearance in the show is entirely the opposite.

in the episode nightmares and daydreams, pathik appears in aang's nightmare with six hands, holding what appears to be a veena (a classical indian music instrument). this references the iconography of the hindu deity Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom and knowledge. the embodiment of divine enlightenment, learning, insight and truth, Saraswati is a member of the Tridevi (the female version of the Trimurti), one of the most respected and revered goddesses in the Hindu pantheon... and her likeness is used for a cheap laugh on a character who's already treated as a caricature.

that's bad enough on its own, but when you consider that guru pathik is the only explicitly south asian coded character in the entire show, it's downright insulting. for a show that took so many of its foundational concepts from south asia and hinduism and yet provided almost no desi representation in return, this is just rubbing salt in the wound.

Chakras

"chakra", meaning "circle" or "wheel of life" in sanskrit, refers to sources of energy found in the human body. chakra points are aligned along the spine, with energy flowing from the lowest to the highest point. the energy pooled at the lowest chakra is called kundalini, and the aim is to release this energy to the highest chakra in order to achieve spiritual enlightenment and consciousness.

the number of chakras varies in different religions, with buddhism referencing five chakras while hinduism has seven. atla draws from the latter influence, so let's take a look at the seven chakras:

Muladhara (the Root Chakra). located at the base of the spine, this chakra deals with our basest instincts and is linked to the element of earth.

Swadhisthana (the Sacral Chakra). located just below the navel, this chakra deals with emotional intensity and pleasure and is linked to the element of water.

Manipura (the Solar Plexus Chakra). located in the stomach, this chakra deals with willpower and self-acceptance and is linked to the element of fire.

Anahata (the Heart Chakra). located in the heart, this chakra deals with love, compassion and forgiveness and is linked to the element of air. in the show, this chakra is blocked by aang's grief over the loss of the air nomads, which is a nice elemental allusion.

Vishudda (the Throat Chakra). located at the base of the throat, this chakra deals with communication and honesty and is linked to the fifth classical element of space. the show calls this the Sound Chakra, though i'm unsure where they got that from.

Ajna (the Third Eye Chakra). located in the centre of the forehead, this chakra deals with spirituality and insight and is also linked to the element of space. the show calls it the Light Chakra, which is fairly close.

Sahasrara (the Crown Chakra). located at the very top of the head, this chakra deals with pure cosmic consciousness and is also linked to the element of space. it makes perfect sense that this would be the final chakra aang has to unblock in order to connect with the avatar spirit, since the crown chakra is meant to be the point of communion with one's deepest, truest self.

the show follows these associations and descriptions almost verbatim, and does a good job linking the individual chakras to their associated struggles in aang's arc.

Cosmic Energy

the idea of chakras is associated with the concept of shakti, which refers to the life-giving energy that flows throughout the universe and within every individual.

the idea of shakti is a fundamentally unifying one, stating that all living beings are connected to one another and the universe through the cosmic energy that flows through us all. this philosophy is referenced both in the swamp episode and in guru pathik telling aang that the greatest illusion in the world is that of separation - after all, how can there be any real separation when every life is sustained by the same force?

this is also why aang needing to let go of katara did not, as he mistakenly assumed, mean he had to stop loving her. rather, the point of shedding earthly attachment is to allow one to become more attuned to shakti, both within oneself and others. ironically, in letting go of katara and allowing himself to commune with the divine energy of the universe instead, aang would have been more connected to her - not less.

The Avatar State

according to hinduism, there are five classical elements known as pancha bhuta that form the foundations of all creation: air, water, earth, fire, and space/atmosphere.

obviously, atla borrows this concept in making a world entirely based on the four classical elements. but looking at how the avatar spirit is portrayed as a giant version of aang suspended in mid-air, far above the earth, it's possible that this could reference the fifth liminal element of space as well.

admittedly this might be a bit of a reach, but personally i find it a neat piece of worldbuilding that could further explain the power of the avatar. compared to anyone else who might be able to master only one element, mastering all five means having control of every building block of the world. this would allow the avatar to be far more attuned to the spiritual energy within the universe - and themselves - as a result, setting in motion the endless cycle of death and rebirth that would connect their soul even across lifetimes.

[ezekiel-krishna]

Planets in the Ascendant { Vedic Astrology }

The Ascendant holds immense significance in Vedic astrology, shaping one's physical attributes, personality, health, and overall outlook on life. When a planet resides in the Ascendant, it exerts a profound influence on an individual's journey. Let's unravel the effects of each planet when positioned in the Ascendant.

Remember if you don't know your Vedic Astrology Placement

➡️ Check here

Sun

The Sun, revered as the ruler of the celestial realm, symbolizes the soul, ego, vitality, and essence of self. With the Sun in the Ascendant, individuals are bestowed with leadership qualities, confidence, and an authoritative demeanor. These individuals often possess a commanding presence and are driven by a desire to achieve success. However, they must guard against tendencies towards egotism or dominance.

Mercury

Mercury influences communication, intellect, and analytical abilities. When it aligns with the Ascendant, it indicates a person who is quick-witted, inquisitive, and skilled in getting their thoughts across effectively. They excel in juggling multiple tasks and have a broad range of interests. However, they might struggle with feeling overwhelmed or restless at times.

Jupiter

Jupiter, the planet of wisdom, expansion, and prosperity, holds great significance when it graces the Ascendant. Its presence indicates an individual who radiates optimism, generosity, and a deep spiritual inclination. These individuals are highly respected and possess a strong moral compass. It is crucial for them to be mindful of the tendency to indulge in excess or become complacent.

Venus

Venus, the planet associated with love, beauty, and harmony, casts its enchanting spell when it resides in the Ascendant. Those blessed with this placement exude charm and attractiveness, captivating all those around them. They have a profound appreciation for the arts, seek comfort, and value relationships. However, they must be cautious not to become overly indulgent or reliant on others for validation.

Saturn

Saturn, the planet of discipline, responsibility, and long-term planning, takes center stage when it aligns with the Ascendant. Individuals with this placement often appear serious, disciplined, and hardworking. They possess a maturity beyond their years and have a strong sense of duty. Their challenge lies in overcoming feelings of inadequacy or chronic dissatisfaction.

Moon

When the Moon is in the ascendant, the individual is likely to be emotionally sensitive, nurturing, and protective of those they care about. They may have a strong connection to their mother or caregivers and be highly attuned to their emotional needs. It also indicates a deep connection to their intuition and emotional guidance.

Mars

Mars in the ascendant people are likely to be energetic, assertive, and bold in their approach to life. They may be prone to taking risks and pursuing their goals with confidence and determination. They have a strong desire for adventure, a willingness to take risks and pursuing their goals with confidence and determination.

Rahu [North Node]

The presence of Rahu in the Ascendant signifies a fascinating blend of personality traits. As the North Node of the Moon, Rahu represents deep-seated desires and worldly attachments. Individuals with Rahu in the Ascendant possess a strong and captivating aura, often approaching life in unconventional ways. Their curiosity leads them towards foreign cultures and unconventional subjects. However, it is crucial to be aware that Rahu can also bring about confusion and an inclination towards obsession.

Ketu [South Node]

Having Ketu in the Ascendant brings forth a unique blend of spirituality, detachment, and past life karma. Individuals with this placement often possess a withdrawn nature and a deep fascination with metaphysical and spiritual endeavors. They may grapple with a sense of identity and often feel like outsiders in society. The key for these individuals lies in finding a harmonious balance between detachment and active participation in the world around them.

Remember This is a General Analysis , Whole Chart is to be analyze for Accurate Personalized Predictions.

Certified Astrologer

For Paid Personalized Analysis & Reviews ➤ Check Here

Masterlist ➤ Check Here

[miquella-everywhere]

Godwyn the Golden and the Cursed Empyrean Twins

So starting off, Godwyn the Golden is simultaneously one of the most important and enigmatic figure in Elden Ring Lore. What we do know is that he a charismatic and powerful Demigod, having lead the War of the Ancient Dragons to victory while also befriending is enemies, but at his end becoming a Martyr during the Night of the Black Knives and subsequently the Prince of Death, which has caused, so many problems throughout the Lands Between.

But I am here to analyze the relationship between Godwyn, Miquella and Malenia, and how much of Godwyns influence made the twins into in the people that they are currently.

Godwyn lorewise is a pretty fantastic dude. He was a valiant warrior, he befriends one of his greatest enemies and their friendship was so string said enemy turned friend, loved him so much he went inside of Godwyn to fight literal Death, and more importantly, he is clearly a revered and beloved figure between the Empyrean Twins, Miquella and Malenia.

Godwyn was close with the twins and the statue of him in the Haligtree Promenade has the Golden Demigod depicted as a protector and possible nurturer of the Twins, so he cared for them a great deal and Miquella and Malenia loved and adored Godwyn in turn.

In Leyndell there's a house in the far corner of the city that has several Miquella's Lily's growing in the front implying that Miquella lived there along with Malenia in their youth, and the fact that it's segregated from the rest of the city, and that you have to go by the apothecary building to get to it, it was likely that the rest of the populace was afraid of the Twins, but more specifically Malenias Rot.

But there was probably one person who wasn't afraid. That was Godwyn. And it wouldn't surprise me if Godwyn was Miquella and Malenia's primary caretaker in the beginning of their lives.

So when I think about it, Godwyn was probably there for them at the very beginning, he empathized with their afflictions and how their curses practically stunted and crippled their lives.

But I also believe that Godwyn was an encouraging figure and gave hope to the Twins. Godwyn was a fierce warrior in his own right and Malenia, who grew up to be just the same, was likely given instruction in the art of battle from Godwyn in her younger years, and he was likely her main tutor before she set off on her own journey in her adolescence and met her Blind Master.

The one thing that I love about this statue is the fact that it is Malenia who is embracing Godwyn, with her remaining arm wrapped tightly around her older brothers chest

Godwyn and Miquellas relationship is an interesting one to look closer at because the one thing that we know about Godwyn is that he was likely very kind due to his relationship with Fortissax, and Miquella too is kind, as he is well known for his acceptance of those rejected by the Golden Order. So if anything, it is a strong indicator that Godwyns kindness heavily influenced Miquella.

Not mention the fact that, at this point, Godwyn is the oldest of all the Demigods, the years that he has behind him and the wisdom/historical knowledge he has about the world would have been immense. And Miquella who is very curious by nature, had Godwyn there to answer the many questions Miquella had about the world. Miquella without a doubt looked up to Godwyns heroic demeanor and worldly knowledge with absolute awe.

Godwyn: *talking about how fast he can go on fortissax before the sheer wind force yeets him off*

Miquella: :D✨

And now, whatever the truth is behind the Night of the Black Knives, it very clearly was a tragedy that weighed heavily on the Twins as Miquella went on to create Golden Epitaph in commemoration of Godwyns death.

A golden sword imbued with the humble prayer of a young boy: "O brother, Lord Brother, please die a true death."

Golden Epitaphs description explains to us that Miquella wishes for Godwyn to be free from the horrific curse that has been placed upon his flesh, and the commemorative sword wasn't the only thing that Miquella has done for Godwyn after his death.

The Wandering Mausoleums are a bit of a mystery, but the more you read into them it becomes very apparent that they are in some way connected to Godwyn and Miquella devising a way to either free Godwyn from his state of Undeath, or to somehow restore his soul to his body. And this ritual involves the Eclipse

So we can easily deduce that one of Miquellas primary goals is to save Godwyn from the terrible fate that has been handed to him either by restoring his soul to his body or by granting him a true death. And with the new trailer shedding more light on the DLC, I am almost certain that Godwyn will have a pivotal role and more information will be revealed surrounding him.

But what can be said for certain is that Miquellas motives are driven by the love that he has for his older brother.

And now we can only wait.

[jyeshindra]

ALL ABOUT TAURUS ASCENDANT

Hey there folks! I'm back again to continue our ascendant series. Today we're going over our lovely Taurus risings, ruled by lady Venus.

The ascendant is a highly personal point in the chart, revealing the ways in which our energy initiates. It is our mask, and the first thing the people who meet us see and experience. It is what we see when we look into the horizon for our next adventure, experience, or transformation. It is the ways we approach each area of our life and in its own way tells a story about how our lives will go.

Like always, it's good to start with the natural chart ruler of Taurus, Venus. Venus makes these risings charming, pleasant, and sensual people. Being bound to the earthly sign of Taurus, Venus isn't so much about connecting with others (more of a Libra quality) and more-so about enjoying pleasure and worldly things. You can be a little indulgent, Taurus, don't hide from it. It is Venus who is just as lusty and desiring as Mars. You wish to consume, and to possess, and to own, and to embrace all that the world has to offer, for it is the senses that guide your spirit and your vessel through this world. Some may call you greedy, but you know what the true worth of things are. This is also the gift of Venus. You manage your resources well, and are well-minded on matters of money and art. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and what an eye you possess, Taurus!

These risings usually have a sense for fashion and aesthetics, appearing well put together and fashionable. There's a sturdiness to these risings, with the neck and shoulders being accented. There's something unassuming and classically beautiful about them, with a knack for cultivating glorious spaces of art and comfort.

Being in a feminine sign, these risings are more internally focused, with a slow and conservative approach to life. They don't like to waste energy and approach things with a stark patience. They have the staying power to get what they want and they will get it. Think of the bull, grazing along in the pasture. That is, until there's something to attack! Don't wake the bull, for Taurus anger is something to be feared, and not something many see.

Taurus is also materially concerned and prioritizes security. Being fixed in nature, these ascendants aren't as dynamic, preferring to do things the tried and tested way. Here's where the stubborn bull rears its head. Taureans like consistency and resist change!

Venus is also, I think, responsible for their stable, calming qualities . Taurus you are a pleasure to be around and can put anyone at ease. You enjoy a peaceful, calming environmnent, right Taurus? And, you can certainly keep a secret. Taureans make great listeners!

Taureans, ultimately you are here to attract. It's the principle quality of Venus. Your senses are your greatest asset as you approach each new environment, taking in sight, sounds, smells, tastes, feelings. You calibrate and you beautify with your fixed perspective. Do not succumb to inertia, but keep moving forward ever so gracefully, imparting your wisdom and your knowledge upon each new pasture. You remind me of the Queen of Pentacles, nurturing and guiding things to their fruition with care and ease and love.

With your 8th House being ruled by Sagittarius, I think your power is awakened the moment you adopt the mutability of the sign. Be open to change when necessary and don't be so stuck in your ways Taurus. Let life teach you and let life show you new ways of thinking and looking at a situation. Then your ability to impart your wisdom will be even greater.

That's the Aquarius Midheaven, after all! You have so much to share with the world! From your observations and your experiences, there is a deep wisdom others must hear. Even if it causes you to operate against what others may expect of you, even if it breeds feelings of loneliness and confusion. You know what you have to offer the world will change it. What you touch automatically increases in value and is long-lasting, perhaps even progressive and innovative!

Scorpio Descendant will reveal the kind of partners you crave, as well as your own shadow Taurus. You, who wants to possess and own, may find a kinship in your Scorpio partners who also bring a kind of intensity to their relationships. You want someone loyal, someone who will not abandon you, and someone who will listen to you. There are dark things brewing beneath your surface, Taurus and you aren't always so open about the traumas and pains of your life. Water will soften your earth Taurus and open you up, allowing you to confess about the demons assailing your heart.

For this is what exists in your shadow, Taurus! You go through intense periods of transformation and you endure tough, brutal emotions. You do feel things, and at times you hold grudges. You hold onto those emotions until you explode, which doesn't always spell well for the people around you or yourself. Learn to process those emotions and talk to someone. Learn the art of letting go.

Perhaps a Scorpionic partner can teach you these things?

I fear this post grows too long. I could go further, but I believe this already paints quite the picture.

Next will be my dear Geminis!

[philosophybits]

We have little to live and much to know, and you cannot live if you do not know.

Baltasar Gracián, The Art of Worldly Wisdom

[quotessentially]

From Baltasar Gracián’s The Art of Worldly Wisdom

[philosophybitmaps]

[mywingsareonwheels]

I was just thinking that one thing I adore about the Endeavour fandom is that I don't think I've seen a single person in it who insults Fred Thursday's intelligence or fails to recognise his intellectual interests. Even people who don't like him (or at least judge him more harshly than I do)!

And in this we're following on from the show, which recognises that while Thursday lacks class and educational privilege[1], he has not only some considerable astuteness as a detective and a lot of worldly-wisdom, but has taught himself Italian, enjoys a lot of poetry, can identify various trees that almost certainly weren't around in Mile End when he was growing up, knows at least a little about opera etc.. And is, especially in the early seasons, always interested in learning more. As @morsesnotes very wisely observed in a recent post, poetry is part of what Morse and Thursday bond over! It's Strange who's the odd one out when it's the three of them, not Morse.

Thursday's own confidence in his intelligence I think is variable, but the show never questions it, and neither do we. :-)

I sometimes wish Endeavour had a larger fandom because it really is so good (even if very flawed in places) and deserves more attention. But then at other times I go... eurgh, if it did though, the opportunity for Fail would be so much worse. And I think that's one of the things we'd lose, because some of the less thoughtful fans would take one look at this middle-aged, working class ex-NCO with PTSD and sometimes spectacularly poor decision-making and go "he must be Morse's opposite" and ignore all of his intellectual curiosity and self-education. (And his reciting poetry at/with Morse in Colours which is one of my favourite moments ever. ;-) ) Right now I love that as far as I know the whole fandom Gets This about Fred. <3

(And with my late, beloved paternal grandparents having been working-class (rural rather than urban) and born in the same decade as Fred and also both having left school at 14 and both having a huge range of interests and being very into self-education (fiction, theology, natural history, geology, art...)... Yeah. This is part of why I love Fred so much, and part of why I love that he's allowed to be so smart and intellectually engaged. <3 )

[1] Given his generation and background, it's most probable he left school at 14, and certainly university would never have been an option.

[bts-trans]

231105 RM's Instagram Story

Response

…myself feel like someone else. Especially when people say stuff like "be more mysterious", or "if you want to be respected, don't get too close". I do that kind of stuff because it's just who I am as a person, I have no need to make things look good. I've been through a lot of pain and felt loss and suffered and shed tears. Having experienced all that, the attempts to filter myself, my efforts to become someone else - it all seems so insignificant and unnecessary. My life is too short for me to try and suppress everything. I feel like I should just feel everything I feel and live happily. Relationships with people cause disharmony? distrust? discomfort? Well those are also feelings I feel and are all a part of my life. If I have something to say, I just end up saying it. I'm bragging? Maybe, so what? Let's do that too, let's just go ahead, if nobody in the world bragged, why would that word exist, why would it mean what it does? I'm no Hong Gil-dong* - pride, envy, greed, anger are all part of life, of being a person. If it has a name, it's not something to be treated as evil, but something we should just face head on and accept. Whether it's about me or someone else, all of it makes my life richer. Just like there are no stories without conflict. When I think about things that way, it feels like I've lived my whole life until now touching things with mittens on. I'm happier now that I've taken them off. Books are great, but you're not a book, you're not someone else, and you're definitely not David, made of stone. I hope you can just become you.

(T/N: *The protagonist of the very famous story 'Hong Gildong jeon', written during the Joseon dysnasty. Hong Gil-dong is a Robin Hood-like character who stands against social hierarchies and steals from the rich to give to the poor. Overcoming his low birth status to become a hero and a king, he is seen as invincible, righteous figure.

2. The picture is a screenshot of a comment on this YouTube video. The video is an audiobook of the Korean translation of 'Oraculo Manual y Arte De Prudencia', or 'The Art of Worldly Wisdom' by Baltasar Gracián. 🔗https://youtu.be/Qkt4phMoCP4?si=txGX1C00ND9nHgda)

Trans cr; Aditi @ bts-trans © TAKE OUT WITH FULL CREDITS