The Ouroboros in Greek Mythology: Beyond a Simple Symbol
The Ouroboros in Greek Mythology: Beyond a Simple Symbol
The ouroboros is a symbol that represents the universal energy that is constantly consumed and renewed, transcending various cultures and traditions. In ancient Egypt, it symbolized the unity of the world from which everything is generated and destroyed. For the Greeks and in alchemical tradition, the ouroboros symbolized the unity of everything and the cyclical concept of time.
A Deeper Explanation: Ouroboros in Ancient Greek Literature
The ouroboros, or orythmōros in Greek, is an ancient Greek word highlighted in classical texts, particularly in the works of Lydos. This symbol is incredibly deep and complex, as it reflects the early philosophical and mathematical concepts of the Greeks. Lydos provides insights into the symbolic significance of numbers, particularly the number 10, which holds a special place in Greek thought.
The Number Ten and the Ouroboros
Lydos mentions that the number 10, known as ARITHMOS in Greek, is a key number that represents the order of the universe. He explains that 10 is the point where a circle starts and ends at the same time. This periodic phenomenon is perfectly depicted by the ouroboros, a snake or dragon biting its own tail. The ouroboros symbolizes rebirth and the cyclical nature of time and energy.
The Egyptian Connection and Ouroboros in Pyramids
The ancient Egyptians also used the ouroboros symbol to represent the concept of rebirth and periodic phenomena. For example, the period called ENIAUTOS could either refer to a sun period of approximately 26,000 years or a larger cycle in cosmic time. Lydos notes that the Egyptians symbolized these cycles using the ouroboros, often incorporating it into their pyramid designs. Additionally, he mentions that sometimes an X symbol was added inside the ouroboros to represent a month, denoted as MHN in Egyptian hieroglyphics.
The Human Element: Ouroboros and Vorois
A more intriguing aspect of the ouroboros is its connection to the human concept of consumption. Lydos explains that in ancient Greek literature, humans are referred to as VRTOI, which literally means "meat to be eaten." This term, VOROS, is derived from the verb voraō, meaning "to devour." This human-centric perspective adds a layer of complexity to the ouroboros, as it suggests that the symbol could also represent the idea of humans consuming each other, further emphasizing the cyclical nature of life and death.
Thus, the ouroboros symbolizes not only the eternal cycle of life and rebirth but also the interconnectedness of all things, both in the natural world and in the broader cosmos. By integrating mathematical, philosophical, and cultural elements, the ouroboros offers a profound insight into the cyclical concept of time and energy in ancient Greek thought.
For a deeper understanding, delve into the works of Lydos and study the ancient Greek literature that underpins these complex symbols and concepts.