The Solar Mystery of 666 and 777
The number 666 has been feared, condemned, and distorted, but its origin can be found in the Sacred arithmetic of Light. Long before it was cast into shadow, ancient magi recognised it as the numerical body of the Sun. When the numbers from one to thirty-six are summed, they yield six hundred and sixty-six, forming the perfect triangle of thirty-six. These thirty-six are the astrological Egyptian decans, the solar faces through which the star of day pours its rays upon the world.
At this moment, for instance, the Sun stands in the twentieth decan – the second of Libra, sign where the solar power knows its fall. This decan is specifically ruled by Saturn, who finds exaltation in Libra, and it corresponds to the Three of Swords among the minor arcana.
The figure 666 represents the total emanation of the solar power distributed through the 360 degrees of the zodiac. It is the fullness of Light entering the field of matter. Later, the apocalyptic vision recast this number as the sign of pride, the seal of the Demiurgic self that mistakes its reflection for the source. But the symbol has never lost its double nature. The Sun can be illumination and arrogance; and it can bless or burn.
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