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formed within the Sphere. By a similar process an Icosahedron may be constracted from a Dodecahedron. (See Todhunter's Spherical Trigonometry, p. 141, art. 193). The figure constructed as above described will represent the universe of matter and the universe of Astral Light as they actually exist, I shall not now, however, proceed to show how the universe of Astral Light may be considered in the light of an Icosahedron. I shall only state here that this conception of the Aryan philosophers is not to be looked upon as mere "theological twaddle" or as the outcome of wild fancy. The real significance of the conception in question can, I believe, be explained by reference to the psychology and the physical science of the ancients. But I must stop here and proceed to consider the meaning of the remaining two signs.
- Kumbham (or Aquarius). When represented by numbers, the word is equivalent to 14. It can be easily perceived, then, that the division in question is intended to represent the "Ghaturdasa Bhuvanam" or the 14 lôkams spoken of in Sanskrit books.
- Meenam (or Pisces). This word again is represented by 5 when written in numbers and is evidently intended to convey the idea of Panchamahabhûtams or the 5 elements. The sign also suggests that water (not the ordinary water, but the universal solvent of the ancient alchemists,) is the most important amongst the said elements.
I have now finished the task which I have set to myself in this article. My purpose is not to explain the ancient theory of creation itself, but to show the connection between that theory and the Zodiacal divisions. I have herein brought to light but a very small portion of the philosophy imbedded in these signs. The veil that was dexterously thrown over certain portions of the mystery connected with these signs by the ancient philosophers will nemr be lifted up for the amusement or edification of the uninitiated public.
