3 Sessions exploring the Sphinx in the Ancient World
The Sphinx, a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head of a human or an animal, holds profound spiritual significance in various cultures worldwide, particularly in Egypt and Greece. This enigmatic symbol has captivated the human imagination for centuries, representing a convergence of the earthly and the divine.
In ancient Egypt, the Sphinx is perhaps most famously associated with the Giza Plateau, where the Great Sphinx of Giza stands near the pyramids. Egyptians regarded the Sphinx as a guardian, a protective deity, and a symbol of royal power. The colossal limestone statue, with the face of Pharaoh Khafre, is believed to embody the spirit of a lion, an animal associated with both strength and divine protection. The Sphinx's presence at the entrance of the pyramids also suggests its role as a guide to the afterlife, guiding the souls of the deceased through the complex journey of the underworld.
In Greek mythology, the Sphinx takes on a different persona, famously portrayed in the tragedy of Oedipus Rex. In this context, the Sphinx is a riddle-bearer, posing a question to travelers and devouring those who fail to answer correctly. The riddle reflects the enigmatic nature of life's journeys and humanity’s unending pursuit of wisdom. In the tale, Oedipus successfully solves the riddle, leading to the Sphinx's demise and symbolizing the triumph of human intellect over supernatural forces. This defeat of the Sphinx by man heralds cultural patriarchal shifts as well.
Beyond Egypt and Greece, variations of the Sphinx exist in other cultures, each with unique spiritual significance. In Hinduism, the mythical creature Narasimha, with the body of a lion and a man's head, is an incarnation of the god Vishnu, representing the triumph of good over evil. In ancient Mesopotamia, winged lions and human hybrid figures were protective deities, guarding sacred spaces.
The universality of the Sphinx's symbolism in the ancient world suggests humanity’s shared determination to touch the heart of the mystery. The Sphinx herself transcends cultural and temporal boundaries, serving as a timeless archetype that speaks to the mysteries of existence. Whether as a guardian of the afterlife, a harbinger of wisdom, or a symbol of cosmic order, the Sphinx inspires contemplation and reverence, inviting individuals to delve into their own spiritual journeys. She stands as a testament to the magic of human consciousness within the profound mysteries of the universe.
In this class, Priestess Yeshe will explore the histories, lore, specific symbolism, and cultural significance of the Sphinx across space and time, offering context and exercises to help students connect more deeply with their innate wisdom and heart connection with the Mystery that gives rise to all, and into which all dissipates.
Classes will take place on 3 successive Saturdays from 12pm - 1:15pm
January 11: The Egyptian Sphinx
January 18: The Greek Sphinx
January 25: Sphinxes of the World
Students will receive a bundle of items to support their work with the energies of the Sphinx, including:
-Vial of Secret of the Desert oil from Egypt
-Blue Lotus Tea for prophetic dreams
-Altar cards with photos of several different historical Sphinxes and Sphinx Temples
-Beeswax votive candle
January 11
Class Themes
History and symbolism of the Egyptian Sphinx; Akashic records; the language of symbolism; the labour, creation, and ownership of knowledge; celestial alignment and geomancy of wisdom; the aura of enigma.
January 18
Class Themes
History and symbolism of the Greek Sphinx; the Hero’s Journey; prophecy and divination; cthonic wisdom; riddles and koans; secret teachings and their role in wisdom bliss; the process of becoming the protector of the mysteries.
January 25
Class Themes
Sphinxes of the World and their cultural meanings; the pursuit of the mysteries in a modern context; the shimmering, rippling landscape of appearances; co-creating wisdom with wisdom; shining a beacon of wisdom through embodied practice.
Registration Details
Registration is $99 including the 3 live and recorded sessions of 75 minutes each, 3 sets of notes from the classes, and the box of supplies mailed to you. All recorded and written materials will be available indefinitely to class registrants.
Click below to purchase your seat in the class, and then scroll up to the cart button at the top of the page to checkout. You will receive a confirmation email for your purchase, and in the first week of January you will receive a welcome letter and further class details will arrive. Looking forward to diving into the sea of wisdom with you!