Philosophy

Mahamrityunjaya Mantra

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We have recorded a rendition of the Mahamrityunjaya mantra with a new affiliate @kshatriyacowboy. This verse can be found in the Rigveda (RV 7.59.12) and is devoted to the great Rudra-Shiva in his form of Tryambakam or “The Three Eyed One.”

ॐ त्र्य॑म्बकं यजामहे सु॒गन्धिं॑ पुष्टि॒वर्ध॑नम् ।
उ॒र्वा॒रु॒कमि॑व॒ बन्ध॑नान् मृ॒त्योर्मु॑क्षीय॒ माऽमृता॑त् ।।

oṃ tryámbakaṃ yajāmahe sugandhíṃ puṣṭi-vardhánam
urvārukam íva bandhánān mṛtyor mukṣīya mā ‘mṛtā́t

There are many translations of this mantra, but it is generally referred to as the “Great Conquest Over Death” or “Death Destroying” mantra.

The Mahamrityunjaya mantra is a request to be separated from the clutches of death; a longing to be free of attachments to samsara and one’s inherent ignorance regarding the perception of self. The mantra expresses a specific wish to not be removed from the possibility of immortality; requesting to have one’s attachment to samsara be broken (the suffering of bodily/individual bondage) but for one’s consciousness (Self/Atman) to remain intact for eternity; completely overwhelmed and overflowing with devotion for the primeval essence. This is requested as a means to continue worshiping the divine Shiva for all of infinity, who is none other than the progenitor of primordial consciousness; the true state of one’s being. The mantra describes this metaphorically as a cucumber (or melon) being separated from its vine but continuing to live on as an emanation of its source (Shiva). This request is for consciousness to become free from the shackles of the flesh (vine) associated with the experience of samsara (change), ego, and death. Through this process, one’s true Self may live on forever in constant reverence of the primordial source; the original state of awareness from which one’s perception comes and to what one’s consciousness is inseparable from, no matter how obscured or hidden by one’s mundane delusions.

Oh Three Eyed one, great Shiva,

Fragrant (blissful, aromatic) sustainer of prosperity,

As the cucumber is removed from its vine (bondage),

May I be relinquished from death (attachment to samsara) but not from immortality.

Om Namah Shivaya

-Ansuz Society

The Kenaz (ᚲ) Rune

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A short section from the new book “Wandering the Runic Path: Esoteric Analysis of the Germanic Runes” regarding the Kenaz (ᚲ) rune.

“Kenaz is a particular rune, changing dramatically in context from Elder to Younger runes. The continental Germans seemed to hold this rune in a more positive light than their Scandinavian neighbors in the North. Kenaz is a reconstructed word from Proto-Germanic meaning “torch”, associated with creative fire, skills, knowledge, and teaching. The torch is that which illuminates the darkness, showing us the way in places unknown. This has been equated with an internal creative “spark” as well, which I think is reflected in the hard “k” sound represented by this rune. If we look to the Gothic language, we find evidence for this theory in the kindred word kōnja which refers to pine sap. This must be directly related to the torch, as pine/spruce has long been a favored wood for this use. 

The Gothic name for this rune is kosma/kusma, stemming from kunnan meaning “to be able, to know how,” referring to one’s inner abilities and skills. This word travels through time and tribe almost unchanged in sound and meaning, showing up in modern English in the words know and keen. In my opinion, the best example of this concept is crystallized in the Swedish word konst, meaning “art, knowledge, science, magic, secret,” and in the cognate German word kunst meaning “skill, craft, ability, magic.” This internal power of knowledge, associated with a craft or specific artistic focus, is the secret “light” side of the Kenaz rune, symbolizing our ability to make things known, to teach them, and to exhibit mastery in arts, crafts, intellectual or occult matters.”

May all sentient beings realize this rune within themselves.

Hailaz / Namaste

Wandering the Runic Path: Esoteric Analysis of the Germanic Runes (New Book Coming Soon!)

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We are wrapping up the final edits for the second rune book by Hrukjan titled “Wandering the Runic Path: Esoteric Analysis of the Germanic Runes.” 

These will be published early next month and copies will be available from us around Samhain. 

For those interested in the book, we’d like to share some information from the introduction:

“This book is meant to help guide the runic adept through various untrodden paths regarding the runes and their use in esoteric Pagan practice. Through many avenues such as language, myth, religious comparison, and thorough analysis, one can expand the dimensions of each rune into the endless fathoms of space and time. Each rune of the Elder Futhark has been dissected and tirelessly studied so that no stone is left unturned in their usability and ultimate meaning. Along with in-depth study, each “aett” of runes has also been given a set of common themes that one can ponder in association to their roles within the entirety of the Futhark. Not only this, but it is speculated throughout the book that the order of the runes is not only important, but carefully tells a unique story regarding life, death, rebirth, and the ultimate truth of existence as expressed by the people who created and used them.

While much of this book is speculative in nature, offering a deeply subjective analysis of these symbols, there is also much concrete and objective information regarding their history, etymology, and journey through time. From their many connections to Sanskrit and other Indo-European languages, the reader can form a thorough understanding of these symbols based on thousands of years of transformation. The reader will see how these runes transcend culture and relate to the natural surroundings of the different tribes that used them as they migrated across much of Europe, Asia, and beyond. Through this approach, one will see that the use of the runes is not only universally applicable, but also, not restrained to a certain “folk” or people. By realizing the scope of their use, one can see them as a divine tool for Self-development and transformation, as each rune is a key to ultimate realization.

If you are looking for a book that is not just informative, but also applicable to religious and spiritual practice, then this book should offer you many avenues towards your own purified understanding of these ancient symbols as used by the greatest of sages and magicians of the past. My hope is that this book will act as a compass for the devoted reader as they traverse the dark and endless paths laid before them by these ancient symbols. By doing so, one does not get lost or steered in detrimental directions by those who would rather see you confused and reliant on outside influences. Runic knowledge and the wisdom inherent within them are present in every sentient being, especially those who have the memories of these signs within their very soul. These secret symbols mirror that which exists within us and each rune is a key to unlocking the mysteries that lie dormant within our experience of reality. May this book help you transcend the limitations of individual existence and soar into the ether as Odin once did upon the great World Tree.”

May all sentient beings embrace the runes.

-Ansuz Society

Odin and Freyja

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Odin as the primordial state of consciousness applies to women as well, as Odin is said to have given soul to both. This innate awareness is formless and is beyond any associations with body or sexual identity. Therefore, one does not have to look at primal awareness as something based on these limiting and mundane concepts. This doesn’t mean that Freyja is not involved in the equation, as Freyja is the energy and flux of the natural/material universe, identical to great Kali/Shakti/Tara Ma. Freyja represents matter, while Odin represents consciousness. Without Odin, there would be no Freyja, and without Freyja, Odin would have nothing to manifest into. These are the two pieces of the puzzle that create what we know of our existence and reality; the Father (consciousness) and the Mother (material world). Each sentient being and all physical matter encapsulates these qualities. They are inseparable. Through training and practice, one can destroy the surface duality represented in these two halves, reuniting them into one single point of experience. Either deity can be venerated as supreme, as they both express one final outcome of creation.

Hail the Mother, Hail the Father!

Interpreting Odin’s Sacrifice on the World Tree

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One interpretation of Odin’s world tree ritual is the destruction of his ego: the sacrificing of his lower self to his higher Self. The ritual is a metaphor for replacing our material limitations for the infinite potential of primordial wisdom; exchanging our mundane form for that of the almighty consciousness of Odin. Odin, as the material individual, strives to return to the source, which like Shiva or Buddha, is nothing other than his innate, true nature, beyond constructs and existing within everything. This is why Odin is known as the “Masked God” or “God of Masks,” as his shapeless state allows him to cloak himself in whatever physical form he wants, being able to shift appearances according to his worldly goals.

Names of Odin relating to this are Fjallgeiguðr (Shape God), Fjolnir (The One Who is Many), and Grimnir (Masked One). Odin, in this way, represents all possible expressions of life and exists within all sentient beings. Odin is the great animator of matter, obscured and covered up to varying degrees by the limitations of our ignorance and material attachments. By removing these obstacles one by one, Odin, as the common man, realizes and becomes his true Self; the unchanging reality which can be described as furious, terrifying, and awesome. This is why he is known as “The Terrible” or “Furious One,” as the realization of this state can be deemed nothing other than ferocious and shocking. This is identical to some names of Shiva that relate to this same phenomenon, such as Bhairava (Lord of Terror), Mahakala (Beyond Time), and Rudra (The Howler/Dreadful).

This primordial state, the formless consciousness beyond conceptual and dualistic framework, can be further represented by Odin’s one eye, which sees nothing but the true state of reality: non-dual and single focused. This pure vision shows him all things; the causes and effects of all phenomena; unaffected by time, change, or abstract forms. Odin as the “One-Eyed God” appears in many ways such as Hoárr (One Eyed), Báleygr (Flaming Eye) and Bileygr (Flashing Eye). Odin, the individual, has but one single motive: the search for ultimate wisdom/source. Further evidence for this is reflected in his names Sanngetall (Seeker of Truth), Fjǫlsviðr (Very Wise), and Forni (Ancient One).

This is the eternal Odin within us, the awareness we must all uncover if we want to transcend our worldly limitations. This formless state of being is what remains when the body falls to the wayside, remaining intact for all of eternity. Through his ritual on the world tree, Odin loses attachment to his body/shape/name and realizes his supreme nature; flooded by the ancient wisdom of the cosmos represented by the runes, poetry, and other various magical techniques.

May all sentient beings seek the source of consciousness and realize Odin within themselves.

Hailaz / Namaste

ALU and the Transmission of Knowledge

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ALU represents orally transmitted knowledge that is passed down or transferred between individuals. This is akin to one “vessel” pouring liquid (ALU) into another vessel, representing the passing of tradition and secret wisdom from teacher/guru to student/disciple. This can be visualized like a great fountain, where water cascades down from one source point, representing the head of the spiritual lineage, falling down into further basins which overflow into more and more, representing each member who retains the teachings.

One could also speculate that the magical phrase ALU, while being associated with an “intoxicating” beverage, could be a reference to the “madness” that Odin is said to bring forth in his devotees. Other Proto-Germanic words like aluh (amulet) and alh (protect) can bring us to see ALU as being “protected by the intoxication of Odin.” It is quite possible, as with the Vedic and Egyptian ancient temples, that this ALU was a mix of substances, kept within the temple for sacred use. Other ingredients were likely various herbs and psychedelic mushrooms.

ALU can also be associated with inspiration and the “Mead of Poetry.” This magical liquid is said to cause consumers to become skalds (poets) and scholars; created by the dwarves Fjalar and Galar by mixing honey with the blood of the wise god Kvasir. Odin steals this magical mead disguised as an eagle and brings it back to Asgard. He then (through his mouth) delivers it to the gods and those skilled in poetry, emphasizing the concept of orally transmitted wisdom. This story can be found in Skáldskaparmál.

May ALU flow within all sentient beings and may divine intoxication drive your spirit forward.

Hailaz / Namaste

-Ansuz Society

Wunjo

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Wunjo is closely related to the feeling of love, whether intimate or familial. We see this in the proto-Indo-European root word wenh₁-, which means “to love, win” and “to wish.”Many words have come from this root and it seems this sound denotes a sort of happiness, kindness, and affection. We see another related word in the Latin venia meaning “kindness, mercy, grace” and in the modern English/Old French word venial meaning “able to be forgiven, worthy of forgiveness.”

We see connections associated with Wunjo in both words, as during the process of forgiveness one shows great love. Other words derived from these roots are the proto-Germanic word wanjaną which means “to make accustomed to,” indicating an act of extreme care and kindness to guests.

Wunjo is this process, formula, and understanding; the living phenomenon of the Wish, of love, and kindness. Wunjo is the creation of bliss, joy, and satisfaction in life.May all beings thrive and experience great love.

Hailaz / Namaste

Shirts and Logo Analysis

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Our first batch of shirts have arrived and look awesome.   

These will be given out to members, donors, volunteers and collaborators in order to spread not only the sign, but the culture of the Ansuz Society.   

Our hope is that these will be worn with modesty, positivity, and respect.   

For those who would like to purchase a shirt directly, they can be ordered for $20 with free shipping in the USA. Please use the contact form to order. Sizes available are small, medium, and large. Very limited quantity available. 

While we invite everyone to interpret these symbols as they see fit, we would like to offer a brief overview of the design:  

-3 Ansuz runes representing the gods Odin (soul), Vili (will), and Ve (body); the 3 components necessary for human life.   

-the related Sanskrit word ásu, meaning “breath, spirit, life force, life.”  

In regards to the triangular shape, we have a strong emphasis on the fire element, hence one interpretation of the triangle as fire. This fire is being propagated by the breath or wind represented by the Ansuz runes. The upward triangle also has associations with the air element, and therefore, is another representation of the breath, wind, and soul of which Odin is said to have given to mankind. With these connections in mind, this sign can be viewed as an internal flame driven by the winds of inspiration, or, Odin.  

We also believe that all matter is a form of the Great Mother who strives for union with the Great Father (source of consciousness). That said, another interpretation of the upward triangle is to represent the male aspect of primordial awareness; the unmovable, foundational consciousness which exists in all sentient life.  Because of this connection, the upward triangle can also be perceived of as representing Shiva, as his half of the Shatkona is the △ shape, while Shakti is symbolized by the ▽ shape. This primordial awareness, associated with male energy, is called by many names across the world and seen in deities such as Odin, Shiva, and Vajradhara.  

May all beings benefit from these signs. 

Hailaz / Namaste  

-Ansuz Society

Mara

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“…We tend to think of Mara as something ferocious that is going to come along and cut us up or drag us off; it is not necessarily that dramatic or that overtly unpleasant. Mara is anything that obstructs the practice of Dharma and seduces you into abandoning the practice of Dharma and favoring worldly activities…”

-K.K.R.

Mara is a Sanskrit word meaning “death” and has relation to the Vedic god of death Mrtyu. This word stems from a more archaic Indo-European root mer-, which means “to die.” With this in mind, and in the context of Buddhism, we can associate Mara with anything that makes our focus on the Dharma “die”, become distracted, or diminish.

It is important that we consider all distractions in our practice as potential incarnations and activities of Mara. If it is more applicable to your vocabulary, viewing these distractions as demons can be equally beneficial. However, this concept isn’t to be externalized in meaning, as the root of Mara lies within us and not on the outside. Even in the case of a wild animal devouring us, we cannot view the animal as Mara, but instead, our attachment to our own body as the essence of Mara’s activity.

Mara(s) can generally be classified into four different categories. The first applies to our “unskillful” emotions such as greed, hate, and ignorance. The second applies to death and the circumstances that cause death. The third applies to conditioned existence and its symptoms. The fourth applies to the being Mara and his daughters, who tried to prevent Gautama Buddha from attaining liberation on the night of his enlightenment.

Although some of these have “external” sounding features, it is important to remember that all phenomenon we experience as Mara can be associated with our own ignorance in perception, and therefor, exist within us as obscurities. For instance, during meditation, a barking dog only exists as a Mara/demon in the sense that our perception is being disturbed by it, due (most likely) to our attachments to silence, control, and comfort. If one shifts their perception to pure emptiness, one makes their mind like the space inside a cave, where sound may enter and echo, but ultimately, moves through like wind and attaches to nothing.

If our mind rests in this realization of emptiness, then all external phenomenon move through it like clouds in the sky or waves in the ocean.

May all sentient beings conquer the Maras that obstruct their Dharma practices.

Hailaz / Namaste