In the realm of symbolism and myth, we encounter intriguing figures that invite us to delve deeper into their hidden meanings. One such enigmatic figure is Priapus, whose symbolism goes beyond the superficial understanding of his exceptionally large phallus. By unraveling the layers of Priapus’s symbolism, we uncover profound insights into the dynamics of power, fertility, and the transformative potential of embracing the sacred union.
Continue reading “Enigmatic Symbolism of Priapus: Exploring the Phallus within Myth and Meaning”Tag: Vital Force
Tom Thumb: Unveiling the Symbolism of the Creative Force and the Power of Compassion
In the realm of symbolism, Tom Thumb emerges as a profound representation of the creative force. According to Carl Jung, Tom Thumb, along with other mythical figures like dactyls and Cabiri, embodies the very essence of creative energy. However, delving deeper into this symbolism, we can also uncover the transformative power of compassion inherent in the Tom Thumb narrative.
Continue reading “Tom Thumb: Unveiling the Symbolism of the Creative Force and the Power of Compassion”Symbolism of Ra: Personification of the Vital Force

Ra is an Egyptian deity (2494 to 2345 BC). His name is thought to mean ‘creative power’ and ‘creator’. If we examine the image of the Sun God Ra we can see archetypal images associated with the vital forces: the hawk, a snake coiled around a (sun) disk, and the scepter. Notice also the Anuk, a union of a female symbol (the oval, representing the vagina or uterus) with a male symbol (the phallic upright line).
Both Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung speak of ‘libidinal’ forces arising from the depths of the psyche. Libidinal forces are the psychic and emotional energy associated with instinctual drives. Freud says, “the deepest strata of our mind [are] made up of instinctual impulses”(1914-1916). Sigmund Freud saw these impulses as are our desires, and most specifically our sexual desires.
Carl Jung noticed that the ‘vital forces’ are often associated with the God image, and are essential to the Self. Jung says: “If one honors God, the sun or the fire, then one honors one’s own vital force, the libido.” He adds: “It is as Seneca says: ‘ God is near you, he is with you, in you.’ God is our own longing to which we pay divine honors.” (1916)
References:
1. Sigmund Freud SE XIV, Our Attitude Towards Death ((1914-1916)
2. Carl Jung (1916) Psychology of the Unconscious