Pythagoras: What the Shaman who invented Philosophy can teach us

Imagine a world where the mystical and the rational dance together in harmony. Picture a man who walks the line between shaman and scholar, a sage whose teachings echo through the corridors of time. This man is Pythagoras, often known for his mathematical genius, but he was so much more than just numbers. He was a spiritual guide, a healer, and a philosopher who saw the universe as a grand symphony of harmony and balance.

Pythagoras lived around 570-495 BCE, in a time when the spiritual and the scientific were not separate but intertwined. He believed in the power of the human spirit to transcend the mundane and touch the divine. His philosophy was not just a dry, intellectual exercise; it was a way of life, a path to enlightenment.

One of Pythagoras’ most profound teachings is the concept of harmony. He saw the universe as a vast, interconnected web where everything vibrates with its own unique frequency. This idea, often referred to as the “Music of the Spheres,” suggests that the planets and stars move according to mathematical equations, producing a symphony that, while inaudible to the human ear, resonates throughout the cosmos. By aligning ourselves with this cosmic harmony, we can find balance and peace in our lives.

Think about it: our modern world is chaotic and noisy, filled with distractions that pull us away from our true selves. Pythagoras teaches us to listen to the subtle music of the universe. Through practices like meditation, deep listening, and mindful living, we can tune into this ancient wisdom. Just as a musician tunes their instrument, we can attune our minds and bodies to the harmonious frequencies of the cosmos.

Another cornerstone of Pythagorean thought is the belief in the immortality and transmigration of the soul. He taught that the soul is eternal and journeys through many lifetimes, learning and evolving with each experience. This belief can be incredibly empowering. It reminds us that our current struggles and challenges are just one chapter in a much larger story. By embracing this perspective, we can approach life with a sense of purpose and resilience, knowing that each moment is part of our soul’s grand adventure.

Pythagoras also emphasized the importance of living a life of purity and discipline. He believed that what we eat, how we treat others, and how we think and speak all contribute to our spiritual growth. This holistic approach to life is a powerful antidote to the fragmented, compartmentalized existence that many of us lead today. By adopting Pythagorean principles such as a plant-based diet, ethical living, and mental clarity, we can cultivate a life of harmony and balance.

Furthermore, Pythagoras’ insights into the power of numbers can offer us a unique lens through which to view our lives. He believed that numbers were the building blocks of reality, each carrying its own vibrational energy. By understanding the symbolism and significance of numbers, we can gain deeper insights into our life’s purpose and the hidden patterns that shape our experiences. For instance, the number four, representing stability and foundation, can remind us to ground ourselves amidst the turbulence of daily life.

In our quest for a meaningful existence, Pythagoras’ teachings encourage us to seek harmony in all things. Whether through the rhythms of nature, the cycles of the stars, or the patterns in our own lives, there is a profound order and beauty waiting to be discovered. By tuning into this cosmic symphony, we can transcend the noise of the modern world and find our place in the grand tapestry of the universe.

So, let us embrace the wisdom of Pythagoras, the shaman who invented philosophy. Let us listen to the music of the spheres, honor the journey of our souls, and live with purity and purpose. In doing so, we can uncover the hidden harmony that lies at the heart of existence and step into a life of true balance and peace.