FROM THE HEART

On June 22, the solar orb reaches its zenith after beginning its trek across the heavens at the Winter Solstice which occurred on December 22, 2005. In ancient times, astronomer/priests referred to December's cosmic event as “The Sun Coming Out of its Cave.” The “cave” was the “aegeus” or “stable” in which the Sun dwelt until its time of resurrection. This is the root of the story of the Messiah being born in a stable on December 25. This date is actually the birthday of the Divine Force (often referred to as a “god”) of Hem (“Horus” in Greek) of Kemet (Egypt) often depicted as a falcon soaring high up to the Sun or as a large singular eye from which comes the idea of the “All-Seeing” eye of the Creator. Hem was considered to rule over courage and spiritual light and protected those devoted to truth, justice, balance, harmony and righteousness – known as “Maat.” His father was Asar (“Osiris” in Greek) and his mother was Aset (“Isis”). These three represented one of the first Divine trinities.

The Sun was very important to all ancient cultures such as Kemet, Bharata (“India”), China, Japan and the Mayan civilization of South Americas well as other Native cultures of North America. In fact, the vast cosmic heaven and its voluminous planets was studied as serious science. Ancient scientists had a mystical orientation which allowed them to understand the vibratory energy of the universe and its impact upon earthly experiences. The Sun was acknowledged as a powerful healer and priest/physicians who were called “Usha” (a male) or “Ushaut” (a female) in Kemet knew that its rays bathed our pineal and pituitary glands with the energy that helps us to reach high levels of spiritual consciousness and strengthened our bones and teeth. Today this latter aspect of solar healing is called Vitamin D. In the book of the Prophet Ani people are advised to “Pray then to God each day as the Sunrises, saying, Grant me prosperity and health.” The Sun, also referred to as “Ra” which means “Light” was not worshiped; rather, the energy of the Sun was respected and honored as an aspect of the sole Creator who had many Divine names over the ages. The energy of the Sun was called “Shu” and was known as heat and light.

It takes many years of profound study in order to deeply understand “Cosmic Science;” however, anyone can glean a basic knowledge of the planetary realm through reading a good introductory book on the subject, many of which are available at good bookstores. Also, a competent astrologer can erect various types of charts and explain key details to a novice. Yet, without such information, we can still easily connect with our major planet, the Sun, in a meditative ritual and receive healing currents of energy at the same time. On the day of the Summer Solstice, at the high point of the day, noon, either in your backyard or in a park, spend a few moments in prayer and meditation, thanking our Creator for the gift of the Sun's healing rays. The following is offered as a suggestion: “Great Spirit, you who have many Divine names, I thank you for blessing our planetary home of Earth with the golden rays of the solar orb. As I sit at this moment beneath its empowering energy, create within me cellular and vibrational wholeness such that my physical being as well as my aura, my meridians and my chakras are all in Divine Order and allow me to radiate with Thy perfection.”

Bask in the sunlight for approximately 10-15 minutes only (with proper sunscreen if needed) by breathing deeply after reciting your prayer. Other activities you may want to engage in on this day are pouring libations to your ancestors, planting flowers, fasting on fresh juices and water, etc. You may want to share this special day with like-minded individuals. If so, plan your ceremony several days ahead and enjoy a potluck feast afterwards if you decide not to fast. The solstice occurs on a weekday and obviously some persons will have to be at places of employment; therefore, you may want to have your ceremony and celebration in the evening at the end of the work day. If possible, a day off from work is a good idea because actually the solstices and equinoxes were considered as festival days in ancient times.

At the Summer Solstice, we rise to our personal zeniths. Ask yourself: What have I learned since the Winter Solstice? How have I begun to transform my consciousness and thus come forth from my “cave” of darkness and begun my rise to the Light? What inharmonious energy fields have I released? Consequently, make the Summer Solstice a sacred time by understanding how you have emerged in a new way and celebrate your new self.

Dr. Schavi M. Ali, BA, MA PhD is an author, Egyptologist, Linguist, Reiki Master and Kabbalist. She conducts lectures and seminars on various spiritual topics.
(248) 357-7798 or email AtKemet@yahoo.com.