Understanding the role of sacred geometry in cosmology and human affairs Explains how ancient societies that grasped the timeless principles of sacred geometry were able to create flourishing societies Illustrates the social and spiritual values in the natural progression of number Contains more than 300 full-color drawings showing the interplay of number and sacred geometryGalileo described the universe as a large book written in the language of mathematics, which can only be read by those with knowledge of its characters--triangles, circles, and other geometrical figures. The laws of geometry are not human inventions. They are found ready-made in nature and hold a truth that is the same in all times and all places and is older than the world itself.In How the World Is Made John Michell explains how ancient societies that grasped the timeless principles of sacred geometry were able to create flourishing societies. His more than 300 full-color illustrations reveal the secret code within these geometrical figures and how they express the spiritual meanings in the key numbers of 1 through 12. For example, the number 8 and its octagon are symbols of peace and stability, the holy 7 and its seven-sided figure are connected to the world-soul. He identifies the various regular shapes and shows their constructions; their natural symbolism; their meetings, matings, and ways of breeding; and their functions within the universal order. Some are musical and structural, others relate to life and humanity. In the process of making these discoveries, Michell helps us see the world in a new light. Disparate shapes and their corresponding numbers are woven together, resolving themselves into an all-inclusive world image--that “pattern in the heavens,” as Socrates called it, “which anyone can find and establish within themselves.”
This is a beautiful book, a pleasure to read. Much lovely art. The only sacred geometry book my wife has picked up and read.
This is definitely the most accessible sacred geo book I own. Another 2 houseguests just picked it up and spent the week reading it.
There is a narrative here about how the world arises through the interplay of number, but it's light and really what's worthwhile here is just the images created by one of the modern masters in this field.
In fact let that be a lesson to all of you who would study this field-- narratives, discursive analysis, words, are all well and good but the core realizations come by doing. So seek inspiration here, but do something.
I am about halfway through. . .very interesting but it is difficult for me to follow since math is not my strong suit. . .this one will be a slower read for me so I am sure to grasp the concepts correctly. Recommend this for anyone who wants lot learn more about geometry, math and God
In the approachable tone it’s written, this book is an easy read, beautiful illustrations and fascinating topic but I still found it way above a layperson’s understanding, or at least mine. Will have to find something more 101 that I can follow and absorb