Corporate Orbis Terrarum

The beginning of the institutionalisation of knowledge to lead and control the masses

The rise of the sun, zenith, sunset (this was the original trinity).

Determine where the shadows fall during the solstices and erect two columns there: the entrance to the temple. Thus, two lineages were established: the line of the king and the line of the priest.

The king controls the land, and the priest controls the law. Above the columns is the arch of the Gods or of the God.

1. Institutionalisation of Knowledge

The beginning of the institutionalisation of knowledge refers to the moment when human societies began to formalise and systematise knowledge, particularly through the creation of institutions such as temples, schools, and later universities. These institutions not only preserve and transmit knowledge but also codify it in ways that facilitate the control of the masses. Knowledge is no longer just transmitted orally or through direct experience but becomes a codified heritage, accessible only to those within the structures of power.

2. The Original Trinity: Sun, Zenith, Sunset

The sun, with its daily cycle of sunrise, zenith, and sunset, has long been a symbol of continuity, order, and power in ancient civilisations. These three moments of the day were often sacralised, representing different phases of divine or cosmic power. This can be seen as a reference to the original trinity, where each phase represents a different aspect of life and power.

3. The Shadows at the Solstices and the Columns of the Temple

The reference to the shadows during the solstices and the erection of columns in correspondence to these likely alludes to the ancient practice of using astronomical phenomena to determine sacred places. During the solstices, the longest and shortest days of the year, the shadows reach extreme lengths, and these were used to determine the placement of sacred structures. The two columns at the entrance of the temple represent a passage, not only physical but also symbolic, from a profane world to a sacred one, marking the boundary between earthly power (the king) and spiritual power (the priest).

4. The Lineages of the King and the Priest

The distinction between the king's line and the priest's line represents the division of power in many ancient societies. The king controls the land, representing the material and military aspect of power, while the priest controls the law, often interpreted as spiritual or religious power. These two lineages, though distinct, collaborate and support each other to maintain social order.

5. The Arch of the Gods or the God Above the Columns

The arch that rises above the columns can be seen as the divine domain that regulates and guarantees cosmic and social order. In this context, human power, represented by the king and the priest, is placed under the protection and authority of the divine. This creates a legitimisation of power through religion, a crucial element for the institutionalisation of knowledge and control.

In summary, once knowledge is codified and institutionalised, it becomes a tool of power, used to control and guide the masses. The fusion of cosmic elements and earthly power is a common feature in many ancient civilisations, where astronomy, religion, and politics were deeply intertwined.