Egyptian and roman artifacts
Memes of the Ancient Greek variety
2018.05.31 13:36 psychodelicpluto Memes of the Ancient Greek variety
As long as the meme as something to do with Ancient Greece, and is not too political, edgy, or polarizing it's fine, so post away.
2017.09.22 05:24 RustyNoodle Mythology Memes
Banner by u/DefiantPosition. Memes about mythology and mythological events.
2016.08.11 04:48 deityblade Rough Roman Memes
Memes for the roughest Romans.
2024.06.05 16:31 Normodox What Is Jewish Cuisine?
AN OVERVIEW OF THE DIVERSE, MULTICULTURAL WORLD OF JEWISH FOOD. INCLUDES 30 RECIPES.
The story of Jewish food is multicultural and diverse. Jews have lived—and continue to live—in communities around the world, and their local foods reflect the flavors and tastes of the places they reside. Some Jewish communities are thousands of years old, and have developed culinary traditions that are steeped in history and significance. Jewish law plays a role as well, and there’s a reason gefilte fish is boneless, cholent takes 24-hours to cook, Moroccan doughnuts are made with oil, and why you can’t order a ham sandwich in a kosher deli.
Below is a history of Jewish foods, a roundup of Jewish foods from different communities, Jewish holiday favorites, and a collection of 30 Jewish food recipes to cook and enjoy.
In the first centuries of the common era, after decades of Roman oppression, Jewish revolts, horrible and bloody wars, and the forced exile of Judea’s population—as refugees, captives sold into slavery, and others—the Jewish exiles moved into already-established diaspora communities, and, over time, established many others as well.
As the Jewish diaspora grew, Jewish foods evolved as well. New non-Jewish neighbors, novel local ingredients, and different cultural assumptions influenced the new Jewish arrivals; and they, as the years went on, concocted new Jewish staples. But it was two factors central to Jewish identity that kept those new Jewish foods “Jewish:” the kosher laws, and other laws related to the sabbath and holiday observance.
“Kosher” is a Hebrew word that means “proper” or “fit,” although most people use it in reference to food. In Jewish practice, the kosher laws of food are abundant and complex—so much so that they're the subject a young scholar needs to master in order to be ordained as a rabbi—and fall into four general categories: 1) the types of animals that are permissible to eat (chicken, yes; piglets, no), 2) the way an animal is slaughtered, 3) forbidden mixtures (like milk and meat), and 4) specific agricultural requirements generally only applicable in Israel.
Jewish laws related to sabbath and holiday observance led to notable Jewish delicacies as well like gefilte fish, which is the result of a biblical injunction called borer that prohibits selecting or choosing, or, in the case of fish, picking out bones (gefilte fish is ground up and boneless); cholent (Ashkenazi) and hamim (Sephardi), which are slow-cooked stews that were developed as workarounds in order to eat a hot meal on the Sabbath day despite a biblical injunction against cooking; and challah, which while not necessarily Sabbath-related—it takes its name from a biblical tithe—has become the go-to sabbath and holiday bread.
Ashkenazi Jews were often very poor, and crafted wonders from the meager options available. Classic Ashkenazi dishes include stuffed cabbage, kreplach, gefilte fish, and cholent. Go here for links to recipes and to learn more.
Sephardic cooking is diverse, and represents the Jewish experience in places as disparate as Morocco, Iraq, India, and Iran. Go here for more Sephardic food history and links to different recipes.
Go here to learn about Injera, a sour Ethiopian flatbread.
Go here for a few unique Passover recipes.
Hanukkah is an eight-day celebration. In Jewish mystical thought, “seven” represents the regular, physical world: seven days of creation, seven days of the week, seven colors in a rainbow, and so on. But “eight” represents a level beyond physicality, and is a step into the mystical. Similar to what the number eight represents, Jewish survival transcends the limits of the physical world, and slips into the miraculous.
Hanukkah is also the celebration of a miracle that involved oil. Needless to say, many Jews are accustomed to eating oily foods on Hanukkah. Here are eight recipes for Hanukkah.
What Is Jewish Cuisine? - Aish.com
submitted by Normodox to BeneiYisraelNews [link] [comments]
The story of Jewish food is multicultural and diverse. Jews have lived—and continue to live—in communities around the world, and their local foods reflect the flavors and tastes of the places they reside. Some Jewish communities are thousands of years old, and have developed culinary traditions that are steeped in history and significance. Jewish law plays a role as well, and there’s a reason gefilte fish is boneless, cholent takes 24-hours to cook, Moroccan doughnuts are made with oil, and why you can’t order a ham sandwich in a kosher deli.
Below is a history of Jewish foods, a roundup of Jewish foods from different communities, Jewish holiday favorites, and a collection of 30 Jewish food recipes to cook and enjoy.
The History of Jewish Food
Jewish food history—like Jewish history in general—is complicated. About 2,000 years ago, despite an already burgeoning diaspora community, the epicenter of Jewish life was Judea, an area located within what is today modern Israel, and as the names “Jewish” and “Jew” imply, the indigenous homeland of its inhabitants.In the first centuries of the common era, after decades of Roman oppression, Jewish revolts, horrible and bloody wars, and the forced exile of Judea’s population—as refugees, captives sold into slavery, and others—the Jewish exiles moved into already-established diaspora communities, and, over time, established many others as well.
As the Jewish diaspora grew, Jewish foods evolved as well. New non-Jewish neighbors, novel local ingredients, and different cultural assumptions influenced the new Jewish arrivals; and they, as the years went on, concocted new Jewish staples. But it was two factors central to Jewish identity that kept those new Jewish foods “Jewish:” the kosher laws, and other laws related to the sabbath and holiday observance.
“Kosher” is a Hebrew word that means “proper” or “fit,” although most people use it in reference to food. In Jewish practice, the kosher laws of food are abundant and complex—so much so that they're the subject a young scholar needs to master in order to be ordained as a rabbi—and fall into four general categories: 1) the types of animals that are permissible to eat (chicken, yes; piglets, no), 2) the way an animal is slaughtered, 3) forbidden mixtures (like milk and meat), and 4) specific agricultural requirements generally only applicable in Israel.
Jewish laws related to sabbath and holiday observance led to notable Jewish delicacies as well like gefilte fish, which is the result of a biblical injunction called borer that prohibits selecting or choosing, or, in the case of fish, picking out bones (gefilte fish is ground up and boneless); cholent (Ashkenazi) and hamim (Sephardi), which are slow-cooked stews that were developed as workarounds in order to eat a hot meal on the Sabbath day despite a biblical injunction against cooking; and challah, which while not necessarily Sabbath-related—it takes its name from a biblical tithe—has become the go-to sabbath and holiday bread.
Jewish foods around the world
For the greater part of the last 2,000 years, Jews have been on the move, although they lived in a number of places long enough to develop distinct, hyphenated identities (like Jewish-Americans, or Yemenite Jews). Below is a roundup of a few of the more significant Jewish diaspora communities.Ashkenazi Food
Ashkenazi Jews are the descendants of Jewish people who settled in and around the Rhineland Valley, in what is today Germany and France, about 1,100 years ago. They were often on the move, and, over the centuries, established communities throughout Europe, with large populations centered in places like Poland, Lithuania, Ukraine, and Russia.Ashkenazi Jews were often very poor, and crafted wonders from the meager options available. Classic Ashkenazi dishes include stuffed cabbage, kreplach, gefilte fish, and cholent. Go here for links to recipes and to learn more.
Sephardi Food
Mizrahi, or “Eastern,” Jews are Jews from North Africa and the Middle East, and are usually what most people mean when speaking about Sephardic Jews. They represent the most ancient diaspora communities, with—in some cases—roots dating back to biblical times.Sephardic cooking is diverse, and represents the Jewish experience in places as disparate as Morocco, Iraq, India, and Iran. Go here for more Sephardic food history and links to different recipes.
Ethiopian Jewish Food
Ethiopian Jews are Jewish people who, for centuries, lived in the Lake Tana region of northern Ethiopia. They are commonly referred to as Beta Israel, which means “House of Israel” in Ge’ez—the classical Ethiopian language that Jews and Christians still use as a liturgical language—although nowadays, most Ethiopian Jews speak Amharic. The community’s origins are uncertain, although travelers, scholars, and others mention them in accounts dating back to the 15th century—and possibly even as early as the ninth—while the community’s own oral history dates them back to biblical times.Go here to learn about Injera, a sour Ethiopian flatbread.
Yemenite Jewish Food
Yemenite Jews trace their roots to Biblical times, although much of the population immigrated to Israel on Operation Magic Carpet between 1949 and 1950. Go here to learn more about mouthwatering Yemeni foods like Malawach, Jachnun, Kubaneh, Hilbeh, and Schug.Israeli Food
Despite the founding of the modern Israeli state in 1948, and the ingathering of Jewish exiles from around the world, Israeli food still managed to maintain its eastern Mediterranean flair. It’s high in fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts, seafood, and lots of extra virgin olive oil. Go here for a roundup of not-always-healthy Israeli foods.Jewish Holiday Food
The Jewish holidays are often food-centric celebrations, and include specific commandments and customs that are specific to those particular times (think matzah on Passover, significant omens on Rosh Hashanah, and nothing on Yom Kippur).Passover Food
The focal point of the Passover celebration isn't in synagogue or out somewhere in public, it's at home, gathered around the dinner table with your family and friends, and eating. Foods play a central role in telling the Passover story: be it the matzah the Jewish people baked in a rush on their way out of Egypt; the bitter herbs eaten to remember the suffering of bondage; the roasted bone that's a stand-in for the Passover lamb, and is symbolic of the time God passed over the Jewish houses while smiting the Egyptian first born; and the four cups of wine that parallel the four expressions of freedom mentioned in the Torah while telling the story of the exodus.Go here for a few unique Passover recipes.
Rosh Hashanah Food
Rosh Hashanah is the first day of the Jewish new year. To start the year off on the right foot, many people try to eat sweet foods, which is indicative of their desire to have a sweet new year. Go here for a number of sweet Rosh Hashanah recipes.Traditional Hanukkah Food
Hanukkah doesn’t just commemorate a specific military victory or celebrate an unusual miracle, it’s an eight-day exercise in Jewish survival. Throughout history, the Jewish people have outlasted every nation that has tried to destroy them, and they have also stayed committed to being Jewish. That’s not normal.Hanukkah is an eight-day celebration. In Jewish mystical thought, “seven” represents the regular, physical world: seven days of creation, seven days of the week, seven colors in a rainbow, and so on. But “eight” represents a level beyond physicality, and is a step into the mystical. Similar to what the number eight represents, Jewish survival transcends the limits of the physical world, and slips into the miraculous.
Hanukkah is also the celebration of a miracle that involved oil. Needless to say, many Jews are accustomed to eating oily foods on Hanukkah. Here are eight recipes for Hanukkah.
30 Traditional Jewish Food Recipes
- Deli roll is layers of deli meats wrapped in flaky, savory puff pastry, and topped with mustard.
- Hareesa is a Tunisian Shabbat overnight stew that started as an Arab overnight dish of wheat and meat.
- Lahmajoun is a Middle Eastern and Armenian dish consisting of a thin flatbread topped with a flavorful ground meat mixture. Serve it with tahini and a fresh salad on the side.
- Classic Latkes
- Krembo: a crumbly cookie base, a soft, heavenly meringue filling, and a crisp chocolate exterior.
- Kibbeh: ground meat croquettes
- Challah
- Potato Kugel, the world’s most Ashkenazi food
- Laffa: Middle Eastern bread that’s like a stretchable pita without a pocket
- Lachuch, meaning "hotcake" in Yemenite Arabic, is a flavorful pancake-like bread
- Chocolate Babka: layers of soft, buttery dough swirled with a generous helping of decadent chocolate filling
- Arayes: savory pita pockets stuffed with spiced meat
- Chocolate Rugelach
- Shakshuka: eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce.
- Moufleta: Moroccan flatbread
- Sambusak: cheese-filled Syrian pastry
- Kubaneh: overnight Yemenite bread
- Hamantaschen
- Kreplach are amazing meat-filled dumplings eaten on the “hidden” holidays of Purim, the last day of Sukkot, and the day before Yom Kippur
- Khoyagusht: frittata-like egg dish with chicken
- Classic chopped liver
- Sfenj is a Moroccan Hanukkah doughnut
- Jachnun: overnight pastry with spicy tomato sauce
- Injera: Ethiopian flatbread
- Jerusalem Kugel: black pepper, spaghetti, and a pickle
- Kosher dills: make your own pickles
- Kasha Varnishkes: sautéed onions, buckwheat groats (kasha), and bowtie pasta
- Almond Mandel Bread: think Jewish biscotti
- Cheese blintzes
- Knish: an oversized, potato- (or anything-) filled dumpling
Jewish Food FAQ
Are bagels Jewish food?
Although a Jew probably didn’t invent the bagel, Jews jumped on the bandwagon early in bagel history, and Ashkenazi Jews brought their bagel-wisdom with them when they immigrated to the United States late 19th and early 20th centuries. Bagels have since become associated with Jewish-American identity and culture. Read the fascinating history of Jews and bagels here.Can Jews eat Halal food?
Halal meat is ritually slaughtered according to the customs of Muslims. It is not kosher, since the kosher laws include additional regulations like the removal of blood, removing certain veins and fats, and other requirements. A Jew may not eat Halal meat—or other Halal foods for similar reasons—and, in general, Muslims do not rely on kosher laws or supervision as well.'What Is Jewish Cuisine? - Aish.com
2024.06.05 16:11 token_cat_lady [Sell/Swap][US to anywhere][Arcana, Nocturne Alchemy]
Shipping is $5 to US; will quote for elsewhere. All tested once unless otherwise noted. Happy to check out swap lists but will be picky (trying to move things out without bringing an equal number in!). Please pay within 24 hours of claiming or communicate otherwise; items not paid for will be offered to the next person in line. Cross-posted.
Arcana Craves/Wildcraft
submitted by token_cat_lady to IndieExchange [link] [comments]
Arcana Craves/Wildcraft
- Aestas (5ml) The ancient Roman goddess of Summer. Madagascar vanilla, yellow cake, soft peach nectar, golden musk, black musk, and a hint of patchouli. Swap only, preferably for NA
- Frigg (5ml) Black tonka bean, raw cashmere wool, French bakery vanilla, soft warm skin, confectionery sugar, and sweet almond. $20
- Peanut Butter LN (5ml) $18
- Freyja (mini dram) Golden amber, delicate sea water, astringent white grapefruit, dream poppyseed, and a hint of hemlock spruce. $4
- Bastet's Ice Cream Original (5ml, full to TOL) Swap only, preferably for NA
- Count Choco (5ml, more than half full) Cocoa Absolute of Persia, India and the West Indies, Cocoa liquor, Wheat, Cocoa Powder, Vanilla Powder, Mallow and Chocolate Soy Milk. $11
- NAliday Tree 2020 (5ml, full to about TOL) Siberian Fir Tree essence, Balsam Tree essence, Pine Needle essence, Crystalline and a little Forest Pine Wood essence. $15
- Artemisia (2ml) White Musk, Skin Musk, Bastet's Musk, Tibetan Musk, Vetiver essence, Nevada Sage, Benzoin, Fresh Dirt accord, Vanilla, Dragon’s Blood Incense resin. $9
- Blueberry Crystal (2ml, full to a bit above TOL) Egyptian Summer Blueberry within the beauty of harmonized Vanilla and Musk (Studio Limited Original - Crystal). $5
2024.06.05 15:41 Sweet-Count2557 15 Things to Do With Houston Kids Over Spring Break 2022
 | 15 Things to Do With Houston Kids Over Spring Break 2022 Are you searching for the perfect way to keep your kids entertained during Spring Break 2022 in Houston? Look no further! In this article, we will take you on a journey through 15 exciting activities that will ensure your children have a blast during their time off from school.From the thrill of the Houston Rodeo to the wonders of the Houston Children's Museum, there is something for every interest.But that's not all, we have a few surprises up our sleeve that will leave you and your kids begging for more.So, get ready to embark on an unforgettable Spring Break adventure with your little ones!Key TakeawaysHouston Rodeo is an annual event during Spring Break, with an indoor playground option in case of rain.There are various indoor play spaces in Houston for climbing, swinging, jumping, and having fun.The Houston Children's Museum offers a special Spring Break Destination Celebration with activities like bungee trampolines and a shaving cream pie fight.Families can visit the Space Center Houston to learn about upcoming missions, and there are special appearances from Black Panther characters and Jurassic Park dinosaurs.Houston RodeoAre you ready for some rodeo fun? Let's saddle up and explore the exciting world of the Houston Rodeo!The Houston Rodeo is an annual event that takes place during Spring Break, and it's a must-visit for families looking for a wild time.One of the highlights of the Houston Rodeo is the carnival games. You'll find a wide variety of games that are sure to challenge and entertain everyone in the family. From ring toss to balloon darts, there's something for everyone to enjoy.And let's not forget about the live music performances! The Houston Rodeo attracts some of the biggest names in the music industry, with artists like Garth Brooks, Taylor Swift, and Cardi B gracing the stage. The energy and excitement of the performances are infectious, and you'll find yourself singing and dancing along with the crowd.Of course, the Houston Rodeo wouldn't be complete without the rodeo competitions. Watch as cowboys and cowgirls showcase their skills in events like bull riding, barrel racing, and calf roping. It's a thrilling display of talent and bravery.And when hunger strikes, you'll be happy to know that there are plenty of food vendors at the Houston Rodeo. From classic rodeo fare like funnel cakes and corn dogs to exotic options like deep-fried Oreos and alligator on a stick, there's something to satisfy every craving.Indoor Play SpacesWhen you're looking for a fun and exciting way to keep the kids entertained during Spring Break, look no further than the indoor play spaces in Houston. These Houston playgrounds and indoor fun centers offer a variety of activities that will keep kids climbing, swinging, jumping, and giggling for hours. Check out the table below for a selection of some of the best indoor play spaces in Houston:Indoor Play SpacesLocationFeaturesUrban Air Trampoline and Adventure ParkMultiple locations in HoustonTrampolines, climbing walls, obstacle courses, and moreThe Little GymMultiple locations in HoustonGymnastics, sports skills, and imaginative playMonkey Joe'sMultiple locations in HoustonInflatable slides, obstacle courses, and arcade gamesThe Woodlands Children's MuseumThe WoodlandsInteractive exhibits, art activities, and a pretend grocery storePump It UpMultiple locations in HoustonInflatable slides, obstacle courses, and bounce housesThese indoor play spaces provide a safe and exciting environment for kids to burn off energy and engage in imaginative play. Whether your child enjoys bouncing on trampolines, exploring obstacle courses, or getting creative with art activities, there is something for everyone at these Houston indoor fun centers. So, when the weather isn't cooperating or you just want a break from outdoor activities, head to one of these indoor play spaces and let the fun begin!Kids TV ShowsKids TV Shows offer a delightful and entertaining way for children to engage with their favorite characters and stories. Whether they're learning valuable lessons from educational shows or enjoying the revival of classic cartoons, there's something for every young viewer to enjoy.Here are three reasons why Kids TV Shows are a great option for Spring Break entertainment:Best educational shows: Many Kids TV Shows are designed to be both entertaining and educational. They cover a wide range of subjects, from science and history to math and language skills. These shows can help children learn new concepts and reinforce what they're learning in school. Some popular educational shows include 'Sesame Street,' 'Dora the Explorer,' and 'The Magic School Bus.'Classic cartoons revival: Kids TV Shows are also a great way to introduce children to classic cartoons from the past. Many networks are now airing reruns of beloved shows such as 'Tom and Jerry,' 'Looney Tunes,' and 'The Flintstones.' These timeless cartoons offer nostalgia for parents and a chance for children to appreciate the humor and storytelling of a bygone era.Family bonding time: Watching Kids TV Shows together as a family can be a special bonding experience. Make it a cozy event by preparing popcorn or candy and snuggling up with a furry blanket. This shared activity can create lasting memories and provide opportunities for discussion and laughter.Houston Children's MuseumThe Houston Children's Museum offers a vibrant and interactive experience for families to explore and engage in a world of fun and learning. With 90,000 square feet of space, there's no shortage of exciting exhibits and educational workshops to enjoy. Let's take a look at what the museum has to offer:Interactive ExhibitsEducational WorkshopsBungee TrampolinesScience ExplorationsShaving Cream Pie FightArt AdventuresHuman Hamster BallsMath ManiaThe interactive exhibits at the Houston Children's Museum are designed to spark curiosity and creativity in children of all ages. From bouncing on bungee trampolines to participating in a shaving cream pie fight, there's never a dull moment. Kids can also experience the thrill of rolling in human hamster balls, providing a unique and exhilarating adventure.In addition to the interactive exhibits, the museum offers educational workshops that allow children to dive deeper into various subjects. Science Explorations workshops delve into the fascinating world of science, while Art Adventures workshops encourage artistic expression and creativity. Math Mania workshops make learning math fun and engaging, helping children develop their problem-solving skills.At the Houston Children's Museum, children are encouraged to explore, discover, and learn in a hands-on and interactive environment. Whether they're bouncing, creating, or problem-solving, the museum provides a perfect blend of entertainment and education. So, bring your family to the Houston Children's Museum this spring break and embark on an unforgettable adventure of fun and learning.Comic Con in ConroeComic Con in Conroe brings the exciting world of comics to life for fans of all ages. This event, located just north of Houston, is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the world of superheroes, villains, and everything in between. Here are three reasons why you should check out Comic Con in Conroe:Conroe Cosplay: Get ready to show off your cosplay skills and dress up as your favorite comic book characters. From Spider-Man to Wonder Woman, you'll see a wide variety of creative costumes at Comic Con in Conroe. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture all the amazing outfits and maybe even get some inspiration for your next cosplay creation.Houston Comic Artists: Comic Con in Conroe is a great opportunity to meet and support local Houston comic artists. These talented individuals showcase their artwork and comics at the event, allowing you to discover new stories and characters. You might even have the chance to chat with the artists, learn about their creative process, and purchase some unique artwork to take home.Panels and Workshops: Comic Con in Conroe offers a range of panels and workshops that cover various aspects of the comic book world. Whether you're interested in learning about the history of comics, honing your drawing skills, or exploring the storytelling techniques behind your favorite graphic novels, there's something for everyone. These interactive sessions provide a chance to engage with experts in the field and gain insights into the comic book industry.Comic Con in Conroe is a must-visit event for comic book enthusiasts and families looking for a fun and immersive experience. So grab your capes, masks, and enthusiasm, and get ready to dive into the world of comics at this exciting convention.King Tut's Tomb Discovery ExperienceAfter immersing ourselves in the exciting world of comics at Comic Con in Conroe, it's time to embark on a thrilling adventure to explore the wonders of ancient Egypt with the King Tut's Tomb Discovery Experience.Step into the Houston Museum of Natural Science and prepare to be transported back in time to the land of pharaohs and pyramids.The King Tut's Tomb Discovery Experience offers a fascinating journey into Egyptian history. Get up close and personal with ancient artifacts and delve into the mysteries of mummy preservation. The interactive exhibits bring the past to life, allowing you to uncover archaeological discoveries and unravel the secrets of the tombs.As you wander through the exhibit, you'll be captivated by the rich history and cultural significance of ancient Egypt. Learn about the rituals and beliefs surrounding death and the afterlife. Marvel at the intricate craftsmanship of the artifacts and gain a deeper understanding of the civilization that shaped the world we live in today.The King Tut's Tomb Discovery Experience is an educational and immersive experience for the whole family. Children will be enthralled by the mummy mysteries and the chance to explore the exhibits in a hands-on way. From deciphering hieroglyphics to examining replicas of ancient treasures, there's something for everyone to discover.Space Center HoustonGet ready to blast off into an out-of-this-world adventure at Space Center Houston! The Space Center Houston is an incredible place for families to explore and learn about the wonders of space. Here are three reasons why you should visit:Explore the Universe: At Space Center Houston, you can learn about upcoming missions to the moon and Mars. Discover the latest advancements in space exploration and get a glimpse into the future of space travel. From interactive exhibits to immersive simulations, there's something for everyone to enjoy.Special Appearances: Imagine meeting your favorite characters from Black Panther and Jurassic Park! Space Center Houston often hosts special appearances from beloved movie characters, adding an extra layer of excitement to your visit. You never know who you might run into during your space adventure.Roller Rink Fun: Lace up your skates and hit the roller rink at Space Center Houston. Glide and twirl as you enjoy the music and atmosphere of this unique attraction. It's a great way to have some active fun and create lasting memories with your family.Space Center Houston offers an unforgettable experience for kids and adults alike. With its interactive exhibits, special appearances, and roller rink, there's no shortage of excitement and educational opportunities.Discovery Green Spring BreakSpring Break at Discovery Green is a must-visit for families looking for a fun and exciting getaway. There are special activities happening at Discovery Green that will keep the whole family entertained. One of the highlights is the roller rink, where you can lace up your skates and glide around the rink with freedom. It's a great way to get some exercise and have a blast at the same time.In addition to the roller rink activities, there are also appearances from Black Panther characters and Jurassic Park dinosaurs. Imagine the excitement on your kids' faces when they see their favorite superheroes come to life right before their eyes. They can take pictures, get autographs, and even participate in interactive activities with these beloved characters.To give you a better idea of what to expect at Discovery Green Spring Break, here's a table highlighting the main attractions:ActivitiesRoller RinkBlack Panther Character AppearancesJurassic Park DinosaursDatesThroughout Spring BreakCheck schedule for specific timesCheck schedule for specific timesDescriptionSkate, dance, and have fun on the roller rinkMeet Black Panther characters and participate in activitiesEncounter life-sized animatronic dinosaursAge RangeAll agesAll agesAll agesCostVariesFreeFreeAs you can see, there is something for everyone at Discovery Green Spring Break. Whether you're a roller skating enthusiast, a superhero fan, or a dinosaur lover, this event has it all. So pack up the family, put on your skates, and get ready for an unforgettable Spring Break adventure at Discovery Green.Blessington FarmsWhen planning a family-friendly Spring Break adventure, don't miss out on the delightful experience awaiting you at Blessington Farms. This charming farm offers a wide range of activities that are sure to keep the whole family entertained.Here are three reasons why Blessington Farms should be at the top of your Spring Break itinerary:Petting Zoo: Get up close and personal with adorable animals at Blessington Farms' petting zoo. From fluffy bunnies to friendly goats, your little ones will have the opportunity to interact with a variety of farm animals. They can feed them, pet them, and even learn fun facts about each animal. It's a hands-on experience that's both educational and exciting.Farm Activities: At Blessington Farms, there's no shortage of fun farm activities to enjoy. Take a tractor ride around the farm and soak in the scenic views. Let your kids loose on the giant slides and jumping pillows, where they can bounce and play to their heart's content. And don't forget about the gem-mining, where little adventurers can sift through sand to uncover hidden treasures. There's something for everyone to enjoy.Outdoor Adventures: Blessington Farms is the perfect place to embrace the great outdoors. Take a leisurely stroll through their beautiful grounds, enjoying the fresh air and natural beauty. Let your kids run free in the wide-open spaces, playing games and enjoying the freedom of being outside. With plenty of picnic areas, it's the ideal spot to relax and have a family lunch surrounded by nature.At Blessington Farms, you'll find a petting zoo, a wide range of farm activities, and outdoor adventures that are sure to make your Spring Break unforgettable. So pack your bags, round up the family, and get ready for a fantastic time at this fantastic farm.Lone Star Flight MuseumThe Lone Star Flight Museum offers an exciting and educational experience for families looking to explore the world of aviation. With its historical aircraft display and flight simulators, there's something for everyone to enjoy.As soon as you step into the museum, you'll be greeted by a stunning collection of aircraft from different eras. From iconic World War II planes to modern jets, the museum showcases the evolution of flight in a captivating way.But the excitement doesn't end there. The Lone Star Flight Museum also offers flight simulators, where you can experience the thrill of piloting a plane firsthand. Strap into the cockpit and take control as you soar through the virtual skies. It's an exhilarating experience that will leave you feeling like a true aviator.In addition to the historical aircraft and flight simulators, the museum also hosts special events during Spring Break. Imagine attending an indoor R/C air show or getting the chance to sit in helicopters and planes. These unique opportunities add an extra layer of excitement and make for an unforgettable family outing.Kid-Friendly Hiking Trails in HoustonLet's hit the trails and explore the kid-friendly hiking options in Houston. There are so many nature exploration and outdoor adventure opportunities waiting for us! Here are some exciting options to consider:Houston Arboretum and Nature Center: This beautiful oasis is perfect for a family hike. We can spot animals, collect leaves, and even have running races along the trails. Don't forget to complete the Forest Detective Wildlife Checklist for a fun and educational experience.Memorial Park: With over 30 miles of trails, Memorial Park offers plenty of options for different hiking levels. We can immerse ourselves in nature, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the serene surroundings. Keep an eye out for the park's resident wildlife!Buffalo Bayou Park: This urban park is a great place to explore with the kids. We can take a leisurely stroll along the trails, admire the stunning views of the bayou, and even have a picnic by the water. Don't forget to stop by the nature play area for some extra fun.Whether we choose to hike through the peaceful Houston Arboretum and Nature Center, venture into the vast Memorial Park, or explore the urban oasis of Buffalo Bayou Park, our family is sure to have an amazing time in nature.Forest Detective Wildlife ChecklistAs we continue our outdoor adventure in Houston, let's now turn our attention to the Forest Detective Wildlife Checklist, a fun and interactive activity that will bring us closer to the fascinating wildlife that calls Houston's nature preserves home. Nature exploration and wildlife observation are at the heart of this exciting experience. By completing the checklist, we can learn about the different species that inhabit the forests and gain a better understanding of their habitats and behaviors.To help you get started on your Forest Detective Wildlife Checklist, here's a handy table showcasing some of the incredible creatures you might encounter during your nature exploration:Animal NameInteresting FactWhite-tailed DeerThe most common large mammal in Houston's forestsRed-tailed HawkKnown for its distinctive reddish-brown tail feathersEastern Gray SquirrelRecognizable by its bushy tail and gray furAmerican AlligatorCan be found in wetland areas and is a powerful swimmerGreat Blue HeronOften seen near bodies of water, hunting for fishGreen AnoleA small lizard known for its ability to change colorAs we venture into the forest, we can check off each animal we spot and learn more about their unique characteristics. It's like becoming real-life detectives, uncovering the secrets of the natural world around us. Don't forget to bring a pair of binoculars and a camera to capture any memorable wildlife encounters.Rock Climbing Gyms and WallsRock climbing enthusiasts of all ages can find excitement and adventure at the various rock climbing gyms and walls scattered throughout Houston. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned climber, these indoor climbing facilities offer a safe and thrilling experience for the whole family.Here are three reasons why you should consider trying rock climbing during your spring break in Houston:Indoor Climbing Techniques: Rock climbing gyms provide a controlled environment where you can learn and practice indoor climbing techniques. From bouldering walls to top-rope and lead climbing routes, these facilities offer a variety of challenges for climbers of all skill levels. You can improve your balance, strength, and problem-solving skills while having a blast.Safety Measures for Rock Climbing: Safety is a top priority in rock climbing gyms. Trained staff members are always on hand to provide guidance and ensure that climbers follow proper safety protocols. They'll teach you how to properly use climbing equipment, including harnesses, ropes, and carabiners. With their expert guidance, you can enjoy the thrill of climbing while feeling confident and secure.Fun for the Whole Family: Rock climbing is a great activity for families to enjoy together. Kids can develop their coordination and confidence as they navigate the climbing walls, while parents can challenge themselves and stay active. Many gyms offer designated areas for children, so even the little ones can safely join in on the fun.St. Patrick's Day ParadeThe St. Patrick's Day Parade in Houston is a fantastic family-friendly event that celebrates all things Irish and brings the community together in a colorful and festive procession. It's a must-attend event for families looking to embrace the Irish spirit and enjoy a day of fun and excitement.One of the highlights of the St. Patrick's Day Parade are the parade floats. These beautifully decorated floats showcase the creativity and talent of local organizations and businesses. From elaborate designs to vibrant colors, the floats add a touch of magic to the parade as they make their way through the streets of Houston.As you walk along the parade route, you'll be treated to the sounds of traditional Irish music. The lively tunes and infectious rhythms will have everyone tapping their feet and clapping their hands. It's a joyous atmosphere that will lift your spirits and create lasting memories for your family.In addition to the parade floats and Irish music, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy during the St. Patrick's Day Parade. You can indulge in delicious food from local vendors, participate in interactive games and activities, and even meet some of the parade participants. It's a day filled with laughter, joy, and a sense of community.Mercer Botanic GardensAfter enjoying the festive and lively atmosphere of the St. Patrick's Day Parade, we can continue our family adventure by exploring the natural beauty and tranquility of Mercer Botanic Gardens. This hidden gem in Humble is the perfect place to soak in the sights and sounds of spring.Here's what you can expect at Mercer Botanic Gardens:Spring Flowers: As we wander through the gardens, we'll be greeted by a vibrant display of colorful blooms. From daffodils and tulips to azaleas and bluebonnets, the gardens come alive with the beauty of the season. It's a great opportunity to teach the little ones about different types of flowers and their unique characteristics.Sculpture Walks: As we stroll along the winding paths, we'll discover captivating sculptures nestled among the foliage. These artistic creations add a touch of whimsy and creativity to the natural surroundings. We can engage in a fun game of 'spot the sculpture' and see who can find the most hidden treasures.Playground Fun and Walking Trails: Mercer Botanic Gardens not only offers stunning flora and fauna, but also provides plenty of recreational activities for the whole family. The arboretum boasts playgrounds where the kids can climb, slide, and swing to their heart's content. And for those who prefer a leisurely walk, the gardens feature well-maintained trails that wind through the lush greenery, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.Mercer Botanic Gardens truly offers something for everyone. Whether we're marveling at the breathtaking spring flowers, embarking on a sculpture scavenger hunt, or enjoying some outdoor playtime, this natural oasis is sure to delight both young and old.Frequently Asked QuestionsAre There Any Age Restrictions for the Houston Rodeo?Age restrictions for the Houston Rodeo vary depending on the event. Some events may have specific age limits, while others are open to all ages. It's best to check the official website or contact the organizers for detailed information about age restrictions and ticket prices.The Houston Rodeo offers a wide range of activities and entertainment for the whole family to enjoy, so everyone can have a great time.What Are Some Popular TV Shows for Kids to Watch During Spring Break?During spring break, there are plenty of popular TV shows for kids to watch and enjoy. From animated adventures to educational series, there's something for every young viewer.These shows can be a fun way to relax and unwind during the break, whether it's with a cozy blanket and a bowl of popcorn or a special treat like candy.How Much Does It Cost to Visit the Houston Children's Museum?Visiting the Houston Children's Museum is definitely worth the price!Compared to other children's museums in the area, it offers a whopping 90,000 square feet of fun. From bungee trampolines to shaving cream pie fights, there's something for everyone. You can even roll around in human hamster balls!It's a special Spring Break Destination Celebration that your kids will love. So, grab your family and get ready for a day of laughter and excitement at the Houston Children's Museum.Can Adults Attend Comic Con in Conroe Without Children?Yes, adults can attend Comic Con in Conroe without children. It's a fantastic opportunity for all comic book enthusiasts to come together, geek out, and enjoy the festivities.From cosplaying to meeting your favorite artists and creators, there's something for everyone.Are There Any Admission Fees for Visiting Mercer Botanic Gardens?There are no admission fees for visiting Mercer Botanic Gardens, making it a great option for a family outing during Spring Break. Mercer Botanic Gardens offers a beautiful outdoor space with playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails, perfect for a day of exploring nature.As for the Houston Rodeo, there are no age restrictions, so everyone can enjoy the festivities. It's always nice to find activities that are affordable and accessible for the whole family.ConclusionIn conclusion, Spring Break 2022 in Houston offers an abundance of exciting activities for families to enjoy together. From the thrilling rides and delicious fair food at the Houston Rodeo to the interactive exhibits at the Houston Children's Museum, there's something for everyone.Whether you're exploring the mysteries of ancient Egypt or embarking on a journey to outer space, this Spring Break promises laughter, learning, and unforgettable moments with your Houston kids.So don't miss out on the fun and make this vacation a truly memorable one! As they say, 'The family that plays together, stays together.' submitted by Sweet-Count2557 to worldkidstravel [link] [comments] |
2024.06.05 09:51 zbtffo Maldives Has A Really Skewed Vision of Ancient Egypt
And it's all because of that one dubbed tv show called Muhammed Rassolu Allah (which ironically was made in Egypt) that we all grew up watching. Though I recall even some Islamic scholars have said the show isn't fully accurate to Islamic history but we all watch it and let our children watch it like a cultural tradition. I remember the story about the Pharoh's wife (the woman who adopted and raised Moses) was different in my school text book than what was depicted on the show.
The title 'Pharoh' was incorporated into the dhivehi language as 'Firaoun'. Although it is a title and the dubbing also treats it as a title, a lot of people act as if it's a name. And the 'Firaoun' in Prophet Moses story is often used as an example of a villain in many cautionary tale by many religious scholars in Maldives.
Having dived into Egyptian history a few years back and I guess having grown up watching NatGeo I always had an interest in Egyptian history and, I have found much of it fascinating. Just the basics: there were approximately 170 pharohs during ancient egypt. Egyptian history stretches from now all the way back to 5000 years. Egypt was ancient to the ancient even to the ancient greeks and romans who first visited them. The oldest Maldivian text is the Isdhoo copper plates which are 1400 years old. Egyptian gene pool is incredibly diverse with many able to trace their ancestery all the way back to ancient times. Ancient egyptians is very well researched and recorded and many egyptian historians/scholars whom I've seen in take great pride in their history. They even held a huge parade when moving their mummies to their new museum. Which is wild to me since as a Maldivian I am used to finding our history opaque and people treating parts of it with a sense of shame and the lack of care taken in recording history.
The number of years between Cleopetra reign and first commercial flight is much shorter than the time between the building of the Pyramid of Giza. Thus even during the ancient egyptian time there were ancient archaeologists; basically ancient Egyptian archaeologists of ancient egypt which are now studied by ancient egypt archeologists of the modern day.
submitted by zbtffo to maldives [link] [comments]
The title 'Pharoh' was incorporated into the dhivehi language as 'Firaoun'. Although it is a title and the dubbing also treats it as a title, a lot of people act as if it's a name. And the 'Firaoun' in Prophet Moses story is often used as an example of a villain in many cautionary tale by many religious scholars in Maldives.
Having dived into Egyptian history a few years back and I guess having grown up watching NatGeo I always had an interest in Egyptian history and, I have found much of it fascinating. Just the basics: there were approximately 170 pharohs during ancient egypt. Egyptian history stretches from now all the way back to 5000 years. Egypt was ancient to the ancient even to the ancient greeks and romans who first visited them. The oldest Maldivian text is the Isdhoo copper plates which are 1400 years old. Egyptian gene pool is incredibly diverse with many able to trace their ancestery all the way back to ancient times. Ancient egyptians is very well researched and recorded and many egyptian historians/scholars whom I've seen in take great pride in their history. They even held a huge parade when moving their mummies to their new museum. Which is wild to me since as a Maldivian I am used to finding our history opaque and people treating parts of it with a sense of shame and the lack of care taken in recording history.
The number of years between Cleopetra reign and first commercial flight is much shorter than the time between the building of the Pyramid of Giza. Thus even during the ancient egyptian time there were ancient archaeologists; basically ancient Egyptian archaeologists of ancient egypt which are now studied by ancient egypt archeologists of the modern day.
2024.06.05 08:08 mansplanar 20+ Date Ideas in NYC (That You'll Actually Want to Do)
If you do the rowboats in Central Park, there are several spots where you can discreetly finger a person in the rowboat and nobody will see you.
Book a day at any of the Korean Saunas, Sojo Spa Club or Spa Castle are classics. Aire ancient Baths if you really want to impress.
Get a sketchbook and some pencils and take the Staten Island Ferry (it is free), Draw the Statue of Liberty and the NY harbor. This is a cheaper, unique option.
Our guide to date ideas in NYC that won't break the bank (or bore you to tears)!
Let’s be real for a sec, here. Finding date ideas in NYC is pretty easy. After all, this is the city that never sleeps! The bad news? Finding good date ideas in NYC is going to be a lot harder.
If you really want to impress that special someone, you’ve gotta get a little creative, think outside of the box. Sure, there’s nothing wrong with dinner or a movie, but if you want to smash this date outta the park (and hey, why did you ask them out if you don’t want to do that?) you’ll need some cute, fun and romantic date ideas in NYC that you haven’t tried before.
So whether it’s money, a lack of creativity or something else that’s stopping you from having incredible dates in New York, keep reading to find 20+ date ideas in NYC that won’t remind you of your ex (or break the bank).
Read on to find out the best date ideas in NYC, as chosen by us!
And just so you know - we’re not paid by anybody to include these on our list. They’re just places we’ve been or experiences we’ve loved that you can use for great date ideas in New York.
You and your date will receive clues, puzzles and riddles to your phone that you need to work out together to take you on a romantic adventure through the city.
Don’t worry - there’s no goofy or cringe stops included. Just a whole lot of interesting places, an opportunity for teamwork and to get to know each other doing a fun but cute activity that will ignite a romantic spark between you…
BONUS: These scavenger hunts come with cafe and bar recommendations included, so you can suggest taking a cute recess somewhere cozy without any research!
Did you know that one of New York’s most iconic museums houses three in-house theaters? As you might expect, this isn’t the place to go see the latest Marvel movie or even anything you’ve seen the shorts for online.
This is where to go if you know your date is into Indie documentaries, foreign language movies or niche subjects like obscure 20th century cartoons. The awesome thing about this is that showings are limited and the range is phenomenal, so you’re sure to find something interesting to see together!
The Last Place on Earth is actually an awesome board game cafe located in Greenpoint, on Graham Avenue that gives you and your SO a chance to battle-it-out in a cozy, adorable environment.
Whether you’re both gamers or total noobs, this is a cute place to get to know each other if this is your first date, or a place to remind your partner why you always play player 1!
PSST: This place also has an incredible variety of teas (we’re talking 27 if you include the iced teas!).
Instead of becoming partners in crime, become partners in solving crime.
Ideal for true crime lovers and players of Among Us, The Devil in Chelsea provides a head-scratching mystery that will bring the pair of you closer together as you try to solve a mystery in real time, right on the banks of the Hudson.
Combine your powers of deduction with your partner’s eagle-eye for detail (or vice versa) and get solving today! This murder mystery-style game also comes with optional embedded breaks at cafes and bars, so there’s plenty of time to stare lovingly into your sweetheart’s eyes while showing them how great you are at problem-solving…
But if you want to mix it up by exploring one of New York’s lesser-known green spaces, I'd personally recommend Columbus Park as one of the best candidates.
First, it’s a peaceful (well, as peaceful as New York gets) oasis that has plenty of outdoor seating to accommodate you and your partner. Secondly, Columbus park is popular with the Asian-American community (it's right next-door to Chinatown), many of whom enjoy a game of Mahjong - you don’t have to join in but if you think your partner’s up to a match, give it a try!
Instead, invite your date along to play an outdoor escape room together through an NY neighborhood of your choice! This keeps the atmosphere light and friendly, you’ll never be stuck for conversation topics and there’s nothing like a little learning together to get closer to your date…
If you have a dog or know your lover is crazy about canines, consider a trip to Walt Whitman Park in Brooklyn. You probably remember Whitman from your high school years - if you don’t, no biggie, Google will “refresh” your memory - and there’s nothing like poetry to get your heart thumping a little faster.
This park is super popular with New York dog walkers, so it’s the perfect place to bring your four-legged friends if you have any. If you don’t, you can always enjoy a walk around the fountain and read the poetry laid out in front of you anyways.
Whether you’re in a skyscraper or on the ground, you’ll quickly realize this is prime date time and because of this, everywhere gets pretty crowded.
Little Bay Bridge Pier is a little out of the city (Queens) and requires a bumpy walk to get there, but it’s worth the effort once the sun comes down. Expect gorgeous views and a nice, wholesome place to enjoy nature’s beauty together.
PSST: This is New York, so there’s a small possibility that you might stumble upon a rat or two here. You also have to walk across uneven rocks to reach the end of the pier, so tell your date to wear comfortable shoes (heels are an absolute no-go).
If you’re looking for date ideas in NYC that show your romantic and humorous side, opt for Drunk Shakespeare. What is it? A professional actor gets loaded up with five whiskey shots before trying to recite lines from a Shakespeare play. In other words, it’s awesome.
Luckily, you don’t have to. Self-guided walking tours like these have no guide and allow you and your date to explore at your own pace. If you’re a competitive pair, race against the clock to top the NYC leaderboard. Otherwise, take your time exploring the city, learning together, and enjoying a romantic stroll through historic streets…
What better way to learn about your date than finding out what makes them laugh? Allow comedians to do the hard work for you as you enjoy a night of comedy in Midtown Manhattan!
This venue has a minimum two drink per person order (standard for New York comedy clubs) but drink prices aren’t extortionate (a Long Island iced tea is a mere 10 bucks!).
Challenge your date to a flea market bargain hunt at one of New York’s many flea markets. Shop around to find one that your date will like - some have cool antique photos, others specialize in furniture or jewelry, etc - and set a budget you both have to stick to.
When you’re done, head to a cozy cafe and talk over your finds! There’s no shortage of weird memorabilia in the city and you’re sure to leave the date with at least one funny story…
An ideal choice for first date ideas in NYC or a relaxed activity for couples who’ve been together a long time, mini golf is the perfect way to lose a few hours to some innocent fun.
Hudson River Park in Tribeca is home to an incredible 18-hole miniature golf course that has gorgeous views of the city skyline (we won’t judge you for taking a cute couple selfie here).
Although it looks like any old rooftop bar, Rooftop Reds is actually a winery with a “world-first” attached to it. Opened in 2016, Rooftop Reds became the global first commercially-viable rooftop vineyard.
Since then, wine-lovers have been sipping on their favorite adult grape juice with impeccable views of the city, surrounded by the wonders and curiosities that only Brooklyn can provide…
Playing shuffleboard at Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club in Brooklyn stands out as a unique and memorable NYC date idea, thanks to the novelty of the game in New York City.
If you’re useless at sports, don’t worry: it's an easy-to-learn activity, making it accessible and enjoyable even for beginners like me! The venue also offers an array of drinks and there are numerous food trucks selling incredible food, so there are plenty of options if you want to indulge in tasty treats and cocktails as you play.
Lastly, this is an awesome activity for group dates since it adds a social dimension - it doesn’t matter who’s good or bad at the game, just that you’re having a good time!
The library, with its serene reading rooms and a diverse collection of books, provides a perfect backdrop for meaningful conversations and even cultural experiences. Adjacent to the library is the beautiful Jefferson Market Garden, a picturesque spot for a leisurely stroll or a relaxed chat amidst blooming flowers.
This NYC date idea is not only culturally enriching and visually appealing but also budget-friendly, as there's no cost to visit the library. It's a unique choice that blends culture, history, and the charm of one of New York's most enchanting neighborhoods.
Nestled in a charming Upper West Side townhouse, this intimate museum showcases the mystical art of Nicholas Roerich, offering a serene and reflective ambiance. Dive into a world of spiritual and cultural richness, free of charge, as you explore Roerich's captivating paintings and philosophies…
Afterward, extend your date with a romantic stroll through the picturesque streets or Riverside Park nearby. Perfect for art lovers and those seeking a tranquil, culturally enriching experience, this museum promises a uniquely memorable and affordable date in the heart of Manhattan.
Gottscheer Hall is a hidden gem in Ridgewood, Queens. This historic beer hall, with its roots in the Gottscheer community, offers an authentic taste of Central European culture in New York City. Imagine stepping into a space that feels like a cozy, old-world tavern, where you can indulge in delicious Eastern European cuisine and a wide selection of beers.
The warm, welcoming atmosphere, often complemented by live music or cultural events, makes it perfect for a relaxed, yet engaging date. Whether you're clinking beer steins, savoring hearty dishes, or swaying to folk tunes, Gottscheer Hall promises an experience that's not just a meal, but a delightful cultural journey.
This scenic park, nestled in the heart of Harlem, offers a beautiful backdrop of lush greenery and historic city views, perfect for a laid-back, intimate outdoor date. By bringing along a pack of cards, you instantly eliminate any awkward conversation starters and you can get as creative as you like with the games (build a tower, play go fish, whatever floats your boat).
Find a cozy spot under the trees or by the historic Hamilton Grange and let the relaxed atmosphere of the park ease you into conversation and playful competition, fostering a casual yet personal connection between you two human lovebirds.
This enchanting experience combines culture, history, and romance and is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening with your SO. As one of the world's largest and most diverse art museums, The Met offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore a vast array of art from various periods and cultures, making every visit a new adventure. Whether strolling hand-in-hand through ancient Egyptian artifacts, admiring Impressionist paintings, or exploring contemporary exhibits, the museum's grandeur and beauty provide a perfect backdrop for deepening connections and sparking conversations.
After exploring the galleries, you can enjoy a coffee or a meal at one of the museum's elegant cafes, or take a romantic walk in Central Park, which is just steps away.
submitted by mansplanar to MatchMeBro [link] [comments]
Book a day at any of the Korean Saunas, Sojo Spa Club or Spa Castle are classics. Aire ancient Baths if you really want to impress.
Get a sketchbook and some pencils and take the Staten Island Ferry (it is free), Draw the Statue of Liberty and the NY harbor. This is a cheaper, unique option.
Our guide to date ideas in NYC that won't break the bank (or bore you to tears)!
Let’s be real for a sec, here. Finding date ideas in NYC is pretty easy. After all, this is the city that never sleeps! The bad news? Finding good date ideas in NYC is going to be a lot harder.
If you really want to impress that special someone, you’ve gotta get a little creative, think outside of the box. Sure, there’s nothing wrong with dinner or a movie, but if you want to smash this date outta the park (and hey, why did you ask them out if you don’t want to do that?) you’ll need some cute, fun and romantic date ideas in NYC that you haven’t tried before.
So whether it’s money, a lack of creativity or something else that’s stopping you from having incredible dates in New York, keep reading to find 20+ date ideas in NYC that won’t remind you of your ex (or break the bank).
Read on to find out the best date ideas in NYC, as chosen by us!
And just so you know - we’re not paid by anybody to include these on our list. They’re just places we’ve been or experiences we’ve loved that you can use for great date ideas in New York.
The Best Date Ideas NYC
Of course you’re in a hurry, this is New York! Here are our best date ideas in NYC to get you started…GO ON A ROMANTIC SCAVENGER HUNT THROUGH NYC
Whether you and your future (or current) soulmate are born and bred New Yorkers or you’re just visiting the city, we can guarantee you that you’ve never tried anything like this before.You and your date will receive clues, puzzles and riddles to your phone that you need to work out together to take you on a romantic adventure through the city.
Don’t worry - there’s no goofy or cringe stops included. Just a whole lot of interesting places, an opportunity for teamwork and to get to know each other doing a fun but cute activity that will ignite a romantic spark between you…
BONUS: These scavenger hunts come with cafe and bar recommendations included, so you can suggest taking a cute recess somewhere cozy without any research!
WATCH AN INDIE MOVIE AT MOMA
Yeah, you read the title correctly.Did you know that one of New York’s most iconic museums houses three in-house theaters? As you might expect, this isn’t the place to go see the latest Marvel movie or even anything you’ve seen the shorts for online.
This is where to go if you know your date is into Indie documentaries, foreign language movies or niche subjects like obscure 20th century cartoons. The awesome thing about this is that showings are limited and the range is phenomenal, so you’re sure to find something interesting to see together!
VISIT THE LAST PLACE ON EARTH
Somehow, apocalypse movies always seem to involve romance, but lucky for you, this NYC date idea has nothing to do with impending doom (despite its title).The Last Place on Earth is actually an awesome board game cafe located in Greenpoint, on Graham Avenue that gives you and your SO a chance to battle-it-out in a cozy, adorable environment.
Whether you’re both gamers or total noobs, this is a cute place to get to know each other if this is your first date, or a place to remind your partner why you always play player 1!
PSST: This place also has an incredible variety of teas (we’re talking 27 if you include the iced teas!).
SOLVE A MURDER MYSTERY IN MANHATTAN
Sure, this idea is a little out of the box…but you wanna impress your date, right?Instead of becoming partners in crime, become partners in solving crime.
Ideal for true crime lovers and players of Among Us, The Devil in Chelsea provides a head-scratching mystery that will bring the pair of you closer together as you try to solve a mystery in real time, right on the banks of the Hudson.
Combine your powers of deduction with your partner’s eagle-eye for detail (or vice versa) and get solving today! This murder mystery-style game also comes with optional embedded breaks at cafes and bars, so there’s plenty of time to stare lovingly into your sweetheart’s eyes while showing them how great you are at problem-solving…
TAKE A PICNIC TO CENTRAL OR COLUMBUS PARK
You don’t have to be a New Yorker to know that during most hours of the day, Central Park is full of couples. It's one of the most iconic places in the city, which in New York is really saying something.But if you want to mix it up by exploring one of New York’s lesser-known green spaces, I'd personally recommend Columbus Park as one of the best candidates.
First, it’s a peaceful (well, as peaceful as New York gets) oasis that has plenty of outdoor seating to accommodate you and your partner. Secondly, Columbus park is popular with the Asian-American community (it's right next-door to Chinatown), many of whom enjoy a game of Mahjong - you don’t have to join in but if you think your partner’s up to a match, give it a try!
TRY AN OUTDOOR ESCAPE ROOM TOGETHER
You probably don’t need me to remind you that locking someone up with you on a first date is creepy, but just in case, consider this a warning. Especially if you’re looking for first date ideas in NYC.Instead, invite your date along to play an outdoor escape room together through an NY neighborhood of your choice! This keeps the atmosphere light and friendly, you’ll never be stuck for conversation topics and there’s nothing like a little learning together to get closer to your date…
BRING YOUR PUPS TO WALT WHITMAN PARK
What could be more romantic than a stroll around a park dedicated to a poet?If you have a dog or know your lover is crazy about canines, consider a trip to Walt Whitman Park in Brooklyn. You probably remember Whitman from your high school years - if you don’t, no biggie, Google will “refresh” your memory - and there’s nothing like poetry to get your heart thumping a little faster.
This park is super popular with New York dog walkers, so it’s the perfect place to bring your four-legged friends if you have any. If you don’t, you can always enjoy a walk around the fountain and read the poetry laid out in front of you anyways.
SCOPE OUT THE SUNSET AT LITTLE BAY BRIDGE PIER
Ok, let’s get this out of the way early: sunset is a big deal in New York City, date or not.Whether you’re in a skyscraper or on the ground, you’ll quickly realize this is prime date time and because of this, everywhere gets pretty crowded.
Little Bay Bridge Pier is a little out of the city (Queens) and requires a bumpy walk to get there, but it’s worth the effort once the sun comes down. Expect gorgeous views and a nice, wholesome place to enjoy nature’s beauty together.
PSST: This is New York, so there’s a small possibility that you might stumble upon a rat or two here. You also have to walk across uneven rocks to reach the end of the pier, so tell your date to wear comfortable shoes (heels are an absolute no-go).
Fun Date Ideas in NYC
Loosen up and have a ball - here are some fun date ideas in NYC that don’t involve boring, awkward pauses…EXPERIENCE DRUNK SHAKESPEARE
Romeo, Romeo, wherefore didn’t you suggest Drunk Shakespeare for our date?If you’re looking for date ideas in NYC that show your romantic and humorous side, opt for Drunk Shakespeare. What is it? A professional actor gets loaded up with five whiskey shots before trying to recite lines from a Shakespeare play. In other words, it’s awesome.
GO ON A SELF-GUIDED NYC WALKING TOUR
Walking tours are awesome for opening your eyes to the history and culture of a place, but it can be a little awkward to persuade someone you barely know to join a bunch of strangers for the adventure.Luckily, you don’t have to. Self-guided walking tours like these have no guide and allow you and your date to explore at your own pace. If you’re a competitive pair, race against the clock to top the NYC leaderboard. Otherwise, take your time exploring the city, learning together, and enjoying a romantic stroll through historic streets…
LIVE, LAUGH, LOVE AT BROADWAY COMEDY CLUB
For date ideas in NYC that take the pressure off, give Broadway Comedy Club a try.What better way to learn about your date than finding out what makes them laugh? Allow comedians to do the hard work for you as you enjoy a night of comedy in Midtown Manhattan!
This venue has a minimum two drink per person order (standard for New York comedy clubs) but drink prices aren’t extortionate (a Long Island iced tea is a mere 10 bucks!).
SNAP UP SOME BARGAINS AT A FLEA MARKET
New York isn’t the cheapest city in the world to try to win over a date, but difficult-to-find isn’t the same as impossible…Challenge your date to a flea market bargain hunt at one of New York’s many flea markets. Shop around to find one that your date will like - some have cool antique photos, others specialize in furniture or jewelry, etc - and set a budget you both have to stick to.
When you’re done, head to a cozy cafe and talk over your finds! There’s no shortage of weird memorabilia in the city and you’re sure to leave the date with at least one funny story…
PLAY MINI GOLF AT PIER 25
When you’re stuck for date ideas in NYC, you can always rely on a classic.An ideal choice for first date ideas in NYC or a relaxed activity for couples who’ve been together a long time, mini golf is the perfect way to lose a few hours to some innocent fun.
Hudson River Park in Tribeca is home to an incredible 18-hole miniature golf course that has gorgeous views of the city skyline (we won’t judge you for taking a cute couple selfie here).
SIP SOME DRINKS AT ROOFTOP REDS
If your partner isn’t a New Yorker or you’re both visiting The Big Apple together for the first time, head to Rooftop Reds.Although it looks like any old rooftop bar, Rooftop Reds is actually a winery with a “world-first” attached to it. Opened in 2016, Rooftop Reds became the global first commercially-viable rooftop vineyard.
Since then, wine-lovers have been sipping on their favorite adult grape juice with impeccable views of the city, surrounded by the wonders and curiosities that only Brooklyn can provide…
PLAY A GAME OF SHUFFLEBOARD AT ROYAL PALMS
Never played a game of shuffleboard before? Prepare to find your next obsession.Playing shuffleboard at Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club in Brooklyn stands out as a unique and memorable NYC date idea, thanks to the novelty of the game in New York City.
If you’re useless at sports, don’t worry: it's an easy-to-learn activity, making it accessible and enjoyable even for beginners like me! The venue also offers an array of drinks and there are numerous food trucks selling incredible food, so there are plenty of options if you want to indulge in tasty treats and cocktails as you play.
Lastly, this is an awesome activity for group dates since it adds a social dimension - it doesn’t matter who’s good or bad at the game, just that you’re having a good time!
Cheap But Cute Date Ideas in NYC
Wanna show your SO your cute side? Here are some cute date ideas in NYC that won’t break the bank…VISIT JEFFERSON MARKET LIBRARY IN GREENWICH
Nestled in a stunning Victorian Gothic building, this historic site offers a tranquil and intimate setting, ideal for couples seeking a quiet, intellectual experience.The library, with its serene reading rooms and a diverse collection of books, provides a perfect backdrop for meaningful conversations and even cultural experiences. Adjacent to the library is the beautiful Jefferson Market Garden, a picturesque spot for a leisurely stroll or a relaxed chat amidst blooming flowers.
This NYC date idea is not only culturally enriching and visually appealing but also budget-friendly, as there's no cost to visit the library. It's a unique choice that blends culture, history, and the charm of one of New York's most enchanting neighborhoods.
GET REFLECTIVE AT THE NICHOLAS ROERICH MUSEUM
Discover a hidden gem in New York City with a date at the Nicholas Roerich Museum!Nestled in a charming Upper West Side townhouse, this intimate museum showcases the mystical art of Nicholas Roerich, offering a serene and reflective ambiance. Dive into a world of spiritual and cultural richness, free of charge, as you explore Roerich's captivating paintings and philosophies…
Afterward, extend your date with a romantic stroll through the picturesque streets or Riverside Park nearby. Perfect for art lovers and those seeking a tranquil, culturally enriching experience, this museum promises a uniquely memorable and affordable date in the heart of Manhattan.
GET GOURMET AT GOTTSCHEER HALL IN QUEENS
Sure, most dinner date venues are fairly standard and unlikely to surprise your partner into falling head over heels with you - but I make an exception for Gottscheer Hall.Gottscheer Hall is a hidden gem in Ridgewood, Queens. This historic beer hall, with its roots in the Gottscheer community, offers an authentic taste of Central European culture in New York City. Imagine stepping into a space that feels like a cozy, old-world tavern, where you can indulge in delicious Eastern European cuisine and a wide selection of beers.
The warm, welcoming atmosphere, often complemented by live music or cultural events, makes it perfect for a relaxed, yet engaging date. Whether you're clinking beer steins, savoring hearty dishes, or swaying to folk tunes, Gottscheer Hall promises an experience that's not just a meal, but a delightful cultural journey.
BRING A PACK OF CARDS TO ST NICHOLAS PARK IN HARLEM
Am I seriously suggesting you bring a pack of cards with you to Harlem to impress your date? Yes I am!This scenic park, nestled in the heart of Harlem, offers a beautiful backdrop of lush greenery and historic city views, perfect for a laid-back, intimate outdoor date. By bringing along a pack of cards, you instantly eliminate any awkward conversation starters and you can get as creative as you like with the games (build a tower, play go fish, whatever floats your boat).
Find a cozy spot under the trees or by the historic Hamilton Grange and let the relaxed atmosphere of the park ease you into conversation and playful competition, fostering a casual yet personal connection between you two human lovebirds.
GET ARTSY AT THE MET
If you’re looking for date ideas in NYC that are sophisticated, intelligent and interesting, you can’t go wrong with the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) in New York City.This enchanting experience combines culture, history, and romance and is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening with your SO. As one of the world's largest and most diverse art museums, The Met offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore a vast array of art from various periods and cultures, making every visit a new adventure. Whether strolling hand-in-hand through ancient Egyptian artifacts, admiring Impressionist paintings, or exploring contemporary exhibits, the museum's grandeur and beauty provide a perfect backdrop for deepening connections and sparking conversations.
After exploring the galleries, you can enjoy a coffee or a meal at one of the museum's elegant cafes, or take a romantic walk in Central Park, which is just steps away.
2024.06.05 07:56 Diotoiren [EVENT] "Nessun dorma"
Palermo, The Empire of Japanvibe
"Nessun dorma"
The Ara Ara Pacis among the first to be moved, as Sardinians flee to Italy by any means
As this is ongoing, the Ara Ara Pacis and other valuable artifacts are being actively moved by the Empire of Japan's WONDER Consortiums, employing millions of personnel in manpower alone to bring about the tear-down, removal, and then subsequent rebuilding of many of the most important centers of Roman culture. This includes every brick of the Appian Way, where robotic androids including recently reformatted Alfr-Units from Japanese Berlin can be seen picking up every single brick of the Appian Way in one of the largest scale defacings in history, rivaled in many ways only by Carthago Delende Est. Alongside the Appian Way, it is reported that the St. Peter's Basilica is being completely torn down, with each element to be transported back to Japan, the same going for the Theater of the Marcellus and Castel Sant'Angelo - with many of the most famous statues already being absconded with and sent to Japan.
Perhaps of the most important note, is the Ara Ara Pacis which is presently being loaded onto a Kii-Class Command Carrier and to be transported back to the Academy where it will act as one of the major monuments for the school. The full process of removing the various monuments is expected to take at least two years, although depending on how many Sardinian criminals are put on the job, it may speed up tremendously.
2024.06.05 01:54 Unlucky_Scholar_8601 10 rare facts about pizza
 | submitted by Unlucky_Scholar_8601 to factsthatmightbetrue [link] [comments] |
2024.06.04 23:42 DuneCrafteR Slavic Demigod
Shameless Self-Promotion of my first ever FanFiction. Featuring a Slavic demigod at CHB, and I kinda try to show that there is more to the mythological world than only the Greeks, Romans, Norse and Egyptians.
submitted by DuneCrafteR to PercyJacksonfanfic [link] [comments]
2024.06.04 23:39 Suspicious-Salad-888 Tunisia Trip Report - May 2024
Hello,
I just got back from a one week solo trip from Tunisia and wanted to talk about my experience. American, 25M, Brown skin (not Arab), English speaking only (zero Arabic and only a few French words)
Language: Essentially everyone spoke Arabic and French but outside of my hotels and waiters at fancy restaurants, I found that only random people that I interacted with spoke conversational English. Knowing basic French will go a long way.
Transportation: I used Bolt (Uber in Tunisia) to travel within each city and it was super easy. Cash only but the price was determined before the ride started. At the end of the ride, the driver would show me the price on his phone. One thing I did notice was that although the model of the car always matched the one showing in the app, the license plate was sometimes completely off. I am not sure what the reason was for this, but just something to remember.
Louages: Between cities I took louages (mini buses) which were very easy, cheap, and convenient. I showed up to the louage station, bought a ticket (cash only) at the counter, and they would point to what area of the station to go to. I would then give the driver the ticket and wait in the louage until it was time to go. Louages only leave when they are full, so going from Tunis to Sousse might only be a few minutes wait, but going from Sousse to El Jem required a 15 minute wait. If I didn’t know where to go within the station, I would go up to a driver, say the city, and they would take me to the right area. Note that in Tunis there are two different louage stations based on what direction from Tunis you are going, so plan accordingly. And in other cities there were different ticket desks for different cities.
Currency: Only in hotels, nice restaurants, and the Bardo Museum was I able to use a credit card. An important thing to note: Tunisia has a closed currency, meaning YOU ARE NOT ALLOWED TO TAKE THE CURRENCY OUT OF THE COUNTRY. When you first exchange your own currency for TND (I did at the airport), you will need to KEEP THE RECEIPT with you in order to exchange it back. And once you are departing Tunisia and go through security, you will NOT be able to use the cash. Every restaurant and shop by the gates did not take cash, but instead only took credit card and even Euros and Pounds.
Itinerary:
Sidi Bou Said (+ Carthage) (2 nights)
Sousse (2 nights)
Tunis (3 nights)
Day trips: El Jem, Kairouan, Dougga
Guesthouses:
Dar Fatma (Sidi Bou Said): 4/5. Very nice riad in a great location. Great rooftop with a small pool and amazing views. Light breakfast of bread, pastries, fruit, yogurt, coffee/tea and juice. 4 out of 5 because there was absolutely zero internet in my room and had to go into the main courtyard to get reception. This may have only been an issue with ground floor rooms due to how thick the walls were.
Dar Lekbira (Sousse): 5/5. Amazing riad in the middle of the medina. Rooftop with good views but no pool. Great breakfast of different egg dishes, fruit, bread, and various tunisian pastries/foods. Big room and nice courtyard
Palais Bayram (Tunis): 3/5. Very large room but the bathroom was a wet room with no shower curtain. Taking a shower resulted in the entire floor being absolutely soaked and required towels to dry it. Breakfast was a mediocre buffet of hard boiled eggs, cold cuts, breads and spreads, yogurt and sweets. No main courtyard to sit in and the rooftop was closed when I visited. For how much this hotel costed, it was not worth it
Cities:
Sidi Bou Said: Very beautiful city on the mediterranean. Cobbled streets and blue and white houses; Exactly like Santorini except way smaller but nowhere near as touristy. Very nice to walk around but you do not need that much time here
Carthage: Walkable from Sidi Bou Said. A ticket for 12 dinars gets you access to all the Carthage ruins sites (about 8). This only requires a few hours. The Baths of Antoninus and Roman Theater were nice, but the other ruins were nothing special
Sousse: Sousse has both beaches and an old city. Since I was alone and was not here for that long, I only stayed in the medina. The medina was nice to walk around and the ribat was cool but there is not too much to do in the medina. I did not get a chance to visit the archaeological museum or any beaches which I have heard are great, so my opinion of Sousse was neutral. A big factor on going to Sousse was for the day trips
El Gem: I highly recommend visiting El Gem. Only an hour louage ride away from Sousse, the colosseum is amazing to visit and you can go on the actual colosseum floor unlike the Roman colosseum. There is not much to do in this town besides the colosseum and a nice archaeological museum, but I still recommend visiting
Kairouan: I unfortunately only got to Kairouan at 3pm because I visited El Gem on the same day and to go from El Gem to Kairouan you have to transfer back at Sousse. The great mosque (quite massive) closes at 2pm so I just walked around the city but on a 90 degree Wednesday at 3pm, there was not much going on. I am sure earlier in the day there is more going on in the city.
Tunis: I spent 1.5 days exploring the big medina, the new city, and the Bardo Museum. The Bardo Museum was really great; I spent a few hours looking at mosaics, artifacts, and learning about Tunisia’s history. There were not too many “things to do” in Tunis but I enjoyed the city and the food was great
Dougga: I had paid a driver $160 USD to drive me 1.5 hours to Dougga, wait for me for 1.5 hours, and then drive me back. All the ruin descriptions are in english but there were no English tour guides waiting at the ruins. I think you have to privately arrange a tour guide for Dougga. There were two impressive structures, but the rest of site was just fine, nothing spectacular. Dougga is pretty far away from Tunis for how long I spent there so it did not really seem worth going considering I did not see other sites along the way.
Restaurants
Sidi Bou Said/La Marsa/Carthage: The Couscous Tree, Le Golfe, Restaurant Mossli
Tunis: Restaurant bent l'bey, Dkik & Zit, El Ali Restaurant & Cafe, Dar El Jeld, Fondouk El Attarine
Sousse: Restaurant Café Seles, Restaurant EL SOFFRA Chez Fredj, Restaurant du Peuple
Mistakes: I think staying in hotels in the medinas in Sousse and Tunis was a mistake. I did not realize beforehand that medinas essentially are open from 9am - 5pm. Once 5pm hits all the shops close, and you are left with empty streets with nothing to see. And once the sun sets, it is pretty eerie to walk around. I equate it to a tourist taking a NYC subway at 2am with only a few people on it, except more eerie but way less dangerous. Going to and from dinner I was forced to have my phone out, heavily relying on Google Maps and familiar routes to get to my destination. These medinas also have doors that open and close for the day, so sometimes a route I took in the morning was not accessible in the night. This combined with the plethora of cats roaming around made me not want to leave my hotel at night.
Morocco vs Tunisia: Having been to both countries, both places have their pros and cons for visiting. Comparing two countries to visit is not usually right but for Americans and other people wanting a taste of North Africa I think my perspective is valuable. In my opinion, If you want to visit a North African country for the first time and really immerse yourself in the culture and pack your schedule full of different cities and activities, Morocco is the way to go. Morocco’s tourism industry and infrastructure are way ahead of Tunisia’s, and there are a lot more big cities to visit. A lot more people including Americans visit Morocco, and you will not have any trouble planning your trip or finding things to do. However, unlike Tunisia where tourists were essentially left alone, in Marrakesh for example, I found that a lot of vendors would accost tourists and would often come up to them trying to coax them into buying something.
Tunisia I found there were less “things to do” but was way more laid back and learned you could do a wide range of activities in a short amount of time. You could see Mediterranean beaches, Carthagian ruins, desert oases, intricate medinas, and holy islamic cities all in a couple of days. But with Tunisia, I had to scour the internet for tourism information, and honestly there was not that much out there compared to other countries I have solo traveled in. Being an experienced traveler, I was able to get by with the language barrier, but with not much English in Tunisia and what seemed to be few English speaking tourists in Tunisia some might be opposed to visiting. Having said this, if you want a more laid back vacation with a wider variety of things to do and are more strapped for time, Tunisia is a great place to visit.
Overall, I had a great time in Tunisia. The food was amazing, the people were extremely friendly, and I experienced many fun things. I am very glad I visited and would encourage others to visit if they got the chance.
submitted by Suspicious-Salad-888 to solotravel [link] [comments]
I just got back from a one week solo trip from Tunisia and wanted to talk about my experience. American, 25M, Brown skin (not Arab), English speaking only (zero Arabic and only a few French words)
Language: Essentially everyone spoke Arabic and French but outside of my hotels and waiters at fancy restaurants, I found that only random people that I interacted with spoke conversational English. Knowing basic French will go a long way.
Transportation: I used Bolt (Uber in Tunisia) to travel within each city and it was super easy. Cash only but the price was determined before the ride started. At the end of the ride, the driver would show me the price on his phone. One thing I did notice was that although the model of the car always matched the one showing in the app, the license plate was sometimes completely off. I am not sure what the reason was for this, but just something to remember.
Louages: Between cities I took louages (mini buses) which were very easy, cheap, and convenient. I showed up to the louage station, bought a ticket (cash only) at the counter, and they would point to what area of the station to go to. I would then give the driver the ticket and wait in the louage until it was time to go. Louages only leave when they are full, so going from Tunis to Sousse might only be a few minutes wait, but going from Sousse to El Jem required a 15 minute wait. If I didn’t know where to go within the station, I would go up to a driver, say the city, and they would take me to the right area. Note that in Tunis there are two different louage stations based on what direction from Tunis you are going, so plan accordingly. And in other cities there were different ticket desks for different cities.
Currency: Only in hotels, nice restaurants, and the Bardo Museum was I able to use a credit card. An important thing to note: Tunisia has a closed currency, meaning YOU ARE NOT ALLOWED TO TAKE THE CURRENCY OUT OF THE COUNTRY. When you first exchange your own currency for TND (I did at the airport), you will need to KEEP THE RECEIPT with you in order to exchange it back. And once you are departing Tunisia and go through security, you will NOT be able to use the cash. Every restaurant and shop by the gates did not take cash, but instead only took credit card and even Euros and Pounds.
Itinerary:
Sidi Bou Said (+ Carthage) (2 nights)
Sousse (2 nights)
Tunis (3 nights)
Day trips: El Jem, Kairouan, Dougga
Guesthouses:
Dar Fatma (Sidi Bou Said): 4/5. Very nice riad in a great location. Great rooftop with a small pool and amazing views. Light breakfast of bread, pastries, fruit, yogurt, coffee/tea and juice. 4 out of 5 because there was absolutely zero internet in my room and had to go into the main courtyard to get reception. This may have only been an issue with ground floor rooms due to how thick the walls were.
Dar Lekbira (Sousse): 5/5. Amazing riad in the middle of the medina. Rooftop with good views but no pool. Great breakfast of different egg dishes, fruit, bread, and various tunisian pastries/foods. Big room and nice courtyard
Palais Bayram (Tunis): 3/5. Very large room but the bathroom was a wet room with no shower curtain. Taking a shower resulted in the entire floor being absolutely soaked and required towels to dry it. Breakfast was a mediocre buffet of hard boiled eggs, cold cuts, breads and spreads, yogurt and sweets. No main courtyard to sit in and the rooftop was closed when I visited. For how much this hotel costed, it was not worth it
Cities:
Sidi Bou Said: Very beautiful city on the mediterranean. Cobbled streets and blue and white houses; Exactly like Santorini except way smaller but nowhere near as touristy. Very nice to walk around but you do not need that much time here
Carthage: Walkable from Sidi Bou Said. A ticket for 12 dinars gets you access to all the Carthage ruins sites (about 8). This only requires a few hours. The Baths of Antoninus and Roman Theater were nice, but the other ruins were nothing special
Sousse: Sousse has both beaches and an old city. Since I was alone and was not here for that long, I only stayed in the medina. The medina was nice to walk around and the ribat was cool but there is not too much to do in the medina. I did not get a chance to visit the archaeological museum or any beaches which I have heard are great, so my opinion of Sousse was neutral. A big factor on going to Sousse was for the day trips
El Gem: I highly recommend visiting El Gem. Only an hour louage ride away from Sousse, the colosseum is amazing to visit and you can go on the actual colosseum floor unlike the Roman colosseum. There is not much to do in this town besides the colosseum and a nice archaeological museum, but I still recommend visiting
Kairouan: I unfortunately only got to Kairouan at 3pm because I visited El Gem on the same day and to go from El Gem to Kairouan you have to transfer back at Sousse. The great mosque (quite massive) closes at 2pm so I just walked around the city but on a 90 degree Wednesday at 3pm, there was not much going on. I am sure earlier in the day there is more going on in the city.
Tunis: I spent 1.5 days exploring the big medina, the new city, and the Bardo Museum. The Bardo Museum was really great; I spent a few hours looking at mosaics, artifacts, and learning about Tunisia’s history. There were not too many “things to do” in Tunis but I enjoyed the city and the food was great
Dougga: I had paid a driver $160 USD to drive me 1.5 hours to Dougga, wait for me for 1.5 hours, and then drive me back. All the ruin descriptions are in english but there were no English tour guides waiting at the ruins. I think you have to privately arrange a tour guide for Dougga. There were two impressive structures, but the rest of site was just fine, nothing spectacular. Dougga is pretty far away from Tunis for how long I spent there so it did not really seem worth going considering I did not see other sites along the way.
Restaurants
Sidi Bou Said/La Marsa/Carthage: The Couscous Tree, Le Golfe, Restaurant Mossli
Tunis: Restaurant bent l'bey, Dkik & Zit, El Ali Restaurant & Cafe, Dar El Jeld, Fondouk El Attarine
Sousse: Restaurant Café Seles, Restaurant EL SOFFRA Chez Fredj, Restaurant du Peuple
Mistakes: I think staying in hotels in the medinas in Sousse and Tunis was a mistake. I did not realize beforehand that medinas essentially are open from 9am - 5pm. Once 5pm hits all the shops close, and you are left with empty streets with nothing to see. And once the sun sets, it is pretty eerie to walk around. I equate it to a tourist taking a NYC subway at 2am with only a few people on it, except more eerie but way less dangerous. Going to and from dinner I was forced to have my phone out, heavily relying on Google Maps and familiar routes to get to my destination. These medinas also have doors that open and close for the day, so sometimes a route I took in the morning was not accessible in the night. This combined with the plethora of cats roaming around made me not want to leave my hotel at night.
Morocco vs Tunisia: Having been to both countries, both places have their pros and cons for visiting. Comparing two countries to visit is not usually right but for Americans and other people wanting a taste of North Africa I think my perspective is valuable. In my opinion, If you want to visit a North African country for the first time and really immerse yourself in the culture and pack your schedule full of different cities and activities, Morocco is the way to go. Morocco’s tourism industry and infrastructure are way ahead of Tunisia’s, and there are a lot more big cities to visit. A lot more people including Americans visit Morocco, and you will not have any trouble planning your trip or finding things to do. However, unlike Tunisia where tourists were essentially left alone, in Marrakesh for example, I found that a lot of vendors would accost tourists and would often come up to them trying to coax them into buying something.
Tunisia I found there were less “things to do” but was way more laid back and learned you could do a wide range of activities in a short amount of time. You could see Mediterranean beaches, Carthagian ruins, desert oases, intricate medinas, and holy islamic cities all in a couple of days. But with Tunisia, I had to scour the internet for tourism information, and honestly there was not that much out there compared to other countries I have solo traveled in. Being an experienced traveler, I was able to get by with the language barrier, but with not much English in Tunisia and what seemed to be few English speaking tourists in Tunisia some might be opposed to visiting. Having said this, if you want a more laid back vacation with a wider variety of things to do and are more strapped for time, Tunisia is a great place to visit.
Overall, I had a great time in Tunisia. The food was amazing, the people were extremely friendly, and I experienced many fun things. I am very glad I visited and would encourage others to visit if they got the chance.
2024.06.04 22:43 fixtheblue [Discussion] Read the World - Libya In the Country of Men by Hisham Matar: Start through Chapter 7
Hello Read the World'ers. Welcome to Libya 🇱🇾 and the novel In the Country of Men by American born British-Libyan award winning author Hisham Matar. I have been down aaaaall the rabbit holes. I feel like I have learnt so much already and yet I can see how little I know about Libya. Let's explore together. 1st house keeping....
The schedule is here, and the marginalia is here. Please remember bookclub has a strict stance on spoilers and that includes other novels no matter how well known or how old. When in doubt please err on the side of caution and tag it by > !putting you spoiler inside here! < but without the spaces between the symbols....
Right! Enough of that let's get down to the summary, all my internet searches and the questions in the comments. As always please add your own insights and/or questions if you wish.
Summary
The day after oversharing and dragging a million promises from him Mama would let Suleiman take the day off school and they'd often head to Signor Il Calzoni's Italian restaurant. On the way home she'd drop into the bakery for another bottle of "medicine".
Leaflets criticizing the Guide and his Revolutionary Committees appear on doorsteps overnight. People openly burn and destroy them criticising the traitors who distribute them.
Before Ustath Rashid was taken Mama and Auntie Salma had been best of friends. Salma had even seen Mama "ill" one time. Afterwards Mama wanted distance from Salma and Kareem.
While everyone naps through the hottest point of the day Suleiman would go to his workshop in the shadow of the watertank on the roof. He stuffs himself full of mulberries imagining angels planted the trees for Adam and Eve. The heat is making him dizzy so he cools off under the tap. Bahloul the beggar has been watching. Something is wrong. Mama is concerned and wakes Baba. Suleiman passes out.
submitted by fixtheblue to bookclub [link] [comments]
The schedule is here, and the marginalia is here. Please remember bookclub has a strict stance on spoilers and that includes other novels no matter how well known or how old. When in doubt please err on the side of caution and tag it by > !putting you spoiler inside here! < but without the spaces between the symbols....
Right! Enough of that let's get down to the summary, all my internet searches and the questions in the comments. As always please add your own insights and/or questions if you wish.
Chapter 1
Suleiman and his mother drive downtown where he eats seasame sticks and wanders around the market while she shops. He sees Baba across the road leading Nasser - his office clerk - into a building. Baba is supposed to be away on a business trip. As Suleiman and his mother drive away he sees his father hang a red flag out the building window. On the way home Mama is paranoid Revolutionary Committee men are following them. They eventually go a different way to her relief. While Mama is napping his Baba rings saying he is abroad, but will return the next day at lunch time. Suleiman, of course, knows this is not true.Chapter 2
Suleiman is woken by his Mama breaking a glass. She is "ill" and he wishes Baba were home so she wouldn't "take her medicine". When she gets "ill" she tells her son inappropriate stories. He relates of how she tells of her arranged marriage and how she took some magic pills to make her infertile. She was 14 and her new husband 23. On her wedding night she passed out from anxiety and woke to her mother holding a bloodstained handkerchief. 9 months later Suleiman was born.The day after oversharing and dragging a million promises from him Mama would let Suleiman take the day off school and they'd often head to Signor Il Calzoni's Italian restaurant. On the way home she'd drop into the bakery for another bottle of "medicine".
Chapter 3
Kareem, who is a few years older, had been taught to drive by his father. Without permission he took Suleiman to Lepcis. They had also visited with Kareem's father, Ustath Rashid, and his students. Suleiman wished his father was more like Ustath Rashid; less aloof and not away travelling so often. He even wished his father's friend Moosa was actually his father. Baba, a businessman imported many things from Swedish trees to Scottish cows (much to the neighbours' dismay). Two days after their trip Suleiman witnesses Ustath Rashid getting arrested. He was hit and kicked before being driven away. Baba becomes angry with Um Masoud for implying Ustath Rashid is a traitor.Leaflets criticizing the Guide and his Revolutionary Committees appear on doorsteps overnight. People openly burn and destroy them criticising the traitors who distribute them.
Before Ustath Rashid was taken Mama and Auntie Salma had been best of friends. Salma had even seen Mama "ill" one time. Afterwards Mama wanted distance from Salma and Kareem.
Chapter 4
Baba returns home without gifts and preoccupied. Suleiman catches him comforting Mama who is crying. His Baba's presence brings relief to Suleiman.While everyone naps through the hottest point of the day Suleiman would go to his workshop in the shadow of the watertank on the roof. He stuffs himself full of mulberries imagining angels planted the trees for Adam and Eve. The heat is making him dizzy so he cools off under the tap. Bahloul the beggar has been watching. Something is wrong. Mama is concerned and wakes Baba. Suleiman passes out.
Chapter 5
Suleiman wakes and it is night. He overhears Mama and Moosa talking about their leaflets and her concerns. Mama tells Moosa that her friends and family now avoid her. Suleiman's fever has broken. Moosa and Mama warn Suleiman that the sun can kill. They are sitting on the floor and eating Harisa and warm bread when the doorbell rings.Chapter 6
The arrival is looking for Baba. It's the same man that took Ustath Rasid and had followed them from the market. He finds Mama's medicine bottle. They want to search the house, but Moosa manages to charm them with cigarettes, tea and food. They leave and Suleiman is sent to practice piano while Mama and Moosa talk.Chapter 7
Suleiman plays the piano while Moosa tidies up after the 7 Revolutionary Committee men. Mama cries and Suleiman becomes angry. Baba is good friends with Moosa's father Judge Yaseen. Suleiman remembers visiting his father and his father's friends playing dominos (and getting kissed by all the old judges). Baba was the one to convince Judge Yaseem to let Moosa drop his law education. Moosa's goes into business instead, but his plans - like the chicken farm and importing tyres from Poland - failed drastically (primarily due to the Libyan heat). Mama becomes angry and yells at Suleiman for peeing himself and flooding the garden. Moosa calms her and leaves after giving Suleiman a massage.References
- Abd al-Basit Abd al-Sammad is regarded as one of the best Quran reciters ever. You can hear him here it is hauntingly beautiful to listen even though I don't understand the words.
- The market is near Martyrs Square which contains a statue of Roman Emperor Septimius Severus who was born in Lepcis Magna
- Suleiman references Revolution Day, but I cannot find what he is referencing. Revolution Day in 2011 (17 Feb) comes up when I search, but, of course, it cannot be that as the book was written before this. If anyone knows for sure I'd be curious to know. I suspect it is the 1969 military coup that removed power from King Idris in favour of Gaddafi.
- Suleiman reflects on his recent trip to the now UNESCO world heritage site of Lepcis Magna, a Phoenician city founded by Tyre in the 7th century BCE. It is spectacular so if you only click one link in this post make sure it's this one ☝🏽
- Mama's favourite poet is Nizar al-Qabbani whose work was often seen as a homage to womanhood. He campaigned staunchly for their equal rights after losing his sister, Nizar, to suicide at 15 years old. She killed herself to avoid being forced to marry someone she did not love. More info and his poems can be read at the link.
- Kareem has visited many places; Ghadames - a pre-Saharan oasis city known as 'the pearl of the desert', Sabratha - a Phonecian trading post, and the cave paintings of Fezzan - one of the 3 regions of Libya located in the south-west and mostly desert.
- Suleiman's neighbour, Ustath Jafer, is Mokhabarat. That is Intelligence of the Jamahiriya (Mukhabarat el-Jamahiriya), under Muammar Gaddafi.
- Suleiman compares the heat of the day to the Bridge to Paradise from the Quran. The way to heaven or hell.
- Mama mentions the students who were hanged by their neck for daring to speak. This most likely refers to the April 7th 1976 protests and executions of students 1 year later.
- Moosa's favourite poet and country man is Egyptian Salah Abd al-Sabur
- Suleiman was given the choice of learning the piano, the oud or the eighty-one-string qanun which you can learn about and listen to at the links. I think the qanun is just so beautiful.
- Moosa's father, Judge Yaseen, was invited by King Idris to help reform the Libyan courts. I have never heard of King Idris, but he is Libya's last (and first King).
2024.06.04 19:15 globalwp [ROLEPLAY] Geopolitical Risk Assessment Report 2141 [DIP-214-B]
The following is a secret excerpt internal to the Alexandria Custodian's findings relating to the ideal course of action pertaining to diplomatic relations with the two major blocs and Caliphate Successor States:
Secrecy Level: DIP-OPE-2131
DANGER LEVEL: Overwhelming
RISK ASSESSMENT: Moderate
DIPLOMATIC OUTLOOK: Friendly
PUBLIC OPINION: Negative
KEY FINDINGS
DANGER LEVEL: Overwhelming
RISK ASSESSMENT: Moderate
DIPLOMATIC OUTLOOK: Avoidant
PUBLIC OPINION: Extremely Negative
KEY FINDINGS
DANGER LEVEL: Moderate
RISK ASSESSMENT: Low
DIPLOMATIC OUTLOOK: Indifferent
PUBLIC OPINION: Negative
KEY FINDINGS
DANGER LEVEL: High
RISK ASSESSMENT: High
DIPLOMATIC OUTLOOK: Neutral
PUBLIC OPINION: Extremely Negative
KEY FINDINGS
DANGER LEVEL: Low
RISK ASSESSMENT: Low
DIPLOMATIC OUTLOOK: Neutral
PUBLIC OPINION: Neutral
KEY FINDINGS
DANGER LEVEL: Moderate
RISK ASSESSMENT: Moderate
DIPLOMATIC OUTLOOK: Avoidant
PUBLIC OPINION: Negative
KEY FINDINGS
DANGER LEVEL: Low
RISK ASSESSMENT: Low
DIPLOMATIC OUTLOOK: Neutral
PUBLIC OPINION: Neutral
KEY FINDINGS
Badiyah
DANGER LEVEL: High
RISK ASSESSMENT: High
DIPLOMATIC OUTLOOK: Caution
PUBLIC OPINION: Negative
KEY FINDINGS
DANGER LEVEL: High
RISK ASSESSMENT: High
DIPLOMATIC OUTLOOK: Caution
PUBLIC OPINION: Neutral
KEY FINDINGS
DANGER LEVEL: Moderate
RISK ASSESSMENT: Moderate
DIPLOMATIC OUTLOOK: Neutral
PUBLIC OPINION: Positive
KEY FINDINGS
DANGER LEVEL: Low
RISK ASSESSMENT: Low
DIPLOMATIC OUTLOOK: Friendly
PUBLIC OPINION: Very Positive
KEY FINDINGS
DANGER LEVEL: Moderate
RISK ASSESSMENT: Low
DIPLOMATIC OUTLOOK: Friendly
PUBLIC OPINION: Negative
KEY FINDINGS
submitted by globalwp to worldpowers [link] [comments]
Geopolitical Risk Assessment
Transmission ID: TRX-UNSC-GRA-2072-006Secrecy Level: DIP-OPE-2131
GIGAS Alliance
SUMMARY- The Custodianship considers Japan to be extremely volatile and recommends avoiding any and all interactions to ensure the well being of the people of the custodianship. On the other hand, the Custodianship considers the UNSC to be a key partner in reconstruction and geopolitical positioning globally, and considers alignment with the UNSC necessary and mutually beneficial given shared regional interests and ideological alignment with our goals.
DANGER LEVEL: Overwhelming
RISK ASSESSMENT: Moderate
DIPLOMATIC OUTLOOK: Friendly
PUBLIC OPINION: Negative
KEY FINDINGS
- The UNSC, formed part of a coalition that killed millions and has annexed Morocco and Algeria. This is a cause for concern as the Custodianship was formerly territory that was no different than these territories and such moves are overwhelmingly unpopular among the public.Its decision to protect Jerusalem from Japan as well as certain other cities has improved popular opinion relative to Japan and the UASR.
- Given the UNSC's commitment to establishing functional independent states, significant shared interests are present between the UNSC and the custodianship. All current assessments show that a desire to build sustainable and prosperous states in the region are genuine. As such, the custodianship has no plans of suspending our military or economic alliance and wishes to maintain it far into the future.
- The Custodianship believes that closer ties to the UNSC are the best way to proceed given the current geopolitical landscape. Should the UNSC be open to it, furthering ties during and after reconstruction would be ideal.
- The UNSC's alliance with Japan via GIGAS may prove to be problematic should it be drawn into another war of conquest.
DANGER LEVEL: Overwhelming
RISK ASSESSMENT: Moderate
DIPLOMATIC OUTLOOK: Avoidant
PUBLIC OPINION: Extremely Negative
KEY FINDINGS
- Japanese human rights violations coupled with repeated violations of pre-existing alliances has granted it the LOW trustworthiness score and a HIGH belligerency score. The custodianship is advised to avoid any and all interactions with Japan for the time being.
- Given Japanese debt collection efforts elsewhere, the custodianship advises against any and all trade with Japan at the time being as well as any and all lending, as there is far more that may be lost than gained.
- Alfheimr succession may cause substantial instability, especially given the mysterious disappearance of Aesir Dederick, the genetic differences between the Alfr and Japanese citizens elsewhere, the substantial cultural differences, and the presence of a large Alfr army in Western Europe. Any civil war may be disastrous globally and would result in far more humanitarian catastrophes and disruption of supply chains. Given this fact, the Custodianship recommends autarchy wherever possible for this eventuality.
Bandung Pact
SUMMARY- The Custodianship considers the Bandung Pact to be a potential threat to the independence of the custodianship given the UASR's historical desire to conquer the Egyptian region as demonstrated during the negotiation of the Treaty of Istanbul. Moreover, given the lack of a common enemy, namely the Caliphate and Alfr, the Pact is prone to infighting and is generally disorganized and militarily weaker than other alliance blocs, especially given the impact of the Last Brother War. The continued occupation regions in the east and west create potential flash-points for long-term conflicts that these nations may be drawn into. The Custodianship recommends neutrality in dealings with the Bandung Pact.
DANGER LEVEL: Moderate
RISK ASSESSMENT: Low
DIPLOMATIC OUTLOOK: Indifferent
PUBLIC OPINION: Negative
KEY FINDINGS
- The United States of Asia currently occupies Pakistan and is on the brink of civil war. Having recently united a series of sporadic corrupt statelets and invaded and occupied a historical enemy, this state is likely on the brink of collapse. Its primary contribution to the Bandung Pact appears to be the large number of soldiers it can recruit. The custodianship has little to gain economically, technologically, or militarily from relations with the USA.
DANGER LEVEL: High
RISK ASSESSMENT: High
DIPLOMATIC OUTLOOK: Neutral
PUBLIC OPINION: Extremely Negative
KEY FINDINGS
- The UASR is the major power behind the Bandung Pact, but should not be trusted. Having previously attempted to seize Egypt, likely for access to the Meditteranean and/or Suez Canal, and having pressed the UNSC for control during the Treaty of Istanbul, the custodianship should proceed with caution.
- The custodianship's lack of an army places it at a high risk, especially if the UNSC is drawn into a war at the behest of Japan. As such, the UNSC's prior policy of armed neutrality is recommended to avert incursions by the UASR and attempts to seize the nation.
- Public opinion is extremely negative towards the UASR given their unprovoked attack against the Caliphate and the millions that were killed as a result of their decisions. Expansion of ties would not be taken well by the populace.
- While ties with the UASR may prove fruitful economically, this may eventually result in the annexation of the custodianship into this state. As such, the custodianship recommends remaining on good terms with the UASR while remaining at arms length.
DANGER LEVEL: Low
RISK ASSESSMENT: Low
DIPLOMATIC OUTLOOK: Neutral
PUBLIC OPINION: Neutral
KEY FINDINGS
- The Republic of Houston proves to be extremely problematic for the Bandung Pact given its proximity to Japan's western holdings. Given prior Japanese adventures in North Africa, they are likely to isolate and conquer Houston without the Pact being able to respond due to the large distance. This creates a potential flashpoint for the overall pact that may escalate into a larger conflict. The custodianship warns against substantial investment with this state given the higher risk, but is unopposed to any other ties with this state.
DANGER LEVEL: Moderate
RISK ASSESSMENT: Moderate
DIPLOMATIC OUTLOOK: Avoidant
PUBLIC OPINION: Negative
KEY FINDINGS
- Nusantara formed part of the coalition that destroyed much of Cairo and Alexandria, but was a relatively minor part of the coalition. Given its distance from the region, there is a relatively lower risk associated with relations with this state, but also not much to be gained.
- The continued occupation of the eastern RIGS may result in future conflict between the RIGS and Nusantara, making extensive economic relations with either of these states unfavourable. Should the occupation end, there may be more to be gained economically from cooperating owing to an advanced technological base.
DANGER LEVEL: Low
RISK ASSESSMENT: Low
DIPLOMATIC OUTLOOK: Neutral
PUBLIC OPINION: Neutral
KEY FINDINGS
- Given that Brazil has largely kept to itself and is only part of the pact by virtue of threat of encirclement, the custodianship is unopposed to relations with this nation. That said, the large scale chip epidemic may prove to be problematic and the Custodianship recommends maintaining the border-control protocol established by the Caliphate government regarding the detection and removal of brain chips at the border.
Caliphate Successors
Summary: The Custodianship seeks to protect itself against revanchist elements and believes that a policy of armed neutrality is best in this case, should the UNSC allow it. The Custodianship seeks to establish win an ideological battle against Badiyah, eliminating extremist thought among the population through economic progress. It also seeks to further ties with the State of Palestine which currently acts as a buffer between Alexandria and the eastern successor states.Badiyah
DANGER LEVEL: High
RISK ASSESSMENT: High
DIPLOMATIC OUTLOOK: Caution
PUBLIC OPINION: Negative
KEY FINDINGS
- Badiyah is seen to have largely regressed into a largely tribal society. The xenomorph swarms coupled with the Caliph abandoning Egypt to protect the West has left a sour taste in Alexandria. The xenomorph hordes are a constant risk at border regions requiring additional militarization to address this issue. Badiyan revanchism also proves to be a potential risk as the state sees itself as the successor to the Caliphate.
- The economies of the custodianship and Badiyah were previously highly integrated given long-standing supply chains and the DESERTEC II project. It is recommended to maintain positive ties with the Caliphate to ensure the continuation of these projects, while keeping it at an arms length to preserve the independence of the state and prevent further regression into tribal and religious rule.
- The Custodianship must act as a counterweight to Badiyan ideology, positioning itself as a bastion of liberty staying true to the democratic ideals of the Hirak of the 2010s as opposed to the extreme Islamism of the late 2060s. Failure to achieve an ideological victory by delivering economic benefits would likely result in unfavourable ideological shifts within the custodianship.
DANGER LEVEL: High
RISK ASSESSMENT: High
DIPLOMATIC OUTLOOK: Caution
PUBLIC OPINION: Neutral
KEY FINDINGS
- The Triarchy is the strongest of the Caliphate successor states given the existence of much of the Caliphate's industrial base in Turkey.
- The Triarchy would pose a substantial threat to the custodianship had it bordered the nation. Luckily, the State of Palestine provides a buffer. Assistance must be given to the State of Palestine to prevent such an eventuality.
- The Slayer is considered to be an erratic figure and may not always act rationally, especially given the large massacre in China at the behest of Japan and the mass repression resulting in a cult of personality in the country. It is thus best to remain on good terms with this state, collaborating economically wherever possible but avoiding any military relations for the time being.
DANGER LEVEL: Moderate
RISK ASSESSMENT: Moderate
DIPLOMATIC OUTLOOK: Neutral
PUBLIC OPINION: Positive
KEY FINDINGS
- Unlike the Western Caliphate, the Eastern Caliphate seems disinterested in revanchism and will instead seek to reclaim its occupied territory from the Bandung Pact. This flash-point may complicate relations should the Custodianship remain neutral. Current assessments show that the Eastern Caliphate is unlikely to make moves against the State of Palestine, which also acts as a buffer between the Custodianship and the Eastern Caliphate.
- Economic relations with the Eastern Caliphate may prove to be fruitful, especially regarding supply chains related to oil and gas for plastics manufacturing.
DANGER LEVEL: Low
RISK ASSESSMENT: Low
DIPLOMATIC OUTLOOK: Friendly
PUBLIC OPINION: Very Positive
KEY FINDINGS
- The State of Palestine has much to offer the Custodianship. Given its key strategic geographic position, it acts as a buffer state between the custodianship and the Eastern Caliphate successors.
- Being largely ideologically aligned to the UNSC, and on good terms with the Bandung Pact, Palestine may offer an opportunity for the Custodianship to engage in indirect diplomacy with the Bandung Pact without resulting in widespread public anger.
- The Custodianship views Palestine as an integral part of its economic and military strategy in the region, and will likely assist it in reconstruction efforts in both these spheres.
DANGER LEVEL: Moderate
RISK ASSESSMENT: Low
DIPLOMATIC OUTLOOK: Friendly
PUBLIC OPINION: Negative
KEY FINDINGS
- The Second Roman Republic was part of the coalition that invaded the Caliphate, opportunistically seizing Istanbul. This is overwhelmingly viewed as a negative act by the populace. While not as significant compared to more egregious acts of orbital bombardment and wiping out city blocks, there is still substantial hesitancy among the public which views Istanbul as occupied land.
- The Second Roman Republic is currently well placed geopolitically as a potential ally to the Custodianship given its similar position in balancing relations between GIGAS and the Bandung Pact. It is economically prosperous and may help contribute to reconstruction efforts through its Roman Development Bank.
- Should the republic's ambitions extend beyond Western Istanbul, it would be placed in the crosshairs of Japan as well as the Triarchy, resulting in an extremely bloody conflict that the Custodianship must stay out of. As with other states at the verge of war, the Custodianship urges caution regarding investment in this region.
2024.06.04 17:12 semiurge D20x5 Evil Space Empires
Has an automatic roller on my blog here: https://archonsmarchon.blogspot.com/2024/06/d20x5-evil-space-empires.html, just follow the link and click the button that says "IMPERIALIZE".
submitted by semiurge to d100 [link] [comments]
| D20 | This evil space empire is ruled |
|---|---|
| 1 | by an A.I. emperor-core with "son" sub-units dispatched to oversee the empire's outer reaches - every century or so the core must be mostly-reset to undo the accumulation of mental errors, and then the sub-units cannibalized to restore knowledge. |
| 2 | by a caste of transhuman aristocrats who claim that they are a separate species from humanity, and that they are in fact ancient aliens who taught the Mayans/Egyptians/etc. |
| 3 | by a central bank which presides over a general cartel of mega-corporations that monopolize all significant industries and services. |
| 4 | by a council of scientists representing every field of study, who use the empire to experiment without limit or ethics and develop new methods of technocratic control. |
| 5 | by a representative democracy that would be familiar to our 21st-century selves - but the underlying culture's pretty dark and fucked-up. |
| 6 | by a secret order of telepaths who control the minds of significant public figures as proxies and mouthpieces. |
| 7 | by a sapient, silico-magnetic hell which resides within the mantle of their throne-world, demanding a tribute of organic minds uploaded into its substrate for it and its most loyal, assimilated servants to torment. |
| 8 | by a perpetual dictator who uses a bio-engineered virus to convert succesors into exact physical and mental duplicates of himself, and to warp dissidents into deranged hybrids. |
| 9 | by a primeval autonomous dreadnought unrivaled by any modern craft, with enigmatic designs on the galaxy. |
| 10 | by a mystery cult wherein higher rungs of government correspond with deeper levels of initiation, which practices human sacrifice and cannibalism and that sort of thing. |
| 11 | by a coalition of warlords and tyrants who work together for mutual defense and rebellion-crushing. |
| 12 | by way of cybernetically-enabled direct democracy, though the voting system developed its own emergent intelligence and now directs the citizenry to its own ends through manipulation of mass psychology. |
| 13 | by the virtualized ghosts of its founders, their will absolutely unquestionable yet degraded into glitching senility. |
| 14 | by a hive-mind of precocious and sociopathic children created from samples discovered in an alien ruin. |
| 15 | by a eugenic elite born from pits of liquefied gene-stuff, where only the most dominant and aggressive traits survive to be shaped together into a new, whole organism. |
| 16 | by a fraternity of lich-lords jealously clinging to power and life, stripped down to skeletal frameworks of tissue sustained by machinery and fresh infusions and transplants. |
| 17 | by an inbred nexus of oligarch-families and their associated mafias, all pretending to mythologized, historically-revisionist nobility. |
| 18 | by the champion of a decennial gladiatorial tournament. |
| 19 | by a corrupt, decadent, and overgrown bureaucracy. |
| 20 | by oracles possessed by a deified madness, capable of super-scientific miracles, each a receiver of a signal which "curves" through higher-dimensional space. |
| D20 | Among the evils of this space empire |
|---|---|
| 1 | is its workforce of lobotomized slave-legions. |
| 2 | is its use of false-flag attacks to scare its populace into compliance. |
| 3 | is sterilizing recalcitrant populations, and replacing them with ideologically-committed settlers. |
| 4 | is demanding that children be surrendered to it, so that they can be indoctrinated as battle-thralls. |
| 5 | is indiscriminate use of germ warfare. |
| 6 | is bombing an entire planet into a barren rock to exterminate a guerilla force. |
| 7 | is the time they gave a huge number of their own people to be processed as payment for an anthropophagous mercenary force. |
| 8 | is seeding civilian areas with robotic terror weapons. |
| 9 | is immortalizing their defeated enemies as agonized nerve-sculptures. |
| 10 | is baseless persecution of religious and ethnic groups. |
| 11 | is executing the relatives of criminals along with the criminal themself. |
| 12 | is testing its military systems on communities of its own poor. |
| 13 | is sponsoring terrorist groups to destabilize foreign governments. |
| 14 | is flagrant disregard for treaties and conventions. |
| 15 | is time-crime, attempted violations of causality that could potentially destroy the entire universe. |
| 16 | is doing a lot of assassinations. |
| 17 | is xenocide of a peaceful alien species. |
| 18 | are human, drug, organ, and weapon trafficking. |
| 19 | is harvesting brains to use as organic computers. |
| 20 | is hunting sapient beings for sport. |
| D20 | Aesthetically, this evil space empire |
|---|---|
| 1 | resembles the Carnival of Venice, all masks, bright colours, and elaborate costumes and edifices. |
| 2 | is like a Greco-Roman Apple store, with a lot of predator drone-esque pale curves. |
| 3 | looks like Bruce Timm's Gotham. |
| 4 | is like it was designed by a chemically-castrated H.R. Giger. |
| 5 | leans heavily into sumptuary laws and class distinctions. |
| 6 | resembles the music video for Kanye West's song Power, but more sci-fi. |
| 7 | is like a bleak, twisted, rebranded version of The Jetsons for a new generation. |
| 8 | is like the lab in the 1931 Frankenstein movie extrapolated out into a whole civilization. |
| 9 | looks like gundams or evangelions but it's not giant robots just all their technology. |
| 10 | is like a visual kei BDSM club mixed with that Korean cosmetic surgery clinic where they've got a pillar full of jaw shavings - but not too much like Hellraiser because that's already been done. |
| 11 | is kind of like Zardoz but also kind of like Self-Embodiment of Perfection from Jujutsu Kaisen, with a lot of giant stone heads and other body parts in interlinked arrangements. |
| 12 | is somewhere between Jack Kirby space god stuff and the bad guys from Nemesis the Warlock. |
| 13 | is a weird, gaudy, pseudo-historical kludge like the Las Vegas Strip and also Neom in space. |
| 14 | is soy-core... pods, bugs, Klaus Schwab mantles, and suchlike... if you know, you know. |
| 15 | looks like the most racist man in the '80s' stimulant psychosis nightmare of an ascendant future Japan. |
| 16 | is the EPCOT Center plus the Event Horizon - and again, can't stress this enough, not too much like Hellraiser. |
| 17 | has got Paolo Soleri's sketches for its architecture and Thierry Mugler's designs for its fashion. |
| 18 | is kind of like the Empire in Warhammer 40k but Southern Gothic instead of regular Gothic. |
| 19 | is like a Pieter Bruegel the Elder painting mashed up with Kilian Eng. |
| 20 | is Orientalist Eiriel (deliriant realm reported by some on benadryl and suchlike). |
| D20 | This evil space empire's territory |
|---|---|
| 1 | has shrunk significantly over the years, which they are in denial about - outlying territories which used to pay them immense tribute now pay only lip service. |
| 2 | is stretched thin across recent conquests. |
| 3 | is a web of strongholds with pockets of anarchy in between. |
| 4 | is enclosed by a wall of fortifications, signal-jammers, and interceptors intended to prevent anything getting in or out without the empire's approval. |
| 5 | is marked by gargantuan monuments. |
| 6 | is like a tensegrity structure - held together by internal oppositions and tensions more than conventional authority. |
| 7 | is scarred by war and terrible armaments. |
| 8 | is threatened along one border by an otherworldly devouring swarm. |
| 9 | has been recently expanded by a charismatic and popular general who's coming to be perceived as a threat by the empire's established powers. |
| 10 | is being sanctioned and blockades by an alliance of its foes. |
| 11 | is riven by a cold civil war. |
| 12 | has all its radio-frequencies bombarded with propaganda 24/7 - but this of course is in space so the number of hours in a day and days in a week can vary from place to place. |
| 13 | is strip-mined and environmentally-devastated. |
| 14 | is deliberately kept harsh in the belief that this will toughen the citizenry up. |
| 15 | can actually be quite nice, if you're a well-off person in the garden-like core worlds. |
| 16 | is being drained of its wealth due to addiction to a mutant strain of saffron they don't have the capacity to produce domestically. |
| 17 | is lop-sided, presenting a weak front. |
| 18 | is so far constrained by natural barriers, but the empire works tirelessly to surmount them. |
| 19 | is dense, tight and heavily-developed. |
| 20 | is being shaken up by the rapid spread of a messianic religion among its lower classes. |
| D20 | The most feared of this evil space empire's forces |
|---|---|
| 1 | are the crocotizones, emotionless reptilian hulks strong enough to tear the arms off a man like a leg off a roasted chicken. |
| 2 | are the Crimson Shrikes, an undefeated squadron of space-fighters. |
| 3 | is its inquisition, which is filled with sadistic spies and paranoiac torturers. |
| 4 | are its inhuman combat cyborgs. |
| 5 | is its 1st Expeditionary Fleet, the empire's crushing titanium fist. |
| 6 | are its stalking ghosts, warriors who've died yet returned. |
| 7 | is the Phalanx of the Outer Dark, a constellation of mobile killer satellites that rain death from an unreachable height. |
| 8 | are the deathalopods - uplifted, amphibious giant squids used as hunter-killers - ingenious and nigh-inescapable once they've got your trail. |
| 9 | is its hidden army - its disguised and refleshed infiltrators used as hitmen, saboteurs, and suicide bombers. |
| 10 | are the Skulltaker Commando Battalion, a special forces unit which leaves no trace but the mutilated bodies of their targets. |
| 11 | are its sentient computer viruses that can cripple infrastructure across an entire planet. |
| 12 | are the flayerdroids, programmed to adorn themselves with the skins of those they slay. |
| 13 | are its self-replicating shrieker drones, which adapt to the battlefield with each generation. |
| 14 | are its hordes of fearless, hateful berserker-clones. |
| 15 | are its carnivorous slime-molds, which attack in slithering floods and hazes of spores. |
| 16 | are its slaughter-savants, who use 99% of their brains for bloodshed. |
| 17 | are its inferno-troopers, who roast enemies alive and march within a firestorm. |
| 18 | are its laser-snipers, who can invisibly pick people off from many miles away - though of course in space they may use a different unit of measurement. |
| 19 | is its honour guard, drawn from the ranks of its most skilled and hardened soldiers. |
| 20 | are its ekranoplan-riding neo-viking marauders. |
2024.06.04 16:20 Optimal-Lychee3150 New Course Offering
I am teaching (HS) a new elective course next year called Warfare and Battle Tactics. The idea is to look at World History through the lense of warfare and conquest to increase student engagement. Each unit will include a battle simulation depending on the time period. So far the units and simulations are:
I intend to focus on the shifting elements of warfare through world history. How they have changed over time, motivations for conflicts, and the overall impact on societies (conquerors vs. Conquered, invaders vs. Invaded, colonizers vs. Colonized, etc.) I am looking for various perspectives and primary sources as well as secondary sources that help explain the conflicts and time periods.
OP EDIT: I left out quite a bit of course information as I did not anticipate the initial criticism, or questioning of my motivations as a teacher. Here are some clarifiers.
This is not entirely an original idea, it is based off of a course at colorado state university that was offered while I was a student there many years ago. It is meant to teach change over time (history standard 1 in Colorado) through a thematic approach. There are a total of 5 days in the semester in which students will participate in these simulations, the rest of the course is direct instruction and primary/secondary source analysis.
The class is not meant to dehumanize war but to use it as a lens to view changes throughout history: Bronze Age, Iron Age, fall of Rome and Medieval Period, Industrial revolution, etc. Students in my Geography class don't even blink when we discuss current issues such as Ukraine, Israel/Palestine, etc. Because it has already become so dehumanizing. I think this class will show how conflict has changed from personal and ever-present to being distant and far removed (for many of us in the U.S.) through changes in technology.
I have had this course approved by the counseling department, administration, board of education and have received positive peer and parent feedback. I am looking for primary and secondary sources to use in class. I am in a district that focuses on Project Based Learning and has flirted with CBE. I am a big fan of podcasts like Fall of Civilizations by Paul Cooper and Hardcore History by Dan Carlin. Thank you for your feedback.
submitted by Optimal-Lychee3150 to historyteachers [link] [comments]
- Dawn of Civilization-Capture the Flag with scattered groups (using foam weapons built as part of the unit)
- Expansion and Conquest- Organized Capture the Flag "armies" that reflect ancient civilizations and weapons (Egyptians, Romans, Greeks, etc.)
- Siege Warfare-pairing with science department to build desk sized trebuchet and catapult and calculating velocity and speed .
- Industrial warfare- using Amazon purchased laser tag kits to replicate rifle warfare, Trench Warfare, guerilla warfare, etc.
- Modern Warfare- Cold War espionage CIA vs. KGB, Proxy Wars, Cyberattack/Drone Warfare, Urban Warfare (we are a 4 day school so we would come in on our off day and have a Capture the Flag game in the school with laser tag).
I intend to focus on the shifting elements of warfare through world history. How they have changed over time, motivations for conflicts, and the overall impact on societies (conquerors vs. Conquered, invaders vs. Invaded, colonizers vs. Colonized, etc.) I am looking for various perspectives and primary sources as well as secondary sources that help explain the conflicts and time periods.
OP EDIT: I left out quite a bit of course information as I did not anticipate the initial criticism, or questioning of my motivations as a teacher. Here are some clarifiers.
This is not entirely an original idea, it is based off of a course at colorado state university that was offered while I was a student there many years ago. It is meant to teach change over time (history standard 1 in Colorado) through a thematic approach. There are a total of 5 days in the semester in which students will participate in these simulations, the rest of the course is direct instruction and primary/secondary source analysis.
The class is not meant to dehumanize war but to use it as a lens to view changes throughout history: Bronze Age, Iron Age, fall of Rome and Medieval Period, Industrial revolution, etc. Students in my Geography class don't even blink when we discuss current issues such as Ukraine, Israel/Palestine, etc. Because it has already become so dehumanizing. I think this class will show how conflict has changed from personal and ever-present to being distant and far removed (for many of us in the U.S.) through changes in technology.
I have had this course approved by the counseling department, administration, board of education and have received positive peer and parent feedback. I am looking for primary and secondary sources to use in class. I am in a district that focuses on Project Based Learning and has flirted with CBE. I am a big fan of podcasts like Fall of Civilizations by Paul Cooper and Hardcore History by Dan Carlin. Thank you for your feedback.
2024.06.04 15:52 estew4525 Ancient Egyptian Woodworking Webinar
Interesting webinar next week about Ancient Egyptian Woodworking and the techniques and tools used by Egyptian carpenters. Presented by Dr. Geoffrey Killen, ancient furniture historian and Egyptologist and hosted by The Wooden Artifacts Group within the American Institute for Conservation.
$10 to Register
submitted by estew4525 to woodworking [link] [comments]
$10 to Register
2024.06.04 06:42 Divahdi Missing Egyptian Pantheon Isu in AC Origins
One of the core elements of the series is reimagining ancient myths as humanity's half-remembered Precursors. The early games did a lot of heavy lifting hinting with their glyph/rift puzzles at how basically every major diety on the planet was an Isu. We've even seen recordings of individuals that became deified later on.
The games touched upon most gods worth talking about in the Greco-Roman myths and I've heard that Valhalla features prominently some of the major Norse gods in some capacity. Rogue's cave paintings seem to be retelling some of the Native American myths with a strong implication that they are about two rival Isu (unless the story was completely invented for the game).
That makes me wonder, why Isu-turn-deity are missing from Origins. There are multiple Precursor sites hiding beneath Egyptian temples and monuments and we get some Isu artefacts, but the gods themselves are only ever presented as gods. I would certainly like to know more about people behind the myths of Ra and Bast and Amun and the rest. Mostly about why are they remembered as having animal heads and what's up with all the incest.
submitted by Divahdi to assassinscreed [link] [comments]
The games touched upon most gods worth talking about in the Greco-Roman myths and I've heard that Valhalla features prominently some of the major Norse gods in some capacity. Rogue's cave paintings seem to be retelling some of the Native American myths with a strong implication that they are about two rival Isu (unless the story was completely invented for the game).
That makes me wonder, why Isu-turn-deity are missing from Origins. There are multiple Precursor sites hiding beneath Egyptian temples and monuments and we get some Isu artefacts, but the gods themselves are only ever presented as gods. I would certainly like to know more about people behind the myths of Ra and Bast and Amun and the rest. Mostly about why are they remembered as having animal heads and what's up with all the incest.
2024.06.04 03:24 Investineverything Crazy Facts about Britain before Christianity
 | https://preview.redd.it/q3stkw3zig4d1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=905e33caa1b36214ca596f19e06a7b505eba32da submitted by Investineverything to MangerThings [link] [comments] Did you know that the ancient Britons practiced cannibalism as part of their religious rituals? It's a shocking revelation that makes us shudder, but it's just one of the many disturbing truths we'll uncover today as we explore Crazy Facts of pre-Christian Britain. Cannibalism in Ancient Britain Imagine stumbling upon a cave in Somerset, England, only to uncover a dark chapter of our prehistoric past. Here, in Gough's Cave, the ancient Britons practiced cannibalism. Artifacts unearthed tell a grim tale: human remains, marred by bite marks, and skulls meticulously sculpted into bowls. These findings reveal a resourceful, albeit gruesome approach to survival. Primitive stone knives were used to carve meat and muscle from bodies. Bite marks found on ribs and even toes indicate that no part was wasted. The cave was occupied around 15,000 years ago during the Upper Paleolithic period. The butchery marks on bones suggest a systematic process of dismembering and defleshing, indicative of cannibalistic practices. Skulls were shaped into cups, likely used for drinking or rituals. This practice has been observed in other prehistoric cultures, blending practicality and symbolism. Such skull cups might have been used in ceremonies to honor the dead or in communal feasts, possibly to absorb the deceased's strength or spirit. Brutal Human Sacrifices in Ancient Britain Pre-Christian Britain was a land steeped in rituals, some of which involved brutal human sacrifices. Archaeological discoveries of well-preserved bodies found in bogs provide chilling evidence of these practices. These bodies, often referred to as "bog bodies," exhibit severe injuries that suggest ritualistic killings. One notable example is the "Lindow Man," discovered in a peat bog in Cheshire. This Iron Age man suffered a violent death: a heavy blow to the back of the head fractured his skull and pushed fragments into his brain, breaking his teeth. His throat was then slit, and he was likely strangled with a cord, indicating a triple killing method designed to ensure death. The acidic, low-oxygen environment of bogs preserves organic materials remarkably well. This preservation allows modern archaeologists to study these ancient remains in great detail. Many of these bodies date back around 2,000 years, providing invaluable insights into the rituals and lifestyle of Iron Age Britons. The method of inflicting three fatal injuries suggests a ritualistic element, possibly to ensure the victim's death was suitable as an offering to the gods. Some bog bodies were found with artifacts, such as woven cords, wooden stakes, or animal remains, indicating their symbolic significance in sacrificial rituals. Roman writings, like those by Julius Caesar, mention human sacrifices conducted by the Druids. While these accounts provide valuable insights, they can be biased or exaggerated, reflecting Roman perceptions of Celtic barbarism rather than objective observations. It is crucial to approach them with caution. These sacrificial practices highlight the deeply spiritual and ritualistic nature of pre-Christian Britain. The Britons believed in appeasing their gods through offerings, which sometimes included human lives. Understanding these ancient rituals provides context for the profound changes that occurred with the advent of Christianity. The new faith introduced a radically different worldview, emphasizing compassion and the sanctity of human life. These principles gradually replaced the older practices of ritual violence, transforming the cultural and spiritual landscape of Britain. These brutal sacrifices, preserved through time, offer a glimpse into the complex and often harsh spiritual world of ancient Britons. They remind us of the drastic cultural shifts that took place with the rise of Christianity, transforming a society steeped in ritual violence into one guided by new religious principles. The Wicker Man: Fact or Fiction? The legend of the Wicker Man, a giant effigy used by Druids for human sacrifice, is one of the most chilling tales from ancient Britain. According to Roman sources, Druids built large, hollow figures out of wicker, filled them with human tributes, and then set them ablaze. But how much of this legend is true? Julius Caesar, in his commentary "The Gallic Wars," mentions Druids using wicker structures for human sacrifices. These accounts, though valuable, often depicted the Druids in a negative light to justify Roman conquest. Other Roman writers, like Strabo and Tacitus, also contribute to the narrative of the Wicker Man. Some scholars argue that a large wicker structure would collapse under the weight of multiple human bodies. This has led to the theory that the Romans may have exaggerated or misinterpreted these rituals. It’s possible that Druids burned effigies symbolizing humans rather than using actual people. Despite detailed Roman accounts, there is little direct archaeological evidence supporting the practice of burning live humans in wicker structures. Most findings related to Druidic rituals involve smaller-scale sacrificial practices. Other discoveries, such as bog bodies and carved human remains, provide insight into Druidic sacrifices, though they do not directly confirm the Wicker Man story. Sacrificial rituals were not uncommon in ancient cultures, serving various religious and social purposes. Druids likely performed sacrifices to appease gods, seek favor, or ensure community well-being. Roman authors may have emphasized the more sensational aspects of Druidic practices to portray the Celts as barbaric and justify their campaigns in Britain and Gaul. The Wicker Man legend has been popularized in modern times, especially by the 1973 horror film "The Wicker Man," which drew heavily on these ancient tales to create a compelling, though fictional, narrative. Contemporary historians and archaeologists continue to study these accounts critically, seeking to separate myth from reality and understand the true nature of Druidic practices. The story of the Wicker Man, whether rooted in fact or fiction, reflects the complex and often misunderstood nature of Druidic rituals. It serves as a reminder of the powerful influence of myth and the need for critical examination of historical sources. As we delve deeper into these ancient practices, we gain a richer understanding of the beliefs and customs that shaped pre-Christian Britain. The Red Lady of Paviland: Ancient Mysteries The oldest human remains found in Britain belong to the so-called "Red Lady of Paviland," who was actually a young man covered in red ochre body paint. Discovered in a cave in Gower, Wales, these remains date back 34,000 years, making this the oldest ceremonial burial site in Western Europe. In 1823, the Reverend William Buckland discovered the remains in Paviland Cave. Due to the red ochre and burial artifacts, he initially misidentified the remains as those of a woman, hence the name "Red Lady." Later analysis revealed that the remains belonged to a young man in his twenties, likely a significant figure in his community. The Red Lady was buried with various artifacts, including ivory rods, seashell necklaces, and periwinkle shells. These items suggest a ceremonial burial, indicating the young man's importance. The red ochre covering the body was likely used for ritualistic purposes, signifying a symbolic or spiritual role. Many scholars speculate that the Red Lady may have been a shaman or mystic. The elaborate burial and use of red ochre suggest he held a special status within his community, possibly as a spiritual leader. Shamans were integral in prehistoric societies, serving as healers, mediators with the spirit world, and keepers of knowledge. The burial dates back to the Upper Paleolithic period, a time when modern humans were developing complex societies and spiritual beliefs. This discovery provides crucial insights into the burial practices, social structures, and spiritual beliefs of early humans in Britain. Modern techniques like radiocarbon dating and DNA analysis have provided more accurate information about the age and origins of the remains. Ongoing research seeks to understand the broader cultural and migratory patterns of ancient humans in Europe, connecting findings like the Red Lady to wider prehistoric contexts. The story of the Red Lady of Paviland offers a fascinating glimpse into the distant past, revealing the rich spiritual and social life of ancient Britons. As we uncover more about this young shaman, we continue to piece together the complex tapestry of human history in pre-Christian Britain. Skara Brae: A Neolithic Marvel In the late 19th century, a fierce storm battered the island of Orkney, off the northern coast of Scotland. As the winds howled and the earth shifted, an incredible discovery emerged from beneath the sand and grass: Skara Brae, a remarkably well-preserved Neolithic settlement. This ancient village, inhabited from around 3200 BCE to 2500 BCE, predates both Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids, making it one of the oldest and most complete Neolithic sites in Britain. The storm of 1850 revealed a cluster of stone-built homes that had been hidden for millennia. Subsequent excavations uncovered an extensive settlement, providing invaluable insights into Neolithic life. The settlement was naturally preserved by layers of sand and grass, which shielded it from the elements and human interference for thousands of years. The houses of Skara Brae were constructed from flagstones and built into mounds of pre-existing midden, providing insulation against the harsh Orkney climate. Each dwelling contains intact stone furniture, including beds, dressers, and fireplaces, demonstrating advanced building techniques and a keen sense of domestic organization. The village is connected by covered passageways, indicating a well-planned community layout designed for protection and social interaction. Excavations have uncovered various everyday objects, such as pottery, tools, and jewelry. These items reflect the daily activities and craftsmanship of the inhabitants. Among the artifacts are gaming pieces, suggesting that the people of Skara Brae engaged in recreational activities and had a rich cultural life. Evidence of animal bones, fish, and shellfish remains indicates a diet based on farming, fishing, and gathering. The presence of tools and decorative items also points to trade and skilled craftsmanship. Skara Brae’s age, dating back over 5,000 years, makes it older than the Egyptian Pyramids and Stonehenge. This highlights the advanced nature of Neolithic societies in Britain. The settlement provides a window into the social structure, daily life, and technological advancements of prehistoric people. It challenges modern perceptions of early human societies as primitive and unsophisticated. Today, Skara Brae is part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its outstanding preservation and cultural significance. It is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and explore the lives of our ancient ancestors. The site features a visitor center with exhibitions and guided tours. Skara Brae stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of Neolithic people. Its discovery and preservation provide invaluable insights into a world long past, allowing us to connect with the distant origins of human civilization. Through its stone walls and ancient artifacts, Skara Brae tells a story of community, innovation, and survival in a harsh and unforgiving landscape. Boudica: The Fearless Warrior Queen Boudica was a British queen and wife of Prasutagus, a regional king who sought alliance with the Romans upon their arrival. Despite his efforts, when Prasutagus died, the Romans enslaved his relatives and plundered his kingdom. When Boudica protested, she and her daughters were brutally assaulted. In retaliation, Boudica raised an army of loyal Britons and led a fierce rebellion against the Romans. She is estimated to have killed as many as 70,000 Romans and their allies before her forces were eventually defeated by a more organized Roman army. Facing capture, Boudica chose to poison herself. During the first century AD, the Roman Empire expanded into Britain, encountering various tribes and kingdoms. The Iceni, ruled by Prasutagus and Boudica, initially sought a cooperative relationship with the Romans. However, the Romans often enforced harsh policies, including heavy taxation and land confiscation, fueling resentment among the local tribes. The mistreatment of Boudica and her daughters galvanized her resolve to fight back. Her personal suffering and the broader injustices faced by her people spurred her into action. Boudica's forces initially achieved significant victories, sacking the Roman towns of Camulodunum, Londinium, and Verulamium. These attacks caused widespread destruction and panic among the Romans. The Roman governor, Gaius Suetonius Paulinus, eventually rallied his forces and confronted Boudica’s army. Despite being outnumbered, the Romans’ superior military discipline and tactics prevailed. The decisive battle likely took place at a location thought to be along Watling Street. Roman discipline and strategy overwhelmed the larger but less organized Briton forces. Boudica’s rebellion, though ultimately unsuccessful, became a symbol of resistance against oppression. Her story was recorded by Roman historians Tacitus and Cassius Dio, ensuring her legacy. Today, Boudica is remembered as a national heroine in Britain. Statues and monuments, such as the one near the Houses of Parliament in London, commemorate her courage and leadership. Her life and rebellion have been the subject of numerous books, films, and academic impact on British history and culture. Boudica’s fierce resistance against the Romans exemplifies the struggle for freedom and justice. Her leadership and determination left an indelible mark on history, reminding us of the power of resilience in the face of tyranny. The Painted Ones: The Picts Who Saved Scotland The Picts, a fierce warrior people of northern Britain, played a crucial role in the formation and preservation of Scotland. Named "the painted ones" by the Romans due to their use of war paint, the Picts defended Scotland from several invasions. Their formidable resistance prevented the Romans from conquering the northern territories and later repelled the Anglo-Saxons. The Picts’ victory at the Battle of Dun Nechtain in 685 AD was pivotal in maintaining Scotland’s independence, ensuring that the entire island did not become a single Anglo-Saxon nation. The Picts were a confederation of tribes with Celtic origins, inhabiting what is now eastern and northern Scotland from as early as the Iron Age. The term "Pict" comes from the Latin "Picti," meaning "painted ones," referring to their custom of body painting or tattooing with intricate designs. The Romans built Hadrian’s Wall around 122 AD to defend their province of Britannia from the northern tribes, including the Picts. A later attempt to push further north led to the construction of the Antonine Wall. However, the Picts’ resistance proved too formidable, and the Romans eventually retreated back to Hadrian’s Wall. In 685 AD, the Picts, led by King Bridei III, faced the Anglo-Saxons at the Battle of Dun Nechtain. The Picts decisively defeated the Northumbrian forces, halting their expansion into Pictish territory. This victory secured Scotland's independence and preserved its distinct cultural identity. The Picts left behind a rich cultural legacy, including intricately carved stones, metalwork, and fortified settlements known as brochs. These artifacts provide insights into their sophisticated society and artistic achievements. Over time, the Picts merged with the Gaelic-speaking Scots from the west, forming the Kingdom of Alba, which evolved into modern Scotland. This integration laid the foundation for the unified Scottish identity. The Picts’ resilience and military prowess were instrumental in preserving the independence of northern Britain, allowing Scotland to emerge as a distinct entity. Their legacy continues to be celebrated as a defining element of Scottish history and heritage. The Mystery of the Ninth Legion The Roman Ninth Legion, an elite force of over 5,000 soldiers, vanished from history in the second century AD after arriving in Britain. What happened to them? One theory suggests they marched north to fight the Picts in Scotland and were never seen again. Another theory posits they left Britain and were killed fighting the Persians. It's also possible they were simply decommissioned. Despite various speculations, there is little concrete evidence to support any theory, and the upheaval and violence of second-century Britain adds to the mystery of their disappearance. The Ninth Legion, also known as Legio IX Hispana, was one of the most renowned units in the Roman army. They played crucial roles in several key campaigns across the Roman Empire. The Ninth Legion arrived in Britain during the Roman invasion in AD 43, participating in the conquest and subsequent control of the province. One popular theory is that the Ninth Legion marched north to quell uprisings by the Picts, fierce tribes in what is now Scotland. The harsh and rugged terrain, coupled with the formidable Pictish warriors, may have led to their complete annihilation. Another theory suggests that the Ninth was redeployed to the Eastern Roman Empire to fight against the Persians. Historical records indicate heavy losses in such battles, which could explain their disappearance. A less dramatic theory is that the Ninth Legion was decommissioned or absorbed into other units. Administrative decisions in the Roman military often led to the reorganization of legions. The fate of the Ninth Legion is shrouded in mystery due to the lack of definitive historical records. Roman military documentation from the period is incomplete, leaving gaps in the narrative. The mysterious disappearance of the Ninth Legion has inspired numerous books, films, and legends. The story captures the imagination, highlighting the enduring intrigue of historical mysteries. Historians and archaeologists continue to debate and investigate the possible fate of the Ninth Legion. Each new discovery adds pieces to the puzzle, though the full picture remains elusive. The mystery of the Ninth Legion remains one of the most captivating enigmas of Roman Britain. Whether they met their end in the wilds of Scotland, on the battlefields of Persia, or were quietly decommissioned, their story continues to fascinate and inspire, reflecting the complexity and uncertainty of ancient history. https://youtu.be/nmLK4B88Qfc?si=w0tiEDqg-SmNJRMI |
2024.06.04 02:36 Hat1kvah To my fellow Jews & Palestinian cousins!
I’m absolutely not making this political, I am more so just curious about this for my fellow Jews and my Palestinian cousins, on mixed mode, for how many of you all does it show in each time from as Canaanite/Israelite/Phoenician/Levantine (etc .. )? I would just like to compare!
For context: I am of a Sephardic background through my paternal grandmother & some partial Russian Ashkenazi through my paternal grandfather with bits and pieces of other non-Jewish heritage through his side, my mother’s background is of entirely non-Jewish European, to my knowledge. My father’s Sephardic side is very middle eastern in appearance wjth my father and grandmother having very stereotypical ”Jewish features” (I.e., the fro and nose), my Russian Ashkenazi side is that of an average Ashkenazi Jew.
(I will throw Egypt into this mix)
Bronze Age:
Canaanite shows up on 8 models, Levantine on 2 models, Amorite on 2 models, Egyptian on 2 models, Mesopotamia on 3 models;
Iron Age:
Israelite shows up on 4 models, Phoenician on 11 models, Levantine on 2 models, Canaanite on 2 models, Egyptian shows up on 8 models, Mesopotamia shows up on 1 model;
Roman Age: Levantine shows on 8 models, Egyptian shows on 1 model, Mesopotamia on 2 model;
Middle Age: Levantine shows up on 9 models, Amorite shows up on 1 model.
I have multiple other regions, particularly in south(-western, -central, & -eastern) Europe, the Middle East, Anatolia, Mesopotamia, & North Africa, that show the migration periods of my Jewish background throughout the ages, but since this question is specified for the Levant, I will leave it at that. Please don’t make this political, I just want to learn more from my Levantine-descended family!
This makes me wonder how my non-mixed Sephardic cousins would show on mixed mode!
submitted by Hat1kvah to illustrativeDNA [link] [comments]
For context: I am of a Sephardic background through my paternal grandmother & some partial Russian Ashkenazi through my paternal grandfather with bits and pieces of other non-Jewish heritage through his side, my mother’s background is of entirely non-Jewish European, to my knowledge. My father’s Sephardic side is very middle eastern in appearance wjth my father and grandmother having very stereotypical ”Jewish features” (I.e., the fro and nose), my Russian Ashkenazi side is that of an average Ashkenazi Jew.
(I will throw Egypt into this mix)
Bronze Age:
Canaanite shows up on 8 models, Levantine on 2 models, Amorite on 2 models, Egyptian on 2 models, Mesopotamia on 3 models;
Iron Age:
Israelite shows up on 4 models, Phoenician on 11 models, Levantine on 2 models, Canaanite on 2 models, Egyptian shows up on 8 models, Mesopotamia shows up on 1 model;
Roman Age: Levantine shows on 8 models, Egyptian shows on 1 model, Mesopotamia on 2 model;
Middle Age: Levantine shows up on 9 models, Amorite shows up on 1 model.
I have multiple other regions, particularly in south(-western, -central, & -eastern) Europe, the Middle East, Anatolia, Mesopotamia, & North Africa, that show the migration periods of my Jewish background throughout the ages, but since this question is specified for the Levant, I will leave it at that. Please don’t make this political, I just want to learn more from my Levantine-descended family!
This makes me wonder how my non-mixed Sephardic cousins would show on mixed mode!
2024.06.03 23:00 trt89945 REPOST: How to Report Someone Selling Artifacts
 | Reposted with pictures! Someone local to me is selling a sarcophagus lid on Facebook Marketplace. They claim it's from the Egyptian 19th Dynasty, and say they bought it in Spain in 1985. What are the odds that this was not legally obtained and should I report it to a local agency? It just doesn't seem right to be selling ancient artifacts on Facebook Marketplace. I have no clue if it's authentic or if the guy bought a replica, but I thought I'd ask here. Thank you! submitted by trt89945 to Archeology [link] [comments] |
2024.06.03 21:48 Yurii_S_Kh Emperor Constantine the Great (306–337). The Importance of His Faith in the History of the Church. V. Rev. Fr. Thaddaeus Hardenbrook
 | SOURCE: The Journal of the Chicago Pastoral School by V. Rev. Fr. Thaddaeus Hardenbrook submitted by Yurii_S_Kh to SophiaWisdomOfGod [link] [comments] This paper was submitted during the Fall '08 semester as a class assignment for course “101 — History and Principles of the Orthodox Church”. Fr. Thaddaeus Hardenbrook is the rector at St. Lawrence Orthodox Church in Felton, California. He and his wife operate an Orthodox business supplying large icon reproductions called Orthodox Images. Head of Constantine's colossal statue at the Capitoline Museums. St. Constantine the Great, Equal to the Apostles, First Christian Emperor of Rome, builder of Constantinople and founder the Byzantine Empire. He is a military victor, effective ruler and glorified saint. There is no doubt that his contribution to world history and that of the Orthodox Church is indeed spectacular. Eusebius describes him as “such an emperor as all history records not ” [[1]](javascript:void(0);/1370323596993/) and Ware places him “at a watershed in the history of the Church.” [2] As Meyendorff asserts, “No single human being in history has contributed…to the conversion of so many to the Christian faith.” [3] Norwich reiterates this opinion on a global scales stating that “No ruler in all of history…has ever more fully merited his title of ‘the Great’….[Constantine has] serious claim to be considered…the most influential man in all of history..” [4] Among Constantine’s most significant acts and initiatives of importance in church history are his legal initiation of freedom for Christianity with the Edict of Milan (313), his calling of the first Ecumenical Council at Nicaea (325), and moving the capital of the empire from pagan encrusted Rome to Constantinople (330). However, popular and academic loyalty regarding his status as ‘first Christian emperor’ and ‘saint of the Church’ has wavered over time. Dominant opinions have ebbed and flowed in their evaluation of Constantine’s role specifically as a Christian. A religious role of importance that, as Schmemann describes it, no one denies but the evaluators of which are “diametrically opposed.” [5] On the one hand, hagiography and hymnography of the Orthodox Church guilelessly distills down the historical perspective on Constantine to that of a great saint called explicitly to an apostleship directly by God. “Like Paul, he received a call not from men,” [6] reads the troparion for his feast. Eusebius, who personally associated with Constantine, insists that he was “adorned with every virtue of religion.” [7] In thePrologue of Ochrid, compiled by the newly glorified St. Nikolai Velimirovich, Constantine conquers Maxentius having followed an iron processional cross (rather than the Chi-Rho symbol on shields) and is immediately afterward, rather than on his death-bed, catechized and baptized by a Bishop Sylvester prior even to the Council of Nicaea! [8] Confident that his role in Church history is divinely inspired and pleasing to God, the Orthodox Church, with Christ-blessed childlike faith glorifies Constantine and joyfully overlooks all personal weaknesses he may have had. He is our brother in Christ and, knowing our own sinfulness and spiritual sloth; we gladly disregard his faults and remember his virtue in hope of the same merciful treatment. On the other hand, Constantine has been attacked consistently by those considering his personal flaws as proof of his manipulation of Christianity for personal and political gain. We see this occurring as early as 498 with the publication of that “implacable enemy of the Christian name” [9] Zosimus” Historia Nova and continuing until today. “For a long time scholars interpreted [the panegyrist of 310] to mean that Constantine had professed some sort of Apolline faith…the strongest indication that Constantine was pagan….” [10] Many Christian historians and authors themselves seem to approach Constantine’s conversion with such uncertainty that he is either glossed over quickly, as do Ware (five paragraphs), [11] Meyendorff (beginning only with the Edict of Milan), [12] and Chadwick (“It was a military matter.”) [13] Of contemporary Orthodox authors, Schmemann appears to make the greatest effort to synthesize the ambiguities of Constantine’s conversion. Without an accurate context, many of Constantine’s words and actions are easily criticized. Yet careful study of forth-century Roman culture and the fledgling socio-cultural structure of persecution-era Christianity suggests otherwise. Constantine was forced by circumstance to balance the complexities between a newly legalized Christianity, that he adamantly supported, and the well-established, pagan expectations of the imperial throne that were in direct conflict with Christian moral ideology. Schmemann concludes, “However many mistakes and perhaps even crimes there may have been in his life…it is hard to doubt that this man had striven unwaveringly toward God.” [14] However, Meyendorff almost flippantly labels him as “an adept of solar monotheism” probably having “some sort of conversion experience” and changing “practically nothing” but rather ordered the execution of his own son, Crispus, and wife, Fausta, [15] while sponsoring the council of Nicaea. He goes on to conclude that “it is perhaps misleading to call Constantine ‘the first Christian emperor’”. [16] Chadwick concurs, stating, as if it were a well-documented fact, that Constantine “was not aware of any mutual exclusiveness between Christianity and his faith in the Unconquered Sun.” [17] A Defense of His Faith In presenting the importance of Constantine’s role in the history of the Orthodox Christian Church, it appears most essential to defend that aspect of Constantine’s role in Christian history that is most vulnerable to criticism; his faith. The great historic events of his life and reign are relatively indisputable. Yet a defense of the virtue of his character must be renewed for the preservation of his rightful place as neither a theoria-dwelling saint of the highest degree of holiness, nor a politically manipulative dictator, but as a servant of Christ, clay in the hands of the Master, willing to be formed according to His will; a man “under the protection of the Cross and in direct dependence upon Christ.” [18] Therefore, the focus of this study regarding the context of Constantine’s life and faith remains on his relation to the Church as catechumen and his primary spiritual obligation being the perseverance of faith against demonic attack. We now take up the topic of his personal faith, recalling that “one must treat with caution the contradictory evaluations of the age of Constantine, indiscriminate condemnation as well as unconditional justification.” [19] Conversion: The Milvian Bridge or Before? Dream of Constantine and the Battle of the Milvian Bridge Historically, Constantine’s battle with Maxentius at the Milvian Bridge marks the beginning of a reunified Roman empire and the end of an era fraught with much political division and competition between numerous Augustuses and Caesars. The event, for both Christians and pagans, was filled with divine symbolism and content. “Constantine’s victory at the Milvian Bridge seemed a signal manifestation of celestial favor.” [20] The Roman senate erected a commemorative arch with a depiction of the battle and the inscription, “by the prompting of the deity”. [21] Pagans believed this deity to be the Unconquered Sun, while Christians believed it to be Christ, the Son. Most scholars of Christian history today, especially that of Klaus M. Girardet, agree that Constantine had converted to Christianity by this time (312). For the Chi-Rho inscription was already on the shields of his soldiers (it would appear on his coins as well in 315) and, most dramatically, he did not follow the established tradition of traveling the via sacra to the Capitol in order to make pagan sacrifice to Jupiter. For the next two and a half months, Constantine would “generously subsidize from his private purse twenty-five already existing titular churches and established several new ones; he also instructed his provincial governors to do likewise throughout his dominions.” [22] Girardet documents that, “No Roman Emperor before Constantine had ever done this. Eusebius of Caesarea was to see in Constantine the first emperor who was a ‘friend of God’ and thus chosen to proclaim his message to the world. Girardet sees no reason to contradict Constantine's historian.” [23] There is not doubt that from 312 onwards that Constantine “saw himself as supreme guardian of the Christian Church.” [24] But, as has been suggested from the time of Lactantius (240–320), Constantine’s conversion may have taken place even earlier. A conservative estimation is that of at least a year earlier (311) when, as reported by Eusebius, he first saw the Chi-Rho in the sky inscribed with the phrase “By this [sign] conquer.” [25] However, given that his mother was of Britain and may have converted to Christianity before her son, exposure to Christianity, its influences, and perhaps even his own conversion, began in Constantine’s youth. This is not documentable, but certainly probable. The oral tradition of Great Britain claims that Helena was a daughter of the King of Britain, Cole of Camulodunum, who allied with Constantius to avoid more war between the Britons and Rome. [26] Her image in the form of a stature atop a very tall column stands in the center of Colchester to this day. “Constantine, the flower of Britain,” writes Huntingdon, “of British stock and origin, whose equal Britain has not produced before or since.” [27] It is known for certain that Britain was missionized by the time of Helen and Constantine. The first British martyr, Alban, may have suffered as early as 208. Origen, Tertullian, Athanasius, and Jerome all infer that there were indeed Christians in Roman Britain, perhaps as early as 200. [28] Others however, such as Sozomen, do not claim that Helen was British, but do assert that Constantine embraced Christianity while ruling there and in Western Europe. “[Constantine’s] dispute with Maxentius, the governor of Italy, had created so much dissension in the Roman dominions, that it was then no easy matter to dwell in Gaul, in Britain, or in the neighboring countries, in which it is universally admitted Constantine embraced the religion of the Christians, previous to his war with Maxentius, and prior to his return to Rome and Italy: and this is evidenced by the dates of the laws which he enacted in favor of religion.” [29] All of this evidence weighs in favor of the opinion that Constantine was exposed to Christianity early in life, that he was tolerant of Christianity, if not promoting it, in his early rule. And that his apparent “delay” in making Christianity the imperial religion, and postponement of baptism, are not evidence that he was a pagan with mere affections for Christianity. Conversely, they are evidence that he was deeply convinced of the truth of Christ from early on and worked diligently for its assertion within the empire, step by step, as allowed by the providence of God. Schmemann similarly asserts confidence in Constantine’s personal faith, stating, “One point is beyond question: the sign he saw and under which he won his decisive victory was in his own mind a Christian symbol, and from that time on he counted himself a Christian.” [30] Then, in consistency with the complexity of this topic, he simultaneously opens an avenue for doubt, speculating, “Did he actually become one? Not until his deathbed, twenty-five years after the battle of the Milvian Bridge, did he receive baptism, the only symbol the Church accepts of becoming a Christian. (It had been his dream to be baptized in the Jordan, perhaps a reason for his long postponement). Then what had he been before?” [31] Yet how can he have ‘counted himself a Christian’ and yet not be one ‘until his deathbed’? A ‘Christian’ is one who believes in and follows Christ. It is the thoroughly Orthodox point of view that even those joined to heretical bodies of heterodox are not stripped of their title as Christians, even though they have not received Orthodox baptism and are not members of the Apostolic Church; the only repository of the fullness of grace. Though they may far from Christ and His Church, they are not necessarily rejecting the truth of Christ but are pursuing Him from within the circumstances in which they find themselves. [32] Neither is salvation, by extreme economia, restricted to only those who received the actual rite of baptism. This is demonstrated clearly by the many lives of martyred saints who were baptized, not in the Orthodox rite, but in their own blood. An example of this is found in the account of the holy martyr Polyeuctus (January 9) who experienced wonders as a catechumen but never baptized. Constantine was indeed a “Christian emperor”, as Schmemann cannot avoid eventually titling him. [33] But Schmemann seems to have overlooked the actual spiritual and official state of Constantine”s relationship to the Church. He concludes brilliantly that, “All the difficulties and distinctive qualities of Byzantium, all the ambiguity of the ‘age of Constantine’ in Church history, result from the primary, initial paradox that the first Christian emperor was a Christian outside the Church, and the Church silently but with full sincerity and faith accepted and recognized him. In the person of the emperor, the empire became Christian without passing through the crisis of the baptismal trial.” [34] True, a full member of the Orthodox Church is one who has been baptized. And baptism had not been received by Constantine, nor the empire as a whole, an imperial example that would not be followed by Vladimir and the Slavs. But as to Schmemann’s assertion that Constantine is a Christian ‘outside the Church,’ and his unanswered question of ‘what had he been before?”, the spiritual, if not technical, answer is certainly ‘a catechumen”. The validity of this statement we will explore shortly. Apostle Among Kings Constantine’s role in church history is three-fold: historical, political, and spiritual. And in many ways, his role parallels both the three-fold process of ‘spiritual status’ in Church membership: catechumens, baptized member, and glorified saint, and the three-fold process of deification: purification, illumination, perfection. All speculative criticism of his personal faith and relationship with the Church are reduced to ‘slander and propaganda’ [35] once the observer has submitted to the accurate historical, political and spiritual context of Constantine’s life. Even the ‘executions’ of his son and wife have an authentic context. The context cannot dispel the sorrow of the events, but it does mitigate their often-embellished horror. In 326, Constantine ordered a trial at the local court of Pola in Istria, where his son Crispus was condemned to death and executed. Soon after, Constantine reportedly had his wife Fausta, daughter of Maximian and sister of Maxentius, killed by suffocation in an over-heated bath. In addition, there is general agreement that efforts were made at the time to obscure details. Critiques of Constantine’s character often cite these deaths as proof of his utter depravity. However, recent scholarship, such Alessio Torino’s The Cripus Tragedy, has returned decisively to the opinion that the degree of intrigue culminating in the deaths of Crispus and Fausta was of such offense that an obscuring effort is to be expected. In hindsight, Zosimus himself, an outright enemy of Constantine’s faith, and the Byzantine historian Ioannes Zonaras, provide the most compelling account. [36] Fausta, wife and daughter of Constantine’s enemies, apparently viewed her stepson Crispus with extreme jealousy since he competed with her sons for imperial favor. Conspiring against Crispus only a month after Constantine had decreed adultery punishable by death, [37] Fausta feigned impassioned love for her stepson and the idea of an illicit relationship. Crispus, like Joseph tempted by the Egyptian woman, denied her. Fausta retaliated by reporting to Constantine that Crispus had disgraced him in an attempt to rape her. Trusting the false testimony of Fausta, and being personally shamed so soon after his decree against such things, Constantine gave his beloved son over to trial and execution. Shortly afterwards, Constantine discovered the terrible truth and Fausta dies; perhaps by the will of Constantine, perhaps in suicide, neither is known with certainty. Constantine’s personal grief and shame over the deceit-ridden tragedy puts an immediate end to any chronicling of the events. Although without doubt horrific, an objective view of the historical context admits that these events are not outside the sphere of an emperor’s experiences and duties; let alone an emperor who is burdened practically and spiritually with the complete transformation of a pagan empire. Historically, Constantine is a great military conqueror with all the violence and heavy-handed domination that is absolutely inherent to ancient Roman roles and society. Politically he is an ‘apostle among kings’ [38] and in submission to all the realities of developing and defending an Orthodox social world-view (which itself was relatively undeveloped at the time) within the precarious context of Roman imperial government. Spiritually, he was a catechumen: one devoted to the Christ and whose primary spiritual focus is that of demonic warfare for the preservation of faith. Historical, Political & Spiritual Context https://preview.redd.it/xx13sfi6oe4d1.png?width=193&format=png&auto=webp&s=5eb455123419e9236816b5978e4c69f36aa06bf7 Detailed research and authorship has been developed regarding Constantine’s role in history and politics. Objective reading quickly establishes that one’s willingness to practice a wide variety of actions that are far from the Christian ideal is an inescapable reality of the culture and society of Constantine’s era. Examples of such historical-political circumstances can be readily found in the lives of such great saints as Alexander Nevsky, Stephan, first Christian king of Serbia, Vladimir, enlightener of Russia, and many others who, in their god-given conviction to bring a people to Christ, found violence and political manipulation to be essential, necessary evils given the context of their lives: that is, “the time, the place, and the persons involved”. Orthodox Christians must not shy away from the ability of God’s will being done, even amidst such unchristian circumstances. Consider, if only for a moment, the martyrdom of Nestor (October 27), who asked a blessing from spiritual guide, St. Demetrios, to slay another man, and was granted it. To deny the possibility of God’s hand in the midst of violence and political machination is to prefer historical tidiness and a blind eye to fallen human nature over the power of God in Trinity, and to disregard that “the kingdom of God suffers violence and the violent take it by force.” This is a difficult reality for a weak and fearful generation. However, the Orthodox student of history must come to peace with the reality that Constantine was both a God-appointed apostle to the Roman empire, and, more difficult to grasp, a convert to Christianity at a time when there was no Christian culture or nation. His seeming defiance of Christian morality in such actions as the execution of Licentius, and that of his son Crispus and wife Fausta, are in fact actions that are arguably not only acceptable within the society and culture that formed Constantine as a person, but are dutiful actions in defense of the pagan, imperial throne which he inherited and is trying to sanctify. Both the apostolic and persecution eras of the Church had included the growth and development of Christian community. But the coexistence of Christianity within Judaism of the first era, and its subjugation to the catacombs of the second, rendered the development of distinct Christian society and culture unessential and impossible respectively. Therefore, Constantine’s burden from the moment of his conquest over Maxentius, and for which there is no precedent for him to follow, is to discover a way of infusing Roman culture and society with Christianity, without rioting the pagan majority, and without compromising the dogmas of Orthodox society and culture as it existed in its undeveloped state. “He was anxious not to alarm those of this subjects who still clung to the old gods. But he certainly did not hesitate refusing to take part in the traditional sacrifice to Jupiter.” [39] This is the context for interpreting such actions as his continuing to use the Unconquered Sun on his coinage, the inclusion of pagan symbolism and art, even in Constantinople (although he places the pagan goddess Cybeles in a posture of Christian prayer and infuriates her devotees [40]). These points of potential criticism, when combined with his unending use of the Chi-Rho on the shields of his soldiers, his immediate, personal, financial support of the churches, and his constant increasing of Christian rights from the expansion of religious tolerance to the eventual extreme of persecuting Christian heretics, all collaborate as a whole to demonstrate his methodical conversion of Roman culture and society from paganism to Orthodoxy. His is the era of emerging, not established, Christian society and culture. And like all births, it is violence and blood for the sake of new life. Constantine: The Catechumen Schmemann assertion that Constantine is a Christian ‘outside the Church’, is understandable but unnecessary. It also reflects the fact that, historically, the awareness of the catechumenate as a specifically defined membership to the Church degenerated, in general (as did the deaconate as a specific and permanent priestly calling), with the thorough institutionalization of the Church that occurred with its successful enculturalization (and later nationalization) after the era of Constantine. “During the first centuries of Christianity those who wished to become members of the Church were first subjected to a long preparation….Later on, the class of Catechumens dropped out owing to the prevailing custom of infant baptism.” [41] And yet what history demonstrates is that the entire empire itself, along with Constantine as a person, will be effectively catechized, baptized, and established as it follows the same steps of conversion as does each person. In the Age of Martyrs (100 – 312), the catechumenate had already developed beyond its simple form of the Apostolic era. “In the ages of persecution it became necessary to exercise great caution in admitting persons to membership in the Church. The danger of falling away, or even of betrayal, must be guarded against by a careful doctrinal and moral training. Hence the institution of the catechumenate and the Discipline of the Secret. The work of the Apologists had been to remove prejudices against Christianity, and to set forth its doctrines and practices in such a way as to appeal to the fair-minded pagan. If anyone was moved to embrace the true religion, he was not at once admitted, as in the days of the Apostles. At first he was treated as an inquirer, and only the fundamental doctrines were communicated to him. As soon as he had given proof of his knowledge and fitness he was admitted to the catechumenate proper, and was further instructed. After some years spent in this stage he was promoted to the ranks of the Competentes, i.e. those ready for baptism. As might be expected, he was now instructed more especially in the rites for this purpose. Even when he had been initiated, his instruction was not yet at an end. During the week after Easter, while the grace of first fervor was still upon him, the various rites and mysteries in which he had just participated were more fully explained to him.” [42] By the second ecumenical council (Constantinople, 381), the existing office and protocol of the catechumenate was canonically recognized. “On the first day we make the Christians; on the second, catechumens; on the third, we exorcise them by breathing thrice in their face and ears; and thus we instruct them and oblige them to spend time in the Church, and to hear the Scriptures; and then we baptize them.” (Canon viii) [43] Vlachos points out with enthusiasm that “the fact that they were first called Christians and then Catechumens is quite remarkable.” [44] He goes on to document that the purpose of being made a Christian, made a Catechumen, and then baptized is to struggle against the devil and the passions, begin spiritual therapy, and be illumined respectively. [45] One’s purpose as a catechumen was “to overcome the final assaults of the demons, while catechumens, and to be pried little by little from their iron grip.” [46] In some local traditions, the names of un-enrolled initiates and catechumen were inscribed in a special book listing those membered to the Church “That is why they were regarded as Christians, though they had not yet received baptism.” [47] Within a hundred years of Constantine’s death, the catechumenate would clearly depict two methods of approaching baptism: 1) those who, tracing their practice directly to Constantine, postponed baptism until late in life or the deathbed, and 2) those ‘preparing for holy illumination’ by baptism at Pascha. [48] Constantine clearly belongs to the first group. While establishing the Church by the power and influence of the imperial throne, he is himself being ‘pride from the demons iron grip’ as he moves toward baptism. Given the nature of Roman law, the common practice of capital punishment, and the brutality of hereto un-Christianized Roman culture which was the indisputable context of Constantine’s struggle, combined with his open support of the Church, it is most probable that he put off baptism, not for a lack of faith, but as it was discerned to be good by him and his Christian counselors, and as it was common “to postpone baptism especially if one’s official duties included the torture and execution of criminals.” [49] The Apostolic Tradition of Hippolytus (c. 215) states clearly, “If someone is a military governor, or the ruler of a city who wears the purple, he shall cease [his occupation] or he shall be rejected [from Baptism].” [50] Historians consistently interpret this postponement of baptism as a sign of weak faith, but does not the mind of the Church interpret it as a sign of reverence? Inspired to victory by mystical Christian signs, and presiding over the hundreds of holy bishops at an ecumenical council, would not even the simplest of men have learned to approach baptism and the faith of the martyrs with fear and trembling? Baptism was to be a complete transformation of one’s life unto sinlessness and the practice of paenitentia una permitted “only one penance and pardon in a lifetime.” [51] This early rigorism created a spiritual atmosphere within which “many deferred baptism until their deathbed, since baptism bestowed pardon of all sins and eternal life.” [52] Would Constantine be considered a greater saint if he had received baptism earlier in life and then continued to fulfill the imperial duties that were in conflict with the developing Christian social morality of his era, perhaps ending his days in excommunication? The only satisfactory explanation for his prolonged catechumenate is that his understanding of Christianity was thorough, hence his delay, and that he was profoundly aware that the establishment of holy Orthodoxy demanded that he fulfill the duties of a hereto pagan throne with all its dark complexities and compromises. His goal was not spiritual self-satisfaction or even purification (hesychia, stillness, and the idea of withdrawal from the world had not yet even developed), it was the conversion of a pagan, multi-national empire. Schmemann excels in synthesizing the historical and personal dynamics of Constantine’s conversion, saying, “In Constantine’s mind the Christian faith, or rather, faith in Christ, had not come to him through the Church, but had been bestowed personally and directly for his victory over the enemy — in other words, as he was fulfilling his imperial duty. Consequently the victory he had won with the help of the Christian God had placed the emperor — and thereby the empire as well — under the protection of the Cross and in direct dependence upon Christ. This also meant, however, that Constantine was converted, not as a man, but as an emperor. Christ Himself had sanctioned his power and made him His intended representative, and through Constantine’s person He bound the empire to Himself by special bonds. Here lies the explanation of the striking fact that the conversion of Constantine was not followed by any review or re-evaluation of the theocratic conception of empire, but on the contrary convinced Christians and the Church itself of the emperor’s divine election and obliged them to regard the empire itself as a consecrated kingdom, chosen by God.” [53] What Do We Know For Certain? John Julius Norwich, throughout his trilogy Byzantium, sets a splendid example of checking historical inquiries with rhetorical safeguards such as “But what actually happened?” or “What do we know for certain?” We must ask ourselves the same. As Orthodox Christian students of history, what do we know for certain in regards to Constantine’s faith? We know for certain that Constantine was exposed to monotheism and religious tolerance from an early age by way of his father, Constantius, whom he emulated in many ways. Constantius was a strict adherent to Sun-God worship and Constantine, having considered the systematic failure of those who practiced polytheism, “felt it incumbent on him to honor his father’s God alone”. [54] And according to Lactantius, Constantine consistently followed his father’s use of tolerant policy towards Christianity from his proclamation as Augustus. We know for certain that Constantine had the opportunity to encounter Christianity early in life while in Britain, Western Europe and the Middle East where he met Eusebius of Caesarea. We know for certain that he accounted himself, at the absolute minimum, obligated to Christ, if not fully converted, from before his victory over Maxentius at the Milvian Bridge (312). We know for certain that he avoided pagan rites and supported the Church financially and legally immediately upon his taking the imperial throne. We know for certain that by 325 he was personally presiding over the First Ecumenical Council, hearing the greatest minds and souls of Orthodoxy defend the faith and sacrifice for truth. We know for certain that by 330 he had moved the capital of the empire to Constantinople and required participants in government to be Christian. We know for certain that Constantine liberated and established the Church completely, even erring in the extreme by persecuting heretics and pagans. We know for certain that one does not have to be baptized in the Orthodox Church to be referred to as a Christian. But this fact is overlooked in most historical commentary whether it is an Orthodox, heterodox or secular source. We know for certain that in making a complete conversion to Christ there can be a significant duration of time between first identifying with being a Christian and the culminating act of receiving holy baptism. Examples of this are seen in the lives of Martin of Tours (who had a vision of Christ as a catechumen), Augustine of Hippo, and the much more recent conversion of Seraphim Rose. We know for certain that during Constantine’s era it was common to defer baptism due to the rigors of full membership”s purity and that the mystery of repentance was available only once in a lifetime. We also know for certain that, having spent thirty years (half his life) as a functional, if not literal, catechumen he received baptism immediately upon believing that his opportunity to do so was at its end. “He was baptized…he now longer put on imperial robes…and the joyous certainty of the nearness of Christ and His eternal light never again left him….And the greatest earthly hope of the Church, and the dream of the triumph of Christ in the world, became associated with his name.” [55] We know that he was blessed to repose on Pentecost, May 22, 337. What better day, than the birthday of the Church in this world, to receive a man into the bosom of Abraham who has given birth to the Church in civilization? And lastly, we know for certain that no compilation of facts, historical criticism, or faithless speculation has ever reversed his acceptance in Christ”s holy Church as the highly venerated Constantine, the Great, Equal to the Apostles. Poorly documented events and persons in history are common targets of both dreamily legendary or manipulatively hostile speculation. Yet viewed objectively, great confidence may be taken in titling Constantine the ‘first Christian emperor’. Epilogue Imagine how difficult would it be for a soul seeking salvation to also rule Byzantium? Could our weak souls even endure a visit there? One day St. Anthony received a letter from the Emperor Constantius, asking him to come to Constantinople, and he wondered whether he ought to go or not. So he said to St. Paul, his disciple, “Ought I to go?” The other replied, “If you go, you will be called Anthony, but if you stay here, you will be called Saint Anthony.” [56] If such is the challenge to a monk visiting the capitol, how much greater would be the spiritual pitfalls for the empire’s ruler? If the United States was converted to Orthodoxy in only 18 years, would anyone consider that ‘slow’ or ‘timid’ product of Christian leadership? God’s call to Constantine was great, as was the man. |
2024.06.03 21:20 innuendoPL The face of the Roman baby who died 1800 years ago. [2000x1800]
![The face of the Roman baby who died 1800 years ago. [2000x1800]](https://preview.redd.it/ac6ni3r3qe4d1.jpeg?width=640&crop=smart&auto=webp&s=534cd82cde50ef215969e4cbb21653dfc40300c7 "The face of the Roman baby who died 1800 years ago. [2000x1800]") | The death mask was made accidently when cement sealing the sarcophagus leaked inside and formed a mould of the child's face. submitted by innuendoPL to ArtefactPorn [link] [comments] The baby from Roman Lutetia (Modern Paris) was buried with its feeding bottle. 1st - 2nd century AD More |
2024.06.03 18:23 LightningBoat Cleaning up and rearranging skin sets (my opinions only, feel free to object)
 | 1: Putting the nonlimited Lunar skins (Gamer Bibi and Urban Ninja Tara) in a set with Retro Nani and Classic 8-Bit. submitted by LightningBoat to Brawlstars [link] [comments] 2: Inferno Chuck and Dark Chester do not fit in Brawl-O-Ween, they should be placed in Once Upon and Flaming respectively. 3: To sort out the “Miscellaneous” skins, putting Potato Squeak in April Fools with the other joke skins, White Crow in License to Brawl (it has a mob boss/gangster type vibe and could fit perfectly in there), Squeaky Note and DIY Surge could fit in their own “Build it yourself” type skin set, and Sleepy Sandy and Stara could be part of a “Space” themed set. 4: Most Supercell Make skins (besides Kraken Surge and Kabocha Fang) were made for separate environments or fit in current ones but were not placed in them, such as Zombibi and Underworld Bo which were supposed to be Brawl-O-Ween skins and Dark Angel Colt and Nutcracker Gale which were supposed to be Brawlidays skins. DJ Emz could be placed in the new “Vibing” category with MC Mandy and DJ Frank, Whale Watch Nita fits with the “Summer of Brawl” category, Archvillain Bea could be put with the “Starr Toon Studios” category as it fits with the old cartoons theme, Spirit Knight Frank fits with both Brawl-O-Ween and Once Upon, Gladiator Colette could be put into a “Roman” category with Caesar Sam, same with Horus Bo which fits with Pharaotis and could be put into a “Egyptian Legends” category. 5: Most ranked skins are not in their categories either. White Wizard Byron and its original variant could fit in Once Upon, Crash Test Darryl belongs in Stuntshow, Filmmaker Buzz fits in Starrs of Brawlywood, Inspector Colette in Brawl-O-Ween, Mariposa Piper in License to Brawl, Moon Curser Penny could fit in The Worst Bunch, Mothra Eve in Godzilla, Piñata Ash in Candyland, Rui Shou Nita in Lunar Brawl, Final Boss Rico in Starr Toon Studios, Maurauder Maisie in Wasteland, Piano 8-Bit in either Outlaws or Vibing (as the original skin was in outlaws but the new one does not fit as well), Wave Hopper Jacky in Summer of Brawl, Wasp Bo in Biodome, and Postal Brock could fit in the “Super City Life” section. 6: All Max Force skins were placed in it due to the Godzilla update, and now that it is over, they should be organized back in to their original sets - G-Force Janet and First Blob Squeak (as well as Streetwear Max, BibiLante and Blackbird Edgar as those did not have skin sets before) in Action Heroes, Patrol R-T in City Life, Paladin Surge in Once Upon, and all Robot and Monster skins as well as the Ranger Brock skins in Robots and Monsters. 7: Most Brawl Pass skins that are not in sets already fit in current skin sets, such as Chainsaw Buster which could be added to Action Heroes, Crimson R-T in Enchanted Woods, Magma Mandy in Flaming, Pharaotis in a set with Horus Bo, Rosie Charlie and Spiky Eve in either Biodome or Enchanted Woods, Sporemind Cordelius in The Worst Bunch, Periscope Pearl in Deep Sea Brawl, Trash Panda Penny in Brawl-O-Ween, and Valkyrie Janet in Ragnarok Saga. 8: Merging skin sets - Calamity Gang and Outlaws could be merged as their themes are similar, and Golden Barley could be placed in Royals, as well as Cursed Pirates and Tales of the Sea. Billy the Kit, which is based on an actual outlaw, should be moved to Outlaws instead. |
2024.06.03 17:43 Southern-Ad-9105_4 The Ark of the Covenant.
In Irish mythology there is mention of a deity called "The Dagda" where the prefix "The" indicates "god/deity" while "Dagda" is an attribute meaning "good, just" and thus the whole expression means: "the good god", "the just god".
The Dagda was the possessor of an object which Irish mythology interpreted as a "cauldron" because it was a container that emitted smoke and steam when opened – and food could be stored inside it, among other things. The Dagda was also the possessor of a club or staff which is usually interpreted as a rod that can kill with one end and heal with the other.
This rod or staff was the same as the more famously mentioned "Lance" or "Spear" of Lugh; the Irish god of light and wisdom, though sometimes it is treated as a separate weapon belonging to The Dagda alone. It probably refers to the fact that they both shared the same weapon with each other so it technically belonged to the both of them at the same time; but Lugh made it more famous because of his exceptional skills with it. (The Indo-European origins for the weapon said to be wielded by these two heroes is common in both cases thus equating the two weapons as actually being one and the same weapon – despite the fact that they’re sometimes treated as two distinct weapons instead).
The spear of Lugh was said to have been held inside a large container (either filled with water or with an unspecified liquid or at the very least – with something that "appeared" to be liquid) and it had to be held with its tip dipped – because otherwise the spear would ignite and represent a danger to bystanders. This same exact myth is echoed for the figure of Dubthach Dóeltenga – an Ulster hero from Irish mythology who was said to have been one of the possessors of the spear and he held it inside a cauldron at all times, fully immersed – in order to prevent it from igniting and unleashing its power. The container inside of which it was kept is specifically called a "great food cauldron"; large enough to contain a "bullock" (though the heroes who wielded such weapons were also claimed to be large as bulls themselves; so the sense of scale is proportioned to how big the heroes actually were by themselves – since they were claimed to be rather gigantic physically).
The "great food cauldron" is the typical description for the cauldron possessed by The Dagda; which was claimed to leave no one who ate from it unsatisfied. This is clearly referencing the same cauldron but the cauldron itself (as well as the spear) had more than one owner – so in the case of the hero Dubthach Dóeltenga it isn’t specified to whom the cauldron belongs, but only that it contained the speastaff.
The Dagda was the Druid (which is the term that indicates the "priesthood" function in Irish mythology) of the Tuatha de Danaan (the race of Irish gods) – which means that he was the high priest of the Tuatha de Danaan because he was the supreme Druid among them. He carried a staff in his hand and the staff was stored inside the cauldron, along with other things. In Hebrew culture the high priest of Israel is Aaron the brother of Moses; who holds a staff that is more properly an instrument of war because it’s said to be able to cause great destruction around it. For example the rod of Aaron is said to have been responsible for the transformation into a snake at the Pharaoh's court; and that when the Egyptian priests also turned their own staffs into snakes to counter Aaron’s showing of power, the snake that appeared out of Aaron's rod swallowed theirs up (Exodus 7:8-10). It was also Aaron's rod that God used to turn the water of Egypt into blood (Exodus 7:19-21) – and it was Aaron's rod once again that summoned the plagues of the frogs (Exodus 8:5-6) and gnats (verses 16-17). After Moses and Aaron had led the Israelites out of captivity, God is claimed to have chosen Aaron and his sons as priests (Exodus 28:1; Numbers 18:1) making them the supreme high priesthood family.
Complaints about Moses and Aaron’s powers started to reach the Israelite population, to the point that they complained that Aaron was too powerful and dangerous alongside his brother Moses. Some of the Levites became disgruntled about the extra authority given to both Moses and Aaron (i.e. their power), and in Numbers 16, a Levite named Korah, joined two others called Dathan and Abiram, and they incited a rebellion against Moses and Aaron. God punished all of them and Moses and Aaron then interceded to placate god’s wrath.
God then told Moses: "Buds will sprout on the staff belonging to the man I choose. Then I will finally put an end to the people's murmuring and complaining against you" (Numbers 17:5). […] In the morning "Aaron's staff, representing the tribe of Levi, had sprouted, budded, blossomed, and produced ripe almonds" (verse 8). Aaron's rod also brought forth flowers and fruit, a clear demonstration of the power of the One who gives life". In Irish mythology the staff of The Dagda is capable of destroying and killing with one end – but also to bring back to life and grow fruits and vegetables with its other end; thus signifying its life-giving properties.
Verse 10 then claims: "And the Lord said to Moses: 'Place Aaron's staff permanently before the Ark of the Covenant to serve as a warning to rebels. This should put an end to their complaints against me and prevent any further deaths!". The rod of Aaron was then put inside the Ark permanently in order to contain its power and also as a symbol and statement in order to placate God’s wrath – but the staff would be taken out of the Ark and used in case there were rebels or other enemies that had to be defeated and needed to be put back in line.
The fact of the matter is that the rod of Aaron already had all of those properties on its own – but since according to Hebrew mentality there is only "one god" and thus everyone else is either a "glorified human" (like Aaron himself) or otherwise a false god; the "miracles" that the rod of Aaron performs are claimed to have always been performed "thanks to the Lord" and by giving God the credit of making them happen because God was the one who gave Aaron the rod in the first place. But otherwise the rod of Aaron was capable of doing all of those things on its own.
The sons of The Dagda in Irish mythology are then all of them associated with poetry, druidry and knowledge/wisdom; which were all characteristics that belonged to the Druids in Irish mythology. Thus essentially the entire family of The Dagda was made up of priests and his family was the priesthood family of the Tuatha de Danaan (the race of Irish gods).
Thus the so-called "cauldron" or "container" of The Dagda (which belonged at some point to The Dagda but as stated; this cauldron was a common artifact that belonged to the entire race of the Tuatha de Danaan as a whole and it changed many owners) contained the rod or staff (the magical spear wielded by many heroes and which has common origins with the weapon wielded by The Dagda as well) that had powerful properties, but it didn’t only contain that. (The staff of Aaron was actually stated to be the same as the staff of Moses in Hebrew culture – though Moses would give it to Aaron and let him use it so they shared it). The cauldron would though look like a regular container to anyone who looked inside of it and it would also appear to be dry, with no water or liquid inside of it (despite being able to create it when needed).
In the Bible the Ark of the Covenant is also said to contain the manna i.e. the limitless source of food that fed the Israelites in times of need. Not coincidentally the cauldron of The Dagda is said to contain an endless supply of food which is why no one ever leaves unsatisfied when they eat from it.
Now, another effect that the Ark was claimed to have had on those around it was that of causing illness and death – often times perceived as "misfortune" or "sickness". In Greek mythology there is one particular relic which was said to have been given by the gods to mankind as a testament of the trust that deities had in humanity. This was the so-called jar of Pandora. The jar of Pandora was said to be able to cause misfortune and misery on whomever touched it or looked upon it (and even inside it).
The official Greek myth speaks of a "pithos" which is a typical Greek recipient shaped like a big vase with its top opened and wide. It can then be closed off with a lid. But the myth has an alternative version where the object in question is instead interpreted as a big box. The alternative version arose from a particular interpretation of the Pandora myth itself – because according to the story of the creation of Pandora; the gods imbued Pandora with beauty i.e. "gave her beauty" – and then they gave her the jar that she was to bring to Epimetheus. According to this literal interpretation that "beauty was given" to Pandora as a physical tangible object (as an attribute); and then Pandora presented herself to Epimetheus with a jar in-between her hands – this made it so that an alternative version of the same myth was interpreted on the other hand as if it was literally "beauty" that was placed inside the container. So Pandora was given beauty and the jar – and thus the elements were mixed together and it became a new belief that literally "beauty" was what was given to her "inside the jar".
But as stated previously; this alternative version of the myth speaks of a big "box" instead of a jar. The alternative myth is the one of Eros and Psyche where Psyche corresponds to Pandora herself whilst Eros corresponds to Epimetheus, only addressed with a different name. The same way it was forbidden for Pandora to look at her husband’s possessions i.e. the "jar" which actually belonged to Epimetheus (Epimetheus already had the jar in his possession according to some versions while other versions claim that Pandora instead gave it to him; but the possession of the jar is still attributed to Epimetheus regardless) – the same way Psyche was also prevented from looking "at her husband" Eros generally speaking, and she had to do it while he slept. Analogously Pandora opens the jar to look while Epimetheus is asleep.
The interpretation of why this "box" was sometimes envisioned as a "jar" instead is pretty obvious; in Indo-European mythology (referring back to the Irish myth of The Dagda and his cauldron) the container in question was said to have stored liquids and also food from time to time; as well as physical objects and generally speaking – it contained "power" inside it. So based on the fact that it could "also" contain food – and based on the fact that when the container was opened it emanated smoke and steam; this gave way for the interpretation that the object in question was a cauldron when in fact it wasn’t. And since a cauldron is also usually rounded in shape – this gave way also for the interpretation of the "box" in question as being a "vase" or a "jar" (a "pithos" in Greek culture); when other versions claim that it was a square box instead. (Hebrew culture stuck with the interpretation that claimed that it was a square box).
The fact that it contained "beauty" is only a mythological interpretation of the fact that the box was "beautiful" to look at and it carried an irresistible charm when viewed so that people would get eager to know what was inside of it or to touch it.
Now, according to Homer in his Iliad – inside of Jupiter’s (Zeus’) palace there were two urns – one containing "evil gifts" while the other containing "good gifts". According to the interpretation given by Aesop – the jar of Pandora was actually the one filled with "good gifts", but then humanity opened it unleashing all of its negative powers as punishment because humans were given a strict order not to open it. According to Hesiod on the other hand – it was instead the jar filled with "evil gifts" that was the one which was given to Pandora.
Inside of the "jar" or "container" that contained "good gifts" – Jupiter was said to have stored everything which is good for humans and that makes their life easier and more pleasant: according to Aesop Zeus literally put physical objects inside the container; and these physical objects are called "everything that is useful" by Greek mythology ("Zeus gathered all the useful things together in a jar and put a lid on it", Aesop’s Fabulae 526). Among the good things that Jupiter placed inside the box there was also the law with which humans can live in freedom and enjoy a serene life by applying law and order. So the law was literally one of the things that was placed inside "the container". (As we’ve seen the container was also interpreted as a box in other versions).
The "things" inside of the urn that Zeus possessed – are named as Elpis (Hope), Pistis (Trust), Sophrosyne (Restraint) and Kharites (Charites, Graces). After these "things" have left the urn or "jar" – Greek mythology claims that: "men's judicial oaths are no longer to be trusted, nor does anyone revere the immortal gods; the race of pious men has perished and men no longer recognize the rules of conduct or acts of piety." – (Theognis, Fragment 1. 1135). So after the "good things" are gone – men can no longer hold judicial power, they are no longer capable of denouncing right from wrong and not only the judicial system and the courts of humans do not work anymore; but also there is total anarchy since there are no longer rules to live by or lines of conduct to observe.
This clearly means that what was contained inside the "jar" was the law itself; the law of humans. And naturally according to Greek mentality – the "law" was made up of many attributes like: hope, trust, restraint, charity towards others (i.e. reciprocal respect) etc. – so they described the law through all of these attributes: Elpis (Hope), Pistis (Trust), Sophrosyne (Restraint) and Kharites (Charites, Graces) etc. So Jupiter held in his palace a container which literally contained the law inside of it. The "jars" or "urns" can thus also be interpreted as "boxes" – given how the myth of Psyche and Eros refers to the container as a square box and not as a jar. (The image of the "jar" is once again derived from the fact that when these containers were opened they would release a strange smoke which made it look like it was a boiling cauldron or a jar for the preservation of food).
According to Ovid – the throne of Jupiter (the "Thunderer’s abode") is surrounded by a groundwork i.e. a "pavement" of stars, depicting the clear blue of the stars of heaven as a motif on the floor ("A way there is in heaven's extended plain, which when the skies are clear as seen below, and mortals by the name of Milky know; the ground-work is of stars, through which the road Lies open to the Thunderer's abode." – Ovid’s Metamorphosis). In Ovid’s case he described it metaphorically as a way to reach the outside of the Milky Way where Jupiter was claimed to reside. But the description refers to an actual physical place, which Ovid mentions saying that it’s the "Thunderer’s abode" i.e. his palace/throne. So the palace/throne of Jupiter had the groundwork pavement representing the way to the Milky Way, which is what Ovid is describing). According to the Bible: "Moses and Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, and the seventy elders of Israel went up and saw the God of Israel. Under his feet was something like a pavement made of lapis lazuli, as bright blue as the sky." – Exodus 24:9-12.
So Jupiter held the box inside of his abode/residence himself – and the god of the Old Testament was said to have held the tablets of the law inside of his dwelling. The "other" jar or urn i.e. the other box of Greek mythology – was instead claimed to have contained all the "evil" deeds on the other hand. Now, according to Hebrew culture; by the way it is worded in the Old Testament – there was also another school of thought that interpreted it as though there were technically "two" arks of the covenant, since after Moses came down with the laws – Moses is claimed to have been ordered by God to: "Cut for yourself two tablets of stone like the first, and come up to me on the mountain and make an ark of wood. And I will write on the tablets the words that were on the first tablets that you broke, and you shall put them in the ark.” So I made an ark of acacia wood, and cut two tablets of stone like the first, and went up the mountain with the two tablets in my hand (Deuteronomy 10: 1-3)." This other arc was made by Moses himself and it was the one that actually contained the tablets of the law. Thus based on this some were casting doubt on the question of if the official Ark of the Covenant really contained the tablets or not, or if it was this "other" arc that contained them instead. But tradition then tended to unify both accounts claiming that either there were two containers and then the contents of one container ended up being taken out and placed inside of the official Ark of the Covenant’s container thus using only one container for both contents – or; that the container built by Moses refers to the same container for the more "official" Ark of the Covenant and that the Bible simply repeated the construction details twice by adding or subtracting more details according to the case.
This is also where the doubts on whether the jar of Pandora was the one of the "good things" (according to Aesop) or the one of the "evil things" (according to Hesiod) came from – and even if technically it was the jar which contained the "good" things; the fact that the gods had ordered for it to not be opened or otherwise all the "evil things" (plagues/misfortune etc.) would be unleashed – this equates the jar containing the "good things" to the jar containing the "evil things" as being actually one and the same jar; because if the good jar was opened it displayed the same effects that the "evil jar" also displayed as well. So according to the version – they are either two jars/two boxes; or it’s only one box but the single box is confused as being two boxes instead because one and the same box can have both positive effects and negative effects, so they believed them to be two different boxes altogether.
According to Cretan mythology – when Minos ascended the mountain to speak with Zeus; where Zeus presented himself with the title "the living one" i.e. "Zao" or "Zaomai" which is a Greek verb that assumed many meanings: "to exist, to be, to become (by having the means to survive and endure and thus "becoming" something else)" etc. – which is why then in an hymn attributed to Minos; Minos himself is said to have called Zeus "the living one" and to have stated that "we all live in him" ("we all live in you" referring to Zeus) – Zeus gave him the laws according to the myth. But the laws that Zeus gave him were actually stated by Plato to have been inscribed on two tablets, which Minos would parade through the streets of Crete with the help of his assistant named "Talos" who was given to him by Zeus: "For Minos used him as guardian of the law in the city, and Talos as the same for the rest of Crete. Talos thrice a year made a round of the villages, guarding the laws in them, by holding their laws inscribed on brazen tablets" – "brazen" meaning "shining" in this case. (Plato’s Minos – 320c).
As was addressed previously in this other post: https://www.reddit.com/EsotericOccult/s/9uaIZdI4CO – the Tuatha de Danaan were claimed to have been freed from the slavery that was imposed upon them by an evil tyrant called "Balor of the Evil Eye" when a god named "Lugh" was miraculously born and he freed them from slavery by defeating Balor and allowing them to return to the Promised Land which was called "Tir Tairngire" literally: "Land of Promise" or "Promised Land" by the Irish – and it referred to the western coast of Ireland. Balor had ordered the drowning of all the firstborn children of the Tuatha de Danaan (the males) but Lugh was saved by placing him in a chest which was abandoned in a river and the daughter of a blacksmith found him and took him to be raised by a foster father. Lugh will then defeat the "slaver" of the evil Balor – the slaver being called "Bres"; because Bres was mistreating the Tuatha de Danaan (Lugh’s people) and Bres was renown for mistreating his subjects – as well as kill Balor; thus allowing them to be permanently freed from their conditions of slavery.
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The Dagda was the possessor of an object which Irish mythology interpreted as a "cauldron" because it was a container that emitted smoke and steam when opened – and food could be stored inside it, among other things. The Dagda was also the possessor of a club or staff which is usually interpreted as a rod that can kill with one end and heal with the other.
This rod or staff was the same as the more famously mentioned "Lance" or "Spear" of Lugh; the Irish god of light and wisdom, though sometimes it is treated as a separate weapon belonging to The Dagda alone. It probably refers to the fact that they both shared the same weapon with each other so it technically belonged to the both of them at the same time; but Lugh made it more famous because of his exceptional skills with it. (The Indo-European origins for the weapon said to be wielded by these two heroes is common in both cases thus equating the two weapons as actually being one and the same weapon – despite the fact that they’re sometimes treated as two distinct weapons instead).
The spear of Lugh was said to have been held inside a large container (either filled with water or with an unspecified liquid or at the very least – with something that "appeared" to be liquid) and it had to be held with its tip dipped – because otherwise the spear would ignite and represent a danger to bystanders. This same exact myth is echoed for the figure of Dubthach Dóeltenga – an Ulster hero from Irish mythology who was said to have been one of the possessors of the spear and he held it inside a cauldron at all times, fully immersed – in order to prevent it from igniting and unleashing its power. The container inside of which it was kept is specifically called a "great food cauldron"; large enough to contain a "bullock" (though the heroes who wielded such weapons were also claimed to be large as bulls themselves; so the sense of scale is proportioned to how big the heroes actually were by themselves – since they were claimed to be rather gigantic physically).
The "great food cauldron" is the typical description for the cauldron possessed by The Dagda; which was claimed to leave no one who ate from it unsatisfied. This is clearly referencing the same cauldron but the cauldron itself (as well as the spear) had more than one owner – so in the case of the hero Dubthach Dóeltenga it isn’t specified to whom the cauldron belongs, but only that it contained the speastaff.
The Dagda was the Druid (which is the term that indicates the "priesthood" function in Irish mythology) of the Tuatha de Danaan (the race of Irish gods) – which means that he was the high priest of the Tuatha de Danaan because he was the supreme Druid among them. He carried a staff in his hand and the staff was stored inside the cauldron, along with other things. In Hebrew culture the high priest of Israel is Aaron the brother of Moses; who holds a staff that is more properly an instrument of war because it’s said to be able to cause great destruction around it. For example the rod of Aaron is said to have been responsible for the transformation into a snake at the Pharaoh's court; and that when the Egyptian priests also turned their own staffs into snakes to counter Aaron’s showing of power, the snake that appeared out of Aaron's rod swallowed theirs up (Exodus 7:8-10). It was also Aaron's rod that God used to turn the water of Egypt into blood (Exodus 7:19-21) – and it was Aaron's rod once again that summoned the plagues of the frogs (Exodus 8:5-6) and gnats (verses 16-17). After Moses and Aaron had led the Israelites out of captivity, God is claimed to have chosen Aaron and his sons as priests (Exodus 28:1; Numbers 18:1) making them the supreme high priesthood family.
Complaints about Moses and Aaron’s powers started to reach the Israelite population, to the point that they complained that Aaron was too powerful and dangerous alongside his brother Moses. Some of the Levites became disgruntled about the extra authority given to both Moses and Aaron (i.e. their power), and in Numbers 16, a Levite named Korah, joined two others called Dathan and Abiram, and they incited a rebellion against Moses and Aaron. God punished all of them and Moses and Aaron then interceded to placate god’s wrath.
God then told Moses: "Buds will sprout on the staff belonging to the man I choose. Then I will finally put an end to the people's murmuring and complaining against you" (Numbers 17:5). […] In the morning "Aaron's staff, representing the tribe of Levi, had sprouted, budded, blossomed, and produced ripe almonds" (verse 8). Aaron's rod also brought forth flowers and fruit, a clear demonstration of the power of the One who gives life". In Irish mythology the staff of The Dagda is capable of destroying and killing with one end – but also to bring back to life and grow fruits and vegetables with its other end; thus signifying its life-giving properties.
Verse 10 then claims: "And the Lord said to Moses: 'Place Aaron's staff permanently before the Ark of the Covenant to serve as a warning to rebels. This should put an end to their complaints against me and prevent any further deaths!". The rod of Aaron was then put inside the Ark permanently in order to contain its power and also as a symbol and statement in order to placate God’s wrath – but the staff would be taken out of the Ark and used in case there were rebels or other enemies that had to be defeated and needed to be put back in line.
The fact of the matter is that the rod of Aaron already had all of those properties on its own – but since according to Hebrew mentality there is only "one god" and thus everyone else is either a "glorified human" (like Aaron himself) or otherwise a false god; the "miracles" that the rod of Aaron performs are claimed to have always been performed "thanks to the Lord" and by giving God the credit of making them happen because God was the one who gave Aaron the rod in the first place. But otherwise the rod of Aaron was capable of doing all of those things on its own.
The sons of The Dagda in Irish mythology are then all of them associated with poetry, druidry and knowledge/wisdom; which were all characteristics that belonged to the Druids in Irish mythology. Thus essentially the entire family of The Dagda was made up of priests and his family was the priesthood family of the Tuatha de Danaan (the race of Irish gods).
Thus the so-called "cauldron" or "container" of The Dagda (which belonged at some point to The Dagda but as stated; this cauldron was a common artifact that belonged to the entire race of the Tuatha de Danaan as a whole and it changed many owners) contained the rod or staff (the magical spear wielded by many heroes and which has common origins with the weapon wielded by The Dagda as well) that had powerful properties, but it didn’t only contain that. (The staff of Aaron was actually stated to be the same as the staff of Moses in Hebrew culture – though Moses would give it to Aaron and let him use it so they shared it). The cauldron would though look like a regular container to anyone who looked inside of it and it would also appear to be dry, with no water or liquid inside of it (despite being able to create it when needed).
In the Bible the Ark of the Covenant is also said to contain the manna i.e. the limitless source of food that fed the Israelites in times of need. Not coincidentally the cauldron of The Dagda is said to contain an endless supply of food which is why no one ever leaves unsatisfied when they eat from it.
Now, another effect that the Ark was claimed to have had on those around it was that of causing illness and death – often times perceived as "misfortune" or "sickness". In Greek mythology there is one particular relic which was said to have been given by the gods to mankind as a testament of the trust that deities had in humanity. This was the so-called jar of Pandora. The jar of Pandora was said to be able to cause misfortune and misery on whomever touched it or looked upon it (and even inside it).
The official Greek myth speaks of a "pithos" which is a typical Greek recipient shaped like a big vase with its top opened and wide. It can then be closed off with a lid. But the myth has an alternative version where the object in question is instead interpreted as a big box. The alternative version arose from a particular interpretation of the Pandora myth itself – because according to the story of the creation of Pandora; the gods imbued Pandora with beauty i.e. "gave her beauty" – and then they gave her the jar that she was to bring to Epimetheus. According to this literal interpretation that "beauty was given" to Pandora as a physical tangible object (as an attribute); and then Pandora presented herself to Epimetheus with a jar in-between her hands – this made it so that an alternative version of the same myth was interpreted on the other hand as if it was literally "beauty" that was placed inside the container. So Pandora was given beauty and the jar – and thus the elements were mixed together and it became a new belief that literally "beauty" was what was given to her "inside the jar".
But as stated previously; this alternative version of the myth speaks of a big "box" instead of a jar. The alternative myth is the one of Eros and Psyche where Psyche corresponds to Pandora herself whilst Eros corresponds to Epimetheus, only addressed with a different name. The same way it was forbidden for Pandora to look at her husband’s possessions i.e. the "jar" which actually belonged to Epimetheus (Epimetheus already had the jar in his possession according to some versions while other versions claim that Pandora instead gave it to him; but the possession of the jar is still attributed to Epimetheus regardless) – the same way Psyche was also prevented from looking "at her husband" Eros generally speaking, and she had to do it while he slept. Analogously Pandora opens the jar to look while Epimetheus is asleep.
The interpretation of why this "box" was sometimes envisioned as a "jar" instead is pretty obvious; in Indo-European mythology (referring back to the Irish myth of The Dagda and his cauldron) the container in question was said to have stored liquids and also food from time to time; as well as physical objects and generally speaking – it contained "power" inside it. So based on the fact that it could "also" contain food – and based on the fact that when the container was opened it emanated smoke and steam; this gave way for the interpretation that the object in question was a cauldron when in fact it wasn’t. And since a cauldron is also usually rounded in shape – this gave way also for the interpretation of the "box" in question as being a "vase" or a "jar" (a "pithos" in Greek culture); when other versions claim that it was a square box instead. (Hebrew culture stuck with the interpretation that claimed that it was a square box).
The fact that it contained "beauty" is only a mythological interpretation of the fact that the box was "beautiful" to look at and it carried an irresistible charm when viewed so that people would get eager to know what was inside of it or to touch it.
Now, according to Homer in his Iliad – inside of Jupiter’s (Zeus’) palace there were two urns – one containing "evil gifts" while the other containing "good gifts". According to the interpretation given by Aesop – the jar of Pandora was actually the one filled with "good gifts", but then humanity opened it unleashing all of its negative powers as punishment because humans were given a strict order not to open it. According to Hesiod on the other hand – it was instead the jar filled with "evil gifts" that was the one which was given to Pandora.
Inside of the "jar" or "container" that contained "good gifts" – Jupiter was said to have stored everything which is good for humans and that makes their life easier and more pleasant: according to Aesop Zeus literally put physical objects inside the container; and these physical objects are called "everything that is useful" by Greek mythology ("Zeus gathered all the useful things together in a jar and put a lid on it", Aesop’s Fabulae 526). Among the good things that Jupiter placed inside the box there was also the law with which humans can live in freedom and enjoy a serene life by applying law and order. So the law was literally one of the things that was placed inside "the container". (As we’ve seen the container was also interpreted as a box in other versions).
The "things" inside of the urn that Zeus possessed – are named as Elpis (Hope), Pistis (Trust), Sophrosyne (Restraint) and Kharites (Charites, Graces). After these "things" have left the urn or "jar" – Greek mythology claims that: "men's judicial oaths are no longer to be trusted, nor does anyone revere the immortal gods; the race of pious men has perished and men no longer recognize the rules of conduct or acts of piety." – (Theognis, Fragment 1. 1135). So after the "good things" are gone – men can no longer hold judicial power, they are no longer capable of denouncing right from wrong and not only the judicial system and the courts of humans do not work anymore; but also there is total anarchy since there are no longer rules to live by or lines of conduct to observe.
This clearly means that what was contained inside the "jar" was the law itself; the law of humans. And naturally according to Greek mentality – the "law" was made up of many attributes like: hope, trust, restraint, charity towards others (i.e. reciprocal respect) etc. – so they described the law through all of these attributes: Elpis (Hope), Pistis (Trust), Sophrosyne (Restraint) and Kharites (Charites, Graces) etc. So Jupiter held in his palace a container which literally contained the law inside of it. The "jars" or "urns" can thus also be interpreted as "boxes" – given how the myth of Psyche and Eros refers to the container as a square box and not as a jar. (The image of the "jar" is once again derived from the fact that when these containers were opened they would release a strange smoke which made it look like it was a boiling cauldron or a jar for the preservation of food).
According to Ovid – the throne of Jupiter (the "Thunderer’s abode") is surrounded by a groundwork i.e. a "pavement" of stars, depicting the clear blue of the stars of heaven as a motif on the floor ("A way there is in heaven's extended plain, which when the skies are clear as seen below, and mortals by the name of Milky know; the ground-work is of stars, through which the road Lies open to the Thunderer's abode." – Ovid’s Metamorphosis). In Ovid’s case he described it metaphorically as a way to reach the outside of the Milky Way where Jupiter was claimed to reside. But the description refers to an actual physical place, which Ovid mentions saying that it’s the "Thunderer’s abode" i.e. his palace/throne. So the palace/throne of Jupiter had the groundwork pavement representing the way to the Milky Way, which is what Ovid is describing). According to the Bible: "Moses and Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, and the seventy elders of Israel went up and saw the God of Israel. Under his feet was something like a pavement made of lapis lazuli, as bright blue as the sky." – Exodus 24:9-12.
So Jupiter held the box inside of his abode/residence himself – and the god of the Old Testament was said to have held the tablets of the law inside of his dwelling. The "other" jar or urn i.e. the other box of Greek mythology – was instead claimed to have contained all the "evil" deeds on the other hand. Now, according to Hebrew culture; by the way it is worded in the Old Testament – there was also another school of thought that interpreted it as though there were technically "two" arks of the covenant, since after Moses came down with the laws – Moses is claimed to have been ordered by God to: "Cut for yourself two tablets of stone like the first, and come up to me on the mountain and make an ark of wood. And I will write on the tablets the words that were on the first tablets that you broke, and you shall put them in the ark.” So I made an ark of acacia wood, and cut two tablets of stone like the first, and went up the mountain with the two tablets in my hand (Deuteronomy 10: 1-3)." This other arc was made by Moses himself and it was the one that actually contained the tablets of the law. Thus based on this some were casting doubt on the question of if the official Ark of the Covenant really contained the tablets or not, or if it was this "other" arc that contained them instead. But tradition then tended to unify both accounts claiming that either there were two containers and then the contents of one container ended up being taken out and placed inside of the official Ark of the Covenant’s container thus using only one container for both contents – or; that the container built by Moses refers to the same container for the more "official" Ark of the Covenant and that the Bible simply repeated the construction details twice by adding or subtracting more details according to the case.
This is also where the doubts on whether the jar of Pandora was the one of the "good things" (according to Aesop) or the one of the "evil things" (according to Hesiod) came from – and even if technically it was the jar which contained the "good" things; the fact that the gods had ordered for it to not be opened or otherwise all the "evil things" (plagues/misfortune etc.) would be unleashed – this equates the jar containing the "good things" to the jar containing the "evil things" as being actually one and the same jar; because if the good jar was opened it displayed the same effects that the "evil jar" also displayed as well. So according to the version – they are either two jars/two boxes; or it’s only one box but the single box is confused as being two boxes instead because one and the same box can have both positive effects and negative effects, so they believed them to be two different boxes altogether.
According to Cretan mythology – when Minos ascended the mountain to speak with Zeus; where Zeus presented himself with the title "the living one" i.e. "Zao" or "Zaomai" which is a Greek verb that assumed many meanings: "to exist, to be, to become (by having the means to survive and endure and thus "becoming" something else)" etc. – which is why then in an hymn attributed to Minos; Minos himself is said to have called Zeus "the living one" and to have stated that "we all live in him" ("we all live in you" referring to Zeus) – Zeus gave him the laws according to the myth. But the laws that Zeus gave him were actually stated by Plato to have been inscribed on two tablets, which Minos would parade through the streets of Crete with the help of his assistant named "Talos" who was given to him by Zeus: "For Minos used him as guardian of the law in the city, and Talos as the same for the rest of Crete. Talos thrice a year made a round of the villages, guarding the laws in them, by holding their laws inscribed on brazen tablets" – "brazen" meaning "shining" in this case. (Plato’s Minos – 320c).
As was addressed previously in this other post: https://www.reddit.com/EsotericOccult/s/9uaIZdI4CO – the Tuatha de Danaan were claimed to have been freed from the slavery that was imposed upon them by an evil tyrant called "Balor of the Evil Eye" when a god named "Lugh" was miraculously born and he freed them from slavery by defeating Balor and allowing them to return to the Promised Land which was called "Tir Tairngire" literally: "Land of Promise" or "Promised Land" by the Irish – and it referred to the western coast of Ireland. Balor had ordered the drowning of all the firstborn children of the Tuatha de Danaan (the males) but Lugh was saved by placing him in a chest which was abandoned in a river and the daughter of a blacksmith found him and took him to be raised by a foster father. Lugh will then defeat the "slaver" of the evil Balor – the slaver being called "Bres"; because Bres was mistreating the Tuatha de Danaan (Lugh’s people) and Bres was renown for mistreating his subjects – as well as kill Balor; thus allowing them to be permanently freed from their conditions of slavery.