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Please join us for this signature event that will explore the concept of Korean unification and the challenges and opportunities faced by the United States and Republic of Korea in contending with the complex political and security environment on the peninsula. This will be Unification Minister Ryoo's first public address in the United States. Mr. Daniel Russel, Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs will provide an update on U.S.-Korea relations. This event is by invitation only and all remarks are on-the-record.
With Addresses by
The Honorable Ryoo, Kihl-Jae
Minister of Unification, Republic of Korea
The Honorable Richard L. Armitage
President, Armitage International and Former Deputy Secretary of State, U.S. Department of State
and
Daniel R. Russel
Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, U.S. Department of State
Moderated by
Dr. Victor D. Cha
Senior Adviser and Korea Chair, CSIS
Professor, Director of Asian Studies, Georgetown University
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
9:30AM-11:30AM
First Floor Conference Room, CSIS
Programs
KOREA CHAIR
Topics
REGIONAL ANALYSIS
Regions
KOREA
T-34/85 – Medium Tank
After 1945, the Czechoslovak armaments industry started development of a medium tank for needs of Czechoslovak army. However at the turn of 1949-1950, an unification proces with the Soviet Army began and the licence production of the T-34/85 Soviet tank became one the most important projects. The first licensed tanks were manufactured without significant changes in ČKD Prague in 1952. Afterwards the production was moved to Slovakia to Závody J.V. Stalina Martin (later renamed to ZŤS Martin). Significant amount of tanks was intented for export, mainly to Arabian countries. Altogether 3,185 tanks were produced until 1958. Even in 1967, the Czechoslovak army had to its disposal 1,120 T-34/85 tanks. The last T-34/85s were withdrawn from army reserves in the early 1990s.
A static demonstration of the current and historical techniques of the Army of the Czech Republic and the components of the IZS
Part of the presentation of the Army of the Czech Republic and the IZS components in the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the establishment of an independent Czechoslovak state will be a three-day cross-sectional static demonstration of the Armed Forces and Security Corps Technique from 1918 to the present. At Letna there will be more than 160 pieces of contemporary, historical and special techniques
(26. 10. - 28. 10. 2018, Letenská Plain, Prague 7).
Czech: T-34/85 – Střední tank
Po roce 1945 zahájil československý zbrojní průmysl vývoj středního tanku pro potřeby čs. armády. Na přelomu let 1949–1950 ale začal proces unifikace výzbroje československé armády se sovětskou. Jedním z nejdůležitějších projektů se stala licenční výroba sovětského tanku T-34/85. První licenční tanky byly vyrobeny bez podstatnějších změn v ČKD Praha v roce 1952. Později byla výroba přemístěna na Slovensko do Závodu J. V. Stalina Martin (pozdější název ZŤS - Závody ťažkého strojárstva). Značné množství tanků bylo určeno pro export, zejména do arabských zemí. Výroba dosáhla do roku 1958 celkem 3 185 tanků. Ještě v roce 1967 disponovala čs. armáda 1 120 tanky T-34/85. Poslední tanky T-34/85 byly vyřazeny z armádních záloh na začátku 90. let.
Statická ukázka současné i historické techniky Armády ČR a složek IZS
Součástí prezentace Armády ČR a složek IZS v rámci oslav 100. výročí vzniku samostatného československého státu bude kromě Přehlídky 2018 na Evropské třídě také třídenní průřezová statická ukázka techniky ozbrojených sil a bezpečnostních sborů od roku 1918 do současnosti. Na Letné tak bude k vidění více než 160 kusů současné, historické a speciální techniky.
(26. 10. - 28. 10. 2018, Letenská pláň, Praha 7)
View of Bulevardul Unirii (Unification Boulevard) from balcony of the Palace of the Parliament in Bucharest, Romania
Ceauşima ("Ceaushima") is a vernacular word construction in Romanian, sarcastically linking former Communist leader Nicolae Ceauşescu to Hiroshima. In the 1980s, it was used to describe the huge urban areas of Bucharest that Ceauşescu ordered torn down, comparing the results with the nuclear attack on Hiroshima.
Following the 1977 Vrancea earthquake, Bucharest's city center suffered significant damage, and a large number of historic buildings were demolished to make way for the new Centrul Civic (Civic Center). As part of the project, Bulevardul Unirii was to be Communist Romania's answer to Paris's Avenue des Champs-Élysées, with a length of 3,500 m. Construction began on June 25, 1984. Initially called Bulevardul Victoria Socialismului (Victory of Socialism Boulevard), the road is lined with socialist-realist apartment blocks of North Korean inspiration.
Constructing the Palace and Centrul Civic required demolishing much of Bucharest's historic district, including 19 Orthodox Christian churches, six Jewish synagogues, three Protestant churches (plus eight relocated churches), and 30,000 residences.
Source: Wikipedia
Playmates - Star Trek Pickups 09-29-25
* Ambassador Spock from "Unification"
* Warp Factor Series 3: Cadet Deanna Troi
Amanda Archibong, Manager, Partnerships (ARC UNWFP), African Risk Capacity, South Africa at the World Economic Forum on Africa 2017 in Durban, South Africa. Copyright by World Economic Forum / Jakob Polacsek
The Hellenistic age marks the unification of the Greek world, sharing a common culture based on that of 5th and 4th century BC Athens, along with a fusion of Near Eastern cultures. The Hellenistic style of sculpture, developed in the areas conquered by Alexander the Great, is chiefly characterized by delicate and highly finished modeling, dramatic movement of forms in space, representations of extreme emotion, highly individuated characterization, and a wide variety of subject matter.
unedited-not part of my personal collection
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The North American A-5 Vigilante is an American carrier-based supersonic bomber designed and built by North American Aviation for the United States Navy. It set several world records including long distance speed and altitude records. Its service in the nuclear strike role to replace the Douglas A-3 Skywarrior was very short; however, as the RA-5C, it saw extensive service during the Vietnam War in the tactical strike reconnaissance role. Prior to the unification of the Navy designation sequence with the Air Force sequence in 1962, it was designated the A3J Vigilante.
Design and development
In 1953, North American Aviation began a private study for a carrier-based, long-range, all-weather strike bomber, capable of delivering nuclear weapons at supersonic speeds. This proposal, the North American General Purpose Attack Weapon (NAGPAW) concept, was accepted by the United States Navy, with some revisions, in 1955. A contract was awarded on 29 August 1956. Its first flight occurred two years later on 31 August 1958 in Columbus, Ohio.
At the time of its introduction, the Vigilante was one of the largest and by far the most complex aircraft to operate from a United States Navy aircraft carrier. It had a high-mounted swept wing with a boundary-layer control system (blown flaps) to improve low-speed lift. There were no ailerons. Roll control was provided by spoilers in conjunction with differential deflection of the all-moving tail surfaces. The use of aluminum-lithium alloy for wing skins and titanium for critical structures was also unusual. The A-5 had two widely spaced General Electric J79 turbojet engines (the same as used on the McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II fighter), fed by intake ramps and a single large all-moving vertical stabilizer. Preliminary design studies had employed twin vertical fin/rudders. The wings, vertical stabilizer and the nose radome folded for carrier stowage. The Vigilante had a crew of two seated in tandem, a pilot and a bombardier-navigator (BN) (reconnaissance/attack navigator (RAN) on later reconnaissance versions) seated on individual North American HS-1A ejection seats.
Despite being designated by the US Navy as a "heavy", the A-5 was surprisingly agile; without the drag of bombs or missiles, even escorting fighters found that the clean airframe and powerful engines made the Vigilante very fast at high and low altitudes. However, its high approach speed and high angle of attack in the landing configuration made returning to the aircraft carrier a challenge for inexperienced or unwary pilots.
The Vigilante had advanced and complex electronics when it first entered service. It had one of the first "fly-by-wire" systems on an operational aircraft (with mechanical/hydraulic backup) and a computerized AN/ASB-12 nav/attack system incorporating a head-up display ("Pilot's Projected Display Indicator" (PPDI), one of the first), multi-mode radar, radar-equipped inertial navigation system (REINS, based on technologies developed for North American's Navaho missile), closed-circuit television camera under the nose, and an early digital computer known as "Versatile Digital Analyzer" (VERDAN) to run it all.
Given its original design as a carrier-based, supersonic, nuclear heavy attack aircraft, the Vigilante's main armament was carried in a novel "linear bomb bay" between the engines in the rear fuselage, which provided for positive separation of the bomb from the aircraft at supersonic speeds. The single nuclear weapon, commonly the Mk 28 bomb, was attached to two disposable fuel tanks in the cylindrical bay in an assembly known as the "stores train". A set of extendable fins was attached to the aft end of the most rearward fuel tank. These fuel tanks were to be emptied during the flight to the target and then jettisoned with the bomb by an explosive drogue gun. The stores train was propelled rearward at about 50 feet per second (30 knots) relative to the aircraft. It thereafter followed a typical ballistic path.
In practice, the system was not reliable and no live weapons were ever carried in the linear bomb bay. In the RA-5C configuration, the bay was used solely for fuel. On three occasions, the shock of the catapult launch caused the fuel cans to eject onto the deck; this resulted in one aircraft loss.
The Vigilante originally had two wing pylons, intended primarily for drop tanks. The second Vigilante variant, the A3J-2 (A-5B), incorporated internal tanks for an additional 460 gallons of fuel (which added a pronounced dorsal "hump") along with two additional wing hardpoints, for a total of four. In practice the hardpoints were rarely used. Other improvements included blown flaps on the leading edge of the wing and sturdier landing gear.
The reconnaissance version of the Vigilante, the RA-5C, had slightly greater wing area and added a long canoe-shaped fairing under the fuselage for a multi-sensor reconnaissance pack. This added an APD-7 side-looking airborne radar (SLAR), AAS-21 infrared line scanner, and camera packs, as well as improved ECM. An AN/ALQ-61 electronic intelligence system could also be carried. The RA-5C retained the AN/ASB-12 bombing system, and could, in theory, carry weapons, although it never did in service. Later-build RA-5Cs had more powerful J79-10 engines with afterburning thrust of 17,900 lbf (80 kN). The reconnaissance Vigilante weighed almost five tons more than the strike version with almost the same thrust and an only modestly enlarged wing. These changes cost it acceleration and climb rate, though it remained fast in level flight.
The Royal Australian Air Force considered the RA-5C Vigilante as a replacement for its English Electric Canberra. The McDonnell F-4C/RF-4C, Dassault Mirage IVA, and the similar BAC TSR-2 was also considered. However, the TFX (later the F-111C Aardvark) was accepted.
IBF & IBO Heavyweight Champion Wladimir Klitschko, left, and WBO Heavyweight Champion Sultan Ibragimov pose for photos during a boxing press conference in New York, Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2007. The champions will meet in a unification bout at Madison Square Garden in New York on Saturday, February 23.
Mt.Oh-Du Unification Observatory is the center under.
The river is placed and the upper part is North Korea.
@Mt.Oh-Du Unification Observatory, Paju-si（烏頭山統一展望台, 坡州市）
See also:
Giuseppe Maria Garibaldi (4 July 1807 – 2 June 1882) was an Italian general, patriot, revolutionary, and republican. He contributed to the Italian unification and the creation of the Kingdom of Italy. He is considered one of the greatest generals of modern times and one of Italy's "fathers of the fatherland", along with Camillo Benso, Count of Cavour, Victor Emmanuel II of Italy and Giuseppe Mazzini. Garibaldi is also known as the "Hero of the Two Worlds" because of his military enterprises in South America and Europe.
Garibaldi was a follower of the Italian nationalist Mazzini and embraced the republican nationalism of the Young Italy movement. He became a supporter of Italian unification under a democratic republican government. However, breaking with Mazzini, he pragmatically allied himself with the monarchist Cavour and Kingdom of Piedmont-Sardinia in the struggle for independence, subordinating his republican ideals to his nationalist ones until Italy was unified. After participating in an uprising in Piedmont, he was sentenced to death, but escaped and sailed to South America, where he spent 14 years in exile, during which he took part in several wars and learnt the art of guerrilla warfare. In 1835 he joined the rebels known as the Ragamuffins (farrapos), in the Ragamuffin War in Brazil, and took up their cause of establishing the Riograndense Republic.
Garibaldi fought, womanised, and learnt the arts of a guerrilla leader on sea and land, in southern Brazil and Uruguay. He met Anita, the love of his life, who eloped as a teenager to join him in southern Brazil, bore him four children – two of whom became Italian generals and a daughter who married one – before dying a tragic death after the defeat of the Roman Republic.
His life in South America is the stuff of a wildly improbable film. He had gone to Rio de Janeiro because he had been sentenced to death after a failed mutiny in the kingdom of Piedmont and Sardinia. Brazil was then, improbably, an Empire though it was ruled by regents. There, as a convinced republican, he joined the cause of a breakaway republic in the south, initially as admiral of its tiny fleet.
Captured early on, he was tortured. He built ships, towing them overland with bullocks to reach the Atlantic. With Anita on board he had hair’s breadth escapes from death. At a land battle in Curitibanos he and Anita were split, she was taken prisoner, and she thought he was killed. When she could not find him among the corpses she escaped, riding through forests and rivers before finding him again.
In 1841 the couple, already with one small baby, went overland to Montevideo with 900 cattle given as a reward, which failed to survive the journey. There they were soon involved in another civil war, fighting for Montevideo against the forces of a former president, Oribe, who was backed by the Argentine despot, Rosas. Here Garibaldi raised an Italian Legion, from among the thousands of expats, mostly from the northern Italian states, threatened by the siege of Montevideo. Significantly he put them in red shirts, the uniform that was to become legendary. The shirts were originally destined for workers in a slaughterhouse in Buenos Aires, available and distinctive.
Garibaldi’s derring-do in the Uruguayan war made him known in Europe, where Britain and France sent naval forces to the aid of Montevideo, and their merchants besieged there. But he became disillusioned with politicking in Uruguay, he thought the situation in Italy was becoming more promising with the arrival of an apparently liberal Pope and a friendlier attitude by Carlo Alberto, the king of Piedmont and Sardinia. So in 1848, after sending Anita on ahead with their three surviving children, Garibaldi went home.
In light of President Park Geun-hye's speech in Dresden, Germany and the growing discussion about the future of the Korean peninsula, the Office of the Korea Chair at Center for Strategic and International Studies will hold a full-day conference featuring senior-level policy and scholarly discussions on the topic of unification. This event will be a landmark conference on economic, business, political, and security opportunities of unification co-hosted with the National Research Council for Economics, Humanities and Social Sciences (NRCS) of the Republic of Korea and a consortium of other institutions.
The last clan opposing Farith unification held up within the walls of Tava. One of the largest cities in Farith.
After a siege only lasting a couple of days Leopold grew impatient and split his forces in two.
One part of the force tunneled through Tavna's walls and Leopold lead the charge.
The second part, lead by Leopold's son- Richard climbed ladders over the walls.
A bloody battle ensued and Farith unity was finally in sight.
The practice of the Middle Pillar is especially important. The Tree of Life is a tool used to categorize and organize various mystical concepts....Within Thelema, the Great Work is the spiritual endeavor aimed at realizing one's True Will and achieving a profound mystical union with Nuit, the Thelemic personification of the infinite and boundless expanse of the universe. This path, crafted by Aleister Crowley, draws inspiration from Hermetic alchemy and the Hermetic Qabalah. The cornerstone of Thelema is the Book of the Law, received by Crowley in 1904 through a communication with the entity Aiwass. This text became the central scripture, heralding a new Aeon for humanity and outlining the principles of Thelema..
A very powerful and effective daily ritual/exercise for activating the five psychic centers of the Middle Pillar in the body. In ways, it resembles the arousing of chakras, but follows the Kabbalistic pattern, and the concept of Light descending and then circulating. Each center is visualized as a sphere of colored light about six inches across one at a time, and then its God Name vibrated four times. After all five centers are established, then currents of energy are visualized rising internally from the base and then descending externally to enter again to energize the aura.
The core purpose of Thelema is twofold: to discover one's unique True Will, or life's purpose, and to attain mystical union with the universal consciousness. Crowley described the Great Work as the unification of opposing forces, be it the individual with the universal or the ego with the non-ego. The techniques to achieve these goals are collectively termed "Magick", encompassing Western ceremonial magic, meditation, Hermetic Qabalah, tarot, and yoga. In Thelema, these practices are dedicated to the worship of Nuit, the goddess of Infinite Stars and Space.
In the framework of Thelema's magical Order A∴A∴, the Great Work of the Probationer Grade involves self-knowledge, understanding the nature and powers of one's own being. Yet, Crowley emphasized that the Great Work is not confined to specific milestones; it is a continuous process. Achieving the Great Work necessitates extensive preparation, including comprehensive knowledge of the Hermetic Qabalah, disciplined meditation, and invoking spiritual entities. The pinnacle of this path lies in the discovery and manifestation of one's True Will, as expressed in the Benediction of Crowley's Gnostic Mass.Thelema is a path intended to do two interrelated things: to enable one to learn one's True Will; and to achieve union with Nuit, the Thelemic personification of the infinite and boundless expanse of the universe.[1] This unification of opposites, the individual and the universal, is reiterated by Crowley in his book Magick Without Tears:
The Great Work is the uniting of opposites. It may mean the uniting of the soul with God, of the microcosm with the macrocosm, of the female with the male, of the ego with the non-ego.[2]
The techniques for accomplishing these goals Crowley called Magick, a word he used to describe Western ceremonial magic (especially invocations and eucharistic ceremonies) supported by Buddhist meditation, Hermetic Qabalah, English Qaballa,[a] tarot, and yoga,[1] all set in the context of the worship of Nuit, the goddess of "Infinite Stars and Infinite Space".[3]
Within the system of the magical Order A∴A∴, the Great Work of the Probationer Grade is considered to be the pursuit of self-knowledge to, as Crowley said in The Confessions of Aleister Crowley, "obtain the knowledge of the nature and powers of my own being."[4] However, Crowley continues, the Great Work should also be something that is integrated into the daily life of all.[b] Although Crowley often discussed the idea of "succeeding" or "accomplishing" in the Great Work, he also recognized that the process is ongoing.[c]
The ability to accomplish the Great Work requires a great deal of preparation and effort, according to Crowley's system. The programme consists of several key elements, including a thorough knowledge of the Hermetic Qabalah (especially the Tree of Life), disciplined concentration (i.e. meditation), the development of one's body of light (in order to experience other planes) and the consistent and regular invocation of certain deities or spiritual beings ('assumption of godforms').
Within the mystical and philosophical system developed by Crowley, the core task for a practitioner is the discovery and manifestation of True Will. The realisation of this True Will is itself the Great Work, as expressed in the Benediction at the end of Crowley's Gnostic Mass, where the Priest blesses the congregation with the words:
The LORD bring you to the accomplishment of your true Wills, the Great Work, the Summum Bonum, True Wisdom and Perfect Happiness.[5]According to Crowley, there is a single definition of the purpose for ritual magick: to achieve Union with God through "the uniting of the Microcosm with the Macrocosm".[6] Since this process is so arduous, it is also acceptable to use magick to develop the self (i.e. one's body of light) or to create ideal circumstances for the Work (e.g. having access to a place in which to do ritual undisturbed). There are many kinds of magick, but the categories of ritual that are recommended by Crowley include banishing unwanted forces, various forms of invocation, and the eucharist, which "consists in taking common things, transmuting them into things divine, and consuming them".[The path of attainment is largely defined by the Tree of Life. The aspirant begins in Malkuth, which is the everyday material world of phenomena, with the ultimate goal being at Kether, the sphere of Unity with Nuit. Through various exercises and practices, the aspirant attains certain spiritual and mental states that are characterized by the various sephiroth that ascend the Tree. Crowley considered a deep understanding of the Qabalah to be essential to the Thelemite.[d][e] The practice of the Middle Pillar is especially important.[7]
The Tree of Life is a tool used to categorize and organize various mystical concepts. At its most simple level it is composed of ten spheres, or emanations, called sephiroth (sing. "sephira") which are connected by twenty-two paths. Each sephira and path is assigned various ideas, such as gods, cards of the Tarot, astrological planets and signs, elements, and so forth. The sephiroth are represented by the planets and the paths by the characters of the Hebrew alphabet, which are subdivided by the five elements, the seven classical planets, and the twelve signs of the Zodiac. Crowley's Liber 777[8] is one of the most comprehensive collections of such qabalistic correspondences.Another key element to Thelemic mysticism is the ability to concentrate. This skill has two modalities: the first is the rapid, accurate, and efficient movement of thought (which is the realm of magick) and the other is the stopping of thought altogether (which is accomplished in Yoga). In the first, it is the manipulation of all ideas into one idea, and in the second is the taking of that one thought and reducing it to nothing.[f]
Concentration is essentially the prerequisite for all sustained success, not only in spiritual practices, but in day-to-day life as well. The general program for developing concentration is borrowed almost completely from the practice of Yoga within the Hindu and Buddhist systems. Crowley gives a general overview of the techniques in two books: Eight Lectures on Yoga[10] and in the section called "Mysticism" in Magick (Book 4).Crowley referred to the 'augoeides', a Greek term for the body of light, and connected it with 'the Knowledge & Conversation of the Holy Guardian Angel' associated with each human being.[12][13] He stressed that the body of light must be built up through the use of imagination, and that it must then be animated, exercised, and disciplined.[14] According to Asprem (2017):
The practice of creating a "body of light” in imagination builds on the body-image system, potentially working with alterations across all of its three modalities (perceptual, conceptual, and affective): an idealized body is produced (body-image model), new conceptual structures are attached to it (e.g., the doctrine of multiple, separable bodies), while emotional attachments of awe, dignity, and fear responses are cultivated through the performance of astral rituals and protections from "astral dangers" through the simulation of symbols and magical weapons.[14]
Crowley explains that the most important practices for developing the Body of Light are:[15]
1. The fortification of the Body of Light by the constant use of rituals, by the assumption of god-forms, and by the right use of the Eucharist. 2. The purification and consecration and exaltation of that Body by the use of rituals of invocation. 3. The education of that Body by experience. It must learn to travel on every plane; to break down every obstacle which may confront it.
According to Crowley, the role of the body of light is broader than simply being a vehicle for astral travel — he writes that it is also the storehouse of all experience.[g]
The benefit of astral travel is essentially one of education: it is akin to exploring one's own spiritual universe[h] and understanding its fundamental components so that the one can eventually master it. The general object is the "control of the Astral Plane, the ability to find one's way about it, to penetrate such sanctuaries as are guarded from the profane, [and] to make such relations with its inhabitants as may avail to acquire knowledge and power, or to command service".[16] Also, "one's apprehension of the Astral Plane must be accurate, for Angels, Archangels, and Gods are derived therefrom by analysis. One must have pure materials if one wishes to brew pure beer".[16]
Crowley believed that what was experienced during "astral travel" was not relevant in terms of what is "real" or "unreal". He thought that the only value to this practice is in the utility it provides to the practitioner.[i] He believed that the body of light is more important than simply for astral travel—that it is also the storehouse of all experiences.
en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Work_(Thelema)#Tree_of_Life
Harmony in Duality: Exploring the Concept of the Middle Pillar in Esoteric Traditions... represents not just physical balance, but a profound harmony between opposing forces. This symbolic pillar represents not just physical balance, but a profound harmony between opposing forces .
Benefits of The Middle Pillar
Development of Concentration and Visualization Skills: The Middle Pillar Ritual requires sustained visualization and focused attention, helping practitioners improve their concentration skills. This heightened focus can extend to other areas of life, enhancing clarity, and mindfulness.
Alignment and Balancing of Energies: The ritual aligns the practitioner with divine energies, facilitating balance, and harmony within the individual's subtle body. This energetic alignment can foster increased spiritual and psychological equilibrium, promoting overall well-being.
Strengthening Connection with the Divine: By vibrating Divine Names, the practitioner seeks to attune to these divine energies, strengthening their connection with divine consciousness and promoting spiritual growth.
Psychic and Spiritual Development: Regular practice of the Middle Pillar Ritual can stimulate psychic faculties, potentially leading to experiences of heightened intuition, spiritual visions, or other metaphysical phenomena.
Manifestation and Transformation: By harnessing and circulating divine energy, practitioners can use the Middle Pillar Ritual as a powerful tool for personal transformation and the manifestation of their will. This practice allows individuals to become active participants in their spiritual evolution.
I will introduce "The Middle Pillar Ritual" as Israel Regardie initially taught it and later updated by Chic Cicero. I will then add the Archangels to the basic Middle Pillar Ritual, and lastly, I'll add some variations that I have learned from other authors, such as David Rankine and John Michael Greer. Finally, I'll explain how I practice The Middle Pillar and Lightning Flash Rituals.
I have practiced "The Middle Pillar Ritual" and my variations for over 45 years and have gained some insights that may aid your practice. However, ultimately you will most likely modify the ritual according to your own experiences, which is how it should be. As a co-founder of a Hermetic Qabalistic Order, I've observed that most of us have the best results by starting with the basic rituals as taught historically, such as the Banishing Ritual of the Pentagram and The Middle Pillar Ritual, and after many months of practice, begin adapting the rituals as needed based upon your results and insights.
The Middle Pillar Ritual - Part One
KETHER Visualize a point of light like a star. Inhale and visualize a stream of light descending to your Crown forming a white circle of 8 inches. Breathe in and on the out-breath, vibrate EHIEH (pronounced Eh-heh-yeh). Repeat 3 times.
DAATH With the next in-breath, bring the stream of light down to the throat center and visualize a soft gray circle of 8 inches. Breathe in and on the out-breath vibrate YHVH ELOHIM (pronounced Yah-Way Eh-Low-Himm). Repeat 3 times.
TIPHERETH With the next in-breath, bring the stream of light down to the heart center and visualize a bright yellow circle of 8 inches. Breathe in and on the out-breath, vibrate YAHWEH ELOAH VA-DAATH (pronounced Yah-Way Elo-Ah Va-Da-Ath). Repeat 3 times.
YESOD With the next in-breath, bring the stream of light down to the groin center and visualize a purple circle of 8 inches. Breathe in and on the out-breath vibrate SHADDAI EL CHAI (pronounced Shad-I-El-Chi). Repeat 3 times.
MALKUTH With the next in-breath, bring the stream of light down to your feet and visualize an earth-colored circle of 8 inches. Breathe in and on the out-breath, vibrate ADONAI HA ARETZ (pronounced Ad-Do-Na-I Ha Are-Rets). Repeat 3 times.
Circulation of Light
Side to Side: Begin to circulate the light around your auric field, down the left side, and up the right. Repeat 3 times.
Front to Back: Now circulate the light up your back and down your front. Repeat 3 times.
Shower of Light: Pull the energy up from your feet (Malkuth) to the top of your head (Kether), and now visualize a fountain of energy flowing down all around you. Repeat 3 times.
Ascending Spiral: Visualize the light spiraling around the outside of your body from Malkuth to Kether. Repeat 3 times.
Cross your arms right over left on your chest and chant the Divine Name that you are most devoted to 3 or more times until you feel a Divine Presence.
The Middle Pillar Ritual - Part Two
Use the same visualizations as with Middle Pillar Part One – the only difference with this version is the addition of Archangelic Names.
KETHER Vibrate the Divine Name EHIEH three times. Vibrate the Archangel Name METATRON three times.
DAATH Vibrate the Divine Name YHVH ELOHIM three times. Vibrate the Archangel Name TZAPHKIEL three times.
TIPHERETH Vibrate the Divine Name YAHWEH ELOAH VE-DAATH three times. Vibrate Archangel Name MICHAEL three times.
YESOD Vibrate the Divine Name SHADDAI EL CHAI three times. Vibrate the Archangel Name GABRIEL three times.
MALKUTH Vibrate the Divine Name ADONAI HA ARETZ three times. Vibrate the Archangel Name SANDALPHON three times.
Circulation of Light as with Middle Pillar Part One
My Middle Pillar Practices
KETHER
In the Sefer Yetzirah - Aryeh Kaplan's translation, he says: "The Sefirot are the means through which God communicates with His creation. They are also the means through which man communicates with God." He goes on to say: "One should not in any way worship the Sefirot or pray to them. One may, however, use them as a channel." For me, meditating on the symbols and energies of the Tree of Life stimulates reciprocal energy fields within me. If we use the tree to both ascend and descend and receive its polarities in harmony, it is always a great advance to our being. Invoking and then connecting to Kether is challenging at best. In her classic Mystical Qabalah, Dion Fortune states: "It (Kether) is the Primal Glory because no created being can attain to its essence." She says that Kether is the "Concealed of the Concealed." So, we will be dealing with an extreme abstract when we invoke Kether. But Kether is paramount for our intention of establishing the Tree of Life in our Aura.
Kether, often referred to as "The Crown," represents the first and highest emanation in the Kabbalistic Tree of Life. Within the context of the Middle Pillar Ritual, Kether is symbolically linked to the divine unity, the prima materia, the original point of emanation from the ultimate divine source. It serves as the initial spark of creation, reflecting the purity and totality of the Godhead. It stands as a silent reminder of the transcendental, signifying the beginning of the manifestation process and the birth of conscious awareness.
With these invocations, I visualize the Names of the Sephiroth, the Divine Names, and the Archangelic Names in Hebrew Letters. I engrave these Names in golden letters. For example, the Name of Kether is כתר
The ability to read Biblical Hebrew is strongly encouraged. Reading the consonants is good for visualization, as I just explained. But for chanting the Divine Names, you will need to be able the read the vowel markings below the consonants. In this document, I provide the phonetic pronunciations.
I start by focusing on Ain Soph, the Limitless Light that exists far beyond the sky. I try to understand Ain Soph as "The Source ." Following this, I call for the White Light of the Divine Spirit, stating: "May the White Light of the Divine Spirit descend."
Then, I picture a light beam descending to the Crown Center that is just above the middle of my head. This light forms a white circle, beginning as a small point and growing into a bright, 8-inch circle.
I breathe in deeply, and on the exhale, I chant the Divine Name Eheieh (pronounced Eh-heh-yeh) three times. While doing this, I visualize Eheieh as an Ancient bearded king seen in profile.
Now, I state: "Kether – The Crown." After spending some time feeling connected with Kether, I imagine the brilliance of Kether filling up my entire "body of light."
Next, I breathe in deeply and, on the exhale, I chant the Archangelic Name Metatron three times. As I chant, I picture Metatron as the Archangel signifying the Divine Presence, visualizing him as a radiant white archangel standing far above everything, representing the presence of God.
After this, I reinforce my mental image of the Light from Ain Soph connecting to my Kether Center and visualize the Kether Center as a dazzling white light.
Once again, I declare: "Kether – The Crown." I visualize the radiance of Kether filling my entire "body of light." כתר
DAATH
We now invoke the Hidden Sephira Daath to stimulate its reciprocal energy field within you. Interestingly, Regardie "borrowed" the divine name and archangelic names from Binah. No divine or archangelic name was assigned to Daath at the time of his writing. There was not even a planet or element assigned.
The Divine Name Ruach HaQadosh is now assigned to Daath and the Archangel Anphiel, thanks to David Rankine. Gareth Knight assigned a conjunction of the Divine Names Jehovah and Jehovah Elohim and the four Archangels of the Cardinal Points.
Daath, or "Knowledge," does not traditionally appear among the ten Sephiroth in most Qabalistic Tree of Life accounts. However, it holds a unique place in certain esoteric interpretations, where it is considered a hidden or "invisible" Sephira. Daath is often associated with the abyss or the vast gulf that separates the divine from the mundane. Its role in the Middle Pillar Ritual involves facilitating a deep spiritual awakening, acting as the repository of primordial wisdom and a bridge between conscious and unconscious realms.
I start by envisioning a beam of light flowing down from Kether to my Daath Center, which is located in the middle of my neck. This light forms a light gray circle, initially as a small point that gradually expands into a bright, 8-inch circle.
I take a deep breath, and, as I exhale, I chant the Divine Name Ruach HaQadosh (Roo-Ach Ha Koh-Dosh) three times. I think of Ruach HaQadosh as God, The Holy Spirit.
Now, I proclaim: "Daath – Knowledge." I understand Daath can also mean awareness and understanding. After a few moments spent connecting with Daath, I imagine its gray glow filling my entire "light body."
Next, I breathe in deeply and, as I exhale, I chant the Archangelic Name Anphiel three times. As I chant, I envision Anphiel as the Archangel of Knowledge, appearing as a bright dove gray archangel holding "The Book of Knowledge."
I then strengthen the image of the Light from Kether connecting to my Daath Center, visualizing the Daath Center as a bright gray light.
I announce once again: "Daath - Knowledge." I imagine the brilliance of Daath filling my entire "light body." דעת
TIPHERETH – BEAUTY
Tiphereth, or "Beauty," occupies the central position in the Kabbalistic Tree of Life, connecting the upper and lower Sephiroth and symbolizing the spiritual heart of the practitioner. Tiphereth signifies harmony, balance, and spiritual illumination and is traditionally linked with the sun. Within the Middle Pillar Ritual, Tiphereth plays a crucial role as the point of perfect equilibrium, where human consciousness aligns with divine consciousness, facilitating transformative spiritual experiences.
I begin by envisioning a stream of light flowing from Kether and Daath to my Heart Center, which is located in the middle of my chest. This light forms a golden yellow circle, starting as a small point that gradually expands into a bright, 8-inch circle.
I take a deep breath, and as I breathe out, I chant the Divine Name Yahweh Eloah ve-Da'ath (יהוה אלוה ודעת) three times. I visualize a majestic king, a child, and a crucified God.
Now, I proclaim: "Tiphereth - Beauty." After spending a few moments connecting with Tiphereth, I envision its radiant golden yellow light filling my entire "Aura."
Next, I breathe in deeply, and as I breathe out, I chant the Archangelic Name, Michael, three times. As I chant, I envision Michael as the Archangel of Tiphereth and the Sun, appearing as a bright white, red, golden Archangel wielding a sword.
I then strengthen the image of the Light from Kether and Daath, which is now connected to my Heart Center; I envision the Tiphereth Center as a brilliant golden yellow light.
Lastly, I announce once again: "Tiphereth - Beauty." I envision the brilliance of Tiphereth filling my entire "Aura." תפארת
YESOD – FOUNDATION
Yesod, also known as "Foundation," corresponds to the ninth Sephira in the Kabbalistic Tree of Life. It serves as the basis for all physical manifestations and is associated with the moon, dreams, and the unconscious. As a significant Sephira in the Middle Pillar Ritual, Yesod embodies the transmutative forces that link the spiritual with the material. It mediates between the human self and the divine, acting as a vehicle for accessing and integrating unconscious contents into conscious awareness.
I start by picturing a beam of light flowing down from my Kether, Daath, and Tiphereth Centers to my Yesod Center, which is located at the middle of my groin level. This light forms a purple circle, starting as a small point that gradually expands into a bright, 8-inch circle. I take a deep breath, and, as I breathe out, I chant the Divine Name Shaddai El Chai three times. I picture Shaddai El Chai as a beautiful naked man, very strong.
At this point, I proclaim: "Yesod – Foundation." After spending a few moments connecting with Yesod, I imagine its purple glow filling my entire "Aura."
Next, I breathe in deeply and, as I breathe out, I chant the Archangelic Name Gabriel (Gav-Ri-El) three times. As I chant, I picture Gabriel as the Archangel of Yesod and the element of Water. She appears as a bright blue and orange archangel holding lilies or a cup.
I then strengthen the image of the Light from Kether, Daath, and Tiphereth, which is now connected to my Yesod Center; I envision the Yesod Center as a brilliant purple light.
I announce once again: "Yesod– Foundation." I envision the brilliance of Yesod filling my entire "Aura." יסוד
MALKUTH - KINGDOM
Malkuth, referred to as "The Kingdom," is the final and tenth Sephira on the Kabbalistic Tree of Life. Representing the physical world, it is synonymous with the earthly realm and embodies the final point of divine manifestation. In the context of the Middle Pillar Ritual, Malkuth signifies the culmination of the practitioner's spiritual journey, the integration of the divine in the tangible world. It serves as a reminder of the immanent presence of the divine, underscoring the principle of 'as above, so below.'
I envision a stream of light flowing down from Kether, Daath, Tiphereth, and Yesod to my Malkuth Center, located between my feet. This light forms an earthy brown and light green circle, beginning as a small point and expanding into a bright, 8-inch circle.
I take a deep breath, and, as I breathe out, I chant the Divine Name Adonai Ha Aretz three times. I picture Adonai Ha Aretz as the Lord of Earth, taking the form of a young woman crowned, enthroned, and veiled.
At this point, I proclaim: "Malkuth – Kingdom." After spending a few moments connecting with Malkuth, I envision its radiant earthly glow filling my entire "Aura."
Next, I breathe in deeply and, as I breathe out, I chant the Archangelic Name Sandalphon three times. While chanting, I envision Sandalphon, the Archangel of Malkuth, as a very tall archangel dressed in a brown robe.
I then strengthen the image of the Light from Kether, Daath, and Yesod connected to my Malkuth Center between my feet.
I proclaim once again: "Malkuth– Kingdom." I envision the radiance of Malkuth filling my entire "Aura." מלכות
The Circulation of Light
Visualize yourself backing into the Tree of Life. The White Pillar of Mercy is on your left side. Chokmah is just outside of your left cheek. Chesed is located on your left shoulder. Netzach is on your left hip. The Black Pillar of Severity is on your right side. Binah is just outside of your right cheek. Gaburah is located on your right shoulder. Hod is on your right hip.
Begin to circulate the light around your Aura, down the left side, and up the right. Repeat 3 times.
Now circulate the light around your Aura, up your back, and down your front. Repeat 3 times.
Lastly, pull the energy up from your feet (Malkuth) to the top of your head (Kether), and now visualize a fountain of energy flowing down all around you. Repeat 3 times.
Visualize your expanded Aura as brilliant white and golden light.
Cross your arms right over left on your chest and chant the Divine Name you are most devoted to thrice or more until you feel a Divine Presence. Chant Yehoshua is pronounced (Yeh-hesh-shoo-ah) or Yeshua (Jesus). You could also chant IAO (EE-Ah-Oh)
THE LIGHTNING FLASH RITUAL
Visualize yourself backing into the Tree of Life. The White Pillar of Mercy is on your left side. Chokmah is just outside of your left cheek. Chesed is located on your left shoulder. Netzach is on your left hip. The Black Pillar of Severity is on your right side. Binah is just outside of your right cheek. Gaburah is located on your right shoulder. Hod is on your right hip.
Chant the Divine and Archangelic Names 3 times for each Sephira and visualize each Sephira in your Aura.
Visualize both the Sephira and The Paths in your Aura. Look at this document's "Tree of Life Image" to orient yourself. Regarding the paths, remember that all the vertical paths lead to Tiphereth except for Malkuth. Visualize all the paths from the Sephiroth leading to Tiphereth. And lastly, the path from Malkuth to Yesod.
Pull all the energy from each Sephira above Tiphereth into Tiphereth. Kether, Chokmah, Binah, Daath, Chesed and Gevurah.
Pull all the energy from each Sephira below Tiphereth into Tiphereth. Malkuth, Yesod, Hod and Netzach.
All the energy of the Tree of Life is now in Tiphereth. Sense this balanced energy. Visualize it as a large sphere of Golden Light within your chest.
Cross your arms right over left on your chest and chant the Divine Name you are most devoted to thrice or more until you feel a Divine Presence. Chant Yehoshua which is pronounced (Yeh-hesh-shoo-ah) or Yeshua (Jesus). You could also chant IAO (EE-Ah-Oh)
Expand the energy in Tiphereth Center into your full "Aura ." State: I am surrounded by the pure golden light of Jesus Christ; nothing but good shall come to me, nothing but good shall flow from me, I give thanks."
www.contemplation.info/spiritual-development-middle-pilla...
THE GREATER MIDDLE PILLAR RITUAL
1. Perform the Middle Pillar Ritual - Part Two
2. Invoking Whirl
Place your attention on the Star far above your head.
Draw down the white light from the Star on the in-breath, and with the out-breath vibrate יֵשׁוּעַ Yeshua (Yeh-hesh-oo-wah) 3 times.
Visualize the Name filling all the sides of your heart center.
3. Expanding Whirl
Visualize the name Yeshua descending from your heart center (Tiphereth) to your feet (Malkuth).
With the Sign of the Enterer, exhale and bring the name back to your heart center (Tiphereth).
Vibrate the second Divine Name YHVShH (Hay-ho-vash-shah).
Assume the Sign of Silence to call the response from Deity and draw in energy from your aura.
4. Lesser Conjunction
Visualize the Malkuth center at your feet.
Now on the in-breath, visualize a green light coming from the core of the Earth and establishing itself in your Malkuth center. Repeat the visualization 6 times.
Visualize the white light from the Star above descending into your Malkuth center. Repeat 6 times.
Circulate the energy between Malkuth and Tiphereth 4 times. You have now mixed solar energy with earth energy.
5. Greater Conjunction
Draw the green earth energy into your Tiphereth center with an in-breath.
Draw the white solar energy from the Higher into your Tiphereth center with an in-breath.
Draw the energy called by the second Name YHShVH from your aura into your Tiphereth center with an in-breath.
Vibrate the Divine Names YHShVH and YHVShH and visualize a golden light radiating through your body and into your aura and hold for a time. You have now mixed the Solar, Earth, and Lunar Energies.
Understanding the Western Mysteries
The Western Mysteries
The Hermetic Qabalah
Tree of Life Part 1 (Correspondences)
Tree of Life Part 2
The Christian Cabalah
Working with Angels
The Work of Angels
Angelology Interpretations
72 Shem Angels
Invoking the 72 Shem Angels
Invoking the Archangel Tzadkiel
Other Important Topics
Author's Experience with The Qabalah
The Middle Pillar Ritual
Shorshei Ha-Shemot
The Druid Path
The Tarot
Merkabah Mysticism
Hermetic Qabalah Authors
The Middle Pillar Ritual is designed to balance and activate the spiritual energies within the practitioner.
Its name originates from the middle pillar on the Kabbalistic Tree of Life, symbolizing equilibrium, and the spiritual ascension pathway.
The primary intention of this ritual is to facilitate the invoking, balancing, and circulating of spiritual energy within the practitioner's aura, also referred to as the "subtle body" or "energy body."
www.contemplation.info/spiritual-development-middle-pilla...
Wow Mr Peabody the way back worked perfectly again. This should be early summer 1972 Yoido Airbase in Korea. B-29 Superfortress Unification. it may not hae served in Korea and was raised from a lake and restored and donated to Korea about the time that I arrived to see it. it was my first encounter with a b-29 and I thought it to be huge next to the other planes. the bombay looked as if it would support numerous pool tables comfortably. It is listed as being at the Korean Aerospace Industries Museum. Any additional information is appreciated.
Unification (= Unirii) Avenue, ex Victory of Socialism Avenue, seen from the balcony of the House of Parliament
Hokoku Shrine, nestled within the magnificent grounds of Osaka Castle, stands as a solemn tribute to the legacy of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of Japan's most influential historical figures. This sacred shrine, officially known as "Hokoku Jinja," is dedicated to the renowned warlord who played a pivotal role in the unification of Japan during the Azuchi-Momoyama period.
Approaching the shrine, visitors are greeted by a majestic stone staircase, leading them through a symbolic torii gate and into a serene courtyard. The architecture of Hokoku Shrine exudes a timeless elegance, incorporating traditional Japanese elements with meticulous craftsmanship. The vermilion-lacquered structures, intricate carvings, and sacred motifs create an atmosphere of reverence, inviting contemplation and reflection.
Central to the shrine complex is the Main Hall, where an awe-inspiring statue of Toyotomi Hideyoshi is enshrined. The atmosphere within the hall is hushed, fostering a sense of connection with history and a deep appreciation for the leader's contributions. Surrounding the Main Hall, lush greenery and meticulously maintained gardens add to the overall tranquility of the shrine grounds.
Hokoku Shrine serves as a cultural and historical focal point, drawing both locals and visitors alike to pay their respects to Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The shrine's significance extends beyond its religious and spiritual aspects, offering a tangible link to Japan's past and the transformative period of unification.
Throughout the year, Hokoku Shrine hosts various ceremonies and events, allowing visitors to partake in cultural traditions and witness the vibrant spirit of Osaka. The shrine's proximity to Osaka Castle enhances the overall experience, providing an opportunity to explore both the spiritual and historical dimensions of this revered site.
For those seeking a deeper understanding of Japan's history and a moment of tranquility in the heart of Osaka, Hokoku Shrine stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Toyotomi Hideyoshi and the cultural richness that defines this sacred space.
Bulevardul Unirii (Unification Boulevard) is a major thoroughfare in central Bucharest, Romania. It connects Alba Iulia Square with Constitution Square, and also runs through Unification Square. The Constitution Square end features the Palace of the Parliament.
Bulevardul Unirii was to be Communist Romania's answer to Paris's Avenue des Champs-Élysées, with a length of 3,500 m. Construction began on June 25, 1984.
Initially called Bulevardul Victoria Socialismului (Victory of Socialism Boulevard), the road is lined with socialist-realist apartment blocks of North Korean inspiration.[
The unification of the independent states and provinces of Germany during this period, starting with the areas annexed by Prussia in 1866.
View on Black, Press L
So some friends of mine are putting an album together and needed some photography done for it. Cashus Flow needed some shots done so I decided to try out the gels I just realized I had. I feel like I accomplished exactly what I was going for tonight, I think he liked it also, hopefully this will lead to further work, I enjoy having to think.
T-34/85 – Medium Tank
After 1945, the Czechoslovak armaments industry started development of a medium tank for needs of Czechoslovak army. However at the turn of 1949-1950, an unification proces with the Soviet Army began and the licence production of the T-34/85 Soviet tank became one the most important projects. The first licensed tanks were manufactured without significant changes in ČKD Prague in 1952. Afterwards the production was moved to Slovakia to Závody J.V. Stalina Martin (later renamed to ZŤS Martin). Significant amount of tanks was intented for export, mainly to Arabian countries. Altogether 3,185 tanks were produced until 1958. Even in 1967, the Czechoslovak army had to its disposal 1,120 T-34/85 tanks. The last T-34/85s were withdrawn from army reserves in the early 1990s.
A static demonstration of the current and historical techniques of the Army of the Czech Republic and the components of the IZS
Part of the presentation of the Army of the Czech Republic and the IZS components in the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the establishment of an independent Czechoslovak state will be a three-day cross-sectional static demonstration of the Armed Forces and Security Corps Technique from 1918 to the present. At Letna there will be more than 160 pieces of contemporary, historical and special techniques
(26. 10. - 28. 10. 2018, Letenská Plain, Prague 7).
Czech: T-34/85 – Střední tank
Po roce 1945 zahájil československý zbrojní průmysl vývoj středního tanku pro potřeby čs. armády. Na přelomu let 1949–1950 ale začal proces unifikace výzbroje československé armády se sovětskou. Jedním z nejdůležitějších projektů se stala licenční výroba sovětského tanku T-34/85. První licenční tanky byly vyrobeny bez podstatnějších změn v ČKD Praha v roce 1952. Později byla výroba přemístěna na Slovensko do Závodu J. V. Stalina Martin (pozdější název ZŤS - Závody ťažkého strojárstva). Značné množství tanků bylo určeno pro export, zejména do arabských zemí. Výroba dosáhla do roku 1958 celkem 3 185 tanků. Ještě v roce 1967 disponovala čs. armáda 1 120 tanky T-34/85. Poslední tanky T-34/85 byly vyřazeny z armádních záloh na začátku 90. let.
Statická ukázka současné i historické techniky Armády ČR a složek IZS
Součástí prezentace Armády ČR a složek IZS v rámci oslav 100. výročí vzniku samostatného československého státu bude kromě Přehlídky 2018 na Evropské třídě také třídenní průřezová statická ukázka techniky ozbrojených sil a bezpečnostních sborů od roku 1918 do současnosti. Na Letné tak bude k vidění více než 160 kusů současné, historické a speciální techniky.
(26. 10. - 28. 10. 2018, Letenská pláň, Praha 7)
Before the unification of East and West Germany - this was one of the accesses to Berlin. You were given a time when you had to be in Berlin - and no side-trips allowed. Military and police policed it and would pull you over if they did not like you.
Now they are putting in proper rest stops and even a restaurant/gas station.
A steam locomotive found at Jangdan Station and exhibited at Imjingak park, Paju, Gyeonggi Province ; the locomotive was destroyed during Korean War. Imjingak is the northernmost place where south korean residents and tourists can visit freely without any permission, located 7 km to the south from the Military Demarcation Line of two Koreas.
.. G.O
A group shot with Jun Sook Moon after the concurrent session on women leadership and Korean unification. The calligraphy was presented by panelists Young Sook Kang, Director of Yejiwon (center left). It is a prayer for peace and unification.
Synagogue (Sinagoga) - Shortly after the unification of Italy in 1870, Victor Emmanuel II dismantled the Roman Ghetto and granted the Jews of Rome full citizenship. The building that had previously housed the ghetto synagogue was demolished and the community began making plans for a new and impressive building.
The present Great Synagogue was built from 1901-1904 on the banks of the Tiber River and overlooks the former ghetto area.
On April 13, 1986, Pope John Paul II paid an unexpected visit to the Great Synagogue of Rome. This event marked the first known visit by a pope to a synagogue since the early history of the Catholic Church.
During his visit, the pope prayed with Rabbi Elio Toaff, the former Chief Rabbi of Rome. This was seen by many as an attempt to improve relations between the Catholic Church and the Jewish people, and as a softening of the Church's historically critical view of Judaism.
Two huge statues perch on top of Il Vittoriano in Rome, the giant marble tribute to King Vittorio Emanuele II and Italian unification, completed in 1911, and this is one of them. Photo taken on August 15, 2012.
For more on Andy Worthington, see: www.andyworthington.co.uk/
MG Julian Free CBE, the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps Chief of Staff, speaks to guests at the German Bivouac celebration September 6 at Imjin Barracks. The Bivoouac is in celebration of Unification Day and is being celebrated by the whole of the ARRC. Celebrations such as this give the ARRC community a chance to look back and reflect on the histories and achievements of the troop-contributing nations.