"If Art would produce any solid and permanent effect, it must follow in the footsteps of Nature, and be guided by her methods. It must trust itself to the guidance of Nature as far as Nature will lead, and go beyond her by still adhering to her rules. "
- The New Chemical Light, by Michael Sendivogius, 17th Cen
"Nature is a totally efficient, self-regenerating system. If we discover the laws that govern this system and live synergistically within them, sustainability will follow and humankind will be a success."
-Buckminster Fuller
"Comprehend and copy Nature!" - Viktor Schauberger (1885-1958)
Biomimicry is the art and philosophy of imitating nature for solving problems. It's etymology comes from the greek "bios" meaning life and "mimesis" meaning imitation. The study of biomimicry has renewed contemporary scientific interest yet it's origin can be traced back to the beginning of civilization. The alchemists have always professed to do nothing themselves other than accelerate the processes of nature. Alchemy is one of the earliest examples of a developed science whose foundation rests on biomimicry. The sages of ancient times have nearly ubiquitously exclaimed "Follow the straight and narrow path of nature!". One of the first examples of biomimicry in Western culture comes from the great philosopher Plato. The allegory of Plato's cave is a perfect analogy for the underlying philosophy of biomimicry. In the cave, people are held captive and are stuck staring at a blank wall full of shadows. All that the prisoners can perceive of reality are the shadows on the wall, not the source of light casting the shadows or the objects which are being cast. By turning to perceive the flame directly the philosopher is able to then begin to perceive the source of the shadows, as well as the way towards freedom from the cave. Our normal perception of nature is the same as the analogy of the shadows on the wall. We don't directly observe the underlying principles, or the causal flame that casts the shadows of natural phenomena. Only the exoteric effect of the principle light is outwardly perceptible, the shadows on the wall, the veil of Isis, or the visible display of nature. Nature is thus a shadow or nominal appearance of esoteric processes. Through our ignorance of nature's operant principals we suffer, through our application of knowledge of nature's methodology, we prosper. If we are unaware of what plants, herbs, trees, animals, people and ecosystems require to be optimally healthy, disease and imbalance can follow. Through our awareness we can live within the bounds of what nature requires to create ecological, economical and societal health. The word 'nature' is likely derived from the ancient Egyptian 'NTR' or 'Neter'. The Neter or Neteru is the interconnected net or web of Gods and Goddesses in Egyptian cosmology. This 'net' is the web of nature (neter), anthropomorphized into myth in ancient Khemet, or Egypt. It is through this philosophy that Nature became a book of symbols for the ancients, which can only be read by reading the writing in which it is written. This language is the Logos or Word of God in Christianity.
"Who else is the enemy of Nature but he who mistakes himself for more intelligent than Nature, though it is the highest school for all of us?"--Paracelsus
The original word for 'Word' in Greek is Logos meaning logic, ratio, or reason. So we now have "In the beginning was the LOGOS, and the Logos was with God, and the Logos was God". This logos is the language in which the book of Nature is written. It is the inner intelligence of natural phenomena, the organizational principles which are both objective - or that what is observed - and subjective - or that which is experienced. The object is the flame that illuminates the cave, the esoteric source of the shadows, and the subject is the prisoner fixated on the images or exoteric expressions of nature. In science, we are primarily interested in the objective because research needs to be quantifiable and subjectivity makes the waters too murky. This is actually very true, however we still have a subjective experience and reaction to what we know. The perceiver is composed of the same laws and underlying intelligence of that which is being perceived. There is an intelligence organizing all of life, an intelligence that formatted the very brain we are using to contemplate whether it exists or not. What a dilemma! How can we be purely objective when we are ultimately the subjects of our experience? We need to reintegrate our science, or what we know, with our spirituality, our values, or how we respond to what we know. We are the ones stuck in the cave until we can turn to the esoteric source and read the writing in which the book of Nature is written. This must ultimately include the subject as well as the object, the prisoner as well as the flame of truth. The goal is to become free of the cave.
"Although that great book of nature stands open to all men, yet there are but few that can read and understand the same." -Confessio Fraternitatis (1615)
"Far back in history, there is evidence that men who have attempted to solve the riddle of water have been bitterly attacked. Every attempt to explain the nature of water in old books has been demolished in the later editions. In any case, maintaining the sense of mystery about water ensures the prosperity of the capital intensive economy, for financial interest thrives only on a defective economy. If the riddle surrounding the origins of water were solved, it would be possible to make as much pure water available as required at any location; in this way vast areas of desert would become fertile. As a consequence, the selling values of the produce would sink so low that there would be no more incentive to speculate, or to develop agricultural machinery. The concept of unrestricted production and cheap machine power is so revolutionary, that the way of life all over the world would experience a change. Maintaining the mystery of water, therefore, maintains the value of capital, so every attempt to come nearer to an explanation is attacked" -Viktor Schauberger
Viktor Schauberger was a Forest Warden from Austria that lived from 1885-1958. He is known as the "water wizard" for his keen insight into the nature of water. His main motto was "comprehend and copy nature". As a forest warden he spent long hours surveying large quantities of pristine landscape. Schauberger philosophized on the underlying processes of nature and came to design inventions based on his observations. He created a water treatment device that sought to emulate the process of spring water. He created something called the "trout turbine" based his observation of trout. The trout appeared to be sucked up large waterfalls under the right conditions. When the water was cold enough, the trout would make a strange twisting motion under the waterfall and get sucked up between a pocket of air that was folded in the falling water. He called this suction force the "implosive" force of nature, the in-breath of creation. Viktor has an incredible life story, which testifies to the power of biomimicry. Anyone who is really interested in his work should read a book called "Hidden Nature: The Startling Insights of Viktor Schauberger". The book is scientific but also fairly easy to comprehend. Viktor recognized the need to balance technology with nature to create a healthy culture and ecology. We could benefit greatly today by paying attention to his philosophy and science. The key is to recognize nature as a constant display of esoteric/hidden processes. When we observe a bird flying it represents a symbol of an underlying process called flight. Why else would the Wright brothers study buzzards to understand flight? There is an amazing book written by Janine Benyus called "Biomimicry: Innovation Inspired by Nature" which beautifully details the modern application of using nature as a model for complex systems. If we understood the technology of photosynthesis and could imitate its process, we would then be able to make solar panels with nearly 100% efficiency. When the natural geometry of a vortex in water is imitated for the purpose of water treatment, it allows for a massive reduction in energy expenditure, as can be seen in this short clip. The implications are profound. If we understood the prairie and how plants team up for survival, we could then make sustainable and healthy agricultural practices. There is an organization called The Land Institute that is doing that now. They study nature and imitate synergistic combinations of plants which allows for an optimal soil with the right mineralization and bacterial environment. The goal is to reverse erosion, stop the use of GMO's and prevent the need for pesticides. Eco-nomics can be aligned with eco-logics, or ecology, so that our culture is in dynamic equilibrium with natural growth and regeneration. To economize means to reduce waste. Modern economics is doing the exact opposite of its defined function, its accelerating the creation of waste through cyclical consumption, planned obsolescence, and artificial scarcity. Economics needs to be rooted in the life-ground of reality, what ACTUALLY exists, what is technically possible, and natural law. We can produce a sustainable abundance and eventually redefine the the role of economics in our culture if we adhere to natures underlying symbiosis. We need to address the root causes of all the symptoms we see in our disfunctional world. We can supress the symptoms as much as we want, but true healing only occurs when the deeper root cause is fixed. A true economic system would be rooted and based on nature's economy - that which is not just an abstraction but a concrete reality. Biomimicry provides beautiful examples of how science can align with the value of respecting nature and see the bigger picture in which all the specifics are woven. This blends the objective with the subjective while not sacrificing the integrity of either. The signature ideological method for the development of modern civilization has been that of dominion over, as opposed to participation with, nature. Whether this truth is overtly expressed or not, the signs can be seen everywhere. Cities, instead of integrating their functionality with the environment to enhance the ecosystem, are built with complete disregard for the unique landscape and natural diversity of the surrounding environment. In the name of science, food is genetically modified with claims of enhancing what nature has already perfected with millions of years of adaptation and evolution. Most all indigenous cultures of the world have recognized the primary importance of our relationship with the earth and nature. The nearly ubiquitous destruction of aboriginal culture, as well as the widespread ignorance of our collective indigenous heritage has most certainly contributed to the ecological mess we are in now. It's only going to get worse. We need to integrate their ancient wisdom with our modern technology to create balance and find symbiosis with the ecosystem. This reconciliation of ancient science and wisdom can create the healing we so desperately need now. It is the synthesis of perceived opposites. The mystery of life and the knowledge accumulated about this mystery. This has been the primary message of my music.
"Thus
it is likewise with the herbs of the earth; if an herb be transplanted
out of a bad soil into a good, then it soon gets a stronger body, and a
more pleasant smell and power, and shews the inward essence externally;
and there is nothing that is created or born in nature, but it also
manifests its internal form externally, for the internal continually
labours or works itself forth to manifestation:
As we know it in the power and form of this world, how the one only
essence has manifested itself with the external birth in the desire of
the similitude, how it has manifested itself in so many forms and
shapes, which we see and know in the stars and elements, likewise in the
living creatures, and also in the trees and herbs.
Therefore the greatest understanding lies in the signature, wherein man (viz. the image of the greatest virtue) may not only learn to know himself, but therein also he may learn to know the essence of all essences; for by the external form of all creatures, by their instigation, inclination and desire, also by their sound, voice, and speech which they utter, the hidden spirit is known; for nature has given to everything its language according to its essence and form, for out of the essence the language or sound arises, and the fiat of that essence forms the quality of the essence in the voice or virtue which it sends forth, to the animals in the sound, and to the essentials in smell, virtue, and form.
Everything has its mouth to manifestation; and this is the language of nature, whence everything speaks out of its property, and continually manifests, declares, and sets forth itself for what it is good or profitable; for each thing manifests its mother, which thus gives the essence and the will to the form." -Jacob Boehme 'The Signature of All Things'
Therefore the greatest understanding lies in the signature, wherein man (viz. the image of the greatest virtue) may not only learn to know himself, but therein also he may learn to know the essence of all essences; for by the external form of all creatures, by their instigation, inclination and desire, also by their sound, voice, and speech which they utter, the hidden spirit is known; for nature has given to everything its language according to its essence and form, for out of the essence the language or sound arises, and the fiat of that essence forms the quality of the essence in the voice or virtue which it sends forth, to the animals in the sound, and to the essentials in smell, virtue, and form.
Everything has its mouth to manifestation; and this is the language of nature, whence everything speaks out of its property, and continually manifests, declares, and sets forth itself for what it is good or profitable; for each thing manifests its mother, which thus gives the essence and the will to the form." -Jacob Boehme 'The Signature of All Things'
“This
All, which is a good thing, the best that can be seen in the past, the
present and the future, will be in danger of perishing; men will esteem
it a burden; and then they will despise and no longer cherish this whole
of the universe, incomparable work of God, glorious construction, good
creation made up of an infinite diversity of forms, instrument of the
will of God who, without envy, pours forth
his favour on all his work, in which is assembled in one whole, in a
harmonious diversity, all that can be seen that is worthy of reverence,
praise and love. For darkness will be preferred to light; it will be
thought better to die than to live; none will raise his eyes towards
heaven; the pious man will be thought mad, the impious, wise; the
frenzied will be thought brave, the worst criminal a good man.” - Corpus
Hermeticum
Prior to the 1600's enlightenment science was inseparable from the 'esoteric' and 'occult'. In modern times, these words almost have derogatory connotations. Many real investigators and scientists throughout history have occulted or obscured their knowledge from the eyes of the "unworthy" by intentionally speaking in riddles, myths, stories, and allegories, while often leading clues and hiding truth in plain sight. The word 'occult' comes from the Latin 'oculus' meaning 'eye'. The reason being is that hidden has to do with the act of perception, or that which is beyond normal perception. Science is an investigation into that which is hidden, or the underlying truth of perceived phenomena. Ancient science was hidden in myth, allegory, legend, theology, and architecture. It was practiced by the Magi and thus called magic. It is now known that the great western sages and philosophers Plato and Pythagoras were initiated in the Egyptian Mysteries. It is in the Mystery tradition that ancient science was hidden, and much of that which is attributed to these great Greek adepts was inherited from Egypt. Today, magic is thought to have to do with stage tricks or illusions, but originally it was simply defined as "change in accordance with will". What is science other than the study of underlying principles and the development of technology, or the manipulation of our environment - changing things with our will to do so. It is true that all things mysterious, hidden, and occult, tend to attract the trinity of charlatan, imposter, and self-deluded, however its important to discern the straight and narrow path of nature vs. the overly inflated fanciful interpretation of the misguided. It is time we reassess our assumptions in regards to the development of science, culture, and civilization. There continues to be modern scientists and scholars with renewed interest in these 'arcane studies'. Lawrence Principe is a professor of Chemistry and Science History at John Hopkins University. In 2014, he published a book entitled "The Secrets of Alchemy" which brings a brilliant level of scholarly clarity to the subject of Alchemy. Professor Principe is able to redeem the alchemists as true scientists of their times in his brilliant analysis. There is still much to be gained from the science of the ancients.
"Many
Sages, Scholars, and learned men have in all ages, and (according to
Hermes) even so early as the days before the Flood, written much
concerning the preparation of the Philosopher’s Stone; and if their
books could be understood without a knowledge of the living processes of
Nature, one might almost say that they are calculated to supersede the
study of the real world around us. But though they
never departed from the simple ways of Nature, they have something to
teach us, which we, in these more sophisticated times, still need to
learn, because we have applied ourselves to what are regarded as the
more advanced branches of knowledge, and despise the study of so
“simple” a thing as natural Generation. Hence we pay more heed to
impossible things than to those objects which are broadly exhibited
before our very eyes; we excel more in subtle speculations than in a
sober study of Nature, and of the meaning of the Sages. It is one of the
most remarkable features of human nature that we neglect those things
which seem familiar, and are eager for new and strange information. The
workman who has attained the highest degree of excellence in his Art,
neglects it, and applies himself to something else, or else abuses his
knowledge. Our longing for an increase of knowledge urges us ever onward
towards some final goal, in which we imagine that we shall find full
rest and satisfaction." -The New Chemical Light, by Michael Sendivogius,
17th Cen.
Science and technology aren't inherently good or bad, they simple reflect the culture and people that wield it. In fact, the development of science and technology has been the greatest ally in reducing human suffering, drudgery and misery. The goal of the true adept should be to provide relief to the woes of the world. There was a very interesting book that was published in 1833 entitled "The Paradise Within Reach of All Men, Without Labor, By Powers of Nature and Machinery". The author J.A. Etzler describes the potential of world transformation that could occur through the harnessing of abundant natural energy sources such as solar, wind, and tidal energy. He points out that the drudgery and slavery that existed during his life could be subverted through the intelligent harnessing of these energies. The only price he asks for in return for his knowledge on such matters is that he gets the opportunity to enjoy its fruits with all the worlds people equally. This is reminiscent of Nikola Tesla's vision of abundant energy for everyone to reduce human misery, Viktor Schauberger's realization of biomimicry in technological/societal development, Buckminster Fuller's 'world game' and life's work - Critical Path, Jacque Fresco's Venus Project and book "The Best Money Can't Buy: Beyond Politics, Poverty, and War", and Peter Joseph's work in the Zeitgeist Movement as well as the Global Redesign Institute. By deeply understanding how human psychology develops and how we integrate our life experience through our enviroment, we can optimize and terrain modify our culture to reduce crime, depravity, violence, greed, corruption, and all abhorrent behavior. The truth is, people tend to adhere to the social design and economic structure with as much fanaticism as the "religious zealot". We have all heard that "its just the way it is". But that doesn't mean that its the way it always has to be. Many social conventions of the past have been "just the way it is", yet we can now recognize their irrationality.
"What virtue can be in passing one's life like a prisoner in the
treadmill? The occupations of manner or present state of advancement are yet not much better – they are either a monotonous drudgery or some insipid occupation, which nothing but custom and necessity may render tolerable in some degree, but which are the very means to keep the mind
in inactivity in low, trivial pursuits…
What is the mighty object of leading such a life? To get money - in
order to buy what one wants. Is this the most exalted virtue, the highest destination of man's life that can be thought of in this world? It may be a virtue or a necessary evil in a state of general ignorance and prejudice – but it is no virtue founded in nature.” -J.A. Etzler from 'The Paradise Within Reach of All Men' (1833)
Ultimately, if we are to be truly 'spiritual' we should be interested in science and its ability to pierce into the shadows of nature. If we are to be truly 'scientific' then we should question long held assumptions in things like economics, social design, human nature, inspiration and what truly motives people to contribute to society. People generally tend towards one end of the spectrum or the other, but what we require most now is a deep integration of both - not in some vague pseudo-mystical way. We need a concrete grounded approach that finds a healthy balance between the best of both worlds. In Freemasonry the Compasses represent 'Heaven' or the light of Plato's cave whereas the Square represents 'Earth' or the shadow of the spiritual essence. It is no wonder that traditions such as Masonry continue to provide inspiration for people from all walks of life.
"All doctrines which seek to unfold and preserve that invisible spark in man named Spirit, are said to be spiritual. Those which ignore this invisible element and concentrate entirely upon the visible are said to be material. There is in religion a wonderful point of balance, where the materialist and spiritist meet on the plane of logic and reason. Science and theology are two ends of a single truth, but the world will never receive the full benefit of their investigations until they have made peace with each other, and labor hand in hand for the accomplishment of the Great Work – the liberation of spirit and intelligence from the three-dimensional prison-house of ignorance, superstition, and fear." -Manly P Hall from 'The Lost Keys of Freemasonry'
Hopefully this short essay will bring a renewed interest in creating a healthy culture that participates with, rather than dominates over, nature. I hope that the links and resources advanced throughout this text will inspire you, so you can integrate the knowledge of biomimicry into whatever field of interest which motivates you the most.
"In a very real and direct way the salvation of culture and a free spirit in the world is contingent upon this restoration of the ancient intelligence to modernity. For man at this age has had new and mighty powers of nature suddenly placed in his hands, and yet lacks the spiritual poise and sagacity to use them without calamity. Most strangely, the control of the lower physical, natural or brute forces by the mind or reason was the one central situation primarily and fundamentally dealt with in the sage tomes of antiquity. To effect that control in a perfect balance and harmony, and to train the reasoning intellect in the divine art of it, was the aim and end of the Arcane Philosophy. Ideology in the Western world has endlessly vacillated back and forth between the cult of the inner spirit and engrossment in objective materialism. Ancient philosophy taught that the true path of evolutionary growth was to be trodden by an effort that united the forces of the spirit with those of the world, the lower disciplined by the higher. The whole gist of the Esoteric Doctrine was the study and mastery of the powers engaged in working out the evolutionary advance, so that the aspirant might be able to align his cultural effort in consonance with the requirements of the problem and the end to be achieved." -Alvin Boyd Kuhn from 'The Lost Light: An Interpretation of Ancient Scriptures'
Thank you for sharing this important work!
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