6.THE MUTATION OF THE TRIANGLE
Fig. 6
Origin
of the First Surface
This results from the relationship between the Circle and its radius. The
equilateral Triangle constructed within a Circle shows the geometrical
instance where limitation and line of a relationship form a unit.
The structure of the Triangle results from those sectors of the Circle that
have the same length as their radius. This division is exact. Circle and
Triangle have a joint centre, as is the case in the following figures.
The Triangle is the first plain surface formed by lines of relationship, in
accordance with the principle of DIFFERENTIATION (which is a property of the
Triangle), thus giving rise to MULTIPLICITY. Multiplicity is clearly
demonstrated by the triangular prism, which divides white light into seven
colours.
The Triangle has three angles and the difference between these is that the
superior one is elevated and the lower angles, together, form the base.
Between these there is duality. The plain surface defined by the sides has
the quality of COMMUNICATION because it is enclosed by lines of relationship.
The point where these lines cross has a special significance.
The Solitary Point of Relationship at the Apex
This superior angle that is related to unity and the silence of the ONE, is
that point where the duality of the lower angles, when united through
mutation with it, find they can harmonise their conflict and tension. The
lateral sides, therefore, represent the quality of unification. The upper
angle is elevated above the two others and has objectivity and a superior
position. Thereby a union of the two lower ones becomes possible.
It also means unity in opposition to duality. The figure now suggests the
principles: VERTICAL and HORIZONTAL as well as HIEGHT and WIDTH.
Indian Symbolism of the Triad
In Hinduism one has the concept of the so-called Gunas, as primal
differentiation of the energies of creation and attributes.
They comprise the spiritual Sattva, the light principle of the universe,
cause of all higher spiritual impulses, harmony and purity, and belonging to
the level of Being. Then, Rajas, glowing substance, cause of all activity
and passion. Thirdly Tamas, visualised as dullness, laziness and heaviness
as well as darkness.
The Meaning of the Sides of the Triangle
In the Triangle the concepts allied to the differentiation of RIGHT and LEFT
become apparent, with the help of linguistic usage: left in Italian is
‘sinistra’. This corresponds with the English word ‘sinister’, meaning dark,
uncanny, gloomy and left.
In contrast the right angle has the meaning of clarity, light, dynamism,
activity and aggression. This comes close to the equivalent of the Indian
Gunas.
Because of the equal lengths of its sides, the equilateral Triangle presents
an image of HARMONY.
PRINCIPLES: VERTICAL, HORIZONTAL, HEIGHT, WIDTH, HARMONY, COMMUNICATION.
