09-26-2014, 07:38 PM
quote:That is an interesting question. I don't know the historical answer and am not trying to say I do.
Originally posted by Wao nahele kane
Is there really a difference between running a D-9 ripping and rolling or moving rocks she has position elsewhere to new location constructing a wall or temple vs. diverting a flow? I'm trying to understand why some activity of altering the landscape is okay vs. Other actions such as diversion are not okay. Each are inherently large scale alterations of the landscape... so why is the molten lava any different?
But to share the thought that comes to me when I read this -- the lava flowing is alive, a present act if you see it that way, and the intention is unknown (again if you see Pele at work in the flow).
In many myths of creation around the world, the gods scatter and break and build and flood and resurrect as part of the process, but they don't care too much if humans come after and mess around with the aftermath.
They don't appreciate humans who interject themselves into the process while it is happening. At that time, men need to stand back and watch the gods create and destroy.
You might say that the old landscape has been handed over to other processes, human, wind, erosion, and so forth. Pele would not be very interested in that any more. But to divert a lava flow that is coming, that is like standing in front of the demi-goddess and saying, "you shall not pass." "Go that way not this way."
That's not the behavior of worshippers and believers.
In older societies, when something was built, there would be a sacrifice. It was understood that respect must be shown and thanks given, and something of worth given so that the newly built would be acceptable.
I'm sure you know about the ancient tradition of the cornerstone, the foundation stone, and the role of Freemasonry that still takes part today in laying that key in public buildings.
D9 bulldozers being OK? I have no idea, but would be interested to hear.
Kathy
ed to ad, speaking of Masonic traditions -- is well known that King Kalakaua was a 33rd degree mason, Grand Master, and the first formal dinner of Ioloani Palace, which he had built, was a Masonic function.