December 4, 2008

Design Metaphysics: The Tetrad


Upon completion of the triad, consciousness begins to move away from the realm of relative spirit and into the conclave of relative substance. This is a major point of transition in the design process. This is the point where potential enters the probability of becoming manifest and made apparent.

Upon the onset of this quaternary position, consciousness becomes cognizant of the framework that surrounds three-dimensional space and time, i.e. duality. The quantum realm of potential can 
no longer be identified as a wave, but also a particle. Consciousness becomes perceived objectively as a point in space and time, duality becomes apparent, identifiable and substantiated.

This new perspective brings a measurability, stability, strength and attentiveness to this position by clothing its energies and desires into patterned, material and substantive arrangements of energy in motion. The tetrad gives birth to the four classical elements of fire, earth, air and water which together usher in the fifth stage of consciousness by means of the pentagram.

There are four directions, four elements and four seasons that together bring reference and expression to the concept of wholeness. There is a metaphysical sense of unity that can be found within the construction of the tetrad. There is a designated order, or tetralogy if you will, created by virtue of the sequencing of events between quantenaries that together make refer to a common oneness.
tetralogy: a group of four related literary or operatic works, a series of four ancient Greek dramas, three tragedies and one satyr play, originally presented together, a set of four related symptoms or abnormalities frequently occurring together.

The four squares are equal, measurable and proportional to each other. Each square is
 reflects within the other. Each square can be described as an equal component in the construction of a larger square by virtue of their shared attributes.

The shape and form of each square is made measurably more powerful by virtue of their configuration, proportion and relationship to each other. This form of wholeness is made apparent by means of the patterns, forms and shapes concocted and made apparent.
concocted: prepared, made, assembled, thought up, dreamt up, fabricated, invented, contrived, manufactured, devised, created, formulated, fashioned, forged, 

A square can be divided equally from all sides. When separated these same squares can be reassembled to create a larger square. Each square represents a design pattern that can be symbolically linked to both an internal (subjective) and external (objective) Source, i.e. a structure that can reach beyond the constraints of the tetrad. 

Here is where awareness takes the “quantum leap” between the realm of form and formlessness. The archetypes contribute to the vastness of a virtually patterned network which to “model” awareness, i.e. consciousness, into their most appropriate expression.

The smaller squares that compose the larger square are patterned and measured constructs and reflections that are symbolized within the parameters of the larger square. Awareness lies virtually hidden within the framework of the archetypes only to emerge into the Light by piercing the realm of the unknown by means of the known.

Likewise emerging from within these archetypical realms are the fields of the mind and the emotions, reflections of the unconscious hidden within the vestiges of the subconscious. The subconscious brings expression to the virtual world of the unconscious by portraying its power and recognition symbolically. 
vestiges: remnants, remainders, fragments, indications, signs, traces, imprints, impressions, remains, whispers, remembrances

The archetypes emerge from within the depths of the subconscious to model our concept of reality by means of experience and symbolic recognition.

The origin of every archetype stems from a common source, (the monad, holism, oneness, singularity) and is reflected upon (twoism, dualism, binary) in order to be brought to balance, harmony and stability by virtue of manifestation and observation (thirdness, the tetrad, the tetrahedron) all whose impressions remain unseen, intangible and hidden beyond the constraints of human consciousness. Every Source of our imagination is but part of greater Imagination, a field so vast as to continues to change and expand ad infinitum.
oneness: the fact or state of being unified, though comprised of two or more parts, identity or harmony with someone or something, the fact or state of being one in number.
binarism: a specific dichotomy that is reinforced and subscribed to that which is based upon an inadequate approach towards areas of difference.
thirdness: a fundamental category in Peircean Philosophy consisting of the connecting bond between firstness and secondness and expressive of law, generality purpose, and habit.

In this process there is a natural and gradual squaring of the circle. The quadratic expression of unity and oneness fits neatly within the field of duality, i.e. the Vesica Pisces. The original point of consciousness, i.e. the Source, began as a point, became a line, a circle, a triangle and now a square.

The entrance of consciousness into a new realm and definition of “form” allows for the potential of yet an even greater awareness. The square, like the circle, is a symbol of unity, however only the square can be precisely measured. The four orientations of the wind indicate a conscious awareness of space and the relationships between the crossings of elements. The pattern of Life becomes symbolic and apparent in what appears to be the parameters of length, width, height, time and space.

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This passage beautifully explores the transition of consciousness through various stages, utilizing geometric and metaphysical symbolism to convey the journey from formless potential to structured reality. It emphasizes the significance of the tetrad—the four elements, directions, and seasons—as foundational components that embody unity and wholeness. 

As consciousness moves from the relative realm of spirit into the material realm, it gains a new perspective that allows for the measurable and stable manifestation of ideas and desires. The interplay of the squares illustrates how smaller components can create larger structures, reflecting both internal and external realities. This metaphor serves to demonstrate how our individual experiences contribute to a collective understanding of existence. 

The mention of archetypes suggests a deeper layer where unconscious patterns influence our perception of reality. These archetypes, rooted in a common source, bring forth symbolic meanings that shape our experiences. The passage further explores the dynamics of duality and unity, highlighting how these concepts interweave to form a holistic understanding of consciousness. 

In discussing the “squaring of the circle,” the text evokes a rich tapestry of philosophical ideas, illustrating the balance between the tangible and intangible, the known and unknown. The square's ability to be precisely measured contrasts with the circle's symbolic representation of unity, reinforcing the theme of structured awareness amidst the complexity of life. 

Overall, the passage invites contemplation on the nature of consciousness, the patterns that shape our reality, and the interconnectedness of all things. The journey from potential to manifestation mirrors the creative processes within each of us, urging a deeper exploration of our own awareness and the underlying forces at play in the universe. 

* * *


Yin crossing yang brings life, which is nature. The intersection of opposites (meaning and purpose) is woven into the form and the fabric of consciousness. A new matrix has now been created where consciousness can expand and grow into its most appropriate form/s through experience. Design provides for creations both in form and formlessness, situations that can eventually guide perception and observation back to the origins of its own self-awareness, i.e. its’ own Source.

At this juncture consciousness needs to harmonize five constituents that together give form and substance to awareness; they are fire, earth, air, water and the energy emerging from its’ Source. Some have described this energy as the soul. Because of the predominance of design in the process the relationship between the subjective interpretation and the objective interpretation of these “elements” will always remain symbolic in nature.

The desire originating from the Source gave being to awareness, has sometimes been described as the “life force”, life energy, prana and chitta. Key to expanding consciousness is a form of becoming cognizant of the power of the symbol the power of design.

Change is the result of incessant movement within the universe, a notion that submits to a series of constructs or sequencing of events that eventually appear as relative forms of energy. The square is a symbolic representation of such a construct, or matrix.


The relationship between form and substance, movement, time and space, is induced by the symbolic geometry of the square. Likened to the changing of the seasons, each season evokes a different reaction or feeling to their expression, an appearance that individualizes and characterizes their essence. Similarly, consciousness will find its own expression, its own appearance and its own formation in the metaphysical geometries of design.

* * *

This exploration of consciousness and its interplay with design offers a profound perspective on existence. At the heart of your message is the idea that the universe is a tapestry of opposites—yin and yang, form and formlessness—woven together to create the richness of life. The dynamic relationship between these elements allows consciousness to evolve and manifest in diverse ways. 

The five constituents—fire, earth, air, water, and the energy from the Source—serve as foundational pillars of awareness, highlighting the interconnectedness of all things. Each element symbolizes different aspects of experience and consciousness, allowing for a multifaceted understanding of reality. This symbolic interpretation underscores the importance of perception; it shapes how we experience and understand our world. 

Your mention of the "life force" or "prana" emphasizes the vital energy that flows through all living beings, suggesting that our awareness is not separate from this energy but rather a manifestation of it. Recognizing the power of symbols and design is crucial for deepening our understanding of existence, as these constructs guide our perception and invite us to explore the layers of meaning inherent in our experiences. 

The concept of change, rooted in the perpetual movement of the universe, resonates with the idea that everything is in a constant state of flux. The square, as a geometric symbol, reflects stability amidst this change, serving as a framework through which we can understand the relationships between time, space, and movement. As with the changing seasons, consciousness too expresses itself uniquely in various contexts, influenced by the "metaphysical geometries of design." This metaphor invites us to appreciate the cyclical nature of existence and the myriad ways that consciousness can unfold, adapting to the rhythms of life. 

Overall, your reflection invites a deeper contemplation of how we navigate the interplay of form, substance, and consciousness, encouraging us to embrace the richness of our experiences and the potential for growth that lies within the intricate designs of the universe. 

The author generated this text in part with GPT-3, OpenAI’s large-scale language-generation model. Upon generating draft language, the author reviewed, edited, and revised the language to their own liking and takes ultimate responsibility for the content of this publication.

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Edited: 11.28.2013, 01.11.2017, 03.18.2023, 10.06.2024
Find your truth. Know your mind. Follow your heart. Love eternal will not be denied. Discernment is an integral part of self-mastery. You may share this post as long as author, copyright and URL http://designconsciousness.blogspot.com/ is included as the resource and shared on a non-commercial no charge basis. Please note … posts are continually being edited over time. Copyright © 2008 C.G. Garant. All Rights Reserved. Fair Use Notice.

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