The transcendent hour, often associated with the "golden hour" in photography, is a magical and awe-inspiring time of day when the sun is low in the sky, casting a warm and soft light on the surrounding landscape. It is a fleeting moment of tranquility and beauty that has captivated artists, writers, and photographers throughout history. During this hour, nature seems to be in perfect harmony, with colors appearing more vibrant and saturated. The light creates long shadows and adds a sense of depth and dimension to everything it touches. It is a time when ordinary scenes become extraordinary, as if the world has been transformed into a picturesque painting. For surfers, the transcendent hour holds a special significance.
For surfers, the transcendent hour holds a special significance. It is a time when the waves are often at their best, with glassy conditions and perfect curls that seem to glow in the golden light. Surfers paddle out, hoping to catch those perfect waves and experience a sense of exhilaration and freedom that can only be found in the ocean.
5 Steps to Creating A Talisman (To Transform Superstition To Magic)
Magical thinking and superstition may appear ridiculous. They’re things that attract the ignorant and the impressionable. Paradoxically, the irrational actually influences our brains more than many would like to believe.
Psychology professor, Bruce Hood demonstrated the effectiveness of superstition during a talk at a science fair. Hood challenged the audience to try on a blue jacket in exchange for ten pounds sterling. Several volunteers agreed to the proposal, but before they could try the jacket on, Hood told them that the garment had belonged to serial killer, Fred West. With this knowledge, most of the volunteers simply refused. They were faced with an apotropaic act, an instinctive rejection of the “ominous,” and a discomfort that is the basis of superstition. This occurs even in the most rational people (at a science fair). Interestingly, the experiment ended when Hood informed the volunteers that jacket really didn’t belong to any serial killer, showing that our minds powerfully determine our attitudes towards everyday objects.
In addition to the “sentimental value” of the objects we’ve inherited from our parents, grandparents, or those that were present at historical moments, objects also typically carry a lot of psychic energy. These don’t need to be explained scientifically to recognize their importance. Think, for example, of the relics of Catholicism and crucifixes.
Using these same principles, it’s possible to create amulets and talismans to suit our own needs, beliefs and skepticisms, and to use common objects as allies during times of great stress.
Talismans (from the Arab tilasim, or Greek, telesma meaning “initiation”) are physical objects, of mineral, vegetable or animal origin and traditionally used for the bearing of a charged intent. For example, quartz or precious stones are associated with astrological signs, rabbits’ feet and four-leaf clovers for good luck, similar to pentagrams, rosaries or amulets. Below are some tips for loading positive energy into an amulet or talisman of your own.
1. Select the physical base
One may choose a stone that fits one’s astrological sign, or any stone that already bears a special meaning. It doesn’t matter if it’s a costly object or a trinket, so long as one may connect with its presence, weight, smell, touch, with a specific intention, (e.g.; dice are recommended as amulets for gamblers).
2. Transmit positive intentions
Take a few minutes each day for a week to meditate or pray using this physical base. If you believe in a god, angel, saint, protector or spirit, imagine that their energy envelops this physical base, whatever it might be. The message being sent to the unconscious is that the physical base, or amulet, is connected with the invisible through this intention. In other words, the object is the physical representation of an intention, desire or positive emotion (luck, health, love, etc.).
3. Polarities
One can think of amulets as electric batteries, like the one in your cell phone. These are charged and drained periodically. At first, it’s necessary to have the amulet close to you during happy moments, and to turn away from it when feeling sad. Imagining that the amulet serves to “absorb” your intentions will help to reinforce this.
4. Consecration to the elements
Depending on the type of material chosen, many schools of magic will advise that it be “sealed” through one of the four elements; earth, water, air or fire. Go with your intuitions rather than by any particular ritual, as the chosen element will only sanctify the covenant between you and your amulet (immediately, as with a baptism, a water seal).
5. Recharge
An amulet or talisman will serve to remind you of something important or can be used in stressful situations, as well as when you need more luck. As mentioned, amulets or talisman are energy batteries, so their effectiveness will drop noticeably over time. In such cases one should return to step 2 and recharge. One can also take advantage of events such as rain, eclipses or dawn to recharge some stones or talisman to power, but again, let intuition guide you.
Lastly remember the anecdote about Niels Bohr, the scientist and Nobel prize winner, who hung a horseshoe outside his cabin in the mountains. When some visiting colleagues from the scientific community noticed it, they asked if he was superstitious and really believed in “such things.” To this, Bohr replied that no, since he was a man of science he didn’t, “but I’ve heard that such things work even if you don’t believe in them.”
*Image: Chelm261 / Creative Commons
The recently opened exhibition Power and Piety: Islamic Talismans on the Battlefield, on view through February 13, 2017, highlights some 30 objects from the Departments of Islamic Art and Arms and Armor that explore the role of talismans in the construction, function, and decoration of arms and armor. Used and revered since the Stone Age, talismans are objects believed to be imbued with magical properties, and are intended to guide, empower, and protect the owner from danger, evil, harm, and sickness. In the Islamic world, such objects are considered most effective when bearing verbal and/or visual motifs related to Allah (God), the Prophet Muhammad and other pious figures, as well as verses from the Qur'an.
Surfing during the transcendent hour is more than just a physical activity; it is a spiritual experience. The feeling of being in the water, surrounded by the natural beauty and energy of the ocean, is indescribable. It is a moment of pure bliss and connection with the elements. Surf Curse, a popular indie rock band, has captured the essence of the transcendent hour in their music. Their dreamy and nostalgic soundscapes evoke a sense of longing and yearning, transporting listeners to a world of sunsets and endless summer days. Their lyrics often explore themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. In conclusion, the transcendent hour is a magical time of day that inspires awe and wonder. Whether experienced through photography, surfing, or music, it is a moment to appreciate the beauty of nature and to feel a sense of connection to something greater than ourselves. It is a reminder that, even in the chaos of everyday life, there are moments of stillness and serenity that make life truly special..
Reviews for "Surf Curse's Transcendent Hour: A Sonic Portal to the Unknown"
1. Samantha - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with Transcendent hour by Surf Curse. The songs all sounded the same and lacked originality. I was hoping for some catchy tunes, but instead, I found myself bored and uninterested. The album lacked depth and felt like a repetitive loop of the same uninspiring melodies and lyrics. Overall, I didn't feel any connection to the music and it didn't leave a lasting impression on me.
2. Jason - 1 star - I couldn't get through even half of Transcendent hour by Surf Curse. The vocals were grating and the instrumentation was unremarkable. The melodies seemed forced and the lyrics were forgettable. The album tried too hard to be edgy and alternative but ended up falling flat. I found it to be a complete waste of time and would not recommend it to anyone looking for a unique or enjoyable listening experience.
3. Emily - 2 stars - I expected more from Surf Curse's Transcendent hour. While the band has shown potential in their previous work, this album felt lackluster. The songs lacked any real progression and the overall sound was repetitive and monotonous. The lyrics were overly simplistic and failed to evoke any emotion. It felt like the band was playing it safe and sticking to a formula rather than exploring new sonic territories. Overall, Transcendent hour was a disappointing release from Surf Curse.