#Indian Orthodox Church

[seekingtheosis]

Christian Perseverance through Faith - Advent Meditation on St. Luke 1:1-25

The post reflects on the annunciation to Zechariah, providing insights into the faith and struggle of Zechariah and his wife Elizabeth. Despite their childlessness and societal ridicule, they stayed true to their faith. The post underscores the transforma

A reflection on the Annunciation to Zechariah In the name of God the Father, Christ Jesus His only begotten Son and the Holy Spirit, One True God. Amen Dear brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus The Christians around the world are gearing up for one their most important festivals which celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ in the manger in Bethlehem. The weeks prior to the Feast of the Nativity…

[nando161mando]

[mask131]

While I'm at it, because I just had a little beef with a fanatical Christian who couldn't believe I was born in a Christian setting because I had a pentagram as an icon (you see the kind of person)... [Edit: For more details they were a clearly antisemitic Orthodox person who, after refusing to believe I was anything else than Jew, atheist or a devil-worshiper, starting lashing out at me when I said I had a Catholic upbringing saying I was the cause of the crusades and the reason Hitler was alive, yada yada, you know the kind of crazy religious person]

So I decided to have a brief Christianity talk. Not much but just this:

If you ask me, yes, there is a Christian mythology, even though people do not like this term - because there is a bunch of Christian legends and Christian myths that form a Christian folklore and a set of Christian tales with distant, weak or inexistant links to ACTUAL Christian teachings, rites and the actual Christian religion.

And I do believe that folk-Christianity is a fascinating thing that deserves to exist alongside official, actual Christianity. Santa Muerte, and the local saint celebrations, and strange Christmas and Epiphany beliefs, and this story about God and Saint Peter getting drunk at a farmer's house, and the fairytale about Jesus and the Virgin Mary throwing the devil and his wife in an oven to save the girls they wanted to eat... Anyway, no matter how much one can try to destroy folk-Christianity it will always survive because it was centuries and centuries of rites and beliefs spread across several continents, and you can't destroy that easily.

The thing that many people do not get is that a lot of what is Christianity today was completely made up. There's not a lot of Christianity today that was originally in the Bible. There's a lot of Christianity as practiced by the first Christians that was lost. The dates and meanings of celebrations like Easter, All Hallows Day or Christmas kept changing all year long. Lots of saints were completely invented. Don't even get me started on the apocryphal Gospels!

This is why studying and understanding the history and evolution of a religion always allow one to be more understanding of what the religion currently is and what is actually an "option" in it. Religions never stayed the same thanks to times changing, scholarly debates, schisms dividing it into various branches, political and economical forces being at play, translations from one country to the next - and that's not just true for Christianity, but also for all other religions. Islam, Judaism, Buddhism... They all had their own evolution, they all are today very different from what they started as, and to better understand them one needs to learn of their past, what they were, what they still are, what they're not anymore. Heck, today there are talks in India of kicking out and banishing all Buddhists when the religion started there! But now, Buddhism's main nations are China and Japan, and its Indian roots almost entirely forgotten...

Fanatics usually fail to do this study of their own religion's history and evolution, because they imagine that the past was just always a carbon-copy of the present, and that their beliefs stayed unmovable monolith coming straight from God (or whatever principle they follow) instead of something that went through centuries of men and women and governments.

Just look at why and how Protestantism came to be. People realized the Church had added a lot of stuff that wasn't there when Christians first appeared, and decided to return to the "original" Christianity, rejecting all the added, invented stuff. Like the celibacy of priests: Christians priests married and had children in the first centuries following the Christ's death. And the only reason Catholic priests took a vow of celibacy and virginity was because of economic concerns with inheritance matters. Jesus never asked those that followed him to never have children or never marry or never have sex.

Or take the existence of Purgatory! Completely invented by the Church around the Middle-Ages, never spoke about by the Christ or part of the original Christian religion, then quickly removed a few centuries later as a non-existent, borderline heretical superstition, and that yet survived in folk-Christianity, and then in popular culture.

In conclusion, I would have to say that there is one book that made me realize a lot of things about religion as a whole, and that convinced me to go from Catholic-Christian to simply deist. Terry Pratchett's book "Small Gods", which exactly put into words my feelings about the world: there is a difference between religion and organized religion. There is a difference between belief and the organizations built around this belief, between faith and the hierarchy created around this faith. The Church is like a shell that was built around the turtle that is the faith/belief/god - and sometimes, when the shell becomes too big and too heavy or too unfit for the creature it hosts, it smothers, hurts and kills the faith/belief/god, until there is only the shell. And people stop referring to the turtle, and only speak and interact with the shell.

This is the perfect explanation of how Jesus only preached peace and love and friendship and forgiveness, and its priests later invented the Inquisition and caused the witch-hunts.

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

Today in Christian History

Today is Friday, February 23rd, 2024. It is the 54th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar; Because it is a leap year, 312 days remain until the end of the year.

1680: Death of Thomas Goodwin (pictured above), a notable English Congregational Nonconformist preacher. He had been a member of the Westminster Assembly of 1650, and author of many biblical and theological works. His last words were: “Ah, is this dying? How I have dreaded as an enemy this smiling friend.”

1719: Death in Tranquebar, India, of thirty-six-year-old Bartholomew Ziegenbalg, missionary to India, who has established a seminary, translated the New Testament into Tamil, converted and baptized over two hundred Indians, and constructed a church building. At one point he had been imprisoned by the Dutch who feared his preaching would antagonize the Hindus they administered.

1758: Jonathan Edwards receives a smallpox vaccination from which he contracts the disease. He will die in March.

1819: A new church at Friedensthal on St. Croix Island is consecrated to the worship of the living God by Moravians and their converts. The congregation is so numerous not a third part can get inside the doors.

1846: Following the outrage raised by his publication of “Remarks on Certain Passages in the Thirty-Nine Articles,” in which he has tried to reconcile Church of England teaching with Roman positions, and his migration to the Roman Catholic church, John Henry Newman leaves Oxford for good.

1855: John Bright, a Quaker-born Christian parliamentarian in England, makes an eloquent speech against the Crimean War. Its most famous line is, the “Angel of Death has Been Abroad.”

1918: The body of the Orthodox priest George Porgachevsky is found about a mile and a quarter from the village of Ivanovskoye, Amur region. His head is crushed and he has two bayonet wounds in his stomach. The Soviets had arrested him thirteen days earlier.

1925: Death in Alexandria, Virginia, of Kate Waller Barrett, an American physician, who, as a single mother and member of the Episcopal Church, co-founded the National Florence Crittenton Mission financed by wealthy Charles Nelson Crittenton. She had secured for the mission the first-ever federal charter for a charitable organization.

1929: Lindel Tsen is consecrated as Assistant Bishop of Honan, the first Chinese bishop in an established Anglican diocese. He will become the principal leader of Chinese Anglicanism in the mid-20th century and suffer persecution at the hands of the government.

1934: Death in Baltimore, Maryland, of Peter Ainslie, a Disciples of Christ minister, ecumenical leader, and author of The Scandal of Christianity, a sharp rebuke of divisions among Christians.

1951: Death of Zhang Boling (Chang Po-ling), a prominent Chinese Protestant layman and educator. He had been affiliated with the YMCA, founded Nankai University, accepted women for education, and promoted athletic activities. Because of the school’s patriotism the Japanese had bombed and burned it and succeeding political changes made him unwelcome.

[brookstonalmanac]

Holidays 8.26

Holidays

Alice Doesn’t Day

Animal Farm Day

Battle of Manzikert Anniversary Day (Turkey)

Congressional Startup Day

826 Day

First Thnork of the Year (Fairy)

Herero Day (a.k.a. Red Flag Day; Namibia)

Heroes’ Day (Namibia)

Horseshoe Day

International Content Creators Day

International Cosplay Day

International Day Against Dengue

International Hausa Day

Jamaat-e-Islami Foundation Day

Jay Report Anniversary Day (UK)

Kantanka Day (Ghana)

Kneel in Protest Day

Liquorice Day (French Republic)

Make Your Own Luck Day

Musical Yoga Day

National Black Family Business Day

Namibia Day (a.k.a. Heroes’ Day; UN)

National Day of Solidarity (Argentina)

National Dog Day

National Got Checked Day

National Honey Bee Awareness Day

National Kelly Day

National Logan Day

National MINI Wave to Friends (WTF) Day

National Ranboo Day

National Toilet Paper Day

National WebMistress Day

Our Lady of Czestochowa (Poland)

Paul Anka Day (Ottawa, Canada)

Pieta Day

Repentance Day (Papua New Guinea)

Slash Day

Spark the World Day

StartUp Day

Toilet Paper Day

Tvimanuor (Double Month; Iceland)

Typewriter Day

Winter Heliotrope Day

Women's Equality Day

World Painted Dog Day

WTF (Wave to Friends) Day (Mini USA)

Food & Drink Celebrations

Cherry Popsicle Day

Eat Dessert First Day

424 Day (Oklahoma)

National McChicken Day

Independence & Related Days

!9th Amendment Certified (Giving Women the Right to Vote; US; 1920)

Official Recognition Day (Abkhazia)

4th & Last Monday in August

Araw ng mga Bayani (National Heroes’ Day; Philippines) [Last Monday]

August/Summer Bank Holiday (UK) [Last Monday]

International Day of Cyber Attack Ceasefire [Last Monday]

Liberation Day (Hong Kong) [Last Monday]

Meatless Monday [Last Monday of Each Month]

Meditation Monday [Every Monday]

Mellow Monday [4th Monday of Each Month]

Monday Musings [Every Monday]

Moody Monday [Last Monday of Each Month]

Motivation Monday [Every Monday]

Motorist Consideration Monday [Monday of Be Kind to Humankind Week]

Mushroom Monday [4th Monday of Each Month]

National Heroes’ Day (Philippines) [Last Monday]

Notting Hill Carnival (UK) [Last Monday & day before]

Ould Lammas Fair (Ireland) [Last Mondday]

Social Justice Day (Antarctica) [4th Monday]

Weekly Holidays beginning August 26 (4th Full Week of August)

National Composites Week (thru 8.30)

National Safe at Home Week (thru 8.30)

Festivals Beginning August 26, 2024

Alaska’s Midnight Sun Great Pumpkin Weigh-Off (Palmer, Alaska)

Leeds West Indian Carnival (Leeds, United Kingdom)

Odense International Film Festival (Odense, Denmark) [thru 9.1]

US Open Tennis Championships (New York, United States) [thru 9.8]

Feast Days

Adrian and Natalia of Nicomedia (Eastern Orthodox Church)

Adrian of Nicomedia (Greek Feast Day) [brewers]

Alexander of Bergamo (Roman Catholic Church)

Bernardino Poccetti (Artology)

Brant Parker (Artology)

Ceferino Namuncurá (Christian; Saint)

Christopher Isherwood (Writerism)

David Lewis (Christian; Blessed)

Dichetul Do Chennaib (Celtic Book of Days)

Elizabeth Bichier des Ages (Christian; Saint & Virgin)

Feast of Our Lady of Czestochowa (Poland)

The First Thnork of the Year (Shamanism)

Gelasinus (Christian; Saint)

Genesius of Arles (Christian; Saint)

Genesius the Comedian (Christian; Saint)

Guillaume Apollinaire (Writerism)

Ilmater (Finnish Goddess of the Water Mother)

Jeanne-Elisabeth Bichier des Ages (Christian; Saint)

John Buchan (Writerism)

Julio Cortázar (Writerism)

Kirby and Jeffy (Muppetism)

Krishna Rebirth Midnight Mass (Hindu; Everyday Wicca)

Lizzie Borden Day (Church of the SubGenius; Saint)

Mariam Baouardy (Melkite Greek Catholic Church)

Martha Darley Mutrie (Artology)

Melchizedek (Christian; Saint)

Ninian (Christian; Saint)

Our Lady of Częstochowa (Christian; Saint)

Robert Vickrey (Artology)

Rufino Tamayo (Artology)

Simplicius, Constantius and Victorinus (Christian; Saints)

Teresa Jornet Ibars (Christian; Saint)

Teresa of Ávila (Christian; Saint)

Usuki Stone Buddhas Fire Festival (Japan)

Vancanson (Positivist; Saint)

Women’s Equality Day (Pastafarian)

Yoshida no Hi Matsuri (End of Mt. Fuji climbing season; Japan)

Zephyrinus, Pope (Christian; Martyr)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Lucky Day (Philippines) [47 of 71]

Taian (大安 Japan) [Lucky all day.]

Premieres

An American in Paris (Film; 1951)

Bodyguard (BBC TV Series; 2018)

The Bookworm and the Raven (MGM Cartoon; 1939)

Bosko’s Picture Show (WB LT Cartoon; 1933)

Boy in Darkness, by Mervyn Peake (Novella; 1956) [Gormenghast #5]

Colombiana (Film; 2011)

Crossing Delancey (Film; 1988)

Cup of Gold, by John Steinbeck (Novel; 1929)

Detouring America (WB MM Cartoon; 1939)

Dog Gone South (WB MM Cartoon; 1950)

Elijah, by Felix Mendelssohn (Oratorio; 1846)

Eragon, by Christopher Paolini (Novel; 2002)

Fire and Ice (Animated Film; 1983)

Flying Fists (MGM Cartoon; 1930)

Hey Jude, by The Beatles (Song; 1968)

Lamb in His Bosom, by Caroline Miller (Novel; 1933)

Leisure, by Blur (Album; 1991)

Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence (Film; 1983)

Natural Born Killers (Film; 1994)

The New Mutants (Film; 2020)

Our Idiot Brother (Film; 2011)

The Reckless Driver (Woody Woodpecker Cartoon; 1946)

7th Heaven (TV Series; 1996)

Strange Brew (Film; 1983)

String Bean Jack (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1938)

Sunshine Superman, by Donovan (Album; 1966)

Tennis Racquet (Disney Cartoon; 1949)

Those Were the Days, by Mary Hopkin (Song; 1968)

Three Thousand Years of Longing (Film; 2022)

To Catch a Woodpecker (Woody Woodpecker Cartoon; 1957)

We’re in the Money (WB MM Cartoon; 1933)

Your Name (Anime Film; 2016)

Today’s Name Days

Gregor, Margareta, Mirian, Teresa (Austria)

Adrian, Adriana, Adriyan, Adriyana, Natali, Nataliya (Bulgaria)

Aleksandar, Branimir, Melkisedek (Croatia)

Luděk (Czech Republic)

Ienæus (Denmark)

Hilma, Ilma, Ilmatar, Ilme, Ilmi (Estonia)

Ilma, Ilmatar, Ilmi (Finland)

Natacha (France)

Margarita, Miriam, Patricia, Teresa (Germany)

Adrianos, Natalia (Greece)

Izsó (Hungary)

Alessandro, Oronzo (Italy)

Broņislava, Broņislavs, Glauda, Natālija, Nate (Latvia)

Aleksandras, Algintė, Gailius, Zefirinas (Lithuania)

Eivind, Even, Øyvind (Norway)

Dobroniega, Joanna, Konstanty, Maksym, Maria, Wiktorian, Zefir, Zefiryn, Zefiryna (Poland)

Samuel (Slovakia)

Teresa (Spain)

Östen (Sweden)

Andrian, Andriana, Natalia (Ukraine)

Percival, Percy, Travis, Trevis, Trevon, Trevor (USA)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 239 of 2024; 127 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 1 of Week 35 of 2024

Celtic Tree Calendar: Coll (Hazel) [Day 24 of 28]

Chinese: Month 7 (Ren-Shen), Day 23 (Ren-Xu)

Chinese Year of the: Dragon 4722 (until January 29, 2025) [Wu-Chen]

Hebrew: 22 Av 5784

Islamic: 20 Safar 1446

J Cal: 29 Purple; Eighthday [29 of 30]

Julian: 13 August 2024

Moon: 50%: 3rd Quarter

Positivist: 14 Gutenberg (9th Month) [Vaucanson]

Runic Half Month: Rad (Motion) [Day 4 of 15]

Season: Summer (Day 68 of 94)

Week: 4th Full Week of August

Zodiac: Virgo (Day 5 of 32)

[necroticdelay]

Odd question.

Just curious.

Do you have any Sly Cooper OCs?

I have a few. They are all Cooper ancestors.

1. Chandrakupar. An Indian Buddhist monk (formerly) and scholar. Regarded as the kindest of all the Cooper ancestors. Translated the Thievius Raccoonus into Sanskrit and Tibetan. Was more concerned with spiritual matters and helping people in other ways than he was with thievery.

2. Mor Adai Gabriel Kuparon. Assyrian ancestor. Translated the Thievius Raccoonus into Syriac. He was buried in Midyat and he was accidentally (key word) canonised by the Syriac Catholic and Orthodox Churches 200 years after his death.

3. Garen Kooparian. Armenian ancestor. Carpet maker and merchant. Translated the Thievius Raccoonus into Armenian.

That’s all I’ve got.

What do you think?

Do you have any?

omg im so sorry ive been hibernating lol

i have three, none of them are fully fleshed out lol

the first one is the one ive had the longest and is just my self insert pretty much lol (and is the one in my icon)

the second one is Rori Cooper, all ive got figured out for her is that she is albino, and lives in the country of georgia

(messy sketch i apologize :3)

and the third one is one of rori's gang members. (i havent given her a name yet yikesss) but shes more of a spy and has like. tons and tons of disguises (shes a cockatiel because i thought it would be fun to make characters based off of my bestfriends favorite animals :) also its a bit of a challenge too)

[alatismeni-theitsa]

I find it really hard to word this properly but does anyone else feel some kind of sense of dread or loss over the parts of our tradition and culture that we lost to westernisation?

Where are the καράβια for christmas? Why are traditional clothes so incredibly hard to find? Why do we barely get taught the easier dances at school (πχ συρτό στα τρία) and that's it (unless of course you decide to pay to take lessons or your family teaches you)? Why has our cuisine changed so much? There are so many more examples, I've lost track at this point

I absolutely understand why many people, especially younger people, don't care since anyone that feels rejected by the culture will reject the culture back (especially if you grew up feeling abandoned by the state and ESPECIALLY if you are gay or any other type of minority in greece). I still hate it though

I know what you mean. We are basically a second little US compared to how our country would be if it were free of that heavy outside influence.

Modernization is good, buuut it's not without cons. I've heard a young Greek call the color combinations of traditional clothing "tacky" and I sense that's how many Greeks think given how our nationality aesthetic has been reshaped. The fact that we have to get used to the aesthetic our ancestors appreciated for generations....

That's just one example of how we have embraced modernity on the condition we completely reject everything traditional. Even when we "modernize the traditional" is 99% (mostly) USian standards and environment and 1% of Greek culture just to add enough palatable uniqueness. I wish we could have both.

On top of that, religion doesn't appeal to a growing number of Greeks for various reasons (which I don't condemn). Unfortunately, religion used to be the glue between any Greek community and now we can't bond over that. We have nothing to replace it with so far, leading us to further isolation.

(That's partly why I occasionally reblog things such normally more religious people would be interested in. The history of the Greek Orthodox church is also Greek history. It concerned the people of this land for thousands of years, and we cannot separate our past from the church completely.)

And, on another note, why the fuck do we have to get to specific events and lessons to dance our traditional dances? Why don't we wear traditional jewelry, for example? Why most of us don't know how our traditional clothing looks like? Many Greeks admire traditional dances and clothing from other cultures (Indian, Korean, Native American tribes, and more) but when you ask their opinion about traditional Greek clothing and dances they are suddenly disgusted. Their appreciation for culture stops in their own culture 🤦

[theseventhoffrostfall]

It’s like some Christians forget how their own religion works. If God loves you and sees you worshiping something in his name he isn’t going to curse you because an Indian man said some mean words about it. Worrying about it just validates Hindu magic

Noteworthy is that it's some offshoot syncretic Hinduism where the company are praying over the icons--legitimately heartfelt, well-intentioned prayers intended--with the wrong kind of ritual. That's as may be but the lolthodox are crying that the heart-ripping Kali worshippers are trying to inflict death magic upon them or something.

Of course if you feel really uncharitable you might mention that this whole scandal is arising because the catholics and orthodox--who routinely try and slam protestants for building simple churches (or, with more funding, building larger churches for more outreach rather than fancier palace-churches) and serving communion wafers and wine in sealed packaging (pretty much required by law for sanitation purposes when operating at that scale) and mock pagans for worshipping in simple natural locales-- have spent the last several years mail-ordering their precious holy relics from sweatshops in India

[brookston]

Holidays 6.5

Holidays

Apple II Day

Arbor Day (New Zealand)

Atlantis Day

Barricade Day

Blackberry Prophecy Day (If it rains today, it means the blackberries will be small and full of seeds)

Breonna Taylor Day

Elderberry Day (French Republic)

Family Yahtzee Day

Father's Day (Denmark)

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off Day

Festival of Popular Delusions

Flag Day (Turkey)

Global Jewish Unity Day

Grundlovsdag (Constitution Day; Denmark, Faroe Islands)

HIV Long-Term Survivors Awareness Day

Hot Air Balloon Day

Indian Arrival Day (Suriname)

International Day for the Fight Against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing

Khordad Movement Day (Iran)

The King’s Birthday (New Zealand, Niue)

Liberation Day (Seychelles)

National Attitude Day

National Cancer Survivors Day

National Coworking Day (UK)

National Janet Day

National Jenny Day

National Joyce Day

National Lincoln Loud Day

National Report Stark Violations Day

National Shut Up Day

National Unity Day (Hungary)

National Women Chiropractors Day

One Plastic Free Day

Pansexual Day

President’s Day (Equatorial Guinea)

Reclamation Day (Azerbaijan)

605 Day

Walt Powell Memorial Day

Wiltshire Day (UK)

World Campaign for the Biosphere Day

World Day Against Speciesism

World Environment Day (UN)

Food & Drink Celebrations

Gingerbread Day

National Gingerbread Cookie Day

National Ketchup Day

National Love Island Day (UK) [1st Monday]

National Veggie Burger Day

Sausage Roll Day

1st Monday in June

Crop Over begins (Barbados) [1st Monday Until 1st Monday in August]

Jefferson Davis Day [1st Monday] (Alabama)

Meitheamh begins (Ireland) [1st Monday]

National Thank God It’s Monday Day [1st Monday; also 1st Monday in January]

Western Australia Day [1st Monday]

World Orthoptic Day [1st Monday]

Independence Days

Constitution Day (Denmark)

Feast Days

André Lhote (Artology)

The Bicycle and Helmet (Muppetism)

Boniface (Roman Catholic Church; Saint) [brewers, German brewers, innkeepers] *

St. Boniface (Positivist; Saint)

Dorotheus the Theban (Christian; Saint)

Dorotheus of Tyre (Christian; Saint)

Doughnut Day (Pastafarian)

Festival for Hercules Custos (Ancient Rome)

Genesius, Count of Clermont (Christian; Saint)

Illidius, Bishop of Auvergne (Christian; Saint)

Media Ver V (Pagan)

Meinwerk (Christian; Blessed)

Nones of June (Ancient Rome)

Whit Monday [50 days after Orthodox Easter] (Orthodox Christian) a.k.a. ... 

Doua Zi de Rusalii (România)

Holy Spirit Monday

Kataklysmos (Cyprus)

Monday of the Holy Spirit

Pentecost Monday

Valeria (Christian; Saint)

Wild Man Fletcher Day (Church of the SubGenius; Saint)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Lucky Day (Philippines) [33 of 71]

Tomobiki (友引 Japan) [Good luck all day, except at noon.]

Unfortunate Day (Pagan) [31 of 57]

Premieres

Arctic Antics (Disney Cartoon; 1930)

Away We Go (Film; 2009)

Be-Bop-a-Lula, by Gene Vincent (Song; 1956)

The Comeback (TV Series; 2005)

Come Blow Your Horn (Film; 1963)

For the Birds (Pixar Cartoon; 2000)

The Hangover (Film; 2009)

Harry and the Hendersons (Film; 1987)

Little Boy Boo (WB LT Cartoon; 1954)

Lovestoned, by Justin Timberlake (Song; 2007)

Lush Life, by Zara Larsson (Song; 2015)

Memory Almost Full, by Paul McCartney (Album; 2007)

Mulan (Animated Disney Film; 1998)

Patriot Games (Film; 1992)

Peter Grimes, by Benjamin Britten (Opera; 1945)

Pleading Guilty, by Scott Turow (Novel; 1993)

Rachel, Jack and Ashley Too (Black Mirror TV Episode; 2019)

Rififi (Film; 1956)

Rock of Ages (Film; 2012)

The Sea Wolves (Film; 1981)

Sixkill, by Robert B. Parker (Novel; 2011)

Spy (Film; 2015)

The Truman Show (film; 1998)

Uncle Tom’s Bungalow (WB MM Cartoon; 1937)

Uncle Tom’s Cabin (Novel; 1852)

The Untouchables (Film; 1987)

What's New Pussycat?, by Tom Jones (Song; 1965)

Yankee Doodle Dandy (Film; 1942)

You’ve Got a Friend, by James Taylor (Song; 1971)

Today’s Name Days

Erika, Winfried (Austria)

Bonifacije, Bono, Darinka, Valerija (Croatia)

Dobroslav (Czech Republic)

Bonifacius (Denmark)

Vilimo, Viljar, Viljer, Viljo, Vilju (Estonia)

Sulevi (Finland)

Igor (France)

Bonifatius, Erika, Winifried (Germany)

Apollon, Dorotheos, Kinthia, Nikandros, Ploutarhos, Selene (Greece)

Fatime (Hungary)

Bonifacio, Ferdinando, Igor, Irene (Italy)

Igors, Ingvars, Margods, Margots (Latvia)

Kantautas, Kantvydė, Marcė (Lithuania)

Torben, Torbjørg, Torbjørn (Norway)

Bończa, Bonifacy, Dobrociech, Dobromir, Dobrymir, Nikanor, Waleria, Walter (Poland)

Dorotei (România)

Laura (Slovakia)

Bonifacio (Spain)

Bo (Sweden)

Dora, Dorothea, Dorothy, Ihor (Ukraine)

Boniface, Sancho, Santino, Santos (USA)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 156 of 2024; 209 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 1 of week 23 of 2023

Celtic Tree Calendar: Huath (Hawthorn) [Day 22 of 28]

Chinese: Month 4 (Ding-Si), Day 18 (Jia-Wu)

Chinese Year of the: Rabbit 4721 (until February 10, 2024)

Hebrew: 16 Sivan 5783

Islamic: 16 Dhu al-Qada 1444

J Cal: 6 Sol; Sixday [6 of 30]

Julian: 23 May 2023

Moon: 97%: Waning Gibbous

Positivist: 16 St. Paul (6th Month) [St. Boniface]

Runic Half Month: Odal (Home, Possession) [Day 11 of 15]

Season: Spring (Day 77 of 90)

Zodiac: Gemini (Day 15 of 32)

[queenofcandynsoda]

So all of the Omegas and Gammas wear head coverings like the bonnets in The Handmaid’s Tale?

Not all, only a portion of them would wear bonnets based on the region they live in.

In fact, unmarried Omegas and Gammas would not wear head coverings and in several districts, they won't wear it regardless if they're married or not.

While Sol Fertilis' state religion is mainly based on Ancient Roman religion, in its early days, including the days before it was officially created, the PNP worked with conservative religious groups in order to get their votes. This includes Orthodox, Protestants, Muslims, Jews, Hindus, and Catholics.

Despite Sol Fertilis getting rid of those groups, their followers remain and it kinda stuck. As long they dissociate from the religions, they can wear their head coverings.

(Keep in mind, these are regions do not mandate head coverings, only certain districts within them do)

Southern Rural Range- Church crown/hat

Mediterranea- Various; Primarily hanging veils, beret, mantilla, shpitzel, netela, head tie, and shawl; Some do not wear any head coverings

Fertile Crescent- Head scarf, mitpaḥat, and shawl

Arab Oases- Shawl, gargush cap, hijab, and head scarf

Indian Peninsula- Dupatta

Hispania Coastal Plains- Mantilla

Southeast Islands- Mantilla and hijab

Midwest Grasslands- Bonnet

Slavic Meadows- Maramă and head scarf

Eastern States- Head scarf

Hispaniola- Head tie and mantilla

Northeast Valley- Church crown/hat and bonnet

(Example of an Omega hanging veil)

(Example of an Omega mantilla)

(Example of a Gamma Plus head tie)

(Example of a Gamma Plus church hat)

(Example of a Gamma Minus snood)

(Example of a Gamma Minus hijab)

[seekingtheosis]

St. Luke the Evangelist - Healer, Historian, Iconographer

This blog post offers a comprehensive exploration of the life and significance of Saint Luke the Evangelist. It delves into his diverse roles as a healer, historian, and iconographer, shedding light on his contributions to early Christian literature and.

In the name of God the Father, Christ Jesus His Son and the Holy Spirit, One True God. Amen Dear brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus IntroductionLife and MinistryNew Testament ReferencesGospel of LukeThe Universal SaviorParables of Mercy and ForgivenessThe Good SamaritanThe Ministry of HealingWomen in Luke’s GospelLuke – As a HistorianLuke – As an Artist Introduction On October 18, the…

[gbemiwrites]

14 Countries You Never Knew Existed

Over one hundred and ninety countries have been recognised all over the world. Some, like a neon light shining upon them have continued to remain visible while others, as if covered by a fog have less people being aware about them.

1. Seychelle

One of the world's smallest countries. Seychelles is an island on the West Indian Ocean, off East Africa. Its capital - Victoria is located on the island of Mahé. Seychelle has no official language but English, French and Creole languages are more prominent. Although Seychelle is known as one of the least populous countries in the world, it boasts of the finest beaches in the world. The presence of its beautiful climate all year round makes it a place of attraction every time. If you would like to visit Seychelle, the Mahé island, Saint Anne National Park and Anse Georgette, which is a very great tourist centre for couples, are places you must visit.

2. Cyprus

Cyprus, officially called The Republic of Cyprus is an island country located south of the Anatolian Peninsula in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. The citizens mainly speak Greek and Turkish although other minor languages like Cypriot Arabic exist.

Cyprus, which is a highly religious country is famous all over the world for its beauty, littered along its streets are sanctuaries, cathedrals, monasteries and old fortresses. One of the "must-visit" places in Cyprus is the Argos village. 

As a tourist, you do not need to worry about the hospitality of the Cypriots as they are known worldwide as approachable, friendly, loyal to friends and traditions and also, lovers of entertainment.

3. The Principality of Monaco

Monaco which is situated at the north of the Mediterranean Sea surrounded on land by France and Italy being about 16 km away. The country which is the second smallest country in the world has been tagged as "the playground of the rich and famous" because of the presence of beautiful man-made beaches, clubs, designer malls and casinos. French is the official language in Monaco but other languages like English and Italian are spoken by the minority. 

As one of the safest countries in the world, visiting Monaco as a tourist will be incomplete without your visit to the Oceanographic museum, Larvotto beach and Prince's Palace of Monaco where the rulers of Monaco live.

4. Armenia

One of the most beautiful and unique countries in the Middle East is Armenia. Being the first country to adopt Christianity, some of the world's oldest churches and monasteries grace the scenic view in Armenia. As one of the oldest countries in the world, the people boast of their unique alphabet, cuisine and rich history. Armenia is also recognised worldwide as one of the safest places to be and everyone who has not been there should ensure they do so.

5. Cambodia

Cambodia is a Southeastern Asian nation on the Indochinese mainland and is largely home to a lot of plains and rivers. Dubbed one of the poorest and most unsafe countries in the world, Cambodia has witnessed the incidence of wars in its recent history. Although Khmer is the official language in the country, English is also widely spoken. Tourists have been advised to remain security conscious in their visit to the country because Cambodia boasts of beautiful sceneries in the world. Places like Angkor-Wat are a must-see because the sunrise looks exceptionally beautiful there.

6. Serbia

Serbia is a landlocked country in South East Europe and also, one of the developing countries of the world. Loaded with diverse religions, fortresses, palaces, traditions and folklore, Serbians have been recognised as being lively and laid-back people.

Interesting places to visit in Serbia include the Church of Saint Sava which is the largest Orthodox church in the world so far and has not yet been fully finished.

7. Kosovo

Officially recognised as the Republic of Kosovo, Kosovo is a relatively new country which declared its independence from Serbia on February 17, 2008. Although the country is small, it was beautifully formed by the creator and has the youngest populations in Europe with its official languages as Albanian and Serbian. If you are visiting Kosovo, remember to enjoy the panoramic view of Prizren, the exciting exhibits of the Ethnological Museum and the monasteries which seem to become more beautiful as the years go by.

8. Romania

Another location where travellers never seem to get tired of visiting. Romania is a beautiful Eastern European country which is recognised everywhere as a place where the cost of living is low, good and healthy life is spinal, a top destination for music and art and a fast-growing international hub.

The official language of the country is Romanian and the main religion practised is Christianity. Although "Romance" could be culled from the name of the country, romance seems to be a far-fetched idea as Romanians have been discovered to be formal, suspicious and reserved with a strong need for privacy. However, Romanians admire modesty, humility, discipline and loyalty.

Read the others at:

https://www.gbemiwrites.com.ng/2022/12/14-countries-you-never-knew-existed.html

[swarishjewels]

Exploring Cultural Significance of 925 Silver in Different Regions

925 silver, also known as sterling silver, has been cherished and utilized in various cultures around the world. Its unique blend of beauty, durability, and versatility has made it a popular material for jewelry and other decorative items. Let's explore the cultural significance of 925 silver in different regions.

1. Europe

Ancient Greece

Mythology and Symbolism: Silver was associated with the moon and the goddess Artemis. It was used to create intricate jewelry and amulets believed to have protective powers.

Currency and Status: Silver coins were a standard currency, symbolizing wealth and status.

Roman Empire

Ornamentation: Silver was widely used in rings, brooches, and necklaces. Roman soldiers often wore silver rings to signify rank.

Household Items: Wealthy Romans used silverware and other household items to display their prosperity.

Medieval Europe

Religious Artifacts: The Church used silver for crosses, chalices, and reliquaries, imbuing these objects with sacred significance.

Nobility: Silver jewelry was a mark of nobility and was often passed down as heirlooms.

2. Asia

India

Cultural Festivals: Silver jewelry is an integral part of traditional Indian attire, especially during festivals like Diwali and weddings.

Ayurvedic Beliefs: Silver is believed to have healing properties in Ayurvedic medicine and is often used in utensils and jewelry for its supposed health benefits.

China

Symbol of Purity: Silver symbolizes purity and is often used in traditional Chinese weddings.

Traditional Medicine: Like in India, silver is believed to have medicinal properties and is used in various traditional remedies.

Japan

Minimalism: Japanese silver jewelry often reflects the country’s minimalist aesthetic, focusing on simple, elegant designs.

Tea Ceremony: Silver utensils are sometimes used in the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, symbolizing purity and elegance.

3. Middle East

Ancient Persia

Royalty and Power: Silver was used to make jewelry and adornments for royalty and the elite.

Artistic Expression: Persian artisans created intricate silver pieces featuring detailed engravings and designs.

Islamic Tradition

Spiritual Significance: Silver is considered a blessed metal in Islamic culture. The Prophet Muhammad reportedly wore a silver ring, and silver is often used in religious artifacts and jewelry.

4. Africa

Morocco

Berber Jewelry: The Berber people are known for their distinctive silver jewelry, which often includes intricate geometric patterns and symbols of protection.

Cultural Heritage: Silver jewelry is an important part of traditional Moroccan dress and is often worn during significant life events like weddings.

Ethiopia

Religious Symbolism: Ethiopian Orthodox Christians use silver crosses and other religious symbols in their jewelry.

Traditional Craftsmanship: Silver jewelry often features unique designs that reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage.

5. North and South America

Native American Tribes

Spiritual Significance: Many Native American tribes, such as the Navajo and Hopi, create silver jewelry with spiritual symbols and designs.

Artisan Craftsmanship: Silver jewelry is often handcrafted and features turquoise and other gemstones.

Mexico

Taxco Silver: The town of Taxco is famous for its high-quality silver jewelry, which often features traditional Mexican designs and motifs.

Cultural Celebrations: Silver jewelry is commonly worn during festivals and celebrations, symbolizing heritage and pride.

Modern Cultural Significance

Global Popularity

Fashion Statement: Silver jewelry has become a global fashion statement, with modern designs influenced by various cultural traditions.

Symbol of Affordability and Luxury: While more affordable than gold, high-quality silver jewelry still represents luxury and elegance.

Sustainability and Ethics

Recycled Silver: The use of recycled silver is gaining popularity as consumers become more environmentally conscious.

Ethical Sourcing: There is a growing demand for ethically sourced silver, ensuring fair wages and working conditions for miners and artisans.

Conclusion

925 silver jewelry holds significant cultural value across different regions, each with its unique traditions and symbolism. From ancient civilizations to modern societies, silver continues to be a cherished material that embodies beauty, tradition, and meaning. Understanding the cultural significance of silver can deepen our appreciation for this timeless metal and the diverse ways it enhances our lives.

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

Today in Christian History

Today is Tuesday, October 31st, 2023. It is the 304th day of the year (305th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar; 61 days remain until the end of the year.

415: Co-emperors Honorius and Theodosius II issue penalties against Montanists and against any land-owner who permits them to assemble on his property. Montanist meeting places are to be turned over to orthodox churches.

1517: Martin Luther (pictured above) nails a challenge to a debate on the Wittenberg church door. It consists of ninety-five statements, or theses, against the practice of indulgences—theses which he is willing to defend. The theses will be widely distributed and precipitate the Reformation.

1731: Catholic archbishop Leopold von Firmian of Salzburg, Austria, issues an edict expelling all Lutherans from his territory. About twenty thousand people have to leave. Many have nowhere to go and freeze to death in the coming winter.

1754: Provost Acrelius writes to the Consistory of Upsala, requesting the suspension of Rev. John Lidenius from the Swedish ministerial office because he preaches in English.

1772: Thomas and Samuel Green of New Haven publish “A Sermon” by Indian preacher Samson Occum which he had given the month before at the hanging of an Indian man for murder. The sermon becomes wildly successful, going through ten editions in eight years.

1816: Robert Moffat sails for South Africa where he will establish a mission work. Mission leaders had been reluctant to send him, believing he was unqualified. He will become a world-famed mission leader.

1832: George Washington Doane is consecrated Episcopal bishop of a diocese in New Jersey. He will be remembered by Christians for his hymns, especially “Softly Now the Light of Day.”

1871: Vasilii Ivanov is baptized in Tbilisi, Georgia, in the Kura River, an event considered the starting point of the Baptist movement in Azerbaijan, because he will spread the Baptist faith throughout Baku province.

1877: Samuel Schereschewsky is consecrated Anglican Bishop of Shanghai. Developing Parkinson’s disease, he will resign his position, and spend the rest of his life completing a translation of the Bible into Wenli (a Chinese dialect), typing hundreds of pages with the one finger that he could still move.

1879: Death of Jacob Abbott, American Congregationalist author. He wrote many groundbreaking works of children’s fiction, including the instructional Rollo series and the warm Franconia novels.

1920: Baptism of Spetume Florence Njangali in Saint Peter’s Cathedral, Hoima, Uganda. She will become a leader in the effort to obtain theological education for women and their ordination as deaconesses in the Anglican church of Uganda.

1992: Pope John Paul II admits that the Roman Catholic church erred three hundred and sixty years earlier when it condemned Italian astronomer Galileo.

1999: Catholics and Lutherans issue a joint statement on justification in Augsburg, Germany, declaring that “a consensus in basic truths of the doctrine of justification exists between Lutherans and Catholics.”

2010: Islamic terrorists besiege Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Baghdad, massacring most of the 120 worshipers inside, including a three year old boy who pleaded with them to stop killing.

[brookstonalmanac]

Holidays 10.28

Holidays

Bhai Dooj (India)

Bhai Tika (Nepal)

Children’s Day (Australia)

Chucks-N-Pearls Day

Civil Servants’ Day (Brazil)

Common Fig Day (French Republic)

Cox Plate Day (Australia)

Day of International Concern About Young People and Gun Violence

Engineer’s Day (Venezuela)

Flying Baby Day

Folly Day

Gone-ta-Pott Day [every 28th]

Hari Sumpah Pemuda (Youth Pledge Day; Indonesia)

Honoring the Nation’s First Responders Day

International Animation Day

International Creole Day

Liberation of Ukraine from Nazi Invaders Day (Ukraine)

Milvian Bridge Day

National Caroline Day

National Comprehensive Sex Education Call-In Day

National Cry Yourself to Sleep Day

National Day of Outrage

National First Responders Day

National I Love You Day

National Immigrants Day

National Internal Medicine Day

National Internment Commemoration Day (Canada)

National William Day

Ohi Day (a.k.a. Ochi! Day or Oxi Day; Cyprus, Greece)

Part Your Hair Crooked Just To See If Anyone Will Say Anything About It Day

Plush Animal Lover's Day

Prefectural Earthquake Disaster Prevention Day (Gifu, Japan)

Q Day

Republic Day Eve (Turkey)

Separation of Church and State Day

Stan Lee Day (Los Angeles)

Stargate Day

Statue of Liberty Day

Ticker-Tape Parade Day

Time Day

Twitter Emancipation Day

Ugly Pickup Truck Day

Vote Early Day

World Judo Day

World Tobacco Growers’ Day

Youth Pledge Day (Indonesia)

Food & Drink Celebrations

National Chocolate Day

Wild Foods Day

4th & Last Monday in October

African-American Cotton Pickers’ Day [4th Monday]

Bank Holiday (Ireland) [Last Monday]

Equality Day (Antarctica) [4th Monday]

Green Monday [Monday of Last Full Week]

International School Library Day [4th Monday]

Labour Day (New Zealand) [4th Monday]

La Saoire i mi Dheireadh Fomhair [Last Monday]

Meatless Monday [Last Monday of Each Month]

Meditation Monday [Every Monday]

Monday Musings [Every Monday]

Moody Monday [Last Monday of Each Month]

Motivation Monday [Every Monday]

October Bank Holiday (Ireland) [Last Monday]

School Library Day (Canada) [Last Monday]

Independence & Related Days

Bokonton (Declared; 2007) [unrecognized]

Czechoslovakia (Now the Czech Republic; from Austria-Hungary, 1918)

Erusia (Declared; 2008) [unrecognized]

Foundation Day (Davao Occidental, Philippines)

United Republics of Michigan (Declared; 2019) [unrecognized]

Weekly Holidays beginning October 28 (Last Week of October)

Hudson Valley Restaurant Week (Hudson Valley, New York) [thru 11.10]

Festivals Beginning October 28, 2024

American Indian Tourism Conference (Marksville, Louisiana) [thru 10.31]

Supply Side West (Las Vegas, Nevada) [thru 10.31]

TechCrunch Disrupt (San Francisco, California) [thru 10.30]

Tokyo International Film Festival (Tokyo, Japan) [thru 11.6]

Feast Days

Abdias of Babylon (Christian; Saint)

Abgar V of Edessa (Eastern Orthodox Church)

Ayad Akhtar (Writerism)

Eadsige (Christian; Saint)

Evelyn Waugh (Writerism)

Extra Kinky Day (Pastafarian)

Faro, Bishop of Meauz (Christian; Saint)

Feast of the Einherjar (Norse)

Feast of the Lord of Miracles (Peru)

Fidelis of Como (Roman Catholic Church)

Firmilian (Christian; Saint)

Francis Bacon (Artology)

Fyribod (a.k.a. Forebode; Norse beginning of Winter)

Godwin of Stavelot (Christian; Saint)

Gumby Day (Church of the SubGenius; Saint)

Isis/Osiris Mysteries I (Pagan)

Job of Pochayiv (repose) (Eastern Orthodox Church)

Jude Thaddeus (a.k.a. Jude the Apostle; Western Christianity)

Leibnitz (Positivist; Saint)

Lord of Miracles (Lima; Christian; Saint)

Makoshe’s Holiday (Honoring Mother Earth; Asatru/Pagan Slavic)

Michael Noakes (Artology)

Neot (Christian; Saint)

Paraskrevi of Iconium (Christian; Saint)

Simon the Zealot (a.k.a. Simon the Canaanite; Simon the Apostle; Western Christianity)

The Tortoise (Muppetism)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Butsumetsu (仏滅 Japan) [Unlucky all day.]

Umu Limnu (Evil Day; Babylonian Calendar; 50 of 60)

Premieres

All Quiet on the Western Front (Film; 2022)

An Alpine Symphony, by Richard Strauss (Tone Poem; 1915)

Barking Dogs Don’t Fite (Fleischer/Famous Popeye Cartoon; 1949)

Because I Got High, by Afroman (Song; 2001)

Bee Movie (Animated Film; 2007)

Black Beauty (Hanna-Barbera Animated TV Special; 1978)

The Blue Danube (MGM Cartoon; 1939)

Breakfast at Tiffany’s, by Truman Capote (Novella; 1958)

Decade, by Neil Young (Compilation Album; 1977)

Decline and Fall, by Evelyn Waugh (Novel; 1928)

The Desperate Showers (George of the Jungle Cartoon; 1967) [#8]

Droopy (Tex Avery Droopy MGM Cartoon; 1955)

Educating Rita (Film; 1983)

The Futurological Congress: From the Memoirs of Ijon Tichy, by Stanisław Lem (Novel; 1971)

Gulliver’s Travels, by Jonathan Swift (Novel; 1726)

How Green Was My Valley (Film; 1941)

Inferno (Film; 2016)

Kiss Meets the Phantom of the Park (TV movie; 1978)

The Legend of Zorro (Film; 2005)

Man's Search for Meaning, by Viktor E. Frankl (Philosophical Book; 1959)

News of the World, by Queen (Album; 1978)

The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas, by Ursula K. Le Guin (Short Story; 1973)

The Pet Store (Disney Cartoon; 1933)

Pinterest (Social Media App; 2009)

Pop ‘im Pop! (WB LT Cartoon; 1950)

Puss in Boots (Animated Film; 2011)

Pussy Willie (Oswald the Lucky Rabbit Cartoon; 1929)

Puttin’ On the Dog (Tom & Jerry Cartoon; 1944)

The Quail Hunt (Oswald the Lucky Rabbit Cartoon; 1935)

Richard Pryor … Here and Now (Stand-Up Comedy Film; 1983)

Rotten Hood (Super Chicken Cartoon; 1967) [#18

The Rum Diary (Film; 2011)

Stargate (Film; 1994)

String Along Pink (Pink Panther Cartoon; 1978)

Supermarket Pink (Pink Panther Cartoon; 1978)

Talking Book, by Stevie Wonder (Album; 1972)

Tinker Bell (Animated Film; 2008)

We Can’t Dance, by Genesis (Album; 1991)

Today’s Name Days

Judas, Simon, Thaddeus (Austria)

Juda, Šimun, Siniša, Tadej, Tadija (Croatia)

Státní Svátek (Czech Republic)

Judas, Simon (Denmark)

Siim, Siimo, Siimon, Siimu, Simmo, Simmu, Simun (Estonia)

Simo (Finland)

Jude, Simon (France)

Freddy, Simon (Germany)

Evniki, Vili (Greece)

Simon, Szimonetta (Hungary)

Giuda, Simone (Italy)

Antoņina, Ņina, Ninona, Zemgals (Latvia)

Almantė, Gaudrimas, Simas, Simonas, Tadas (Lithuania)

Simen, Simon (Norway)

Juda, Szymon, Tadeusz, Wszeciech (Poland)

Iachint (Romania)

Dobromila (Slovakia)

Judas, Simón (Spain)

Simon, Simone (Sweden)

Nestor (Ukraine)

Dayanara, Eunice, Jonah, Jonas, Jude, Liberty, Simeon, Simon, Simone, Thad, Thaddea, Thaddeus (USA)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 302 of 2024; 64 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 1 of Week 44 of 2024

Celtic Tree Calendar: Hagal (Hailstone) [Day 2 of 28]

Chinese: Month 9 (Jia-Xu), Day 26 (Yi-Chou)

Chinese Year of the: Dragon 4722 (until January 29, 2025) [Wu-Chen]

Hebrew: 26 Tishri 5785

Islamic: 24 Rabi II 1446

J Cal: 2 Wood; Oneday [1 of 30]

Julian: 14 October 2024

Moon: 12%: Waning Crescent

Positivist: 22 Descartes (11th Month) [Gibbon / Robertson]

Runic Half Month: Wyn (Joy) [Day 6 of 15]

Season: Autumn or Fall (Day 36 of 90)

Week: Last Week of October

Zodiac: Scorpio (Day 5 of 30)

[prwizard]

Brand Building's New Dimensions: AB Thom Sunil Launches His First Book "Brand Nirmanam"

May 2nd and May 7th, the launch event for "Brand Nirmanam, Part 1 - Awakening of Brand Dharma" concluded. Author Abe Thom Sunil led the proceedings of this event along with several renowned figures in the marketing field. The book integrates the wisdom of ancient Indian traditions with contemporary branding principles, bringing about a significant transformation in the world of marketing. The launch event quickly turned into a cultural celebration, sparking intellectual discussions and engaging the audience's attention. Gratitude was expressed to all attendees at the end.

This journey began with a pre-launch event on May 2nd, organized in collaboration with the Marketing Society "Markos" of Maharaja Agrasen College, Delhi University. The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm from students to teachers, all eagerly awaiting to delve into the main ideas of the book and its unique narrative. As discussions on the main themes of the book and its distinctive story began, the atmosphere became charged with excitement. After enlightening speeches by scholars and intellectuals, attendees identified a remarkable similarity between ancient narratives and modern branding techniques, aiding everyone in gaining deeper insights. This event marked the debut of a literary work where a fresh blend of ancient wisdom and contemporary branding concepts was showcased.

Following the pre-launch event, the author had the honor of presenting his book "Brand Nirmanam" to the esteemed President of India, Draupadi Murmu, and the successful Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi.

Subsequently, a copy of the book was presented to the honorable Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami. The book exemplifies a commitment to exploration and diverse perspectives. On this occasion, the Chief Minister expressed that "Brand Nirmanam" could be considered a unique blend of our rich cultural heritage and modern branding strategies. He further stated that "it will serve as a valuable resource, expressing the sentiments of Uttarakhand, and inspire many to learn about our traditions from a new perspective." This book is not just a literary work but an attempt by Abe Thom Sunil to reconnect India's cultural heritage with modernity through the threads woven in the book.

The event was attended by the National Executive Member of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and sponsor of Muslim Rashtriya Manch (MRM), Shri Indresh Kumar. When the book was presented to him, it was not only a literary gesture but also a recognition of his lifelong dedication. Shri Indresh Kumar remarked, "He has done commendable work in bridging the gap between ancient traditions and branding." Accepting this literary treasure, Shri Kumar acknowledged his role as a guardian of Indian cultural heritage and an advocate of values expressed in "Brand Nirmanam."

The book was also presented to Professor Rakesh Sinha, a renowned figure in the field of culture and a Member of Parliament. Abe engaged in deep intellectual discussions with the esteemed scholar Rakesh Sinha, touching upon the role of books in shaping literature, philosophy, and social consciousness. The meeting between Abe Thom Sunil and Professor Rakesh Sinha represented a convergence of similar ideologies.

On May 6th, the first public unveiling of "Brand Nirmanam" took place at John's Orthodox Church. Over 300 members attended this event. Fr. Saji Abraham described the book as presenting a convergence of faith and intellect, which is often rare. He remarked that the book invites its readers on a journey of enlightenment. Subsequently, the book was presented to Sister Mary Remya, the Principal of Notre Dame School, BTPS, Delhi. The school commended the inclusivity of the book and praised its profound spiritual message. Sister Mary Remya stated that "Brand Nirmanam will be highly beneficial for our students. It enhances their understanding of cultural heritage while encouraging modern educational efforts."

The final and public introduction of the book took place on May 7th during the "India@2047" themed National Convention at Maharaja Agrasen College, Delhi University. The distinguished guest, Shri Bharat Bhushan Arora, and esteemed members of the college, along with students, were present. Professor Sanjeev Kumar Tiwari praised the author, saying, "Abe Thom Sunil has made a significant contribution to Indian cultural heritage and branding. This book will undoubtedly influence new ideas." Shri Bhushan further added that "This convergence of ancient knowledge and modern branding is unique. The book encapsulates innovation and enlightening work."

At the conclusion of the events, author Abe Thom Sunil expressed his gratitude to his friends and family. He specifically thanked Professor Deepa Sharma, whose guidance and advice played a crucial role in shaping his vision. Expressing his joy and gratitude, he mentioned his firm commitment to his next writing journey.

With the unveiling of "Brand Nirmanam, Part 1: Awakening of Brand Dharma," Abe Thom Sunil has not only presented a literary masterpiece but also initiated a dialogue between tradition and modernity. This book promises to be a cornerstone in the evolving landscape of branding and cultural philosophy.

Following the pre-launch event, the author had the honor of presenting his book "Brand Nirmanam" to the esteemed President of India, Draupadi Murmu, and the successful Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi.

Recognizing the acceptance and appreciation of the book among the masses, this presentation proved to be a milestone for the book. During the book's presentation, Prime Minister Modi praised the work, stating that "it is a commendable effort and represents a fusion of ancient traditions and modern techniques, offering new insights for the modern world."

During the event, President Draupadi Murmu remarked that "Abe Thom Sunil has crafted a story that not only illuminates India's rich heritage but also provides a new perspective by integrating it with modern capitalist practices."

The recognition received from the country's top leadership increased the potential for the book to make a nationwide impact. Once can Purchase Book from: https://www.amazon.in/Brand-Nirmanam-Part-Awakening-Dharma/dp/B0D3BVXBBG