Appendix: Ouroboros

The Ouroboros has been a symbol of the eternal cycle, constantly beginning and ending, representing the perpetual cycle of renewal. Similar to the Phoenix, it represents life, death and rebirth. It’s an ancient symbol representing a serpent or a dragon eating it’s own tail. Text have described the Ouroboros to also be the mathematical representation of Infinity.

Images of the Ouroboros can be seen throughout history:

  • Ancient Egypt
  • Greece
  • Middle East
  • India
  • China
  • Japan
  • South America
  • Native American culture

Humanity is drawn to the elegance of eternal rebirth. There is something alluring about a continual cycle that is never-ending and eternal. Perhaps it represents a taste of Immortality; or more simply the possibility of Second Chances.

We are flawed and prone to making mistakes in life. The Ouroboros represents the knowledge that one cycle will end, and a new one begins with new possibilities. In a way, The Ouroboros goes beyond the cycle. There is a spiritual Hope in its symbolism.

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