The Sacred Bee: Apimondia Abstract
Abstract presented for
2017 Apimondia; International Apicultural Congress
Istanbul Sept 29- Oct 4.:
The Sacred Bee:
In history, mystery and myth
and it's relevance on modern beekeeping practices
Laura C Ferguson College of the Melissae, Center for Sacred Beekeeping, USA
Taking the study of bees beyond biology, economics and agriculture and into the realms of anthropology, history and myth both deepens and structures a more ethical understanding of apis meliferra and our universal, intrinsic relationship with Nature and our food systems.
Throughout history Apis Meliferra and her sister species have been represented in a Sacred and mythical context as well as consistently and cross-culturally revered: Exploration of this perspective within the context of animal communication brings the bee-tender into closer relation with high value and universal spiritual principles and brings a more thorough understanding of bees and nature and our connection to both.
While we study rural and indigenous bee practices with wonderment and inspiration, bringing forth these ethics and language into the modern universal context of the Anthropocene epoch is both enriching and essential. From this pollinated perspective, new solution, understanding and methodology is being developed.
Honeybee biology in itself both reinforces and illuminates the sacred principles that resonate in seminal ancient myths such as the stories of Bhramari Devi whose mantra is “first sound” known as the “sound of the bee.”
Taken further, this mantra practice brought into an educated beekeeping culture helps unite us with our beekeeping world lineage in our bodies and, like yoga, becomes a spiritual embodiment practice.
Through investigation of this plethora of symbolic inspiration I have discovered meditative technologies and historical themes that provide a template for healing and connection in these modern times.
Essentially, by meditating with the bees,
we gain bee wisdom and insight into ourselves.
In my presentation I will discuss relevant literature and myth, relate it to our current state of environmental awareness and compare ancient understanding of bees with our current one.
Finally, with the ethos of Native American tradition, I will share a few examples of the meditative technologies, bee ethics and beekeeping practices as developed through my research/practice, and recount some of the discoveries made by
co-horts, students and myself.
My lecture will include a rich power-point of symbols from around the world and throughout history.
ABSTRACT ACCEPTED APIMONDIA 2017 For the real deal.
45th APIMONDIA | International Apicultural Congress
On behalf of the Turkish Beekeeping Association ( TAB ), it is our sincere pleasure to invite Apimondia International Apicultural Congress to be held in Istanbul, Turkey between 29 September - 4 October 2017
