Mermaids & Sirens

Cause Before Symptom - With Your Host James Carner

Mermaids & Sirens

A Mythical History: Mermaids

Mermaids, creatures of myth and folklore, have captivated human imagination for centuries. These half-human, half-fish beings have been depicted in various cultures around the world, often associated with the sea, water, and the supernatural.

Ancient Origins

The earliest known references to mermaid-like creatures can be found in ancient Mesopotamian mythology, dating back to around 3000 BCE. The Epic of Gilgamesh, one of the oldest surviving works of literature, describes a goddess named Ea-ki-gal, who is often depicted as having a fish-like body.

In Greek mythology, sirens were mythical creatures with the bodies of birds and the heads of women. Although not strictly mermaids, their association with the sea and their ability to lure sailors to their doom shares similarities with mermaid folklore.

Medieval and Renaissance Europe

During the Middle Ages and Renaissance, mermaid sightings became more prevalent in European folklore. Stories of mermaids were often intertwined with maritime tales and legends. Some accounts described mermaids as being benevolent and helpful to sailors, while others portrayed them as dangerous creatures.

Recorded Sightings and Exploration

* Christopher Columbus: In his journal entries, Columbus described encountering mermaids while exploring the Caribbean Sea. However, his description of these creatures was likely based on a misunderstanding of manatees or dugongs.
* Sir Walter Raleigh: The English explorer Sir Walter Raleigh also claimed to have seen mermaids during his voyages to the Americas. His accounts are similarly believed to be based on mistaken identifications of sea creatures.
* Benjamin Franklin: Even the renowned American statesman Benjamin Franklin expressed interest in mermaid sightings. He corresponded with other scholars about the possibility of their existence and even suggested that they might be a species of seal or otter.

Modern Interpretations

In modern times, mermaids have continued to be a popular subject in literature, film, and television. From Hans Christian Andersen's classic fairy tale "The Little Mermaid" to the Disney animated film of the same name, mermaids have captured the hearts of audiences around the world.

While there is no scientific evidence to support the existence of mermaids, their enduring appeal as mythical creatures reflects our fascination with the unknown and our desire to connect with the natural world.

Mermaids in Different Cultures

European Folklore

* Sirens: As mentioned earlier, Greek mythology features sirens, creatures with the bodies of birds and the heads of women, who used their enchanting voices to lure sailors to their doom.
* Nixies: In German folklore, nixies are water spirits often depicted as beautiful women with long, flowing hair. They are associated with rivers, lakes, and wells and can be both benevolent or malevolent.
* Kelpies: Scottish folklore features kelpies, shape-shifting water spirits that often appear as horses. They can be dangerous and are known to lure unsuspecting travelers into the water.

Asian Folklore

* Jins: In Chinese mythology, jins are water spirits that can take on various forms, including that of a mermaid. They are often associated with rivers, lakes, and oceans and can be both benevolent or malevolent.
* Ningyo: In Japanese folklore, ningyo are mermaid-like creatures with human-like faces and fish-like bodies. They are often depicted as having magical powers and are considered to be good luck.

Indigenous American Folklore

* Apsaras: In Hindu and Buddhist mythology, apsaras are celestial nymphs often depicted as beautiful women with fish-like tails. They are associated with water, fertility, and pleasure.
* Lunokhod: In Slavic folklore, lunokhod are mermaid-like creatures that live in rivers and lakes. They are often depicted as being very beautiful and can be both helpful or harmful to humans.

While there have been numerous historical accounts and legends of mermaid sightings, there is no definitive scientific evidence to support their existence. Many of the recorded instances can be attributed to misidentifications of sea creatures, such as manatees, dugongs, or seals.

Here are some examples of historical accounts:

* Christopher Columbus: In his journal entries, Columbus described encountering mermaids while exploring the Caribbean Sea. However, his description is likely based on a misunderstanding of manatees or dugongs.
* Sir Walter Raleigh: The English explorer Sir Walter Raleigh also claimed to have seen mermaids during his voyages to the Americas. His accounts are similarly believed to be based on mistaken identifications of sea creatures.
* Benjamin Franklin: Even the renowned American statesman Benjamin Franklin expressed interest in mermaid sightings. He corresponded with other scholars about the possibility of their existence and even suggested that they might be a species of seal or otter.

The term "sirens" is derived from Greek mythology. In ancient Greek tales, sirens were mythical creatures with the bodies of birds and the heads of women. They were known for their enchanting voices, which they used to lure sailors to their doom.

While sirens are not technically mermaids, they share some similarities, such as their association with the sea and their ability to captivate and ensnare humans. Over time, the term "siren" has come to be used more broadly to refer to any alluring or seductive woman, often with a dangerous or harmful influence.

The connection between sirens and mermaids is likely due to their shared association with the sea and their ability to captivate and sometimes harm humans.

While sirens were originally described as bird-like creatures, their association with water and their seductive nature may have influenced the development of mermaid myths in other cultures. Over time, the characteristics of sirens and mermaids may have become intertwined, leading to the modern conception of mermaids as half-human, half-fish beings with alluring qualities.

Additionally, the fear and fascination that both sirens and mermaids evoke may have contributed to their enduring popularity in folklore and mythology.

While there is no specific religion that explicitly mentions mermaids, there are elements in various religious traditions that might be connected to mermaid folklore.

* Water Spirits: Many religions and spiritual traditions recognize water spirits or nymphs. These beings are often associated with bodies of water and can have both benevolent and malevolent qualities. While they may not be identical to mermaids, they share some similarities in their association with the aquatic realm.
* Sea Goddesses: Some religions have sea goddesses or deities associated with the ocean. These goddesses may have attributes or powers that could be linked to mermaid folklore. For example, in Greek mythology, Poseidon, the god of the sea, is often depicted as a powerful and sometimes capricious figure.
* Symbolic Interpretations: In some religious texts or traditions, mermaids might be interpreted symbolically. For example, they could represent the allure of the material world, the dangers of temptation, or the power of the natural world.

An interesting book I read called The Secret History of Mermaids, by Ari Berk, gives us a better understanding of how this Merfolk came into fruition.

The book explores the diverse world of merfolk, moving beyond the stereotypical image of a beautiful woman with a fishtail. Merfolk, or "Murgen" as they are called, are presented as ancient and varied beings, reflecting the diverse ecosystems they inhabit, from the Cornish Merrymaids with skate-like markings to the monstrous denizens of the abyssal zones.

The book delves into the social structures of merfolk, highlighting their villages, homes, languages, and methods of communication. It reveals their complex social interactions and the ways in which they govern themselves.

A recurring theme is the historical and often fraught relationship between humans and merfolk. Accounts range from friendly encounters and mutually beneficial trade to the darker aspects of exploitation, capture, and revenge.

The book emphasizes the magical properties of the ocean and the enchantments wielded by merfolk. These include gifts bestowed upon humans, curses inflicted upon those who disrespect them, and their deep connection to the creatures of the deep.

The book explores the concept of lost lands claimed by the sea, such as Atlantis and Lyonnesse, emphasizing the merfolk's claim over these submerged territories and the treasures they hold.

The book presents various theories about merfolk origins, including Atavgatis, the ancient Sea Mother, and Charles Darwin's early speculation that humans evolved from aquatic creatures.

Merfolk communication goes beyond spoken language, incorporating gestures, songs, tail displays, tide runes, and shell inscriptions. They are said to mimic whale and dolphin sounds and communicate with various sea creatures.

Merfolk live in structured societies within villages, often with elaborate coral structures and marketplaces, as described by a 17th-century treasure hunter in a diving bell.

Merfolk can bestow gifts upon humans, such as healing powers, musical talents, and enchanted objects like the "Mermaid's Purse" or "Sea Cap." Conversely, they can inflict powerful curses on those who offend them, ranging from localized misfortune to the infamous Wandering Curse that dooms a ship to sail aimlessly.

The book details various dangerous sea creatures from ancient accounts, including the Kraken, Leviathan, Sirens, and the Blue Men of the Scottish seas.

They have a complex system of governance existing within the merfolk world, with councils and regional rulers overseen by the Ministry of Waters and the four Dragon Kings of the Sea. The Ancient Code of Atargatis dictates fundamental laws regarding interactions between land and sea dwellers.

This book presents a rich and captivating exploration of merfolk and the mysteries of the sea, weaving together folklore, historical accounts, and imaginative speculation. It encourages a deeper understanding of these creatures and the importance of respecting their world and traditions.

But when it comes to proof, there is just heresay, rumors and tales. Eyewitness accounts but no bodies. The internet is flooded with videos of mermaids but almost all of them can be debunked. Just like aliens and ghosts, to believe in mermaids, it takes faith and belief in the storyteller.

Another book I read is Mermaids: Art, Symbolism and Mythology by, Axel Muller, Christopher Halls, Ben Williamson.

According to the author, women with fish tails are among the oldest and still most popular of mythological creatures, possessing a powerful allure and compelling ambiguity. They dwell right in the uncanniest valley of the sea: so similar to humans, yet profoundly other. Mermaids: Art, Symbolism and Mythology presents a comprehensive, interdisciplinary and beautifully illustrated study of mermaids and their influence on Western culture. The roots of mermaid mythology and its metamorphosis through the centuries are discussed with examples from visual art, literature, music and architecture-from 600 BCE right up to the present day. Our story starts in Mesopotamia, source of the earliest preserved illustrations of half-human, half-fish creatures. The myths and legends of the Mesopotamians were incorporated and adopted by ancient Greek, Etruscan and Roman cultures. Then, during the early medieval period, ancient mythological creatures such as mermaids were confused, transformed and reinterpreted by Christian tradition to begin a new strand in mermaid lore. Along the way, all manner of stunning-and sometimes bizarre or unsettling-depictions of mermaids emerged. Written in an accessible and entertaining style, this book challenges conventional views of mermaid mythology, discusses mermaids in the light of evolutionary theory and aims to inspire future studies of these most curious of imaginary creatures.

The book explores the evolution of mermaid iconography and mythology in the Western world, focusing on their diverse representations across cultures and artistic movements.
The authors trace the roots of the mermaid myth back to ancient Mesopotamia, examining figures like Kulullû and Kuliltu, the Aramaean goddess Atargatis, and the Greek deities like Scylla, Sirens, and Aphrodite. They illustrate how these ancient figures and stories contributed to the formation of the Christian mermaid symbolism that dominated the medieval era.

During the Romanesque to Baroque periods, the mermaid's image was largely shaped by Christian interpretations, often embodying temptation and sin. The authors analyze bestiaries, religious architecture, and artworks from this era to demonstrate how mermaids were used as moralistic symbols.

The 19th and early 20th centuries saw a resurgence of interest in mermaids, particularly within the Romantic and Symbolist movements. Artists like Waterhouse, Draper, Böcklin, and Munch revisited the mermaid theme, exploring themes of seduction, longing, and the power of female figures.

The latter half of the 20th century witnessed the increasing commercialization and trivialization of the mermaid image. From tattoos and comic books to film and marketing logos, the mermaid became a ubiquitous figure, often stripped of its original mystical and symbolic depth.

The Christian mermaid image did not emerge from a single source but was a fusion of various mythical figures and cultural beliefs:
Mesopotamian deities with fish tails like Kulullû and Kuliltu.
Aramaean goddess Atargatis who was sometimes depicted with a fish tail and associated with love and fertility.

The book describes Greek figures like Scylla (a monstrous mermaid), Sirens (bird-women with alluring voices), and Aphrodite (goddess of love associated with the sea).

Also weaves in Nymphs, Rusalkas, and Selkies from Celtic, Germanic, and Slavic traditions, which contributed to the image of beautiful and sometimes dangerous water spirits.

Primarily they represented sin, temptation, and the dangers of lust.
During the Renaissance, depictions became more sensual and erotic, often portraying mermaids as objects of desire and beauty.
Romanticism and Symbolism: Represented longing, unattainable love, and the power of nature.

In the Modern Era, mermaids are often commercialized and trivialized, used in branding, entertainment, and popular culture.
"Real" Mermaid Sightings: While many "sightings" can be attributed to marine animals like manatees and seals, the book explores the enduring fascination with proving the existence of mermaids, citing examples like the Japanese mermaid mummies and Karl Banse's book arguing for their historical existence.

The book provides a comprehensive exploration of the mermaid figure's long and complex history. The authors skillfully demonstrate how this mythical creature has captivated human imagination for centuries, evolving from ancient deities to symbols of sin and temptation, romantic ideals, and ultimately, commercialized figures of popular culture. The book emphasizes that the mermaid, while seemingly simple, represents a powerful confluence of cultural beliefs, artistic expressions, and enduring human fascinations with the mysteries of the sea and the allure of the unknown.

Mother’s of Nephilim

I read somehwere that sirens or mermaids are the spirits of the women who birthed the nephilim. They committed a grave sin and are trapped here in the oceans to lure men into sin. This to me makes the most sense to me since mermaids throughout folklore are evil continually. Basically, nothing good comes from them. A fitting punishment by God to make up for the destruction of mankind of what the Nephilim did.

The idea that mermaids are the mothers of Nephilim is a relatively recent concept that has gained popularity in some fantasy and mythological circles. It seems to have originated from a combination of various folklore and religious texts, though there's no concrete historical or religious source that directly supports this idea.

Here are some possible influences:

* Mermaids and Sirens: In many cultures, mermaids and sirens are associated with seduction, temptation, and danger. This association might have been combined with the biblical concept of Nephilim, who were often depicted as powerful, sinful beings.
* Biblical Nephilim: The Bible describes Nephilim as offspring of angels and human women. Some interpretations of this have suggested that the angelic fathers might have taken on aquatic or hybrid forms, leading to the idea of mermaid mothers.
* Fantasy and Folklore: Fantasy and folklore often blend elements from different cultures and mythologies. The idea of mermaid mothers of Nephilim might have been created as a way to combine these elements and create a more fantastical and intriguing narrative.

It's important to note that this idea is not supported by any established religious or historical texts. It's a creative interpretation that has emerged in popular culture and fantasy settings.

There are no books, references or trail that leads anywhere supporting the idea that they are the mother’s of Nephilim. This idea most likely came into fruition just as recently as the Nephilim have become mainstream now. People are trying to make justification or fit the narrative in to make them make sense.

Only about 5% of the world's oceans have been explored. This means that 95% of our planet's largest ecosystem remains largely unknown to us. The vastness of the ocean, its extreme depths, and the technological challenges of exploring it have contributed to this relatively small percentage.

While we have advanced technology like satellites and sonar, exploring the ocean depths presents unique challenges:

1. Extreme Pressure: The deeper you go, the more intense the water pressure becomes. This makes it difficult for traditional submersibles and even unmanned vehicles to withstand the conditions.  
2. Darkness: Sunlight only penetrates a relatively short distance into the ocean. Beyond that, it's pitch black, making it hard to see and explore using traditional visual methods.  
3. Temperature: The ocean's temperatures can vary widely, from freezing cold in the depths to warm in the surface layers. These temperature extremes can also pose challenges for exploration equipment.
4. Vastness: The ocean is simply enormous. Even with advanced technology, it takes a significant amount of time and resources to cover such a vast area.   

While satellites can provide valuable information about the ocean's surface and some of its deeper features, they cannot provide the same level of detail as in-person exploration. That's why only a small portion of the ocean has been explored so far.  

It's a fascinating field of research, and scientists are constantly developing new technologies to unlock the mysteries of the deep sea.

While ships have been exploring the ocean for centuries, there are a few reasons why we haven't seen much more than 5%:

1. Depth Limitations: Most ships are designed for surface exploration. While some have the capability to go deeper, the extreme pressure at the ocean floor makes it difficult for them to explore the vast majority of the ocean.
2. Time Constraints: Exploring the entire ocean would take an enormous amount of time and resources. Even with modern technology, it would be a massive undertaking.
3. Focus on Specific Areas: Many ships focus on specific areas, such as shipping lanes or fishing grounds. This means that large portions of the ocean remain unexplored.

While ships have played a crucial role in ocean exploration, they are limited in their ability to reach the depths and cover the vast expanse of the ocean. That's why advanced technologies like submersibles and unmanned vehicles are essential for exploring the unexplored parts of our planet.

Another thing to consider is the amount of dead sea creatures that wash up ashore that are unidentifiable. Hundreds if not thousands are reported every year and marine biologists take them in for examiniation. They wash up due to

* Weather patterns: Storms, hurricanes, and tsunamis can significantly increase the number of marine animals that are washed up on beaches.  

* Human activities: Pollution, overfishing, and habitat destruction can also contribute to the loss of marine life.  

* Natural mortality: Some sea creatures may simply die of natural causes and subsequently wash ashore.

So the posibility that people live in the waters isn’t that far fetched. There are primitive villages in south america where people fish by holding their breath for a half an hour. It’s possible to adapt even in the harshest of environments. The one that that would separate a sea person and a land person would be how they receive oxygen. I personally do not believe these are a species. I believe they are spirit in nature and most likely are demonic.

Spirits can be attached to objects. I have seen it with my own eyes. I do believe there are ruins of ancient cities beneath the ocean as we have proof of. When boats travel over that lost city, the demonic are curious and do whatever they can to manifest for escape. They would need an agreement with the sailors to detach from the lost city and attach to them. A call and manifestation of mermaids seems the most plausible explanation.

sources

Gemini AI
https://www.quora.com/Is-it-true-that-mermaids-were-angels-from-heaven
Mermaids: Art, Symbolism and Mythology by, Axel Muller, Christopher Halls, Ben Williamson.
The Secret History of Mermaids, by Ari Berk