The Greek philosopher Pythagoras is one of the most interesting characters of the ancient world. Apart from coining the term philosophy, love of wisdom, Pythagoras created an entire religious belief system based on the sacred nature of numbers. He is best known for discovering the Pythagorean theorem and the numerical ratio of musical intervals. 

Yet the most interesting aspect about his life is the fact that he encouraged women to study philosophy by giving them equal opportunity. Tradition holds that his wife, daughters and mother were part of his inner circle. Theano of Croton was a distinguished philosopher and is said to have taken over the leadership after his death. She was also his wife. Some sources claim Theano wrote about the golden ratio, the most sacred of all numbers. 

What I find interesting is the similarity between Mary Magdalene and Theano of Croton. The Bible clearly states that Jesus had a large following of female disciples and that they provided the necessary funds for his ministry. The Gnostic Gospels portray Mary as highly intelligent and a keen participant in discussions about spirituality. 

Many believe that Mary was the Apostle to the Apostles and the chosen leader of the early church. The inherent misogyny of Saint Peter, the elder amongst the disciples, stopped Mary from fulfilling her role as teacher and leader. Jewish tradition, a point repeatedly raised by Saint Paul, forbid women from speaking or leading in church. Jesus never once mentioned this law, and even scolded Martha, Mary’s sister, for complaining about Mary spending time with Jesus instead of helping with the chores. 

Both Pythagoras and Jesus were ahead of their time, yet even today, two and a half thousand years later, women are still treated as second class citizens. They are not deemed worthy enough of doing a ‘man’s’ job, and men are taught that they are inherently more qualified. This superiority complex masks a deep rooted insecurity that is nurtured from birth.

GOD IS A MAN. Man was created in God’s image, and Eve was created from Adams rib for his enjoyment. Eve was responsible for introducing sin into the world, and therefore women cannot be trusted. They are weak and easily led astray. This mantra has been repeated over and over for thousands of years, reaffirming the distorted understanding of life and the universe. 

The Alchemical Wedding requires the balance and integration of masculine and feminine. The two forces are not viewed as opposites but rather as complimentary. So much more can be achieved when they work together, each allowing the other to lead when appropriate. 

Pythagoras teaching a class of women. Illustration 1913.