U = 5, 0
The letter U, fifth in the recited vowel sequence
corresponds to Geburah, the fifth Sephira of the Tree of Life, ruled by Mars, symbol of
the power and ferocity, the passion of the Universe, the heat and dark passion of the
powers of the Feminine. U's shape suggests the Kteis, and the dark powers of the Feminine
which are celebrated at the Summer Solstice. At this time of year, the Sun reaches the
summit of its powers and maturity at its furthest declination north - the Tropic of Cancer
- bringing heat, lushness, and effulgence of growth. But in the midst of so much life,
death lurks: the Dark Twin of the Sun gains in strength as the nights begin to lengthen.
In the Ollave's finger alphabet U was represented by the middle finger
of the hand - a sign of sexual powers that is still much in current use. Its Qabalistic
value was suppressed except for sacred purposes, for the powers of the Feminine are all
too easily profaned.
