Saturday, April 8, 2023

Seeking the Divine: Ancient Concepts of an Infinite God Across the World

"There are not different gods in different nations, barbarians and Greeks, southerners and northerners. Just as sun and moon and sky and earth and sea are common to all, though named differently by different peoples, so the one Reason ordering this world, the one Providence governing it, and the subordinate powers set over all have different honours and titles among different peoples according to their customs. Some men, whose lives are sanctified, use faint symbols, others use clearer ones; these guide the mind towards things divine, but not without danger, since there are those who go completely wrong and slip into superstition, and again there are others who avoid superstition as though it were a marsh and then fall unawares over the precipice of godlessness." - Plutarch

Religion and spirituality have played a significant role in the history of humanity since time immemorial. Throughout history, people have sought to understand the mysteries of the cosmos and the role of humanity in it through various belief systems. A common thread that runs through many of these beliefs is the concept of an infinite God or supreme being. Our aim is to examine the different names and concepts of an infinite God or supreme being in ancient civilizations, and explore how these beliefs were shaped by the geography, culture, and history of each civilization.

The ancient world was a diverse and complex place, with a variety of civilizations emerging in different parts of the globe. These civilizations were characterized by their unique cultures, languages, and ways of life. Some of the major ancient civilizations include ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greece, Rome, India, China, the Americas, Africa, Southeast Asia, the Philippines, and the Malay Archipelago. Despite their differences, these civilizations shared a common human experience, which included the search for meaning, purpose, and a connection to the divine.

Beliefs about an Infinite God or Supreme Being in Ancient Civilizations

The concept of an infinite God or a supreme being is found in many civilizations throughout history, and different cultures have given this deity various names.

Yahweh - In Judaism, Yahweh is the name of the infinite God. According to the Jewish belief, Yahweh is the God who created the world and the universe. In the Hebrew Bible, which is the primary scripture of Judaism, Yahweh is the most important name used to refer to God. It is often translated as "Lord" or "God" in English translations.

The name Yahweh is derived from the Hebrew verb "to be", which signifies that God is eternal, self-existent, and the source of all existence. It is considered a sacred name and is not to be pronounced except in prayer and religious contexts. Instead, it is often replaced with the term "Adonai" which means "Lord" in Hebrew.

In Jewish tradition, Yahweh is often described as a personal God who interacts with humanity and has made covenants with the Jewish people. He is seen as a God of justice and mercy, who is both powerful and compassionate. Yahweh is also regarded as the God who delivered the Israelites from slavery in Egypt and gave them the Ten Commandments.

The belief in Yahweh has been central to Jewish religious and cultural identity throughout history, and it continues to be a significant part of Jewish worship and practice today.

Allah - In Islam, Allah is indeed the name of the one true God who is infinite, merciful, and all-powerful. Muslims believe that Allah is the creator and sustainer of the universe and everything in it, and that He is the only one worthy of worship. The concept of Allah is central to Islamic beliefs, and Muslims believe that the Prophet Muhammad was the last and final messenger of Allah, who revealed His message to humanity through the Quran.

The name "Allah" is derived from the Arabic word "ilah," which means "god" or "deity." However, Muslims believe that Allah is not just one among many gods, but rather the only true God who is infinite, eternal, and unchanging. Muslims also believe that Allah has 99 names, each of which represents a different attribute or quality of God, such as the Merciful, the Compassionate, the All-Knowing, and the All-Powerful.

In Islamic theology, Allah is believed to be beyond human comprehension, and Muslims do not believe in depicting Allah in human form or creating images or idols of Him. Rather, Muslims believe that Allah can be known through His signs and manifestations in the world, and through reflection and contemplation on His names and attributes. The concept of Allah is therefore central to Islamic theology and spirituality, and is a source of guidance and inspiration for millions of Muslims around the world.

Brahman - In Hinduism, Brahman is a concept that lies at the core of Hinduism, one of the world's oldest and most complex religions. In Hinduism, Brahman is considered the ultimate reality, the infinite, eternal, and absolute spirit that pervades all existence. Brahman is often described as the all-encompassing, formless, and infinite consciousness that is the source and sustenance of all life.

Brahma carving in Hucchappayya gudi, Aihole, now at a Mumbai Museum

Brahman is often viewed as being beyond human comprehension and is considered to be the ultimate goal of human existence, which is to attain a state of spiritual liberation or enlightenment known as moksha. In Hinduism, the universe is seen as a manifestation of Brahman, and all things, including human beings, are seen as being interconnected and ultimately part of the same divine reality.

The concept of Brahman is closely associated with the idea of Atman, which is the individual self or soul that is believed to be a part of Brahman. The goal of Hindu spiritual practices, such as yoga and meditation, is to attain a state of union between the individual self and Brahman, which is known as self-realization or enlightenment.

In Hinduism, Brahman is often depicted through various gods and goddesses, such as Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, who are considered to be different aspects or manifestations of the same divine reality. The concept of Brahman has had a profound impact on Hindu art, literature, philosophy, and spirituality, and continues to be a central aspect of Hindu culture and religious life.

Tao - Tao is a concept in Taoism, which is one of the major religions of China. It is a complex and multifaceted term that has been interpreted and understood in many different ways throughout history. At its core, Tao is the ultimate reality that underlies all things and the infinite, formless source of the universe. It is often translated as "the Way" or "the Path," and it represents the fundamental order and harmony of the universe.

According to Taoist philosophy, everything in the universe is a manifestation of the Tao, including both the physical world and the spiritual realm. The Tao is seen as the underlying principle of all things, and it is considered to be the source of all existence. It is the force that gives rise to the natural world, and it is also the source of human consciousness and awareness.

Taoist teachings emphasize the importance of aligning oneself with the Tao in order to live a fulfilling and harmonious life. This involves cultivating a deep understanding of the natural world and developing a sense of oneness with all things. Through meditation, self-cultivation, and the practice of virtues such as simplicity, humility, and compassion, Taoists seek to align themselves with the Tao and live in harmony with the universe.

The Great Spirit - The Great Spirit is a concept that is central to many Native American religions and spiritual traditions. It is a term that refers to the infinite, eternal, and all-powerful being who is believed to have created the world and everything in it. The Great Spirit is often seen as a benevolent and loving deity who cares for all of creation and who is intimately involved in the lives of human beings.

The concept of the Great Spirit is found in many different Native American cultures, and the name used to refer to this being may vary from one culture to another. For example, among the Lakota people of the Great Plains, the Great Spirit is often referred to as Wakan Tanka, while among the Ojibwe people of the Great Lakes region, the Great Spirit is often called Gichi Manitou.

The Great Spirit is often depicted as a powerful and awe-inspiring force that is beyond human understanding. Many Native American cultures believe that the Great Spirit is present in all things and that everything in the natural world is interconnected. As a result, many Native American religions emphasize the importance of living in harmony with nature and of treating all living beings with respect and reverence.

Zeus - Zeus was one of the most important deities in ancient Greek religion, often depicted as a tall, bearded figure with a powerful build and a lightning bolt in his hand. As the king of the gods, he was considered the supreme ruler of the universe, responsible for maintaining order and justice.

The concept of Zeus as an infinite being was closely tied to his role as the god of thunder and lightning, which were seen as manifestations of his immense power. He was also associated with the sky and the weather, which were seen as further expressions of his control over the natural world.

Zeus was also known for his wisdom, which was seen as infinite and all-encompassing. He was often consulted as an oracle and was believed to have the power to reveal the future to mortals. This wisdom was closely tied to his role as a lawmaker and judge, responsible for upholding justice and maintaining order in the universe.

Odin - Odin, also known as Wodan or Wotan, was a prominent figure in Norse mythology, representing the god of wisdom, magic, and war. He was believed to be the most powerful of all the gods and was revered as the creator of the universe, as well as the master of wisdom and magic. Odin was said to possess infinite knowledge and power, and was revered as the god who knew all things, including the fate of the world and the destiny of all beings. He was the god of the slain, the protector of warriors, and the ruler of the afterlife.

In Norse mythology, Odin was often depicted as a tall, one-eyed, white-bearded man, who wore a wide-brimmed hat and carried a spear called Gungnir. He was often accompanied by two ravens, Huginn and Muninn, who served as his messengers and scouts. Odin was also known to ride an eight-legged horse named Sleipnir, which was said to be the fastest horse in the world.

Odin's role in Norse mythology was multifaceted. He was seen as the god of wisdom and was known to have sacrificed his eye to gain knowledge of the world. He was also the god of magic, and was believed to possess the power to shape-shift, as well as to use his magic to protect and guide his followers. Odin was the god of war, and was often invoked by warriors before battle, as he was believed to be able to grant victory to his chosen champions.

In addition to his other roles, Odin was also considered the god of death. He presided over the afterlife, and it was believed that those who died in battle would be taken to Valhalla, a great hall in Asgard, where they would feast and fight forevermore. Odin was also believed to be the lord of the dead, and it was said that he could call forth the spirits of the dead to seek knowledge or offer guidance.

Amen-Ra – or Amun-Ra was the most prominent deity in the Egyptian pantheon during the New Kingdom period, approximately 1550-1069 BCE. He was a combination of two deities, Amun and Ra, merging into one powerful and all-encompassing god. Amun, originally a god of Thebes, was associated with fertility, creation, and the air, while Ra, the sun god, was associated with power and protection. Amun-Ra became known as the "king of the gods" and was often depicted as a man with a falcon's head, symbolizing his connection to both air and the sun.

Amun-Ra was believed to have created the world and everything in it, including humans, animals, and the gods themselves. He was seen as the divine source of all life and the ultimate protector of the pharaohs, who were considered his representatives on earth. The pharaohs often built grand temples to Amun-Ra, such as the Karnak Temple in Thebes, to honor and worship him.

Amun-Re, chief god of the Theban Triad. 1450 BC. Relief from the Karnak temple complex

Amun-Ra was also associated with Ma'at, the Egyptian concept of balance and order. Ma'at represented the balance of the universe, and Amun-Ra was believed to maintain this balance through his infinite power and wisdom. He was often depicted holding the ankh, the symbol of eternal life, and the scepter, symbolizing his power and authority.

In addition to his role as the creator and protector, Amun-Ra was also considered a god of fertility, associated with the Nile River and its life-giving properties. He was often depicted as a ram, which was a symbol of fertility and power in ancient Egypt.

Amun-Ra's worship remained popular throughout Egyptian history, even after the decline of the New Kingdom period. He was sometimes merged with other deities, such as Osiris or Ptah, but he remained a powerful and important deity in the Egyptian pantheon until the rise of Christianity in the 4th century CE. Today, remnants of Amun-Ra's worship can still be seen in the ruins of the grand temples built in his honor, reminding us of the ancient Egyptians' belief in the infinite power and creativity of their god.

Ormuzd- or Ahura Mazda is the supreme being in Zoroastrianism, one of the oldest monotheistic religions in the world. The name Ahura Mazda means "Wise Lord" or "Lord of Wisdom," and he is considered the creator and sustainer of the universe. In Zoroastrianism, Ahura Mazda is the source of all good, and his power is believed to be infinite.

Ahura Mazda. Relief in Persepolis

According to Zoroastrian mythology, Ahura Mazda created the universe in six stages, beginning with the creation of the sky, the earth, and the waters. He then created the plants and animals, followed by human beings, whom he endowed with free will and the ability to choose between good and evil. Ahura Mazda is also believed to have sent prophets to guide humanity, including Zarathustra, the founder of Zoroastrianism.

In Zoroastrianism, Ahura Mazda is often depicted as a wise and benevolent ruler, who rewards those who follow the path of righteousness and punishes those who stray from it. His power is believed to be manifested in the natural world, in the form of the sun, the moon, and the stars, as well as in human beings, who are believed to be endowed with a divine spark of his power.

Ahura Mazda is also associated with the concept of Asha, which means "truth" or "righteousness." According to Zoroastrianism, Asha is the divine order that governs the universe, and Ahura Mazda is its ultimate source. In this way, Ahura Mazda represents not only the infinite power of the universe but also its inherent moral order.

In Zoroastrianism, the worship of Ahura Mazda is characterized by prayer, devotion, and good deeds. Followers of the religion believe that by living a virtuous life and following the path of Asha, they can attain spiritual enlightenment and eventual union with Ahura Mazda. The religion also emphasizes the importance of free will and personal responsibility, encouraging individuals to choose the path of righteousness and avoid evil.


In the ancient Middle East, there were many different civilizations and cultures that developed their own beliefs and practices regarding the divine. Here are some examples of names for an infinite God or supreme being in the Middle East during ancient times:

El - In ancient Canaanite religion, El was the supreme God and father of the gods, representing the infinite power and wisdom of the divine.

Baal - In ancient Canaanite religion, Baal was the god of storms and fertility, representing the infinite power and creative energy of the universe.

Marduk - In Babylonian religion, Marduk was the chief deity who defeated the forces of chaos and established order in the universe, representing the infinite power and wisdom of the divine.

Anu - In Sumerian mythology, Anu was the god of heaven and the supreme ruler of the universe, representing the infinite power and majesty of the divine.

Ashur - In Assyrian religion, Ashur was the national god and patron deity of the Assyrian people, representing the infinite power and protection of the divine.

Aten - In ancient Egyptian religion, Aten was the sun disk that represented the infinite power and life-giving energy of the sun.

In ancient America, there were many different civilizations and cultures that developed their own beliefs and practices regarding the divine. Here are some examples of names for an infinite God or supreme being in ancient America:

Teotihuacan - In Aztec religion, Teotihuacan was the name of the supreme God who created the world and everything in it, representing the infinite power and wisdom of the divine.

Pachamama - In Inca religion, Pachamama was the goddess of the earth and the mother of all life, representing the infinite power and fertility of the natural world.

Quetzalcoatl - In Aztec religion, Quetzalcoatl was the feathered serpent god who represented the infinite power and transformation of the universe.

British English: 
Quetzalcoatl, the winged serpent 

Viracocha - In Inca religion, Viracocha was the creator god who brought order to the world, representing the infinite power and divine intelligence of the universe.

Inti - In Inca religion, Inti was the god of the sun and patron deity of the Inca people, representing the infinite power and life-giving energy of the sun.

Ixchel - In Maya religion, Ixchel was the goddess of the moon and fertility who represented the infinite power and creativity of the natural world.

Huitzilopochtli - In Aztec religion, Huitzilopochtli was the god of the sun and war who represented the infinite power and strength of the divine.

In ancient Africa, there were many different civilizations and cultures that developed their own beliefs and practices regarding the divine. Here are some examples of names for an infinite God or supreme being in ancient Africa:

Amma or Amen - In Dogon religion, Amma was the creator god who brought the universe into being, representing the infinite power and intelligence of the divine.

Olorun - In Yoruba religion, Olorun was the god of the sky and creator of the universe, representing the infinite power and majesty of the divine.

Anansi - In Ashanti religion, Anansi was the trickster god who represented the infinite power and intelligence of the universe.

Osiris - In ancient Egyptian religion, Osiris was the god of the afterlife and the judge of the dead, representing the infinite power and mystery of death and rebirth.

Nyame - In Akan religion, Nyame was the creator god who brought the world into existence, representing the infinite power and wisdom of the divine.

Mami Wata - In West African religion, Mami Wata was the water spirit who represented the infinite power and beauty of the natural world.

Waaqa - In Oromo religion, or Waaq was the creator god who brought the universe into existence, representing the infinite power and benevolence of the divine.

In ancient Southeast Asia, there were many different cultures and religions that developed their own beliefs and practices regarding the divine. Here are some examples of names for an infinite God or supreme being in ancient Southeast Asia:

Shangdi - In Chinese religion, Shangdi was the highest deity who governed the universe and represented the infinite power and order of the cosmos.

Jade Emperor - In Chinese religion, the Jade Emperor was the supreme deity who ruled over all other gods and spirits, representing the infinite power and majesty of the divine.

Brahma - In Hinduism, Brahma is one of the major gods who is often worshipped as the creator of the universe, representing the infinite power and creativity of the divine.

Buddha - In Buddhism, the Buddha represents the ultimate reality and enlightenment, representing the infinite power and wisdom of the divine.

Preaching Buddha-5th century CE-Sandstone-Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh-Sculpture gallery- Indian Museum- Kolkata

Kuan Yin - In Chinese Buddhism, Kuan Yin is the goddess of compassion who represents the infinite power and mercy of the divine.

Amaterasu - In Japanese religion, Amaterasu is the goddess of the sun who is often worshipped as a symbol of divine power and light.

In ancient Philippines and the Malay Archipelago, there were various indigenous religions and belief systems that developed their own concepts of an infinite God or supreme being. Here are some examples of names for an infinite God or supreme being in ancient Philippines and the Malay Archipelago:

Bathala - In ancient Tagalog religion, Bathala was the supreme deity who governed the universe and represented the infinite power and wisdom of the divine.

Singalang Burong - In ancient Iban religion, Singalang Burong was the deity who governed the universe and represented the infinite power and guidance of the divine.

Common Themes and Motifs

Ancient beliefs in an infinite God or supreme being share several common themes and motifs despite differences in geography, culture, and history. One of the most common themes is the belief in an all-powerful deity who created and governs the universe. This belief was prevalent in ancient Egyptian religion with Amun-Ra, in Judaism with Yahweh, and in Zoroastrianism with Ahura Mazda. These deities were regarded as the ultimate power and the source of all things.

Another common motif is the belief in the afterlife. In ancient Egypt, the belief in an afterlife was so strong that they built elaborate tombs for their dead and practiced mummification. The ancient Greeks also believed in the afterlife, with the concept of Hades, the god of the underworld. In Hinduism, the belief in reincarnation is central, where the soul is believed to be reborn after death based on one's actions in life.

The concept of morality and ethics is also a common theme in ancient beliefs. In Judaism, the Ten Commandments provide a moral code for believers to follow. In Hinduism, the concept of dharma is essential, which emphasizes one's moral and ethical duty. The ancient Chinese religion of Taoism also emphasizes the importance of ethical behavior in one's life.

Despite similarities, there are also differences in beliefs and practices across different civilizations. For example, the ancient Greeks and Romans believed in multiple gods and goddesses who represented different aspects of life, while monotheistic religions such as Judaism, Christianity, and Islam believe in one God. In Hinduism, there are many gods and goddesses, but they are seen as different aspects of the same ultimate reality.

Factors that Shaped Beliefs

Geography, culture, and history played a significant role in shaping ancient beliefs. The Egyptians, for example, lived in a land of extremes, with the Nile River providing fertile soil for agriculture and the harsh desert surrounding it. This duality of life and death influenced their beliefs in the afterlife and the role of death in the cycle of life. In ancient China, the belief in ancestor worship was prevalent, which was rooted in the importance of family and lineage in their culture.

Thus, ancient beliefs in an infinite God or supreme being share common themes and motifs, such as the belief in an all-powerful deity, the afterlife, and the importance of morality and ethics. However, there are also differences in beliefs and practices across different civilizations, which were influenced by geography, culture, and history.

The significance of these beliefs cannot be overstated. They provided people with a sense of order and purpose in a world that was often unpredictable and chaotic. They also reflected the cultural, social, and political values of the societies that held them. For example, the concept of balance and harmony in ancient Chinese beliefs was reflective of the importance of social order and hierarchy in Chinese society.

These beliefs also had a significant impact on ancient cultures, shaping their art, architecture, literature, and social practices. The gods and goddesses were often depicted in art and literature, and their stories and myths provided inspiration for drama, poetry, and philosophy. The rituals and ceremonies associated with their worship were important social events that brought communities together.

There is still much to be explored in the study of ancient beliefs about an infinite God or supreme being. Further research could focus on the role of gender and sexuality in these beliefs, the relationship between religion and politics, and the impact of these beliefs on the development of modern religions.

Understanding these ancient beliefs can provide insight into the human experience and the evolution of religion and spirituality.

God is One

The concept of monotheism, or the belief in one God, has been a fundamental part of many of the world's major religions. The idea that God is one is central to the beliefs of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, and is also present in other faiths such as Sikhism and Bahá'í.

The belief in one God is rooted in the idea that there is a single, all-powerful, and all-knowing deity who created and governs the universe. This concept is expressed in different ways across various religions, but the underlying principle remains the same: that there is only one God who is worthy of worship and devotion.

In Judaism, the concept of God as one is expressed in the Shema, a prayer that is recited daily by observant Jews. The prayer begins with the declaration, "Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one." This statement affirms the belief in the unity of God and serves as a reminder that God is the only one who is worthy of worship.

For Christians, the belief in one God is rooted in the doctrine of the Holy Trinity, which teaches that God is one in three persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit. This belief is expressed in the Nicene Creed, which states that God is "one God, the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, and of all things visible and invisible."

In Islam, the concept of God as one is expressed through the belief in Tawhid, which is the belief in the oneness of God. Muslims affirm this belief through the declaration of faith, or Shahada, which states that "There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger." This statement affirms the belief that there is only one God, Allah, who is the source of all creation and who has no partners or associates.

The belief in one God is also present in other religions, such as Sikhism and Bahá'í. In Sikhism, the concept of Ik Onkar, or "One God," is central to their beliefs, and is expressed in the Mool Mantar, the fundamental prayer of Sikhism. Bahá'í also affirms the belief in one God, who is the source of all creation and who has revealed His teachings through various prophets throughout history.

The belief in one God is a central tenet of many of the world's major religions. The idea that God is one is expressed in different ways across various faiths, but the underlying principle remains the same: that there is only one God who is worthy of worship and devotion. This belief in the oneness of God serves as a reminder of the unity and interconnectedness of all things, and encourages people to strive for peace and harmony in their relationships with one another and with the world around them.

The Kabala of God

In occult and esoteric traditions, the number 7 is considered a highly significant and powerful number. It is believed to represent completion, perfection, and totality, as it is the sum of the divine number 3 and the earthly number 4. The number 7 is said to be related to various aspects of creation and existence, including the seven days of the week, the seven chakras in the body, and the seven planets in the ancient cosmology.

In ANAGOMKIN: The Hidden God, the author explores the concept that there is only one God, which manifests in the number 7. This idea is based on the Kabbalistic Tree of Life, which is a diagram of the divine emanations of the universe. According to this model, there are 10 sephiroth or spheres of existence, which are arranged in three columns and connected by 22 paths. The number 7 is associated with the seventh sephirah, Netzach, which is located on the column of action and represents victory, eternity, and the power of the will.

ANAGOMKIN: The Hidden God - Kindle edition by CHUA, R.D. . Religion & Spirituality Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.

The author argues that the number 7 is a symbol of the hidden God, who is present in all things and manifests through the seven aspects of creation: light, darkness, fire, water, air, earth, and spirit. These seven elements are believed to be the building blocks of the universe and are associated with various spiritual and mystical concepts, such as the seven levels of consciousness, the seven directions, and the seven stages of spiritual evolution.

The book ANAGOMKIN: The Hidden God uses numerology to support the idea that there is only one God, who is present in the number 7. The author argues that the number 7 is significant because it is the sum of the divine number 3 and the earthly number 4, and represents the harmonious union of spirit and matter. This idea is in line with many other occult and esoteric traditions, which emphasize the importance of balancing the spiritual and material aspects of life in order to achieve wholeness and unity.

The concept that there is only one God, which manifests in the number 7, is a complex and multifaceted idea that draws on a range of occult and esoteric traditions. It is a symbol of unity, completeness, and the hidden divinity that is present in all things.

The Divine Names of God

AMEN RA

145591=25=7


BRAHMA

291841=25=7

 

YAHWEH

718558=34=7

 

ORMUZD

694384=34=7

 

MITHRAS

4928911=34=7

 

ALLAH

13318=16=7

 

JESUS CHRIST

15131 389912=43=7

 

VIRAKOCHA

499126381=43=7

 

SHANGDI

1815749=25=7

 

WAAQA

51181=16 =

 

(Please refer to the book ANAGOMKIN: The Hidden God for further details.)

 

References:

Assmann, J. (2001). The Search for God in Ancient Egypt. Cornell University Press.

Black, J. & Green, A. (1992). Gods, Demons and Symbols of Ancient Mesopotamia. University of Texas Press.

Burkert, W. (1985). Greek Religion. Harvard University Press.

Lurker, M. (1984). The Gods and Symbols of Ancient Mexico and the Maya. Thames & Hudson.

Parker, R. (1991). The Gods of War: Sacred Imagery and the Decoration of Arms and Armor. Thames & Hudson.

Possehl, G. (2002). The Indus Civilization: A Contemporary Perspective. Rowman Altamira.

Wu, K. (2012). The Chinese Philosophy of Time and Change. Brill.

 

 

 

 

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