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< Tetractys - ten symbolic dots >

A theory advanced by Pythagoras, who affirmed the existence of ten bodies in our Solar System. The ancients knew only seven such bodies, but modern astronomers have discovered the other three: Uranus, Neptune and Pluto.

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This symbol as used by Pythagoras consisted of ten dots arranged in triangular form, as illustrated. By connecting the dots in different ways many rectangles and triangles were formed, all intimately associated with the Pythagorean mathematical system by means of which he explains his conception of the truths of the universe. This may explain the missing apex of the pyramid, as can be seen in the great seal of the United States, as printed on some of the paper currency.