ADONIS, 'LIE MYSTERIES OF. Adonis is supposed by some to be identified with Osiris, the grand figure in the Egyptian mysteries; and the mystical rites, celebrated by his priests, and performed at initiations, are thought to be the same as, or a reproduction of, the mysteries of Isis. There are, indeed, some i?oints of resemblance; but there are also radical differ ences. They were both slain, but Osiris met his death by the deliberate machinations of Typhon, or Evil, while Adonis was killed by a wild boar. The meaning of the myth el Osiris is plain enough. The struggle between Osiris and Typhon was the eternal struggle between Truth and Error, the destruction of Osiris by Typhon represents the tem porary triumph of Evil over the Good, and his return to life and the downfall of Typhon show forth the final triumph of virtue over vice, of life over death. The myth of Adonis is not so comprehensive, and all parts of the legend are not so readily interpreted. The mysteries of Adonis were cele brated throughout all the countries of Syria, and formed a part of the ceremonies of the Tyrian architects, by whom they were introduced into Judea. Duncan, in his "Religions of Profane Antiquity," says: "The objects represented in these mysteries were the grief of Venus and the death and resurrection of Adonis. An entire week was consumed in these ceremonies; all the houses were covered with black drapery; funeral processions traversed the streets, while the devotees scourged themselves, uttering frantic cries. The
orgies were then commenced, in which the mystery of the death of Adonis was depicted. During the next twenty four hours, all the people fasted, at the expiration of which time the priests announced the resurrection of the god. Joy now prevailed, and music and dancing concluded the festivals." Some writers regard the story of Adonis as an astronomical allegory, representing the seasons of the year, and the transAion through which the earth passes, in conse quence of these changes. But the rites had, undoubtedly, a deeper meaning, and related to the supreme ideas of religion. The early Christian writers evidently regarded them as having relation to the great Christian mystery. Fermicius, who lived in the fourth century, says: "On a certain night an image is placed upon a bed, and is mourned over by many with sorrowful cries. Then, when wearied by this simulated grief, light is brought in, and the mouths of those who were weeping are anointed by a priest, who breathes forth in a low murmur: Trust ye, disciples ! for the god having been saved, out of his sufferings, salvation shall be ours.'''