of foundation/of control

Hi

Wear mottled jasper for protection against drowning. It is said to be especially potent for this purpose when carved with the image of an equal-armed cross, representing the powers of the four elements, of foundation, and of control.

Do the last two phrases, i.e. of foundation and of control refer to "powers" Shall I understand it:...representing the powers of the four elements, the powers of foundation, and the powers of control? Does it make sense? How do you think what foundation and what control is the author writing about, as I cannot figure it out?

Avangi

There have been many philosophies which have claimed to know the secret powers of the universe.  Perhaps if you go back to your source for this quote,  you can learn how this particular system fits together.  It sounds ancient.  Are we talking about "earth, wind, fire, and water"?  Do the powers reside in the four elements?  Is he naming these powers as "foundation" and "control"?  Without being familiar with this philosophy or reading your full text, one can only guess.

Hi Avangi!

Frankly, I'm half way through the book and do not remember if the author mentioned anything about it in the earlier chapters, I suppose he didn't, and it's something new. I think from a logical point of view these powers should refer (reside in) to the elements (fire, water, air, earth), the foundation and control, but have no idea what this might mean :)

I suppose he's trying to say that the elements have power of control over our lives, and that their origin (foundation) is somehow connected with power.

thanks