Gathering

Definition:

A “gathering” is an assembly or meeting of people, typically for a specific purpose such as a social, cultural, religious, or professional event. Gatherings can range in size from small, informal get-togethers to large, formal conventions.

Etymology:

The word “gathering” comes from the Old English “gaderian,” meaning “to bring together” or “to assemble.” This reflects the act of bringing individuals into one place for a common purpose.

Description:

Gatherings are a fundamental aspect of human society, providing opportunities for connection, celebration, collaboration, and the reinforcement of cultural and religious traditions. Whether small and informal or large and formal, gatherings bring people together, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. Understanding the various forms and significance of gatherings across different cultures and historical contexts highlights their enduring importance in shaping human interactions and social structures.

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Herd Mentality:

Herd mentality behavior is far from a rare phenomenon. Wherever you see a herd, you will be able to observe examples of herd mentality behavior. Large gatherings of people have always been dangerous because of the risk of stampedes occurring. But in the modern era, large gatherings have become especially dangerous as they are attractive targets for terror attacks.

Large gatherings of people is a prime example of herd mentality. And nothing is greater at bringing people together than religion.

Kumbh Mela holds the world record and is a major Hindu pilgrimage and festival in India. It is held every three years, rotating among four locations. The largest gatherings occur during the Maha Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years in Prayagraj (Allahabad). Devotees come to bathe in the holy rivers, believing it cleanses them of sins. It has been reported that over 100 million people gathered there in 2013.

Kumbh Mela in India (2024).

Arbaeen pilgrimage in Iraq holds the record for being the second largest gathering in the world. It marks the end of the 40-day mourning period for the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad. Pilgrims travel on foot to Karbala, where Husayn is buried, in one of the world’s largest annual gatherings. It is estimated that 20-30 million people attend the pilgrimage annually.

Arbaeen pilgrimage in Iraq (2018).

Symbolism:

Gathering is a symbol of herd mentality.

The words “come” and “cum” are polysemies. The phrase “come together,” has multiple meanings, one being “to gather,” the other being “to have an orgasm together.” The symbolism is for example present in the song “Cyn – Moment of Truth” from the movie “Smallfoot” (2018).

But if it’s ever gonna change,
we gotta come together, me and you,
in a mo-oh, woah oh, moment of truth.
Na, na-na-na-na-na.
Na, na-na-na-na, na-na-na.
Yeti-yo oh, woah-oh, woah-oh-oh.

“Nanna” is a rape symbol, from the fictional story of Nanna-Suen. “Oh” is a fantasy symbol, symbolizing nothingness. By repeating these words, she’s making sex sounds, symbolizing the lie of having to gather to make a change, while also emphasizing the sexual meaning of the term “come together.”

The phrase “we are all gathered here” is commonly used in church settings. It is often part of the opening remarks or invocation during religious services, ceremonies, and other gatherings. This phrase emphasizes the communal aspect of worship and the act of coming together in a shared space for a spiritual purpose.

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