Illustration showing the W of Cassiopeia
This brilliant constellation contains one binary star, a triple star, a double star, a quadruple star, and a large number of nebulæ.
Plate 25: CASSIOPEIA (the Enthroned Woman)
In the year 1572 Tycho Brahe discovered in this constellation, and very near the star κ (under the arm of the chair), a new star, which shone more brightly than Venus. It was observed for nearly two years, and disappeared entirely in 1574.
The brightest star, α (in the left breast), is named Schedir (Hebrew), which means the freed. The next, β (in the top of the chair), likewise bears a Hebrew name—Caph, which means the branch; it is evidently given on account of the branch of victory which she bears in her hand.
She is indeed highly exalted, and making herself ready. Her hands, no longer bound, are engaged in this happy work. With her right hand she is arranging her robes, while with her left she is adorning her hair. She is seated upon the Arctic circle, and close by the side of Cepheus, the King.
This is “the Bride, the Lamb's wife, the heavenly city, the new Jerusalem,” the “partakers of the heavenly calling.”
He who has redeemed her is “the Lamb that was slain,” and He addresses her thus: