Sunday, June 22, 2014

Eight of Mirrors – The Noble Eightfold Path

Chrysalis Tarot, Eight of Mirrors
In this Depiction of the Eight of Mirrors from the Chrysalis Tarot we see an old sage walking downhill along a path with eight mirrors. Over his head butterflies are flying as a symbol of transformation and enlightenment On the mountain words are written. Words of encouragement, Love and self-awareness. These words can be found in every philosophical or religious book because Truth it universal. And maybe universal Truth can be written in stone? The mirrors on this path are reflecting the wisdom of every great teacher the world has ever had: Selflessness, Truthfulness, Harmlessness, Mindfulness, Respectfulness, Goodness, Peacefulness, Righteousness.
This card reminds us to walk the path of these teachers, gain their insights through learning and practice without losing our own identify. Only then our own butterfly can spread its wings.
It feels like this card is the follow up of the Eight of cups. You may have to walk away from your cups in order to realize the beauty they hold so you can return more wiser and content with the same cups. Finding Happiness if often is only a matter of changing ones perception.

"And this, monks, is the noble truth of the way of practice leading to the cessation of Dukkha (suffering): precisely this Noble Eightfold Path” (Buddha)
1.       Right vision, or understanding: understanding that life always involves change and suffering; realizing that following the Noble Eightfold Path is the way to overcome suffering and be really happy.
2.       Right emotion: committing oneself to wholeheartedly following the path.
3.       Right speech: speaking in a positive and helpful way; speaking the truth.
4.       Right action: living an ethical life according to the precepts.
5.       Right livelihood: doing work that doesn't harm others and is helpful to them.
6.       Right effort: thinking in a kindly and positive way.
7.       Right mindfulness: being fully aware of oneself, other people, and the world around you.
8.       Right meditation, or concentration: training the mind to be calm and positive in order to develop Wisdom.  

4 comments:

  1. I really like this depiction of the Eight of Cups; instead of just leaving behind something, here there are signposts that help mark the way so you'll know if you're on the right road.
    Your post reminds me of a quote by Issac Newton: "If I have seen further it is by standing on the shoulders of giants."

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes that's a great quote. There has been some great giants among us and I suppose there will be more to come (I hope)
      So far I like this deck very much. It is much more easy to read with when you let it speak for itself and don't expect it to be a RW clone

      Delete
  2. I really like this post. I have had the impression, especially at this time in history, so many, some how think there are not universal/spiritual truths. Humans can make a religion out of any thing it, does not necessarily make it a truth that is benevolent and kind. If I thought there was not universal truth life would be hopeless. I thank God that there is always hope for the hopeless!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I agree with you Catherine. Sometimes religions even think they are the only ones abiding by those truths and they are demonizing any other religion. Maybe we should get rid of religion all together and just worship God(dess) :D

      Delete