“To be a philosopher is not merely to have subtle thoughts,
not even to found a school,
but so to love wisdom as to live according to its dictates,
a life of simplicity, independence, magnanimity, and trust.
It is to solve some of the problems of life,
not only theoretically, but practically.”
–Henry David Thoreau, Walden (1854), p. 12
Heart of Wisdom Symbolic Mandala by: Cristina McAllister at Gypsy Mystery Arts.
Please go to:
http://cristinamcallister.blogspot.ca/2011/01/art-spotlight-heart-of-wisdom.html for more information. She goes into an even deeper analysis and explanation on her blog. It is trully fascinating.
According to the artist Cristina McAllister:
“The heart is a symbol of love, of emotion, the center of our Selves. Wings represent freedom, divinity, and transcendence.
Together they suggest the form of an owl – an animal sacred to Athena, ancient Greek goddess of wisdom, civilization, strength and strategy. Owls have been revered throughout the world as messengers of sacred knowledge, insight and intuitive awareness, as well as scholarly pursuits.
At the top, a Native American shaman’s eye offers wisdom and protection. In many tribal cultures, shamans serve as intermediaries between the human and spirit worlds. They interpret omens and offer insight through mystical, as well as practical means, in effort to protect and guide their people.
Below twines a pair of snakes. These creatures signified wisdom to the ancient Egyptians, Jews, Gnostics, Eastern Indians and Chinese. The notion of snakes being wise was based on observations of their behavior. When hunting, snakes appear to think deeply and consider every move before acting.
Also present are two West African adrinka symbols. Sankofa, or “return and get it” (above the winged heart) represents the ability to learn from the past. Nyansapo, or “Knot of Wisdom” (at bottom center) indicates intelligence, wisdom and cleverness.”
Photo Courtesy of: Unborn Mind Zen Blog
http://unbornmind.com/myblog/2012/02/23/now-voyager/
Photo Courtesy of:
http://hellyeahreligion.tumblr.com/post/7518986524/the-buddha-was-sitting-under-a-tree-talking-to-his
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This quote begs the question…Do you love wisdom enough to live in wisdom?
Peace & Namaste…
MY SOUL IS ON ICE... 
Reblogged this on RoyWsBlog2.
Rockin’ good.