Labyrinths
have an ancient spiritual and ritual history, the oldest design being
the seven-circuit or classical form that we have at Sanctuary. A labyrinth
is different from a maze, having a single path to the center rather
than multiple paths and dead ends. In recent years there has been renewed
interest in labyrinths. It is a tool to help focus thoughts, calm the
mind, meditate, pray, celebrate, grieve, reflect and connect more deeply
with the Spirit. The labyrinth at Sanctuary is named for Sophia and
Shechinah, the female personifications of spiritual wisdom and the Divine
Presence.
In
the Kabbalistic tradition the seven circuits also correspond to seven
gateways to Divine Awareness.
Sophia is the Greek word for wisdom and is also identified as the Goddess of
wisdom and knowledge. Gnostics' teachings have influenced the Jewish
mystics and ideas of Shechinah. Wisdom in Hebrew is chochmah and resides in the highest realms of the Tree of Life.
"Shechina" is a feminine noun and has come to reflect the feminine aspect of God.
The Shechina is the presence of God's holiness in a place, person (or
group of people), or period of time. As Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan explains,
"When we say that God 'dwells' in a certain place or situation,
we really mean that a person can have an additional awareness of Divine
there."
According
to the Kabbalah, we are blessed to experience the Shechina. But how
do we receive this gift? By being open to life, to our hearts and by
giving our loving presence to others. The Shechinah dwells where there
is love and reconciliation.
May
our Labyrinth and it's seven circuits bring us closer to the Shechina
and to Wisdom.
The meditation
garden
Labyrinth
building has brought communities of people together to pray, celebrate,
grieve, reflect and connect more deeply with the Spirit. There are many
who report that walking the labyrinth over time can be a healing experience.
Many
have sought solace in labyrinth-walking and in holding prayer services
or vigils in these special spaces. It is our hope that the labyrinth
at Sanctuary will help all who walk it to connect more deeply with how
the Spirit is moving with us and in us on our life's journey.
The Sophia and
Shechinah Labyrinth
Walking
the Labyrinth
Walking
the labyrinth is a 3-stage process: the journey in allows you to relax,
focus and let go of the details of your life. The center is a place
of meditation, illumination and prayer. The return journey allows you
to integrate what you found during your walk and time to reengage with
the world.
Take
time to sit for a few moments to clear your mind and become aware of
your breathing. Walk at your own pace. You may pass others and people
may pass you.
There
is no "right way" to walk a labyrinth. Do what feels right
to you.
As
you walk the labyrinth you can choose from several options;
On
the way out, experience renewal.
When
you come to the end, take time to sit for a moment and reflect on the
experience.
The
Sophia and Shechinah Labyrinth
May
the labyrinth offer you a peaceful and
healing experience in your life's journey.
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