New Proposal

[+chstress53]

I propose a catagory for the labyrinths around the world. here is a little about labyrinths

 

The labyrinth is an ancient pattern found in many cultures around the world. Labyrinth designs were found on pottery, tablets and tiles date as far back as 4000 years. Many patterns are based on spirals from nature. In Native American culture it is called the Medicine Wheel and Man in the Maze. The Celts described it as the Never Ending Circle. It is also called the Kabala in mystical Judaism. One feature they all share is that they have one path which winds in a circuitous way to the center.

 

The labyrinth is an ancient meditative art form whose design can serve as a metaphor of one’s life journey. Its path helps walkers circle inward to the center of their soul. The labyrinth’s center represents moving toward a goal and allowing one to release emotions that they carried inside — in order to create or envision a solution as one turns around in order to work one’s way back. This liberating exercise lifts us out of our linear, left-brain thought processes by joyfully invoking our intuitive, creative right brain.

 

During various time periods of its 4,000-year existence, religions throughout the world have embraced its mysterious healing abilities. Labyrinths are typically found in cathedrals, hospitals, parks and residences.

 

Some walk the labyrinth methodically, heel-to-toe, as a contemplative and joyful pilgrimage to draw in, closer to God. Others tread fearfully on their knees, as a penitence for sin.

 

There are two basic types of labyrinths: the Cretan and the Chartres.

 

The Cretan labyrinth is named after the island of Crete and takes the walker into seven arc circuits in which the center is a cross.

 

The Chartres is named after the stone labyrinth in the floor of the Chartres Cathedral in France. It carries the walker through eleven paths that wind through four quadrants of a circle. It also has a cross in the layout with a rosette in the center which is said to represent the Virgin Mary.

 

Prayerfully, meditatively walking a labyrinth can help deepen your spirituality, no matter which path you choose.

Edited September 17, 2005 by chstress53

[+Goodguys]

Just wanted to chime in that we would really enjoy this category.

We went to a medicine wheel in Wyoming in Sept that was placed sometime in 1200 - 1700 AD. These are all places we would like to share with others and places we would really enjoy seeing.

C