The development of archery is woven throughout human history. In some cultures the practice of archery is a spiritual discipline. I have found the practice and discipline of archery to be extremely valuable. The bow and arrow hold surprisingly potent symbolism regarding our inner feminine and masculine aspects.
Let’s start with the bow, and explore how it may reflect the feminine.
The central part of the bow must be stable, strong under pressure and resistant to the shock and vibration that occurs in the unleashing of power when the bow is shot. The bow provides power, and this comes from the limbs of the bow and their strength, flexibility and capacity to store and release power makes archery possible. The smoothness of the draw and power stroke of the bow is a defining characteristic. The bow cradles the arrow, centers it, and supports it without impeding its flight forward. The bow, with a stabilizer attached, provides a steady base for power transferred to action. And the sight allows the arrow to be directed to the target desired. The connection of the bow to the arrow is via the string; taught, flexible, stable and unstretching, which transfers power to the arrow at the time of flight.
The bow is curved in shape, and flexible, becoming more curved when drawn to full power. The arrow however is the opposite, linear and straight.
Let’s look at the characteristics of the arrow and how it may reflect the masculine.
The arrow must have a strong and stable attachment point at one end that can mate with the bowstring and effectively transfer the power and energy of the bow to the arrow. In order for the arrow to fly to the target it must be straight and true. Balance between the front and back of the arrow is critical. On the back end of the arrow are the “fletches” that act as the guidance system for the arrow and give it stability in flight and keep it on course. On the front of the arrow is the point that must be strong, durable and able to endure impact. The defining aspect of the arrow is it’s ability to fly fast and far, undeterred by the elements, and hit the center of the target.
And the archer – our divine self!
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© 2010 Rick Ellis. All rights reserved. ricknotes.com
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