Ceremony Labyrinth
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This is an eight circuit labyrinth design that was created to be used in conjunction with ceremony. Its energy intention is that of purification, like the process of smudging only stronger. It is strongly encouraged that the labyrinth be walked by participants in a ceremony before the ceremony begins, even when being used in conjunction with other forms of purification such as smudging and sweat lodge. We enter the labyrinth from the east following the outer sections of the northern hemisphere first dropping off burdens of our spirit before moving into the south to let go of earthy concerns. Then as we near the center we will serpentine the SE, SW, NW, then NE and enter the centering place from the east. Upon reaching the center we are purified and reversing the process upon leaving builds our strength and prepares us for ceremony with the last part of our walk before leaving the labyrinth being in the northern hemisphere with spirit. |
The eight circuit design was chosen to be in harmony with earth ceremony using the eight directions or eight winds of change. We must traverse eight levels to reach the center. Eight is also the symbol of infinity and is the number of abundant prosperity, which is our normal state when in balance with all life. The center circle could be seen as a nine space being completion allowing us to start over again upon leaving the center, a shamans death of sorts. Then upon traversing the eight levels again we are complete upon leaving the labyrinth wheel.
