Sabian Symbols: A pugilist entering the ring
A PUGILIST ENTERING THE RING.
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This universal idea is best expressed through planets in
Aries 21 (20°- 21°)OVERWHELMING POWER
Two sides of aggression "Measuring up to challenges so to examine our strengths and weaknesses" The will-to-power is glorified as the primordial struggle for survival of the fittest, and eagerness for fame and fortune. Yet the ring with two fighters can also be seen as the Tai Chi symbol and the interplay between Yang and Yin. Each of the two types of energy wins in turn. Victory is always temporary in a dualistic world.
Rudhyar: A PUGILIST ENTERS THE RING |
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A pugilist enters the ring
Exertion
A pugilist entering the ring
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Conflict provides the grit we need to become stronger
This boxer has conviction in their powers of accomplishment, and vigorously exhibits concentrated self-determination. We seek the triumph of victory, and success supports further confidence. Eventually we let go of the need to achieve goals – having learned where we are strong and where weak. Self-knowledge and self-confidence are closely related; a person who knows their strengths and their weaknesses stands strong. It is understood that such confidence is enhanced by the supportive attention of others, in their role as an audience, enjoyably observing such a complete and compelling revelation of full exertion. It is foolish to rebel blindly against those who would try to limit our manifestation of ability and force. Such defiant behaviour will inevitably lead to a squandering of resources on things of little or no true value. However, much is to be gained by a courageous, energetic, up-and-at-it approach to dealing with the business of life, revealed best in combat. We can speak metaphorically of the fighter – but really the battle is first internal. It shows in the world at large as conflict – and it supports our yearning to grow strong. We seek it. Self-realisationRaw experience is the grit that promotes such self-realisation. There is never any shying away from an ardent mobilisation of capacities. Pushing forward against resistance is necessary if we are to maximise capability, so antagonists have a cooperative influence. Competition and conflict are not to be seen as negative forces. We can’t improve without coming up against others who test us in our strength, commitment, ability and courage, and this does more than measure us; it develops us. Without them, we cannot move to fulfilment of potential.
It is not always useful to pull punches; we need to punch through to a new level of self. We are unlikely to allow empathy to diminish the chances of achieving success, sensitivity to the needs of others is not stressed at all, their feelings are not our concern; they must look to their own strengths to deal with their experiences. Without conflict we cannot awaken the resources with which we deal with conflict – courage, concentration, resistance, a willingness to take risks and cope with friction, uncertainty and antagonism. We put aside all other concerns and focus on one thing – wholeheartedly dedicating ourselves to ourselves. We only improve our game by competing with a stronger opponent. To push further and develop potentialities, we are willing to risk the fruits of previous attainment without caution or fear of loss. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. |
A pugilist entering the ring
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Commentary from Mara
Conflict may be seen as a welcome challenge allowing us to step up and reach higher understanding of ourself, the other and our surroundings. Overcoming conflict leaves us stronger and more able to navigate conflict in the future. Each victory increases the likeliness of victory. A pugilist enters the ring with confidence. He understands that one day he will come out the lesser fighter but if he concentrates on that day today, that day will be today. So, allowing chance to play its part, he steps up with visions of victory. |
