Sabian Symbols: Oriental-rug dealer
Oriental rug dealer
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This universal idea is best expressed through planets in
Capricorn 25 (24° - 25°)CONVERGENCE OF TRADITION, SPIRITUALITY AND COMMERCE
Enjoying the comforts of traditional expressions of abundance "Blending spiritual ideas within ordinary events and traditional culture" Many of our worldly pleasures and comforts are expressions of habitual need and greed, and it is easy to understand why it may be necessary for us to give them up for a while if we are sincere in wanting to free ourselves to pursue a higher dimension in life. And yet with the right attitude of consciousness we may well find joy and heartfelt appreciation for things of beauty that soften the hard discipline that is required for an ardent seeker. An example might be a prayer rug that eases the devotee’s comfort yet also in its design keeps alive time-honoured traditions and furthers the grounding of spiritual principles within the culture.
Rudhyar: A STORE FILLED WITH PRECIOUS ORIENTAL RUGS |
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A Store filled with precious oriental rugs
Consignment
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The material expression of our character is the final and undeniable proof of it
A consignment is a delivery of goods, the image of an oriental-rug dealer points to the importation of foreign products, and the teaching here has to do with the effective employment of goods and services of modern society. Whether we think of the Silk Road or on-line purchasing through eBay, the exchange through trade has been – and will always continue to be – a binding force throughout history. The practical emphasis points to consumer items, and yet there is also the implication of the accumulation of knowledge, the acquisition of skills and an indication of enduring competency. As anyone knows, who has attempted to become a small trader, the fool and their money are easily parted. To engage in trade is to be involved in diplomatic cultural exchange – and to develop understanding of another nation’s values and ways is no small thing. All human potentialities impact upon commerce. What we believe, what we prefer, what we need, and what we can afford – are all clearly expressed in how we trade. Self-expression is a force that uses all the various advantages of trade as a resource through which to claim more personal territory. Our obligation to our chosen reality is an irrevocable commitment – and for most of us this is reflected entirely by the consignments we receive. If we want to know about a person in detail, to get an accurate, honest appraisal, then we can look at what they do with their spending money. Their ideas and opinions – and their protestations of standpoints and intentions – are all hot air compared to the facts of the matter, which are someone’s inventory of goods and their expenditure summary. Together these speak of the actual facts. Eternal values are meaningless until they are woven into the fabric of humanity’s familiar transactions. What actually matters is what is made material; the material expression of our character is the final and undeniable proof of it. So we must spend according to our philosophical beliefs. For example, if an individual claims to want to offer a real service to fellows, to be kind and thoughtful, and to make a real difference to ease the burden of the downtrodden, then these sentiments must take the form of bread not words. Modern society generally has too much concern over trivialities – a certain type of person will ignore a hungry street beggar as they walk past carrying a heavy bag full of cat food. When we prioritize our purchases to align with our values, we spend as an aspect of our principles. This simple act eventually influences the production choices of distant manufacturers, and therefore could help to moderate their shameful use of slave labour and irreplaceable raw materials. |
Oriental-rug dealer
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Commentary by Mandy McKinley
Giver of ancient wisdom and under-standing (the rug). An expression of sacred design. A root-race offering traditional and skilled woven patterns. A magic carpet. The 'Oriental' translates as something different, foreign or unfamiliar. |
