Uncovering the Dynamics of the Soul

According to Buddhist monk Darmachari Vessantara, we remain ignorant of, or oblivious to, those primordial patterns (dynamics of the soul) lodged deep in the human psyche:

“It is as if we live on the surface of life whilst in caves deep underground the kings and queens of our energies, the magicians, dancers, and sages remain quietly aloof unable to raise any interest in our [mundane] desires. But if we aspire to reach the heights, then all of a sudden in those caverns far below, ageless heroes and heroines will awaken to the sound of distant trumpets and goddesses will weave afresh the old spells which protect the daring”.

Vessantara is referring to our innate, habitual and archetypal (and therefore universal) patterns of perception, response and behaviour. They are inherited not acquired, and it is up to us whether these patterns are expressed as shadow (destructive) behaviour, or as acts of random kindness (truth and love).

At the time of facilitating a small group through a process of identifying their own archetypal behaviour patterns and how these operate in their lives, there are the inevitable questions:

ARCHETYPES AND SELF KNOWLEDGE (Q&A)

What exactly is an archetype?

This is a typical or habitual pattern of behaviour that is replicated and can be identified across gender, race, class, culture and nationality; therefore ‘archetypal’ behaviour is universal. An archetype is NOT the same as a stereotype, which is a specific word/phrase (usually negative) used to describe a particular group, or an entire culture, race or nationality – e.g. all women are emotional. I am sure you can come up with your own examples of ‘group scapegoating’.

Can you give an example of archetypal behaviour?

There is no need to describe the characteristics of the addict, victim, thief, and angel for example, we would all (I think) immediately understand quite a lot about that person and/or behaviour. We use archetypal language all the time. In describing someone and their behaviour, we might say that XYZ is a minx, little madam, bit of a princess or drama-queen etc. You may be less familiar with the description of ‘eternal child’ – but if I said bit of a ‘Peter Pan’, you would understand more – an adult who remains childlike and does not want to grow up. Michael Jackson for example displayed the eternal child archetype, Peter Pan-like, he even lived in ‘Never Land

Are Archetype cards like the Tarot?

No, the cards presented in the Caroline Myss box set are nothing to do with the Tarot; they are simply her representation and short description of the characteristics of a cross-section of archetypical behaviour, but are by no means the full number of archetypes that exist. However, when you have identified your full set (wholeness) of archetypal patterns (at least 12) you can then actually ‘consult your Self’, and your ‘Self’ will respond!

Where does the idea of archetypes and human behaviour come from?

Swiss psychologist, Carl Jung (1875-1961) first brought this concept to the study of human behaviour - for example see The 12 Common Archetypes. However, the existence of ‘originals’ or ‘blue prints’ for human personality types was accepted by the early Greeks, and in African (Orishas) culture long before Jung. The work of Caroline Myss (see Sacred Contracts and Archetypes: Who are You?) has broadened our knowledge.

HOW ABLE AND WILLING ARE YOU TO LEAVE HOME?
"Leaving home” means stepping out of your comfort zone and following a long held dream such as starting your own business or community enterprise, or sailing your own boat around the world. Alternatively, like me, you may simply wish to spend time in the desert, talking to scorpions with Lench Archuleta, wise sage of the Yaqi Nation.** 

Would you be surprised to know that four key archetypes play a significant role in our ability and willingness to make that journey? Caroline Myss identifies the Child, Victim, Saboteur and Prostitute as the four constants in human personality that represent the issues, fears and vulnerabilities that cause us to sell ourselves short in the world.

For further information on workshops contact AMARI  email askforum3@gmail.com




** www.windspiritspiritteaching.com