53 – The Seeker – The Bride – A Tree upon the Mountain
Just as the river reaches for the ocean, and the ocean is pulled by the moon, the seeker is one who flies towards the sun. Like a bride submits to her husband on her wedding night, the seeker submits to his goal with devoted and fiercely focused will. By making progress step by step and by holding onto unwavering determination, we shall attain what we seek.
1st – The Seeker in the Open – He does not conceal his actions well, as neighbors engage in unnecessary gossip. Someone may be in a bit of trouble, but best to turn attention away from them for the moment.
2nd – The Seekers Wine – Though it not be his ultimate destination, the seeker comes across a celebration with good wine and good people. Perhaps it would be good to stay for a bit and enjoy the simple pleasures.
3rd – The Seeker is Lost – He ventures into the forest and does not return. The wife is pregnant, but the child will not come. Everything is going wrong at the present moment. The oracle recommends that it is time to direct our anger at one who is acting unjust.
4th – The Seeker Finds Kindness – Though it not be the ultimate, the seeker perches on the branch of a shady tree. We will find a person or situation that betokens us nothing but honorable kindness. To this, we should be grateful.
5th – The Seeker Attains – The river empties into the sea as the seeker touches the seeked and they become one. That which was willed, will be attained and perhaps a little bit more.
6th – The Seeker No Longer – Just as when the river reaches the sea, it ceases to be, rather adding to the majesty of the ocean. Or when something touches the sun, it is consumed by the fire, adding to the heat or perhaps becoming the sun itself. Now the seeker has ceased to be, and therefore should be sacrificed to consummate the power of the One. The wise man sacrifices (disposes of) that which is no longer needed.
All Six – Haunting the Seeker – Cycles continue to repeat themselves and he is really getting nowhere. There are things unseen at work. Perhaps it is time to break from this routine and try something completely new. Perhaps take a trip?
