Cultivation: Developing a Warrior-Like Steward
It is a small part in us that strives toward the Truth and Awakening. This part must be nurtured in order to further develop a Steward or Master, which can mirror the light of the Higher Self. One aspect of this growth is developing skills in the use of tools and weapons that combat the veil of sleep and guard Presence with vigilance. In ancient Egypt, the Steward was referred to as a ‘King’; in other traditions it is referred to as a ‘Warrior’, and the symbol of the warrior-like steward is the sword.
Work means friction, conflict between 'yes' and 'no', between the part that wishes to work and the part that does not wish to work. There are many parts of us that do not wish to work, so the moment
you begin to work friction starts.
-- Ouspensky
There is a war that opens the doors of heaven. Happy the warriors
whose fate it is to fight such a war.
-- Bhagavad Gita
Let the wise man fight illusion with the sword of wisdom.
-- Buddha
Think not that I am come to send peace on earth:
I came not to send peace, but a sword.
-- The Bible, The Gospel of Matthew, 10:34
The penetrating brilliance of swords
Wielded by followers of the Way
Strikes at the evil enemy
Lurking deep within
Their own souls and bodies.
-- Ueshiba Morihei
The remembrance of God in the heart is the sword
by which we combat our enemies.
-- Sufi wisdom
