The Four Fires

Universally, fire is regarded as a spiritual symbol of awakening.It is also a purifying force that can be constructive or destructive, depending on our use if it. Many sacred texts speak of fire as a symbol of the vital life force that can be called upon for transformation, re-visioning, or the transmission of renewed meaning.

Traditionally, the four fires that these sacred texts refer to are:

The fire of vision provides visions or dreams that show us the possibilities and potential in our lives, inspiring us to manifest what we see or are called upon to do.

The fire of the heart teaches us about what and whom we love.

The creative fire signals the work that we love, a keen awareness of our gifts, and our desire to express them as a way of contributing to the world.

The soul's fire calls us to be authentically who we are and serve others rather than our own ego.

We encounter these fires throughout our lives, and during our later years, we need to reconnect to them so that we can experience what truly inspires us.

Source: Angeles Arrien
Photo: Dominique Normand, 2008