Hon. James McCallion, 32° KCCH
Venerable Master, Director of Education
In last month’s issue, we reflected upon author and Shaman Jamie Sam’s “Wisdom Keeper” of the 2nd Moon Cycle from the Thirteen Original Clan Mothers which focused on honoring (the) truth as it is seen from all living being’s sacred perspective, recognizing that there is a truth in every lifeform’s journey. We explored oral legends, and touched upon traditional pipe ceremony, one of many means by which we may commune with one another and explore our truths through open and honest talks. You were prompted to contemplate on how you would “Honor the Truth?” and endeavor to do so?” It was suggested that by waking-up and meditating during the 4th hour of the early morning (as is an ancient practice), that an inner revelation might surface, which would bring a depth to your perspectives that day.
For the month of March 2024, we will continue to reference some key teachings and insights from Jamie Sams, particularly focusing on the guidance of “the Guardian and Keeper of Justice,” the Clan Mother of the 3rd Moon Cycle, who teaches us how to develop the Self through Weighing the Truth in all things. This guidance teaches us the Divine Law. But what is the Divine Law?
From the viewpoint of Shamanism, the principles of Divine Law suggest that instead of punishing, we should help individuals (including ourselves) understand the consequences of one’s actions and the lessons to be learned from them. The focus is on finding and accepting the truth of our actions and deciding what lessons we need to learn to make amends. According to Sams,
“The actions we take are based on our decision. If we decide to hurt another consciously, we have also made the decision unconsciously to receive the lessons connected to harming another. Weighs the truth teaches us that we are the ones who in finding and accepting the truth of our actions, must decide what we will learn in order to make amends for following that crooked trail.”
As does the Keeper, so should we maintain clarity and impartiality by seeing all sides of a situation and not allowing the influence of personal biases but advocating for justice and equality for all beings. This is manifest by considering all perspectives to determine the truth of the situation, thus like a scale of justice, weighing all sides including a conscious consideration for the laws of cause and effect. It is here that rather than dwelling on weaknesses, it’s important to focus on our strengths and what is right within us. Emphasis is placed on positive vs. negative reinforcement, realizing in as much that criticism and judgment feed the “Shadow” or negative aspects of our nature, while praising right action allows our “Orendas” or spiritual essence to grow.
These teachings emphasize the importance of understanding the consequences of our actions, striving for impartiality and justice, and nurturing positive aspects of our nature. They suggest a path towards personal growth and spiritual development guided by the principles of balance and equity found within the Divine Law. There is a nice overlap between Shamanism and Taoism as it relates to a great many things, but particularly, this discussion.
Taoism is a philosophical and spiritual tradition that originated in ancient China, often associated with the Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu (“the Old Boy”), who is traditionally considered to be a contemporary of Confucius and the author of the Tao Te Ching, a fundamental text of Taoist philosophy. “Ching” in Chinese means a classical book, or scripture, “Te” means virtue (as in the healing virtue of a plant), and central to Taoist thought is the concept of the “Tao,” often translated as “the Way,” “the path,” or the course of nature. From this one could derive the Tao Te Ching to mean “the magical or powerful and peculiar book of nature.” The Tao is seen as the fundamental principle that underlies the universe, guiding everything and yet transcending all concepts and categories.
When it comes to weighing the truth within Taoism, there are a few key principles and practices to consider:
Taoism emphasizes aligning oneself with the natural flow of the universe, rather than resisting or trying to control it. This involves cultivating a sense of harmony and balance in one’s actions, thoughts, and attitudes. This is the equity we concern ourselves with when considering Shamanism (reciprocity and harmonious relationships/existence).
Taoist teachings often present paradoxical ideas that challenge conventional notions of truth and reality. For example, the famous opening lines of the Tao Te Ching state, “The Tao that can be told is not the eternal Tao (1); The name that can be named is not the eternal name (2).” This suggests that ultimate truth transcends language and conceptual understanding. This similar construct can be found in many of the esoteric philosophies of Freemasonry such as the Knight of the Brazen Serpent when Idris is asked why he is looking for his eyeglasses outside of the tent (he had lost them somewhere inside) and he responds, “because the (moon) light is better out here.” Albert Pike also warns us not to replace that which is being symbolized, with the symbol itself. Bruce Lee even reminds his student “it’s like fingers pointing at the moon. If you look at the finger, you can’t see the Moon.” Truth is elusive and embracing paradoxes is a huge signature in the Tao Te Ching and Taoist philosophy in general as exemplified by the Yin Yang symbol, the balance of opposites or rather, “the explicit differences of an implicit Unity.” Yin representing darkness, feminine energy, surrender, creativity, and chaos, and Yang being light, masculine energy, force, control, and order.
Taoism encourages practitioners to cultivate a sense of non-attachment to fixed beliefs and concepts. Instead of clinging rigidly to particular ideas or ideologies, one should remain open-minded and adaptable, recognizing that truth is multifaceted and dynamic.
There is a strong emphasis on intuitive knowing and inner wisdom. Rather than relying solely on external sources of authority or knowledge, individuals are encouraged to trust their own intuition and direct experience in discerning truth.
The teachings often advocate for simplicity and spontaneity as pathways to truth. By letting go of unnecessary complexity and allowing things to unfold naturally, one can gain deeper insights into the nature of reality.
In weighing the truth within the context of Taoism, individuals are encouraged to approach the world with humility, openness, and a willingness to embrace paradox and uncertainty. Ultimately, the pursuit of truth in Taoism is not about arriving at definitive conclusions or dogmatic beliefs, but rather about cultivating a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness and fluidity of existence.
Within the philosophy of Taoism is the principle of Wu Wei (“Not Doing”). We practice Wu Wei in order to achieve the Tao or Natural Way in our lives. Essentially the Tao manifested through man is “Te,” that virtue we discussed earlier.
“Wei” means to act, to strain, to strive, or to interfere, and so the Taoist manner of life is Wu Wei; “Don’t Force It.” As Bruce Lee would say “Be like water my friends.” Go with the flow.
I ask that in the Moon of March, you contemplate how you can balance your thoughts through “Weighing Truth?” And how will you endeavor to do so (hint: it’s explained in the Royal Secret of the 32nd Degree).
