This month let’s focus on the stage of the Hero’s Cycle known as the Sacred Marriage. To Joseph Campbell, drawing from Jung, this is that stage by which the masculine and feminine energies of the Hero are merged, allowing the Hero to go forth as a more integrated Whole Self as s/he continues to pursue their Quest.
To Jung more directly, this is a union of the Animus and Anima and brings about a major transformation of character. If it represents the actual goal of the individual, it can even be seen as an alchemical achievement of the highest magnitude: Mysterium Conjunctionus! Masculine + feminine (both energies coexisting within both men and women), or Soul + Spirit, or even Earth + Heaven/ Human + Divine: this is the apex of integrated unity, gold out of lead.
While the Sacred Marriage is often depicted via an actual Marriage of two characters, ultimately it is an internal achievement, as the individual attains a balance within of their animus and anima traits. Because of this, it can occur within anyone as a solo accomplishment or it could manifest as a relationship union.
Integration or even fusion as the Sacred Marriage represents is a significant spiritual development for it allows the Self to emerge as fully formed, as an expression of Soul.
images are from pixabay.com
A CONTEMPLATION AND JOURNALING PROMPT:
Can you relate to the topic of the Sacred Marriage?
Do you feel you have achieved this INTERNALLY, whether or not you are partnered with your spouse or a significant other?
If so, what does this open up for you in terms of pursuing your greater goals? If not, how shall you achieve this; again, internally?
I welcome your Comments and Stories!
Better Endings 