The Heart in Hand, an image of a heart in an open palm,is an easily recognizable symbol in the North Eastern US. This cheerful,
welcoming image originated with the Shakers and is found on crafts, signs, and
even cookies. The symbol is a pictoral reminder of the words of Mother Ann Lee,
the founder of the Shaker sect, who promoted a simple life of hard work and
spirituality, "Put you hands to work, and your hearts to God." The
image is typical of the Shaker attitude, and implies also a loving welcome.
A
heart in hand has also been in use for about a hundred years as a symbol of
the Order of Odd Fellows, an early Fraternal Order. These commonly display three
linked rings representing friendship, love, and truth. A similar symbol used
in Masonry represents charity.
Sacred
texts and scripture
Scriptures and other sacred texts, from ancient times to modern theological
musings.
Alternative
spirituality in a nutshell
Basic facts about alternative spiritual traditions- history, founders, misconceptions
and other basic facts to give a clearer understanding of the varieties of
religious expression.
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