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> Below the visible facade, the intrigue of our being is a multilayered mechanism to be explored layer by layer, a bolt, gear and piece at a time. -- ShadowsPub

Intrigue has two somewhat related definitions. On the one hand, it refers to secret schemes, plots and conspiracies. On the other hand, it describes interest and curiosity about something, particularly a complex or mysterious subject. 

When I become intrigued by a subject, it sparks my curiosity, and I find myself pulled toward exploring the subject like it is a mystery to unravel. I’m not scheming or plotting, but I do want to learn. 

### The Metaphor of Intrigue 

Intrigue is a powerful metaphor for the complexity of human nature and society. It’s symbolic of our hidden layers and unseen motivations driving individuals and events in our society. I’m mostly intrigued with the individual here, no pun intended. 

Our journey through life involves looking inward to understand and gain awareness of what makes us tick. We’re not always as aware of the quest within as we are when trying to figure other people out. 

Some of us deliberately try to gain inner awareness to gain insight and understanding. The quest can be spiritual, emotional, philosophical or all of the above. Most often, it includes elements of them all. 

### The Complexity Within

We are multilayered beings. Visualize the workings of a delicate machine, like old-styled clocks with their intricate gears, bolts and mechanisms, and you have a visual of the inner workings of our minds — complex, detailed, finely tuned and multifaceted. 

On the clock’s surface, we see the clock face keeping time. Open the cover, and we find the true complexity of the workings. So too with people. We can seem simple on the surface, but when we explore inwardly, we find complexity. 

This inner journey is a complex task. It takes patience and willingness to explore all aspects of our being and notice even the most superficial details. Doing so will unfold a picture, helping to see a clearer sense of insight and understanding. It is through insight and understanding we find our growth. In growth, we find healing of the wounds our soul experiences. 

### Wisdom Across Traditions

From the writings of the various wisdom traditions, it’s pretty clear the quest to understand what makes us tick as individuals, where we fit in the universe and how we can achieve growth and enlightenment is ageless. 

There are some alignments across the traditions and some differences in approaches. The differences add depth to exploring the self and how we fit into the bigger picture of life. 

Buddhism views intrigue as a journey through the impermanent self. Meditation and mindfulness reveal our consciousness, teaching us about life's transience and interconnectedness. This path transforms curiosity into spiritual awakening, deepening our understanding of our layered existence. 

In Hinduism, our existence comprises 'Koshas' or layers hiding the true self. From physical to blissful, each layer offers unique insights. We uncover these layers through introspection and spiritual practices, gradually revealing our true, intricate nature. 

Kabbalistic Judaism presents the soul's intriguing journey through its multilayered aspects: Nefesh, the life force; Ruach, encompassing emotions and morals; Neshamah, the seat of intellect and spirituality; Chaya, a more profound consciousness; and Yechidah, the divine essence. This layered soul model serves as a map, guiding our quest to understand our spiritual identity and divine connection. 

In Christian philosophy, the soul's journey towards God is envisioned through seven stages. Each stage represents a deeper layer of introspection, prayer, and virtue. This path leads to a profound union with the divine, mirroring the multilayered essence of our spiritual being.

Sufism sees the individual as a universe in miniature, with seven layers leading to divine unity. The soul's journey, driven by longing and love, transcends knowledge and worldly ties, culminating in a profound realization of oneness and the ego's dissolution into the divine. 

Indigenous wisdom identifies the self as part of a vast interconnected web, including nature, spirit, and ancestors. Emphasizing balance and community connections, this view integrates masculine and feminine energies, underscoring spirituality rooted in the Earth and the role of healing in restoring balance. 

Metaphysical philosophy promotes self-exploration and consciousness to discover higher truths. It encourages present-focused spiritual growth beyond ego and past limitations. This inward journey, through self-awareness and acceptance, leads to inner peace and a transcendent sense of unity. 

Philosophy delves into our being's 'multilayered mechanism,’ exploring human nature and consciousness. It posits that our essence is defined through actions, with freedom entailing responsibility and existential challenges. Embracing this freedom leads to authentic living and self-fashioned meaning, acknowledging the influence of others' perceptions on our identity. 

### My Journey and Openness

So far, most of my explorations have been from the perspective of my Christian faith and the metaphysical teachings. As I continue to explore the other wisdom traditions’ viewpoints through the Word of the Day reflections, I’m building a list of materials I want to read and consider. 

There is a host of intrigue to follow by being open to various viewpoints and traditions. 

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*Shadowspub writes on various subjects as she pursues her passion for learning. She also writes on other platforms and enjoys creating books you use, like journals, notebooks, colouring books, etc. Her Nicheless Narrative podcast airs on Thursdays each week.* 

  NOTE: unless otherwise stated, all images are the author’s. <br>
Some of the image work may have been done in Midjourney, for which I hold a licence to use the images commercially. <br>

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