Zen Buddhist Stages of Change
The woodcut pictured above is the first of ten woodcuts and together with the text which accompanies them are known as the 10 Bulls,
or the Ox Herding Pictures. They may be interpreted in many ways. Some have described them as the representing the steps of personal growth and discovery experienced on the path to self-awareness. Some have said that the bull which appears in the woodcuts and is central to them, represents the truth, and the steps, one's search for it. The footprints represent one's potential self or potential life; the staff, one's purpose, and the wine, one's true desire. Although these woodcuts represent a journey which is taken on one's own and in one's own good time. Ultimately, one ends back in the world, happy among others and happily carrying out one's discovered purpose.
The full set of woodcuts and the traditional text can be found on the corresponding page on my full website. If you do not mind scrolling around on your mobile device, you may view them now at 10 Bulls.
