Frequently Asked Labyrinth Questions

What is a Labyrinth?

The labyrinth is an ancient mystical tool that can help bring about personal transformation and a shift in consciousness. It is meant to awaken us to the deep rhythm that unites us to ourselves and to the light that calls from within.

What does a Labyrinth look like?

Most labyrinths are in the form of a circle with a meandering but purposeful path from the edge to the center and back out again - large enough to be walked into. Each has only one path and once we make the choice to enter it, the path becomes a metaphor for our journey through life.

What is the History of the Labyrinth?

Labyrinths have been known to the human race for over four thousand years. They are mysterious because we do not know the origin of their design, or exactly how they provide a space that allows for clarity. It is believed the labyrinth design evolved out of the spiral figure found in nature.

Labyrinths can be found in all religious traditions, in various forms, around the world. The Jewish Kabbala, the Hopi Medicine Wheel and the Tibetan Sand Mandala are all examples of labyrinths. Labyrinth can be made of many different materials - stone, mosaic, tile, turf, wool and canvas.

How did the Christian Labyrinth Come into Being?

Christians in the Middle Ages made a vow to make an annual pilgrimage to the Holy City of Jerusalem. However, by the 12th century when the Crusades swept across Europe and Jerusalem became the center fo the religious struggle this trip became dangerous and expensive. In response to this situation, the Roman church appointed seven pilgrimage cathedrals to become the Jerusalem for pilgrims. Today this labyrinth is called the Chartres Labyrinth after the only remaining 11-Circuit labyrinth found in Chartres Cathedral in Chartres France.

Is the Labyrinth a Maze?

No. A labyrinth has a single path and is intended for meditation and reflection. A maze is a puzzle with many paths, false leads and dead ends.

How long does it take to walk the Labyrinth?

Depending on your pace, it may take you 20 or 30 minutes to walk to the center and return to the entrance.

*compiled by Jo Ann Mast, Veriditas Certified Labyrinth Facilitator