The Path of the Rose and Thorn Itself Manifest

The Path of the Rose and Thorn may be symbolized by a rooted and thorned stem winding upwards, branching first left into a tri-set leaflet, then left into a bud, and finally ending in a fully bloomed Rose. Each element contains within it specific symbolism representing the path itself.

Roots: A Hearth; the foundation; the Green Earth itself.

Stem: A Task; the path; progress.

Thorn: A Challenge; a trial; protection.

Leaf: A Refuge; secrecy and silence; the Great Mysteries.

Bud: An Opportunity; growth; practice.

Rose: A Highlight; culmination.

The Thorns count 13 in number. Each Thorn is itself a point on the pathway; a stop; a lesson; a trial- each of which has its own unique lesson to impart, and an association with a specific Garden along the path.

One - Virginity: Cleansing, or Purification.

The trial of first experiences
The Plot of Smoke and Fire

Two - Tradition: Giving over.

The trial of accepting boundaries and limitations
The Plot of Ecstasy

Three - Affinity: Kindred, or Affinity.

The trial of symbiosis and communion with the Green
The Plot of Zion

Four - Aversion: Reversal of fortune.

The trial of symbiosis with the Dark and Shadowy Green
The Plot of Keys

Five - Disappearance: Vanishing.

The trial of Dwelling within the Wild
The Plot of Restoration

Six - Witness: Locale, or Place.

The trial of Local Cultus
The Plot of Prophecy

Seven - Peregrination: Wandering.

The trial of Fusus Cultus
The Plot of the Scribe

Eight - Steward: ?.

The trial of Conservationism
The Plot of the Sepulcher

Nine - Combination: Bringing together.

The Trial of accurate amalgamation
The Plot of Alchemy

Ten - Confederation: ?.

The trial of community
The Plot of Many Mantles

Eleven - Turning Away: Apostasy.

The trial of going your own way
The Plot of Embattlement

Twelve - Sensuality: Promiscuity.

The trial of enthusiastic embracement of all
The Plot of Perfumery

Thirteen - Embodiment: ?.

The trial of embodied living
The Plot of Adornment