In this article we will be exploring G.I. Gurdjieff's explanation of some simple spiritual symbols with deep and important meanings for us.

A symbol is defined as something visible that represents something invisible. In the course of our spiritual development we can use the following symbols to give us a visible representation of our inner state, and an idea of where we are headed, thereby illuminating the path ahead of us.

1. Two parallel lines

This represents our starting point in our spiritual development, which is the state of duality. Every emotion, thought, or experience has an opposite complement, meaning a positive emotion has the potential to turn sour and negative. A good relationship can go bad at any moment. Everything is either conscious or mechanical in our lives.

2. The Triangle

This is the next level of development, where a third principle is introduced. A person begins to appreciate all conscious aspects of their life, favor those things, and oppose mechanicalness.