Throughout time man has hewed rock and stone and blazed new paths in pursuit of fame and fortune. In tandem a travelers prayer has existed as old as recorded history to protect this traveler in most religions and cultures. While these prayers, rituals, jewelry and talismans differ from each other a common understanding persists.
A journey to an unfamiliar destination by one presents the unknown. Even these days in the age of the Internet when a vacation itinerary can be plan to the minute we still encounter this unnerving fog on some level. For some maybe it's the lack of familiar creature comforts or the proximity of loved ones. Other may find their loved ones or themselves abroad facing clear and present danger. This clarity serves only to magnify the fear of the unknown and rightfully so.
This shared feeling by all at one time or another is the thread that binds us all. It is this thread and lack of few others that I believe have given root to these prayers, rituals and talismans. In Judaism it is called Tefilat HaDerech. The Christians take comfort in the recital of 23rd Psalm and 121st Psalm. No matter the religion or culture you can find its equivalent in all origins of humanities fabric.
If only for our need to find balance within we all possess a desire to reach beyond our physical selves and call upon a higher power when faced with the unknown. To some this transforms the fear to excitement of adventure. For others it casts a blanket of well being on their loved one. For all though it is the understanding they don't walk alone. No matter your Travelers Prayer I wish you many safe travels.
The author and his wife are custom silver jewelry artists and create many handmade treasures inspired by the symbolism of the Travelers Prayer. Their complete ring, pendant, bracelet, and earring jewelry collection by be viewed at http://www.byliad.com and their Traveler's Prayer collection directly at http://custom-silver-jewelry-by-liad.com/cat/index.php?cPath=32
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