Thistle and Cedar Reckoning

Neville's Inner Vision

In the inner theater of consciousness, the thistle and cedar stand for contrasting states of self—humble awareness versus inflated ego. Joash’s boast is the ego claiming outer power, a sign of an authorial self-image that forgets the hidden governor, the I AM. The wild beast that tramples the thistle marks the inevitable correction of inner law when one overreaches, a reminder that power in the outer world mirrors the steadfastness of inner conviction. ‘Abide now at home’ invites a return to the inner sanctuary, where the true king resides in quiet, discerning awareness. The cedar’s grandeur is not invalidated, but it must be rooted in humility and governed by inner wisdom. The text teaches that judgment and accountability begin in consciousness: when you imagine yourself above your capacity, you invite a fall that also touches those around you. By aligning with the I AM and cultivating disciplined imagination, you keep your inner kingdom intact while calmly accepting responsibility for outcomes.