The Symbology of Glass

The glasswalk is our stillness, our ritual, our sacred space. A metaphor for life and it’s many challenges. The glass itself holds profound symbolic meaning as well, and these two elements together are what make this practice so transformational.

Breaking or shattering is a form of destruction, of transformation. It represents change, a change in material form when referring to objects in the physical world, a change in our emotional, mental or spiritual balance as a response or reaction to experiences in our perceived reality. We break bottles to create the glasswalk. We smash and tumble and wash and sort until the pieces are manageable. And then we walk them. But when something shatters within us, as an experience or an emotion breaks us down, breaks our heart, it is also a form of transformation, a transformation of our very beingness, a catalyst for change, a tower moment.

In shamanism, we might view this as a death and rebirth, where an old way is dying, making room for something new to arise, to be birthed from the rubble. And it is up to us to look within and discover what may need to change in our lives, to seek clarity. What might we need to release? To reexamine? To rethink? What habits or old patterns can we shift to allow the highest version of ourselves to come into the light?
Spiritually, glass can symbolize that clarity we are seeking, along with deep truth. Its fragile nature can represent vulnerability and the delicate balance of life. Glass is transparent, a window, allowing us to clearly see what is on the other side, to see things as they really are. This transparency is often associated with the virtues of purity and truth. A pure heart, the unassailable but often hidden truths that lie deep within each of us.

Glass can be used as a barrier, a wall, symbolizing boundaries or protection, even self-imposed limitations. A mirror, crafted from glass, is the ultimate symbol of self-awareness, of truly seeing our authentic selves, perhaps a revelation or enlightenment.

Greek weddings are often celebrated with the breaking of plates or glasses. The smashing is thought to release intense happiness, passion, and the spirit of living in the moment. It signifies new beginnings, breaking from a past life, and throwing away the old. In Jewish weddings, the breaking of glass is a powerful ritual symbolizing the permanent and irreversible union of a marriage, as like the glass, it cannot be (or should not be) restored to its original state.

The broken glass can hold powerful meaning if we look for it. Next time something physical shatters in your life, take a moment to reflect. Is something else shattering within you or around you? Are there negative patterns or unhealthy habits that need to be broken and released? Go within. Look for clarity. Allow the meaning behind the experience to surface. Perhaps it truly was just a broken glass. Or perhaps it can lead you to some small truth. Seek your answers with intention. And compassion. Life is the real glasswalk, and we are wise to take it one mindful step at a time.

Walk the glass with me and connect with the true nature of your highest self.

Jennifer Germano, owner and facilitator of The Glasswalk Experience, brings the sacred experience of glasswalking to the high desert area of Joshua Tree.
Jennifer is trained and certified in glasswalking & firewalking through Sundoor International Firewalking School.