Nut

Nuts are characterized by being hard and difficult to open. But those who manage to penetrate the shell find a sweet and nutritious kernel. The nut is sometimes used as a symbol for precisely this: something that is difficult to access but rewarding for those who succeed. This is also reflected in expressions like "a tough nut to crack." One might compare it to dream interpretation—it is difficult to "open up" a dream, but if successful, one gains access to a rich and nourishing content.

The nut is a vessel, and as such, a feminine symbol; together with the kernel, it is sometimes associated with the Self (which is often initially symbolized by something humble or unassuming).


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