Sunday, November 16, 2008

Today Is a wonderful day ! It is snowing and I have made two sales !!!

Sunday, November 2, 2008

हेल्प ठोस इन नीद रेप्रिंत फ्रॉम होस्ट Blog

How can you help those in need?
When I logged into Etsy over my cereal bowl this morning, I found that one of my HOST buddies had linked another thread into our HOST chat thread. She said there were lots of sellers in need posting, so I went to check it out figuring ok, I don't really have much spare cash but I can at least bump it for them... (the thread is linked at the end of this post).Well a couple of sniffs later, I found myself feeling thoroughly depressed by the number of folk in so much financial and personal difficulty; it's awful year round but somehow it seems worse at this time of year, especially if kids are involved... I only just had the thought yesterday: "OMGosh, Christmas is literally around the corner now!"Then I got to thinking well, I can't buy everything from everyone, and I can bump the thread to try and help get these shops noticed but well, I'd like to try and do more... So here's the plan. It's just a little plan and I can't guarantee it will work but we don't know until we try - and you can get involved with no cost to yourselves other than a little time and effort for people who will really appreciate it.GET BLOGGING:
Most of you readers and Etsians have blogs, so start running a 'help' feature. Even if you just choose one shop, or one item from a few shops and blog it, you might help those guys towards some much needed sales.
Start a little 'help' section in your sidebars: add a few Etsy minis for shops that really NEED the exposure!
Tell your friends and readers about these guys and link the Etsy thread(s) for them to read and scroll through the different shops. We all have different tastes and wishlists: chances are your pals will find items they won't be able to resist!
ON ETSY:
Stalk those treasuries! Not just the main treasury but the treasury west too! Forget just making pretty ones in perfect coordinated colours, or clever choices of unusual things from your favourites: just pick shops who are in need!! If you run out of shops from the forum thread(s) that inspired this, go to POUNCE and pick only stores that are waiting for their first sale!
Tell your Street Teams! Get your team-mates on board - get them bumping threads; get them treasury stalking, get them blogging this too!
Add even one shop referral to your shop announcements - just pick one seller that is in need so your own buyer traffic will see it.
PROJECT WONDERFUL:
Have you got FREE ad spaces? Invite bids from sellers in need.
If they don't have ads they can use, can you spend a few minutes turning their avatars into ads for them while they go open their PW accounts and bid?
CHARITY:
Do you donate to childrens' charities for Christmas? Well our Etsians in need have kids... give to them!
Do you donate to animal charities? These Etsians have beloved pets that need feeding and caring for too! And don't forget, you can choose AWBAR and EFA on Etsy for your donations or purchases!
Do you donate to medical charities? These Etsians have serious illnesses - or their children or other family members do - and they are struggling with medical bills. Why not donate to them through purchases from their shops? Remember, there are Etsians who support charities by donating part of their shop sales proceeds... search them out on Etsy and shop, shop, SHOP!!!
We see so many discussion in the forums about how Etsy doesn't advertise itself and how it relies on US to promote it to help ourselves... Well let's pull together now and help promote each other! We are a pretty big team of creative people - I'm sure there will be others out there who will get to thinking what they can do to bring a little festive cheer to those in need. What is that expression about "six degrees of separation"? Well, let's apply it to Etsy for the holidays and see what we can achieve.
My next stop is to post a forum thread on Etsy where you can all post to let everyone know a) what are you doing to help? and b) if you were able to make a purchase from one of these sellers in difficulty, come show us what you bought, so we can all cheer for you and the seller :) And one more thing: when you post in the new thread, let everyone know if you are open to TRADES. People have few resources but they may happen to have just the thing you need, so be open minded about approaching your Christmas shopping this year and consider trades!
Here is the thread that inspired this post: http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5886701
And here is my new thread where you can come let us know what you are doing to help: http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5887805
Thank you all so much for reading all this and thank you even more for anything you do to help these guys out :)
PS - I am posting the same thing on my other personal blogs: http://teaandjewels.blogspot.com/ and http://maisyh.blogspot.com/
PPS - It doesn't matter that they will read the same, it's the message that is important and it's another opportunity to reach more readers, who can spread the word. Feel free to copy and paste this post into your own blogs - just use it and adapt it for yourselves, I don't mind - just get the message out - now - PLEASE!!!
PPPS - (last one I promise!) Remember that ALL PROCEEDS FROM HOST STORE SALES ARE USED TO HELP ETSIANS IN NEED - so feel free to donate to our store, or top up our team funds by purchasing something because we will use the money for this same cause!

Monday, September 22, 2008

wow

Msn deleted My group glad i saved all my old stuff pouts

links

Jupiter
Saturn
Grey Sage
Hyssop
Sweetgum
Valerian
White Sagewort New
Wild daggah



Baneberry
Belladonna (Deadly Nightshade)
Bittersweet
Birthwort
Black Nightshade
Blue Dogbane
Dark Columbine
Enchanter's Nightshade
English Bluebells
Foxglove varieties
Hellebore species
Henbane
Himalayan mandrake
Indigo
I
Jack-in-the-Pulpit
Mandrake, Black
Mandrake, White
Monkshood
Poison Hemlock
Queen of the Night
Rhaetian Poppy
Russian belladonna
Sherazi Tobacco
Toothache plant
Virgin's Bower New
Wild lettuce
Woad
Wolfsbane
Woodland Tobacco talian Cypress New

Uranus
Neptune
Pluto
Pokeweed

Blue Water Lily
Coleus varieties
Green bulrush
Harding grass
Morning glory
Reed canary grass
Black Barlow Columbine
Bowles Black Viola
Black Coneflower/Green Wizard Coneflower New
Hollow Larkspur
Jet Black Pansy
Passionflower
Penny Black Nemophila
William Guiness columbine
Earth
Air
Black Cornflower
Corn poppy

Peppermint
Scotch broom
Sweet Alyssum New
Fire
Water
Mapacho
Matilija poppy
Lobelia

All text on this site copyright Alchemy Works, 2000 ITYOTL [In the year of their lord]

links

Mercury
Venus
Mars
Betony
Black dianthus
Blue Honeywort
California poppy
Fire Weed
Heather
Illinois bundleflower
Lavender, Old English
Lily of the Valley
Purple locoweed
Rowan Tree
Russian sage
Scarlet pimpernel

Baby's Breath
Black Hollyhock
Brugmansia
Chinese datura
Chinese lanterns
Columbines
Cowslip
Datura
Desert Four O'Clock
Fringed Pinks
Heartsease
Jimsonweed (both white and black varieties)
Lily, Formosa
Mescal bean
Motherwort
Mugwort
Myrtle
Passionflower
Pennyroyal
Pomegranate, Dwarf
Purple Plantain
Rose Mallow
Siberian motherwort
Spearmint
Sweet Breath of Spring New
Toloache
Vervain
White mulberry
Wild Rose
Yarrow
Yellow Lotus
Arctic Glow Globethistle New
Artichoke Thistle
Armenian Basketflower
Ashwagandha
Chicalote
Dragon Tree
Masterwort
Pasque Flower
Rue
Wartweed
Wormwood
Yellow All text on this site copyright Alchemy Works, 2000 ITYOTL [In the year of their lord

Links to herbs

Sun
Moon
Acacias
Arctic poppy
Armenian poppy
Calamus root
Hops
Mexican marigold
Moroccan Poppy


Spanish poppy
Sunflowers
Yauhtli

Beauty of Livermere poppy
Black Peony poppy
Black-seeded poppy
Blue Nepal Poppy
Chedglow poppy
Danish Flag poppy
Elephant's Head
Florist's Poppy
Giganteum poppy
Glabrum poppy
Hens and Chicks poppy
High Mallow
Himalayan Blue Poppy
Japanese Poppy
Moonflower
Mouse-eared Hawkweed
Persian White poppy
Poppy page
Rose milkweed New
Scarlet Peony poppy
Swansdown poppy New
Sweet Pea 'Cupani'
Tasmanian Poppy
Tulip Poppy
Turkish Poppy
White Cloud poppy

Links

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paper dolls
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great site

runes

teiwaz : TyrPhonetic equivalent: t
DIVINATORY MEANINGS:
duty, discipline, responsibility, self-sacrifice, conflict, strength, a wound, physicality, the warrior path
MAGICAL USES:
protection, victory, strength, strengthening the will, healing a wound
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES:
Tyr and the Fenris Wolf, Odin's ordeals
ANALYSIS:
Just as the second aett began with the cleansing destruction of hagalaz, so too does the third aett begin with a loss. However, hail is imposed by the Gods to force the sacrifice of those things which aren't really vital to our development. Teiwaz, on the other hand, represents a voluntary sacrifice, made by someone who understands exactly what they are giving up and why.
Tyr's sacrifice of his hand to allow the binding of the Fenris Wolf was a noble one, and notable in a pantheon of deities not known for their sense of duty and ethical responsibility. He is believed to be one of the oldest of the Norse Gods - a Bronze-age rock carving was found in Scandinavia depicting a one-handed warrior - and his position may well have originally superseded that of Odin. Tyr's rune is also one of the oldest in the fuþark, having survived virtually unchanged from the earliest Bronze-age carvings. It represents all those qualities associated with the God: strength, heroism, duty and responsibility. But it also represents a deeper mystery - that of the wounded God. Like þurisaz, the pain of teiwaz focuses the attention and forces discipline. However, in this case the effect is more conscious and the wound carries a greater significance. Uruz has been confronted and bound, and the lessons of teiwaz and hagalaz have been learned. This is the path of the warrior.

berkana : birchPhonetic equivalent: b
DIVINATORY MEANINGS:
fertility, health, new beginnings, growth, conception, plenty, clearance
MAGICAL USES:
healing (especially infections), achieving conception, making a fresh start
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES:
Frigg, Idunna
ANALYSIS:
The birch is fundamentally a symbol of fertility. There are numerous instances in European folk tradition where birch twigs are used to bring prosperity and encourage conception. They were fixed above a sweetheart's door on May Day in Cheshire, England, and were placed in stables and houses to promote fertility. On the continent, young men, women and cattle were struck with birch twigs for this same purpose, and young boys would be sent out to "beat the bounds of the parish" with branches of birch to ensure prosperity in the coming year. Witches were said to ride broomsticks made from birch, an image which probably originated with fertility rituals where dancers would 'ride' brooms through the fields, the height of their jumping indicating how high the grain should grow.
If teiwaz is the fundamental male mystery, then berkana certainly belongs to the women, for it represents the path of the mother, the healer and the midwife, bringing new life after death just as the birch puts out the first leaves after winter. While Tyr's wound is acquired through his encounter with death, berkana's wound is that of menstruation, and her ordeal is that of childbirth. The birch is abundant and all providing, and heals through nourishment, cleansing and empathy.

ehwaz : horsePhonetic equivalent: e (as in 'egg')
DIVINATORY MEANINGS:
transportation, motion, assistance, energy, power, communication, will, recklessness
MAGICAL USES:
power, aiding in communication, transportation; to 'send' a spell
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES:
Sleipnir, Freya's feathered cloak
ANALYSIS:
The horse has been a powerful symbol in nearly every culture and every age. They were often believed to draw the sun about the heavens. Strong, swift and loyal, their relationship with humankind is unique. They allow us to perform tasks that would normally be beyond our strength, and to travel distances that would normally be beyond our reach. The mare symbolizes fertility and fecundity, and the stallion is the epitome of virility and raw energy. It is an animal that never lost its power by being domesticated.
Like the sun which is its counterpart, ehwaz represents energy and motion. In this case, however, there is also respect for the source of the power to be considered. This is not merely an impersonal energy source - it is a living, breathing thing whose needs and desires must be taken into consideration, rather than be simply used as a slave. This is the power that was given by the God at algiz, and this rune reminds us of our oath to only use it to help, never to harm. Like the two-edged sword, the horse is a powerful tool, but must be carefully controlled to avoid harming yourself or other. It is tempting to just go barrelling along recklessly, but to do so is to risk loosing that power forever. This is the balance that must be achieved on the path of pure magic.

mannaz : man, humankindPhonetic equivalent: m
DIVINATORY MEANINGS:
significator, self, family, community, relationships, social concerns
MAGICAL USES:
to represent a specific person or group of people; to establish social relationships
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES:
Ask and Embla, Midgard
ANALYSIS:
In its broadest sense, mannaz represents all of humanity, and therefore the entire realm of Midgard. In more practical terms, though, it is those with whom we have personal connections, from our immediate circle of family and friends to the wider community around us, reminding us of our nature as social animals. It also represents our connection with the Gods and with nature, through the two Norse myths of the creation of humans; the first where they sprang from Ymir's body, and the second in which they were created from two logs by a river. It takes the raw energy of ehwaz and controls it through our social conscience, reminding us of those we affect with our deeds both magical and mundane.
The rune itself resembles gebo with its joining of masculine and feminine elements, but is much more complete. It is the entire web of human relationships, with the self at the centre, which mirrors the web of fate explored through raiðo. But while that web was more or less fixed, this one is mutable and alive. Past and present, male and female, self and other - all opposites are joined here and made whole. Mannaz is our home, and speaks for all those whose lives we touch when we use the gifts we have been given through the runes.

laguz : waterPhonetic equivalent: l
DIVINATORY MEANINGS:
emotions, fears, unconscious mind, things hidden, revelation, intuition, counselling
MAGICAL USES:
enhancing psychic abilities, confronting fears, stabilizing mental or emotional disorders, uncovering hidden things
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES:
Njord, Midgard Serpent
ANALYSIS:
When most people think of water, they generally think of its more pleasant associations - peacefulness, love, compassion, intuition, and the emotions in general. However, we must remember that, to the Norse, water most often meant the sea, and the sea was a terrifying, unpredictable place, home of the Midgard serpent and the grave of many sailors. Laguz, then, should be thought of in terms of the lighter and the darker sides of the element of water. It speaks to our primal fears of the dark, the cold, and all those terrifying things hidden deep within our subconscious minds.
Like eihwaz, which forced the journeyer to confront his or her mortality, laguz makes us examine the underlying roots of our personality and behavior, and allows us to modify those aspects which are hindering our spiritual development. The understanding and wisdom gained through eihwaz and the runes which followed have prepared the journeyer to face this darker side (represented by laguz) and accept it as an integral part of their selves. Laguz also prepares the person to take on the task of helping others through this self-examination process, allowing them to empathize more strongly and share their own experiences, making it (among other things) the rune of the spiritual counsellor.

inguz : IngPhonetic equivalent: ng
DIVINATORY MEANINGS:
work, productivity, bounty, groundedness, balance, connection with the land
MAGICAL USES:
fertility, farming, growth, general health, balance
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES:
Freyr / Ing, Nerthus, Thor, the Vanir
ANALYSIS:
Ing is a Danish / Anglo-Saxon name for Freyr, the God of agriculture and fertility. Agriculture represents one of the first attempts by mankind to control the environment, and the fertility of crops, animals and people has always been the primary concern and religious focus of most Pagan agrarian societies. From the earliest Sumerian accounts to modern-day British folk custom, people throughout history have sought to ensure the success of their crops.
The vast majority of people in Western society have lost all contact and connection with the land and the process of growing things. The spiritual consequences of this segregation from the earth have been disastrous, since most people find it difficult to relate to deity in a purely man-made environment. The shape of this rune can be likened to that of a field, but its real significance may lie in its balance, representing the harmonious relationship between ourselves and the four elements / four directions. Inguz reminds us of that ancient connection between the Gods and the land, and re-links (the real meaning of the word 'religion') us with our spiritual natures through the realm of the physical. It is quite literally a grounding rune, and by reintroducing us to the earth, it reconnects our bodies, our minds and our spirits.

ðagaz : dayPhonetic equivalent: d (pronounced as 'th', as in 'this')
DIVINATORY MEANINGS:
happiness, success, activity, a fulfilling lifestyle, satisfaction
MAGICAL USES:
to bring a positive outcome
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES:
Sunna, Baldr, Nerthus, Yggdrasil
ANALYSIS:
This rune effectively marks the end of the third aett, leaving only oþila to complete the cycle. As in the previous two aetts, ðagaz concludes the third with light and hope. However, while wunjo represented earthly glories and the sun, heavenly power, the day brings these two realms together, bringing the more abstract light and power of sowulo 'down to earth' and applying it to our everyday lives.
The shape of the rune itself denotes this kind of interconnection. It is reminiscent of gebo, with its balance of masculine, feminine and the four elements, but ðagaz makes further connections to the celestial and the realm of nature. Like inguz, it symbolizes harmony with one's environment. but again takes it a step further, implying a harmonious relationship with the spiritual environment as well. It is a bringing together of all six cardinal points - the four compass directions, the celestial realm above us where the Gods are thought to dwell; and that which is below - all the spirits of the earth and of nature. All of these things are balanced and integrated through ðagaz and brought into our daily lives.

oþila : propertyPhonetic equivalent: o
DIVINATORY MEANINGS:
property, land, inheritance, home, permenance, legacy, synthesis, sense of belonging
MAGICAL USES:
for aquiring land or property, to complete a project, to strengthen family ties
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES:
the nine worlds of Yggdrasil
ANALYSIS:
In oþila, we find ourselves back in the seemingly mundane realm of wealth and property, just like the first rune, fehu. However, while cattle represented a more movable, transitory form of wealth, the land (as Mr. O'Hara said) is the only thing that lasts. It can be passed on as a legacy, but more importantly, it defines who we are by defining where we are. It is, ultimately, our home.
This rune brings us to the seventh cardinal point, which is the centre. It is the meeting place between Midgard and Asgard; between ourselves and our Gods. It is the axis around which our lives revolve. The idea of land or property is only a symbol - we must all find our own "centre" (or, as Joseph Campbell termed it, our "bliss") to give our lives meaning, and this is really the ultimate goal of the runic journey. Like Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz, we discover that after all our travels and adventures, we all eventually end up going home. But this doesn't mean that the travels and adventures are pointless. On the contrary, it is only through those explorations that our 'home' or spiritual centre can have any real meaning for us. "There's no place like home" will have no power to send us there unless we come to truly understand what and where our home is to us. Conversely, none of the lessons learned along the way can be of any real use to us unless we actively integrate them into our 'mundane' lives and find that centre point to anchor them to. Oþila not only completes the smaller cycle of the third aett, but also brings us back to the beginning of the fuþark itself, only on a higher level. We may now begin the grand cycle of the runic journey again.

runes

hagalaz : hailPhonetic equivalent: h
DIVINATORY MEANINGS:
sudden loss, ordeal, destruction, disaster, clearance, testing, karmic lesson, drastic change.
MAGICAL USES:
removing unwanted influences, breaking destructive patterns
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES:
Ragnarok, Loki, Frost Giants
ANALYSIS:
The idea of the destruction of the old being necessary to the growth of the new, as contained in the Norse myth of Ragnarok, is essential to our understanding of this rune. Interestingly enough, hagalaz lies between kenaz (fire) and isa (ice), reminding us of the Norse creation myth and the creative potential that lies between these two opposites, even though their meeting may seem at first to be destructive. Like the Tower in the Tarot, hagalaz is only a negative rune if we choose to view it in that way, and refuse to learn its lessons. Appearing as it does at the beginning of the second aett, it marks both a beginning and an end, and knocks us out of the safety and complacency of wunjo. It represents what a friend of mine used to refer to as the 'flying ladle syndrome' - that whenever things appear to be going too well, you can expect a good, healthy whack in the head from the Fates, just to make sure you're paying attention.
These sorts of 'wake-up calls' from the Gods will happen frequently throughout a person's life, but are often misinterpreted as divine punishment for some imagined wrong when in fact they are merely a way of drawing your attention to a recurrent pattern in your life. Unfortunately, these types of events have a tendency to repeat themselves with greater and greater severity until the lesson is learned and the pattern is broken. For example, someone who needs to break their dependency on a certain type of person will find themselves in relationships with such people over and over again with more and more disastrous results until they recognize the pattern as emanating from themselves and break it willingly.

nauþiz : need, necessityPhonetic equivalent: n
DIVINATORY MEANINGS:
poverty, hardship, responsibility, discontent, obstacle, frustration
MAGICAL USES:
to represent a need to be filled
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES:
Freyr & Gurd, the Otter's Gold
ANALYSIS:
If hagalaz is a flying ladle, then nauþiz is the empty pot. It is a gentle, nudging reminder that all is not as it should be. Life appears to be out of synch, and nothing seems to be going right. No matter how much you have, it is never enough, and there is an ever present desire for something more, something better. On the positive side, this dissatisfaction with the status quo can serve to draw one away from the relative safety of wunjo and motivate towards change.
Nauþiz represents an imbalance between one's desires and one's assets. How you resolve this situation will influence the rest of the journey, but the awareness of the imbalance itself can also be illuminating. It causes you to closely examine and perhaps reassess your values and priorities, and forces you back onto the path of your own happiness. Perhaps mythologist Joseph Campbell said it best when he enjoined us to 'follow our bliss'; in other words, that we will know that we are on the right track spiritually when we are doing those things which make us the most happy and fulfilled. Nauþiz helps us to take the first step on that path by letting us know when we have strayed from it.

isa : icePhonetic equivalent: i (ee as in 'eel')
DIVINATORY MEANINGS:
inactivity, blockage, stagnation, potential, patience, reflection, withdrawl, rest
MAGICAL USES:
to stop a process; to represent primal form
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES:
Auðumla, Nifelheim
ANALYSIS:
In modern symbology, fire is generally masculine and ice (or earth) is feminine, but it is unknown whether the Norse shared this association. Certainly, ice was a constant factor in their day to day lives. It threatened their crops and their ships almost throughout the year, but it also served as a symbol of creation, from which all life will eventually spring. It says something about the Norse mind that they could recognize the need to have such a seemingly destructive joining of elements in order to create and maintain life. Fire may be warm and pleasant, but it must be balanced by the freezing of winter just as birth must be balanced by death. Even the little death of sleep has been proven to be vital for our mental and physical well-being.
Isa encompasses all of these ideas, but primarily represents a period of rest before activity, and itself forms the material from which life can be created. It is matter, inert by itself, but transformed into the stuff of stars when wedded with energy. It is the immovable form acted upon the irresistible force. In many ways, the Norse predicted Einstein with their version of the creation of the universe, recognizing that everything in their world contained both fire and ice (energy and matter), and that the relationship between the two defined the processes of life itself.

jera : year, harvestPhonetic equivalent: y (but may be used in place of 'j')
DIVINATORY MEANINGS:
change, cycle turning, reward, motion, productivity, inevitable development
MAGICAL USES:
to bring change; for fertility and growth
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES:
Sif, Thor, Freyr, Granni
ANALYSIS:
In this modern age of central heating and oranges in February, it is difficult to imagine the close ties that people once had with the cycles of the year, particularly in the more Northern climes. The changing seasons affected not only the weather, but also the day to day activities and even the diets of ancient peoples. Constant change was the norm, and the object was to become attuned with those changes, not to fight against them. An ancient farmer (or even some modern ones) wouldn't need to look at a calendar to tell him when to plant, or read a weather forecast to know when the snows were coming. The changing seasons were a part of his blood and bones, and his very existence depended on adapting to change.
Jera follows isa just as spring follows winter. The frozen stagnancy of ice is broken by the turning of the wheel, and things are once again moving along as they should. In fact, we have now broken out of the entire set 'negative' runes with which we began this aett. This has been accomplished not by fighting to escape the ice or railing against the unfairness of fate, but by learning from those experiences and simply waiting for the inevitable thaw. Jera is the communion wine - the product of the joining of opposites bringing life. Storms may come and go, but the sun is always there and life is generally pretty good. Enjoy it while you can.

eihwaz : yewPhonetic equivalent: ei
DIVINATORY MEANINGS:
change, initiation, confrontation of fears, turning point, death, transformation
MAGICAL USES:
to bring about profound change, to ease a life transition
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES:
Hel, Yggdrasil
ANALYSIS:
The yew tree has been associated with runes, magic and death in northern and western Europe since time immemorial. The reasons for this ancient association are numerous, but seem to principally derive from the fact that yews are evergreens which retain their greenery even through the death of winter, and because their red berries are symbolic of the blood of life. The yew is also extremely long-lived, thus effectively 'immortal'. Reverence for the yew dates back to before the times of the Celts, and continues today in Christian tradition. Eihwaz is the thirteenth rune in the fuþark, and marks the middle of the alphabet. (It is interesting to note that the Death card in the Tarot is also the thirteenth card.) This rune is the turning point in the runic journey, and represents the transformation phase of the initiatory process. All rites of passage, particularly those marking the transition into adulthood, contain the symbolism of death, the idea being that one's former 'self' has died and given birth to a new persona. Eihwaz is the passage through which we must enter the realm of Hel in order to gain the knowledge and acceptance of our own mortality, as well as those mysteries which can only be learned from the dark Lady of the dead. The process is a truly frightening one, but it is something we all must go through if we are to confront our deepest fears and emerge with the kind of wisdom that cannot be taught but must be experienced. Eihwaz is the gateway to this wisdom, and lies between life (jera) and rebirth (perþ).

perþ : dice-cup? vulva?Phonetic equivalent: p
DIVINATORY MEANINGS:
rebirth, mystery, magic, divination, fertility, sexuality, new beginning, prophecy
MAGICAL USES:
fertility, easing childbirth, to aid in divination and magic, enhancing psychic abilities
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES:
Freya, Angrbode
ANALYSIS:
The actual interpretation of perþ has been the subject of much controversy among runic scholars. The problem lies in the fact that the initial P sound doesn't occur anywhere else in the old Germanic language, leading to the belief that the word was imported from another language. The Old English rune poem seems to indicate that it had to do with some sort of game, leading many to interpret it as 'chess pawn' or 'dice-cup'. The dice-cup meaning is particularly interesting as it not only fits the shape of the rune, but also hints at such an object's original use as a container for the runes themselves. An alternate interpretation of perþ is derived from the Slavic 'pizda', meaning 'vulva'. This meaning (although obscure and somewhat unlikely) fits quite well into the progression of runes up until this point, symbolizing the rebirth that follows death. Viewing it as a symbol of the womb of the Goddess, it represents the same element of the mysterious and hidden as 'dice-cup', but taken literally as 'vulva', it adds a powerful, feminine, sexual counterpart to uruz that would otherwise be missing from the fuþark.
However you choose to interpret the literal meaning of perþ (and again, nobody really knows what that is), the basic symbolism is that of a vessel, nurturing and giving 'birth', keeping hidden and secret all those mysteries which can be uncovered only after the initiation of death. The rune is closely tied in with the idea of fate, that the road we travel, regardless of what we choose to do along the way, is pre determined from the moment of our birth. The very act of being born sets us along a course of cause and effect, action and reaction that we may choose to follow blindly, or try to divine through the runes or other means in order that we may better understand the lessons we will learn. Perþ is the beginning of this process, as well as the tool for accomplishing it.

algiz : protectionPhonetic equivalent: x, z
DIVINATORY MEANINGS:
protection, assistance, defence, warning, support, a mentor, an ethical dilemma
MAGICAL USES:
for protection, hunting
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES:
Heimdall, Gjallerhorn
ANALYSIS:
Heimdall is an interesting and mysterious figure in Norse mythology, and I associate him with the rune algiz because of his role as protector and guardian. He is the watcher at the gate who guards the boundaries between the worlds and who charges all those entering and leaving with caution. He is best known for his famous horn, but his sword is also important in the consideration of this rune. Snorri mentions that the poetic name for a sword is 'Heimdall's head', and the poetic name for a head is 'Heimdall's sword'. This is particularly significant if we consider that one form of his name was 'Heimdali', meaning 'ram'. Through the image of the ram, Heimdall's sword and his horn can be seen as two different sides of the same image. Both the sword and the ram's horns (or the elk's antlers) are symbols of power which may be used for either offence or defence, depending on the situation.
In terms of the journey, we have passed through death and rebirth, and must now face the Guardian before returning to our world. It is he who charges us to use our new-found power wisely. The person can no longer be simply concerned with their own personal development, but must now consider the effect that their actions may have on others. This is a crucial turning point, and the person will either choose to adopt a system of ethics or ignore the effect on others and only work to serve their own ends. Again, the sword is in their hands, but they must decide whether to use it for defence or offence.

sowulo : sunPhonetic equivalent: s
DIVINATORY MEANINGS:
success, positive energy, increase, power, activity, fertility, health
MAGICAL USES:
energy, strength, success, healing, fertility
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES:
Sunna
ANALYSIS:
The sun is held sacred by almost every religion in the world. Its light and warmth symbolize life and growth and all that is good. Norse cosmology describes the sun being driven around the heavens in a chariot and chased by a great wolf, which will devour it at Ragnarok. Throughout Indo-European Paganism, the sun has frequently been associated with the horse, often described as being carted around the sky by a horse. Both are symbolic of life and fertility, and are usually considered 'masculine' in polarity, although in Norse myth the chariot is driven by a girl. The swastika or sun wheel is a constant motif in rock carvings dating back to Neolithic times, and occurs throughout Europe and Asia. The sun rune itself is a variation on this symbol, and represents motion and energy.
Sowulo marks the end of the second aett, and like wunjo represents success and glory. However, unlike the rest and relaxation of Valhalla, the sun is very much an active symbol. We have reached the end of the aett successfully, and the conclusion is a positive one, but in this case we are fully aware of the changing and transient nature of the universe. We can see the wolf at our heels, and we know that we must move on. Here, though, the journeyer may pause briefly in the warmth and light of the sun, absorbing and applying its energy to the work ahead. This time we won't need to be blasted out of our safe position, but will rather choose to leave it in order to continue on the journey.

Runes

fehu : cattlePhonetic equivalent: f
DIVINATORY MEANINGS:
prosperity, money, wealth, concern with physical and financial needs, goals, promotion, self-esteem, centredness, karma
MAGICAL USES:
for money, business, promotion, finding a job, achieving a goal, starting new enterprises
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES:
Freyr, Brisingamen, Gullveig, Dwarfs, Sigurd & the Otter's Gold
ANALYSIS:
Fehu is both the day-to-day reality of our lives and the catalyst that awakens us to what lies beyond. It is whatever we think we are seeking, which frequently bbears no resemblance to what we will eventually find. It is also our home, for after all our wanderings we will still need to attend to our physical needs and ground ourselves in the simple pleasures of home, family, and good work. Oz might be a fun place to visit, but after a while all you really want to do is go back to Kansas.
Fehu reminds us that we must be secure in our physical situation before embarking upon any spiritual journey. We all must begin with the mundane reality of our lives, although many people never get beyond this. In many ways, we have become as domesticated as the cattle, living our day to day existence without wanting or even being aware of anything more being possible. The first step in breaking away from this situation is to catch a glimpse of what is possible, without dwelling on what security we may lose to attain it.

uruz : aurochsPhonetic equivalent: u
DIVINATORY MEANINGS:
energy, passion, vitality, instinct, wildness, sexuality, fertility, the unconscious, primitive mind, irrationality, shamanic experience, rite of passage
MAGICAL USES:
to strengthen the will, increase sexual potency and energy; for hunting
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES:
Ullr, Loki, Odin (as shaman)
ANALYSIS:
The aurochs was a species of wild ox, similar to a longhorn bull, that was once found all over Europe, but which became extinct sometime in the 17th. century. They were said to be slightly smaller than elephants, and had horns as long as six feet, which were highly prized by the Germanii as drinking horns. This may or may not have been an exaggeration. Paintings of aurochs have been found in Neolithic caves, and it is believed that the aurochs hunt had some significance as a rite of passage for a boy entering manhood. The aurochs is the epitome of the wild animal, as opposed to the domesticated cattle represented by fehu.
Uruz is the rune of the God of the sacred hunt and his shaman/priest. Following the kind of mundane, day to day survival represented by fehu, it is the first recognition by mankind of the divine in nature, and his first attempt to control it through the use of sympathetic magic. It also represents an awareness of death and our own mortality, which may well be the only thing which truly distinguishes us from other animals. The energy of this rune is raw, powerful, and distinctly masculine, in the sense that it is pure, elemental fire. The boy who has killed the aurochs has just entered manhood, and has therefore been initiated into the first level of the mysteries - the awareness that the source of life is death.

þurisaz : giantPhonetic equivalent: th (as in 'thing')
DIVINATORY MEANINGS:
hardship, painful event, discipline, knowledge, introspection, focus
MAGICAL USES:
aid in study and meditation, self-discipline, clearing out a bad situation
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES:
the Frost Giants, Loki
ANALYSIS:
Þurisaz is the first of the 'obstacle' runes. These obstacles are not necessarily destructive things, but are placed in our path to strengthen and teach us. After all, you can't have a mythic hero without dragons to slay or giants to fight!
The lesson of this rune is 'to learn you must suffer', meaning not only literal suffering, but also in the biblical sense of 'allowing' - allowing one's destiny to unfold as it should, and allowing one's self to experience all that life offers us. What may at first appear to be a negative, destructive event, may well turn out to contain an important lesson. The Giants may seem to be evil and destructive to the Aesir, but they bring about change, and eventually clear the way for a new age.

ansuz : OdinPhonetic equivalent: a (as in 'fall')
DIVINATORY MEANINGS:
authority figure, leader, mind & body balance, justice, shaman, clairvoyant
MAGICAL USES:
for wise decisions, success, leadership; to help in divination and magic
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES:
Odin
ANALYSIS:
This rune represents the instinctive, primal energy of uruz tempered with the discipline and experience of þurisaz. These elements are combined in the personage of Odin, who exhibits the characteristics of both chieftain and shaman - a god of wisdom as well as war. Odin is also a shaman, travelling between the worlds on his eight-legged horse, Sleipnir.
Ansuz is a balanced rune. As with fehu, many people choose to remain at this point in their journey. It represents power, both secular and magical, and this power can be quite seductive. Odin has learned the lessons of the first three runes, thus gaining the wisdom to rule wisely, but this is really only another beginning. He has only gained temporal power, and has only a few of the tools he will need to perfect himself spiritually. There is a certain lack of compassion and perspective in this rune. Odin sits high above his world, looking down and making decisions, but he doesn't yet have the capacity to really care about or understand his people or himself. He still needs that emotional connection to become a truly great leader.

raiðo : journeyPhonetic equivalent: r
DIVINATORY MEANINGS:
journey, pilgrimage, change, destiny, quest, progress, life lessons
MAGICAL USES:
protection for travellers, to ease or bring about change, to reconnect
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES:
the Norns, Sigurd's journey
ANALYSIS:
Raiðo represents the path of a person's life and how it intersects and interacts with other paths. In Norse mythology, these paths are seen as threads of fate, and are regulated by the Norns. The Norns are three sisters who live near the first root of Yggdrasil, which they tend with the water from the well of Wyrd. They also spin the fates of Gods and men, which is important when understanding the mechanism of runic divination and magic.
The complex network of relationships formed by these threads of fate can be thought of as a web. Every chance encounter forms another connection in the web, and by tugging on one thread you affect everything else in the system. Most people do this completely unconsciously, but by becoming aware of the pattern of the threads surrounding you, it becomes possible to recognize and follow up on the kind of catalytic events that seemed to happen to us randomly back at fehu. In this way, we can find our way more easily along the path of our own journey, thus deriving the greatest benefit from its lessons. Otherwise we tend to get distracted and end up on detours and dead ends.
Raiðo reminds us that, although it may seem that we have accomplished our goals at ansuz, life and change continue and we must always go on. We will eventually end up where we began, but on a higher level and with a better perspective. The journey never really ends.

kenaz : torchPhonetic equivalent: c (as in 'candle')
DIVINATORY MEANINGS:
wisdom, insight, solution to a problem, creativity, inspiration, enlightenment
MAGICAL USES:
for creative inspiration, aid in study, fertility, dispelling anxiety and fear
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES:
Mimir, the Dwarfs, Muspellheim
ANALYSIS:
In modern usage, the Scottish 'ken' means to know or understand, and this is the sense in which the rune should interpreted. Today, light, inspiration and knowledge are often associated, as in 'gaining enlightenment' and 'shedding light on the problem', and even in the image of a lightbulb going on over someone's head when they get an idea. To bring light is to make the invisible visible.
Unlike the wisdom gained at þurisaz, kenaz only allows us to take bits and pieces of this knowledge away with us as we need it, usually at the discretion of the Gods. This knowledge will generally come in the form of a sudden inspiration, and we will be able to see clearly the answer that was once hidden from us. This form of wisdom is more closely associated with the right half of the brain than the left, since it does not come through conscious effort but rather through passively opening one's self to it. Thus, a more feminine element is added to our journeyer's experience.
The act of bringing light into the darkness is also a creative one. Again consider the image of the person carrying a torch , representing the masculine elements of fire and air, entering the cave and penetrating the feminine realm of earth and water. This joining of masculine and feminine elements results in the creation of new ideas. In physical terms, this can be correlated to the application of fire to mold and shape matter - the art of the smith.

gebo : giftPhonetic equivalent: g (as in 'girl')
DIVINATORY MEANINGS:
gift, offering, relationship, love, marriage, partnership, generosity, unexpected good fortune
MAGICAL USES:
to find or strengthen a relationship, for fertility, to mark a gift or offering, to bring luck
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES:
Sigurd & Brunhild; Aesir & Vanir treaty
ANALYSIS:
Gebo is a rune of connection, particularly the connections between people. Up until now, our journey has been a solitary one. This rune represents those places where our path intersects with others, and allows us to begin to form conscious relationships. Such relationships are strengthened and sanctified by the exchange of gifts.
The use of the gift as a symbol of an oath or a bond is an ancient one. When a lord wanted to ensure the loyalty of one of his subjects, he would give that person a gift. The gift would create a debt on the part of the person receiving it, and this debt would ensure his readiness to serve his lord. Similarly, a gift given between lovers, especially that of the ring, symbolizes the bond between them. Originally, only the man gave the ring in a marriage for much the same reason as the lord giving gifts to his vassals, but today the arrangement is usually more equitable. Gifts or offerings given to the Gods often carry the same meaning, representing the giver's love for or loyalty to their Gods. The giving of a gift implies the acceptance of a debt with the understanding that the debt will not be repaid. It is this imbalance which forms the bond.

wunjo : glory Phonetic equivalent: w
DIVINATORY MEANINGS:
success, recognition of achievements, reward, joy, bliss, achievement of goals, contentment
MAGICAL USES:
for success in any endeavor, to motivate, to complete a task.
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES:
Baldr, Asgard
ANALYSIS:
Wunjo is the last rune of the first aett, and thus represents both the end of one cycle and preparation for the next. It is a very positive, stable rune, and is another place where people tend to get stalled along their journey. Christian poets related it to heaven, but in fact it more closely resembles the Pagan Valhalla, since this particular paradise is not a permanent one.
Like the wealth of fehu, the glory of wunjo is only an illusion. We have achieved success on one level only, and there are many more lessons to be learned. It is, however, a welcome respite which allows us to rest, re-charge our batteries and prepare ourselves for the rest of the journey. It also gives us some perspective, allowing us to look back and reflect on the road thus far. Wunjo gives us a glimpse of what is possible, but if we try too soon to reach out and grab it, like the Grail it will disappear between our fingers.

runes

The Elder Futhark
The name "futhark", like the word "alphabet", is derived from the first few letters in the runic sequence, which differs considerably from the order of the Latin alphabet and is unique amongst alphabetic scripts. The futhark originally consisted of 24 letters, beginning with F and ending with O, and was used by the northern Germanic tribes of Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Northern Germany. This form of the runes is known as the Elder, or Germanic Futhark.
The Anglo-Saxon FuthorcThe Anglo-Saxon Futhorc
Sometime around the fifth century AD, changes occurred in the runes in Frisia (the area around the northern Netherlands and north-western Germany). This period coincided with the Anglo-Saxon invasions from this area and the appearance of similar runes in the British Isles. The forms of several of the runes changed, notably the runes for A/O, C/K, H, J, S, and Ng. Also, changes in the language led to between five and nine runes being added to the alphabet to compensate for the extra sounds, and several runes were given different corresponding letters. This alphabet has become known as the Anglo-Saxon Futhorc.
The Younger FutharkThe Younger Fuþark (Danish variation)
In Scandinavia, the Elder Futhark remained in use until some time around the eighth century (the time of the Eddas), when drastic changes in the Old Norse language occurred, and corresponding changes in the runic alphabet were made to accommodate the new sounds. However, unlike the Anglo-Saxon Futhorc, the Younger Futhark (as it is now called) reduced the number of runes from 24 to 16, and several runes came to represent multiple sounds. The forms of the runes were also changed and simplified. There are several variations of this futhark - Danish, long branch, Norwegian, dotted, etc.
This form of the runic alphabet spread from Denmark north into Sweden and Norway, and was carried into Iceland and Greenland by the Vikings. It is possible that they were also brought to North America with the Vinland expeditions, but so far no authenticated inscriptions have been found.
The Runic RevivalThe runes, primarily in their Younger form, remained in common use until well into the 17th. century. Up until this time, they were found on everything from coins to coffins, and in some places their use was actually sanctioned by the Church. Even the common people knew simple runic spells, and the runes were frequently consulted on matters of both public and private interest. Unfortunately, as with most of the magical arts, they were officially banned in 1639 as part of the Church's efforts to "drive the devil out of Europe". The rune masters were either executed or went underground, and the knowledge of the runes may well have died with them. Some say that the knowledge was passed on in secret, but it is almost impossible to separate ancient traditions from more modern esoteric philosophies in such cases.
Perhaps the darkest period in the history of runic studies was their revival by German scholars connected with the Nazi movement in the 20's and 30's. What began as a legitimate folkloric resurgence unfortunately became so tainted by Nazi ideology and racism that the research from this period was rendered all but useless to any serious student of runic lore.
After the Second World War, the runes fell into disfavour as a result of their association with Naziism, and very little was written about them until the fifties and sixties. It was not until the mid-eighties, with the widespread appeal of the "New Age" movement and the revival of Pagan religions (especially the Asatru movement) that the runes regained their popularity as both a divinatory system and a tool for self-awareness.

runes

What Are Runes?
Runes are an alphabetic script used by the peoples of Northern Europe from the first century c.e. until well into the Middle Ages. In addition to their use as a written alphabet, the runes also served as a system of symbols used for magic and divination. Runes fell into disuse as the Roman alphabets became the preferred script of most of Europe, but their forms and meanings were preserved in inscriptions and manuscripts.
The primary characteristic which distinguishes a runic alphabet from other alphabets is that each letter, or rune, has a meaning. For example, whereas "ay", "bee", and "cee" are meaningless sounds denoting the first three letters in our alphabet, the names of the first three runes, "fehu", "uruz", and "þurisaz" are actual words in the Germanic language, meaning "cattle", "aurochs", and "giant", respectively. Runes also have magical and religious significance as well, thus transforming the simple process of writing into a magical act. They are also used for divinatory readings and to create magical spells.
Today, runes have been rediscovered as a symbolic system and have gained immense popularity as a means of divination. They are, however, much more than a curious alternative to Tarot cards for telling fortunes. They provide a key to understanding the lives and beliefs of the ancient people who created them, and have much to teach us about a way of life that was perhaps more inimately connected to the natural world, and to the realm of spirit, than our own.

trees

OAK (Quercus spp.)
Red Oak* (Quercus rubra)
A strong, straight-grained, slightly porous wood with a slight reddish hue. Its energy is a bit lighter and more 'firey' than the other oaks.
White Oak* (Quercus alba)
Darker and denser than red oak. It's strength and density have led to its being used in barrel-making and shipbuilding. Useful for spells requiring strength and solidity.
Brown (English) Oak* (Quercus robur)
A richly-coloured dark brown wood. 'Bog oak' is brown oak which has fallen into a peat bog and been preserved there for hundreds of years until it begins to have the consistancy of coal. Brown oak has a very earthy feel, and is useful for grounding.
Oak has been considered sacred by just about every culture that has encountered the tree, but it was held in particular esteem by the Norse and Celts because of its size, longevity, and nutritious acorns. The oak is frequently associated with Gods of thunder and lightening such as Zeus, Thor, and the Lithuanian God Perkunas. This association may be due to the oak's habit of being hit by lightening during storms. Specific oak trees have also been associated with the 'Wild Hunt', which is led by Herne in England and by Wodin in Germany. In general, oak can be used in spells for protection, strength, success and stability; the different varieties will lend their own special 'flavour' to the magic.
PEAR (Pyrrus spp.)
The Roman author Tacitus described how the Germanii would carve runes into the wood of a fruit tree. This is often assumed to be the apple tree, but may well have been the pear which is considered by some to be of the same genus as the apple. In the 5th century, Constantius told of a pear tree which was honored by the Northmen. The pear tree is also mentioned in literature and folklore connected with love and temptation.
PINE (Pinus spp.)
The Pine tree is an evergreen, its old title was "the sweetest of woods". Its needles are a valuable source of vitamin C and can loosen a tight chest. The scent of Pine is useful in the alleviation of guilt. The Bach's flower remedies lists it for dealing with feelings of guilt. Pine indicates issues of guilt within you.
POPLAR (Populus spp.)
The White Poplar flourishes beside rivers, in marshes and in other watery areas. The pith is star shaped. The upper leaves are green, the underside is silver. The wood was used in the making of shields. Leaves move with every puff of wind. It is commonly referred to as the talking, whispering and quivering tree. The Anglo-Saxon rune poem seems to refer to the poplar as being associated with the rune berkano. Heracles wore a crown of poplar leaves when he retrieved Cerberus from Hades, and the upper surface of the leaves was thus darkened from Hades' smokey fumes. In Christian lore, the quaking poplar (aspen) was used to construct Christ's cross, and the leaves of the tree quiver when they remember this fact. The Poplar's ability to resist and to shield, its association with speech, language and the Winds indicates an ability to endure and conquer.
ROWAN (Sorbus aucuparia)
The Rowan tree (also called Mountain Ash) is long known for aid and protection against enchantment. Sticks of the Rowan were used to carve Runes on. It was also used in the art of metal divining. Rowan spays and crosses were placed over cattle in pens and over homes for protection. Its lovely red berries feed the birds in winter. The berries have a tiny pentagram on them. The pentagram is the ancient symbol of protection. The Rowan tree indicates protection and control of the senses from enchantment and beguiling.
WILLOW (Salix babylonica)
The willow is another water loving tree. Willow bark contains Salicin which is used in the treatment of rheumatic fever and various damp diseases. Her catkins, which appear in early spring before her leaves, attract bees to start the cycle of pollination. In western tradition it is a symbol of mourning and unlucky love. The Latin name for the weeping willow refers to the psalm in which the Hebrews mourn their captivity in Babylon by the willows. Willow indicates cycles, rhythms and the ebb and flux.
YEW* (Taxus baccata)
A beautifully smooth, gold-coloured wood with a wavy grain. All parts of the tree are poisonous except the fleshy covering of the berry, and its medicinal uses include a recently discovered treatment for cancer. Long associated with magic, death, rebirth and the runes, the yew may be the oldest-lived tree in the world. Ancient yews can be found in churchyards all over Britain, where they often pre-date even the oldest churches. There are some convincing arguements for it being the original 'World-tree' of Scandinavian mythology. In Europe, yew wood was used for making bows, while on the northwest coast of North America, the Pacific yew (Taxus brevifolia) is used by the Haida and other tribes for making masks and boxes. Yew may be used to enhance magical and psychic abilities, and to induce visions.

trees

ELDER (Sambucus spp.)
The Latin name sambucus is derived from a Greek word for a wind instrument made from elder. The pith can easily be removed from the small branches to make a flute. Elder regrows damaged branches with ease and can root rapidly from any part. A tea for purifying the blood can be made from the flowers and wine from the fruit, but in general the tree is poisonous. In Norse mythology, the Goddess Freya chose the black elder as her home. In medieval times it was the abode of witches and it was considered dangerous to sleep under its branches or to cut it down. Sticks of Elder were used as magical horses by Witches. Elder indicates the end in the beginning and the beginning in the end. Life in Death and Death in Life.
ELM* (Ulmus spp.)
A slightly fibrous, tan-coloured wood with a slight sheen. Elm is often associated with Mother and Earth Goddesses, and was said to be the abode of faeries, explaining Kipling's injunction; "Ailim be the lady's tree; burn it not or cursed ye'll be". Elm wood is valued for it's resistance to splitting, and the inner bark was used for cordage and chair caning. Elm adds stability and grounding to a spell.
FIR (Abies spp.)
Fir is a very tall slender tree that grows in mountainous regions on the upper slopes. Fir cones respond to rain by closing and the sun by opening. Fir can see over great distance to the far horizon beyond and below. Fir indicates high views and long sights with clear vision of what is beyond and yet to come.
HAWTHORN (Crataegus oxyacantha)
A light, hard, apple-like wood. Hawthorn usually doesn't grow much bigger than a shrub, and is popular in England as a hedge plant. The wood from the Hawthorn provides the hottest fire known. Its leaves and blossoms are used to create a tea to aid with anxiety, appetite loss and poor circulation. The Greeks and Romans saw the hawthorn as symbolic of hope and marriage, but in medieval Europe it was associated with witchcraft and considered to be unlucky. This seeming contradiction is to be expected from a tree with such beautiful blossoms and such deadly-looking thorns. Hawthorn can be used for protection, love and marriage spells.
HAZEL (Corylus avallania)
Hazel is another food tree. In Celtic tradition, the Salmon of Knowledge is said to eat the 9 nuts of poetic wisdom dropped into its sacred pool from the hazel tree growing beside it. Each nut eaten by the salmon becomes a spot on its skin. The Hazel tree provided shade, protection and baskets. In Europe and North America, hazel is commonly used for 'water-witching' - the art of finding water with a forked stick. Magically, hazel wood is used to gain knowledge, wisdom and poetic inspiration.
HOLLY* (Ilex aquifolium)
A beautiful white wood with an almost invisible grain; looks very much like ivory. Holly is associated with the death and rebirth symbolism of winter in both Pagan and Christian lore. In Arthurian legend, Gawain (representing the Oak King of summer) fought the Green Knight, who was armed with a holly club to represent winter. It is one of the three timbers used in the construction of chariot wheel shafts. It was used in spear shafts also. The qualities of a spear shaft are balance and directness, as the spear must be hefted to be thrown the holly indicates directed balance and vigour to fight if the cause is just. Holly may be used in spells having to do with sleep or rest, and to ease the passage of death.
LARCH (Larix europaea)
A light softwood, very similar to spruce. Larch is one of the few conifers which sheds its needles in the winter. It is closely related to the North American tamarack (larix laricina). The larch plays an important role in Sami (Lapp) and Siberian mythology where it takes the place of the ash as the World-tree. Their shamans use larch wood to rim their ceremonial drums. The smoke from burning larch is said to ward off evil spirits. Larch may be used for protection and to induce visions.
MAPLE (Acer spp.)
A very hard, pale, fine-grained wood. Although the sugar maple has the highest sugar content in its sap, all maple species can be tapped to make syrup and sugar, making them a vital resource to early North American settlers. In north-eastern North America, the annual 'sugaring-off' usually coincides with the vernal equinox, making it one of the first signs of spring. Maple can bring success and abundance.
OAK (Quercus spp.)
Red Oak* (Quercus rubra)
A strong, straight-grained, slightly porous wood with a slight reddish hue. Its energy is a bit lighter and more 'firey' than the other oaks.
White Oak* (Quercus alba)
Darker and denser than red oak. It's strength and density have led to its being used in barrel-making and shipbuilding. Useful for spells requiring strength and solidity.

trees

Alnus spp.)
This tree is a water lover. The oily water resistant wood has been used extensively for underwater foundations and pilings in Venice and elsewhere. It is used in dairy vessels and the branches in making whistles. It is associated with Bran, as He used His body as a bridge to span dangerous waters. It is used in the construction of bridges. Bran's Head was oracular. Alder indicates protection and oracular powers.
APPLE* (Malus spp.)
A dense, fine-grained, rosy-coloured wood with a slightly sweet smell. The Apple is the earliest cultivated tree. It is associated with choice. At Somerset, an auction was held for single acre plots on two pieces of common land. Plots were marked and matching marks made on the fruit. The apples were then placed in a bag and commoners were allocated land by the distribution of the fruit. All the acres of land were similar, as many times today choices must be made between similar and equally attractive things. Regardless, the choice must be made. In Norse myth, Idunna was the keeper of the 'apples of immortality' which kept the Gods young. The 'fruit-bearing tree' refered to by Tacitus in his description of Norse runic divination may have been the apple. Apple indicates choice, and is useful for love and healing magic.
ASH* (Fraxinus spp.)
A strong, straight-grained wood; sometimes has 'olive' streaks or stripes in the grain. The European variety (fraxinus excelcior) was referred to in the Eddas as the species of Yggdrasil - the 'World-Tree". The first man, named Ask, was created from an ash log. Ash was commonly used to make spears because of its 'springiness' and straight grain. In North America, strips of black ash were split along the grain to make splints for baskets and hoops. It is used in weaver's beams. Women would weave cloth and intermingling threads together in a tight pattern as the microcosm and the macrocosm are united. Ash can be used in spells requiring focus and strength of purpose, and indicates the linking of the inner and outer worlds.
BEECH (Fagus spp.)
Beech wood is closely grained, very easy to work giving a smooth even surface. At one time Beech tablets were used as writing surfaces because of the above mentioned qualities. Beech and book have the same word origins. Beech is concerned with ancient knowledge as revealed in old objects, places and writings. Beech indicates guidance from the past to gain insight which protects and provides a solid base upon which all relies.
BIRCH* (Betula spp.)
A lovely pale, fine-grained wood. Long associated with fertility and healing magic, birch twigs were used to bestow fertility on cattle and newlyweds, and children's cradles were made from its wood. Birch is one of the first trees to grow on bare soil and thus it births the entire forest. Criminals were at one time birched to drive out evil influences on them, to renew them for the new year. Birch was associated with Thor, probably in recognition of his role as an agricultural and fertility deity. Birch is an incredibly useful tree - nearly every part of it is edible, and it's sap was an important source of sugar to Native Americans and early settlers. The inner bark provides a pain reliever and the leaves are used to treat arthritis. It's bark was used for everything from paper to canoe hulls, and axe handles were also made from Birch. Birch is most useful for fertility and healing spells.
BLACKTHORN (Prunus spinosa)
Blackthorn is a winter tree. The sloe, its fruits ripen and sweeten only after the nip of the frost. White flowers are seen even before the leaves in the spring. It is black barked with vicious thorns and grows in dense thickets. The wood is used in the cudgel shillelagh and Blasting Stick. Its thorns are used to pierce waxen images. Blackthorn indicates strong action of fate or outside influences that must be obeyed.

trees

Alnus spp.)
This tree is a water lover. The oily water resistant wood has been used extensively for underwater foundations and pilings in Venice and elsewhere. It is used in dairy vessels and the branches in making whistles. It is associated with Bran, as He used His body as a bridge to span dangerous waters. It is used in the construction of bridges. Bran's Head was oracular. Alder indicates protection and oracular powers.
APPLE* (Malus spp.)
A dense, fine-grained, rosy-coloured wood with a slightly sweet smell. The Apple is the earliest cultivated tree. It is associated with choice. At Somerset, an auction was held for single acre plots on two pieces of common land. Plots were marked and matching marks made on the fruit. The apples were then placed in a bag and commoners were allocated land by the distribution of the fruit. All the acres of land were similar, as many times today choices must be made between similar and equally attractive things. Regardless, the choice must be made. In Norse myth, Idunna was the keeper of the 'apples of immortality' which kept the Gods young. The 'fruit-bearing tree' refered to by Tacitus in his description of Norse runic divination may have been the apple. Apple indicates choice, and is useful for love and healing magic.
ASH* (Fraxinus spp.)
A strong, straight-grained wood; sometimes has 'olive' streaks or stripes in the grain. The European variety (fraxinus excelcior) was referred to in the Eddas as the species of Yggdrasil - the 'World-Tree". The first man, named Ask, was created from an ash log. Ash was commonly used to make spears because of its 'springiness' and straight grain. In North America, strips of black ash were split along the grain to make splints for baskets and hoops. It is used in weaver's beams. Women would weave cloth and intermingling threads together in a tight pattern as the microcosm and the macrocosm are united. Ash can be used in spells requiring focus and strength of purpose, and indicates the linking of the inner and outer worlds.
BEECH (Fagus spp.)
Beech wood is closely grained, very easy to work giving a smooth even surface. At one time Beech tablets were used as writing surfaces because of the above mentioned qualities. Beech and book have the same word origins. Beech is concerned with ancient knowledge as revealed in old objects, places and writings. Beech indicates guidance from the past to gain insight which protects and provides a solid base upon which all relies.
BIRCH* (Betula spp.)
A lovely pale, fine-grained wood. Long associated with fertility and healing magic, birch twigs were used to bestow fertility on cattle and newlyweds, and children's cradles were made from its wood. Birch is one of the first trees to grow on bare soil and thus it births the entire forest. Criminals were at one time birched to drive out evil influences on them, to renew them for the new year. Birch was associated with Thor, probably in recognition of his role as an agricultural and fertility deity. Birch is an incredibly useful tree - nearly every part of it is edible, and it's sap was an important source of sugar to Native Americans and early settlers. The inner bark provides a pain reliever and the leaves are used to treat arthritis. It's bark was used for everything from paper to canoe hulls, and axe handles were also made from Birch. Birch is most useful for fertility and healing spells.
BLACKTHORN (Prunus spinosa)
Blackthorn is a winter tree. The sloe, its fruits ripen and sweeten only after the nip of the frost. White flowers are seen even before the leaves in the spring. It is black barked with vicious thorns and grows in dense thickets. The wood is used in the cudgel shillelagh and Blasting Stick. Its thorns are used to pierce waxen images. Blackthorn indicates strong action of fate or outside influences that must be obeyed.

herbs

TamarindTamarindus indicaPlanet: SaturnElement: WaterDescription: TreePart Used: Seed pods, seedsUses: Carry to attract love.
TamariskTamarix sp.Planet: SaturnElement: WaterDescription: TreePart Used: LeavesUses: Scatter the leaves to exorcise an area.
TansyTanacetum vulgarePlanet: VenusElement: WaterDescription: HerbPart Used: Flowers, leavesUses: Carried for long life. Used in rituals of death and dying. Tansy may be used as an asperger during rites for the deceased. Strong association with rebirth. Assists with transition from life to the hereafter.
TarragonArtemisia cracunculusPlanet: MarsElement: FireDescription: HerbPart Used: HerbUses: Sacred to Lilith. Promotes compassion for others but not in a codependent way. Useful for women who are caretakers to assist them in being loving without losing themselves. Also for women who have been abused to help them reclaim their strength.
ThistleCarduus sp.Planet: MarsElement: FireDescription: HerbPart Used: HerbUses: Carry for energy and strength. A vase of thistles strenthens the spirit and renews the vitality of those near it. Grown it wards off thieves. Planted at the doorstep they protect against evil. Thistle down stuffed into a poppet works well for magic to break hexes. Used in healing spells. Carried by men for increased sexual prowess. When thrown into the fire will ward off lightning. A flower carried guards against evil. Thistles are scattered to exorcise evil. Carried to aid depression. Represents endurance and can be used to increase it. Used in healing spells for animals both wild and pets.
Thistle, CarlineCarlina vulgarisPlanet: MercuryElement: AirDescription: HerbPart Used: HerbUses: Used traditionally against disease, particularly epidemic disease.
Thistle, HolyCentaurea benedictaPlanet: MarsElement: FireDescription: HerbPart Used: HerbUses: Hex breaking spells, protection against negativity and evil, and in purification baths.
Thistle, MilkSilybum maarianumPlanet: MoonElement: WaterDescription: HerbPart Used: HerbUses: Used to attune oneself with the maiden aspect of the Goddess.
Thistle, ScotchOnopordon acanthiumPlanet: MarsElement: FireDescription: HerbPart Used: Herb, flowersUses: Associated with Scotland may be used in any ritual calling upon Scottish deities.
ThymeThymus vulgarisPlanet: VenusElement: WaterDescription: HerbPart Used: HerbUses: Burned to bring good health or worn for health. Used in healing spells. Placed in sleep pillows it ensures sleep with no nightmares. Purification in incense or as a scattering herb. Used in combination with marjoram in a cleansing bath. Worn it assists the development of psychic ability. Carried to give courage and energy. Used in ritual to reestablish contact with the departed. Attracts fairies.
ToadflaxLinaria sp.Planet: MarsElement: FireDescription: HerbPart Used: HerbUses: Carried in a sachet to ward off evil and negativity. Used to turn back negative magic and clear hexed conditions.
TobaccoNiccotiana sp. Planet: MarsElement: FireDescription: HerbPart Used: LeavesUses: Burnt as incense to purify an area of all negativity and spirits of all kinds. A substitute for sulphur, datura or nightshade in old magical recipes. Used as a visionary herb by indigenous peoples of the Americas. If you intend to use it as a visionary herb, you should not smoke it recreationally as it will dilute the effect.
TomatoLycopersicon sp.Planet: VenusElement: WaterDescription: HerbPart Used: FruitUses: Grown it is protective. Place a tomato on the mantle to attract prosperity to the home, replace with a new fruit every three days. Put a tomato on the windowsil or in the door of a home to guard it from negativity and evil. May be served to the beloved as part of a love inducing meal.
Tonda BeanDipteryx odorataPlanet: VenusElement: WaterDescription: TreePart Used: Seed and fruitUses: Used in love sachets or carried to attract love. Worn to gain prosperity. Carried to grant luck. Gives courage when worn. Protects from disease when carried.
TormentilPotentilla tormentillaPlanet: SunElement: FireDescription: HerbPart Used: HerbUses: An infusion is used for protection when drunk. May be served to the beloved to maintain a relationship. Mediums and channels drink the tea to prevent themselves from being possessed by spirits permanently. Herb is carried to attract love. Hung in the home the plant is protective.
TumericCurcuma longaPlanet: MercuryElement: AirDescription: HerbPart Used: RootUses: Used for protection, either scattered on the floor or daubed onto the third eye area as in Nepal, or carried. Used for purification in Hawaii

herbs

TamarindTamarindus indicaPlanet: SaturnElement: WaterDescription: TreePart Used: Seed pods, seedsUses: Carry to attract love.
TamariskTamarix sp.Planet: SaturnElement: WaterDescription: TreePart Used: LeavesUses: Scatter the leaves to exorcise an area.
TansyTanacetum vulgarePlanet: VenusElement: WaterDescription: HerbPart Used: Flowers, leavesUses: Carried for long life. Used in rituals of death and dying. Tansy may be used as an asperger during rites for the deceased. Strong association with rebirth. Assists with transition from life to the hereafter.
TarragonArtemisia cracunculusPlanet: MarsElement: FireDescription: HerbPart Used: HerbUses: Sacred to Lilith. Promotes compassion for others but not in a codependent way. Useful for women who are caretakers to assist them in being loving without losing themselves. Also for women who have been abused to help them reclaim their strength.
ThistleCarduus sp.Planet: MarsElement: FireDescription: HerbPart Used: HerbUses: Carry for energy and strength. A vase of thistles strenthens the spirit and renews the vitality of those near it. Grown it wards off thieves. Planted at the doorstep they protect against evil. Thistle down stuffed into a poppet works well for magic to break hexes. Used in healing spells. Carried by men for increased sexual prowess. When thrown into the fire will ward off lightning. A flower carried guards against evil. Thistles are scattered to exorcise evil. Carried to aid depression. Represents endurance and can be used to increase it. Used in healing spells for animals both wild and pets.
Thistle, CarlineCarlina vulgarisPlanet: MercuryElement: AirDescription: HerbPart Used: HerbUses: Used traditionally against disease, particularly epidemic disease.
Thistle, HolyCentaurea benedictaPlanet: MarsElement: FireDescription: HerbPart Used: HerbUses: Hex breaking spells, protection against negativity and evil, and in purification baths.
Thistle, MilkSilybum maarianumPlanet: MoonElement: WaterDescription: HerbPart Used: HerbUses: Used to attune oneself with the maiden aspect of the Goddess.
Thistle, ScotchOnopordon acanthiumPlanet: MarsElement: FireDescription: HerbPart Used: Herb, flowersUses: Associated with Scotland may be used in any ritual calling upon Scottish deities.
ThymeThymus vulgarisPlanet: VenusElement: WaterDescription: HerbPart Used: HerbUses: Burned to bring good health or worn for health. Used in healing spells. Placed in sleep pillows it ensures sleep with no nightmares. Purification in incense or as a scattering herb. Used in combination with marjoram in a cleansing bath. Worn it assists the development of psychic ability. Carried to give courage and energy. Used in ritual to reestablish contact with the departed. Attracts fairies.
ToadflaxLinaria sp.Planet: MarsElement: FireDescription: HerbPart Used: HerbUses: Carried in a sachet to ward off evil and negativity. Used to turn back negative magic and clear hexed conditions.
TobaccoNiccotiana sp. Planet: MarsElement: FireDescription: HerbPart Used: LeavesUses: Burnt as incense to purify an area of all negativity and spirits of all kinds. A substitute for sulphur, datura or nightshade in old magical recipes. Used as a visionary herb by indigenous peoples of the Americas. If you intend to use it as a visionary herb, you should not smoke it recreationally as it will dilute the effect.
TomatoLycopersicon sp.Planet: VenusElement: WaterDescription: HerbPart Used: FruitUses: Grown it is protective. Place a tomato on the mantle to attract prosperity to the home, replace with a new fruit every three days. Put a tomato on the windowsil or in the door of a home to guard it from negativity and evil. May be served to the beloved as part of a love inducing meal.
Tonda BeanDipteryx odorataPlanet: VenusElement: WaterDescription: TreePart Used: Seed and fruitUses: Used in love sachets or carried to attract love. Worn to gain prosperity. Carried to grant luck. Gives courage when worn. Protects from disease when carried.
TormentilPotentilla tormentillaPlanet: SunElement: FireDescription: HerbPart Used: HerbUses: An infusion is used for protection when drunk. May be served to the beloved to maintain a relationship. Mediums and channels drink the tea to prevent themselves from being possessed by spirits permanently. Herb is carried to attract love. Hung in the home the plant is protective.
TumericCurcuma longaPlanet: MercuryElement: AirDescription: HerbPart Used: RootUses: Used for protection, either scattered on the floor or daubed onto the third eye area as in Nepal, or carried. Used for purification in Hawaii