Tag: Sayings
Divination Journal
Tarot Cards
Source: TarotX.net
Knight of Cups – Minor Arcana Court Card
Menu of Contents
I. Knight of Cups Rider Waite image description
Detailed meaning of the keywords of the Knight of Cups
III. Knight of Cups Upright Card Keywords
IV. Knight of Cups Reversed Keywords
Animal Spirit Guide or Helper
Source: UniGuide.com
Goat
Goat meanings and symbolism include sure-footedness, desire, creative energy, revelry, tranquility, aspiration, and faith. The goat (along with the dog) was the first domesticated animal. Thus, people from a wide range of cultures are familiar with goats. In addition, wild goats, such as the mountain goat, the ibex, the markhor, and the tahr (a relative of the goat), live in the mountainous regions North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. So, the goat is a figure in the mythologies and folklore of many cultures. In addition, the goat spirit animal is an important power animal for people who feel a special kinship with goats or who have an astrological connection to them.
In this post, you’ll learn about goat meanings, symbolism, and mythology (including mountain goats.) Plus, you’ll learn about the goat spirit animal and more.
Table of Contents
Detailed Goat Symbols and Meanings
Goat Symbolism in Ancient Egypt
Goat Meaning in Greek and Roman Mythology
Rune
Source: TheRuneSite.com
Ur
Sound: “u”, “o”, “y”, “w”
Stands for: Drizzle (or Slurry)
Casting meaning: This rune represents how some things can develop from nothingness. Like the fertile soil that can be created from volcanic ash which in turn with a slight amount of water and sunlight can spawn growth.
Witches’ Rune
Harvest
The most positive stone of all, the Harvest Rune indicates the spirit of protection and good fortune.
This is a time when doorways open and obstacles are lifted. Expect an increase in all areas of your life.
Look for an opening which sets you on the right path, as well as all manner of fortunate events.
Now is the time when many of your cherished dreams will finally be realized.
The Harvest Rune promises gains and fulfillment
Look for guidance from the wise and learned.
Ogham
Source: learnreligions.com
Straith/Straif
This symbol, used for the sound St, is Straith (sometimes seen as Straif), the Blackthorn tree. A symbol of authority and control, the Blackthorn is connected to strength and triumph over adversity. Blackthorn is a tree (although some might argue it’s more of a really big shrub) of winter, and its berries only ripen after the first frost. White flowers appear in the spring, and the bark is black and thorny.
On a medicinal level, Blackthorn berries–sloe berries–are brewed to make a tonic (this is what Sloe Gin is made from). The tonic can be used as a laxative and/or diuretic, as well as a skin astringent. In folklore, the Blackthorn has a fairly unpleasant reputation. An English legend refers to a devastating winter as a “Blackthorn Winter.” It also represents the darker side of magic and witchcraft. Because it’s a plant that becomes hardy when all around it is dying, it is associated with the Dark Mother, the Crone aspect of the Goddess, particularly the Cailleach in some parts of Scotland and Ireland. There is also a strong connection to the Morrighan, because of Blackthorn’s association with the blood and death of warriors. In fact, in early Celtic culture, the Blackthorn was popular for its use in the cudgel shillelagh.
Straith Correspondences
Mundane Aspects: Expect the unexpected, especially when it comes to change. Your plans may be altered, or even destroyed, so plan to deal with it. The appearance of Straith often indicates the influence of external forces.
Magical Aspects: You’re at the beginning of a new journey, and there will be some surprises–possibly unpleasant ones–along the way. Overcoming these obstacles will give you strength. Realize that you–and your life–are changing.
I Ching
Numerology
Source: Kasamba.com
Seven
If your life path number is 7, your life will be predominantly influenced by your mind. Whether it’s intellectual pursuits, philosophical discourses, or a deep spiritual/meditative life through your 7th chakra, you are made for it. You would make a great professor, philosopher or a guru. Because you are too much in the head, you may find yourself alien to matters of the heart. It isn’t easy – you just don’t get the clues, or don’t know how to give them out. You avoid emotions, and if your partner feels them naturally, you may blame them for being hysterical, when in fact they are being just natural. If the digits of a date add up to number 7, know that it’s a wonderful time to cook up ideas, to write a paper, to post on social media, or meditate.
Angel Number
Ritual Circle
This symbol is a perfect circle, sometimes with a pentagram inside. It represents the circle required to begin or complete any ritual.
Represents: transformation and completion, cycles.
Used in rituals for: protection, completing something.
Spell for Today – 5 Simple Ostara Rituals
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A Laugh for Today – 54 Jokes for Anyone with a Sense of Humor
(These jokes are not posted to offend anyone I just have a dry, sometimes twisted sense of humor) From Reader’s Digest
Dark jokes may seem a bit taboo, but sometimes it’s OK to just laugh. We promise we won’t tell anyone that you did.
Life can be a real challenge sometimes, and during those times you may just have to laugh it out—even if that means getting a little dark. While these may not be the best jokes to crack with your mother-in-law or boss, it’s OK to giggle at them on your own or even with some like-minded friends. Dark jokes aren’t for everyone, but laughing at dark jokes could mean you’re a genius. Genius or not, there’s no harm in letting off some steam on the harder days with some dark humor.
1. I don’t have a carbon footprint.
I just drive everywhere.
2. The most corrupt CEOs are those of the pretzel companies.
They’re always so twisted.
3. When we were kids, we used to be afraid of the dark.
But when we grew up, the electricity bill made us afraid of the light!
4. What did the asteroid that killed the dinosaurs say?
“T. rex, I’m coming for my hug!”
5. An apple a day keeps the doctor away…
Or at least it does if you throw it hard enough.
6. I have a stepladder because my real ladder left when I was just a kid.
7. I visited my friend at his new house. He told me to make myself at home.
So I threw him out. I hate having visitors.
8. I was playing chess with my friend and he said, “Let’s make this interesting.”
So we stopped playing chess.
9. Why did Mozart hate all of his chickens?
When he asked them who the best composer was, they all replied, “Bach, Bach, Bach.”
10. The other day, my wife asked me to pass her lipstick, but I accidentally passed her a glue stick.
She still isn’t talking to me.
Feeling cheesy? Try these corny jokes that will make everyone laugh while they roll their eyes.
11. Patient: Oh doctor, I’m just so nervous. This is my first operation.
Doctor: Don’t worry. Mine too.
12. I just got my doctor’s test results and I’m really upset. Turns out, I’m not gonna be a doctor.
13. Never break someone’s heart. They only have one.
Break their bones instead. They have 206 of them.
14. My husband is mad that I have no sense of direction.
So I packed up my stuff and right.
15. I childproofed my house
Somehow they still got in!
16. The guy who stole my diary just died. My thoughts are with his family.
17. What’s worse than biting into an apple and discovering a worm?
Biting into an apple and discovering half a worm.
18. As I get older, I remember all the people I lost along the way. Maybe a career as a tour guide was not the right choice.
19. My wife told me she’ll slam my head into the keyboard if I don’t get off the computer.
I’m not too worried — I think she’s jokindkdkslalkdlkfjslfjslksdlkfjuahehwhgwdklaljdf
20. You’re not completely useless.
You can always serve as a bad example.
21. A man walks into a magic forest and tries to cut down a talking tree. “You can’t cut me down,” the tree complains. “I’m a talking tree!” The man responds, “You may be a talking tree, but you will dialogue.”
22. What’s a pirate’s favorite letter of the alphabet?
None. Historians have suggested most pirates would have been illiterate.
23. “Welcome back to Plastic Surgery Anonymous. Nice to see so many new faces here today!”
24. My wife left a note on the fridge that said, “This isn’t working.” I’m not sure what she’s talking about. I opened the fridge door and it’s working fine!
25. What’s the last thing to go through a fly’s head as it hits the windshield of a car going 70 miles per hour? Its butt.
26. My boss told me to have a good day.
So I went home.
27. A child determined to burn his home down. His dad watched, tears in his eyes. He put his arm across the mother and stated, “That’s arson.”
28. Imagine when you walked into a bar and there was a lengthy line of individuals ready to take a swing at you. That’s the punch line.
29. Wife: “I want another baby.”
Husband: “That’s a relief, I also really don’t like this one.”
30. “What’s your name, son?” The principal asked his student. The kid replied, “D-d-d-dav-dav-david, sir.” “Do you have a stutter?” the principal asked. The student answered, “No sir, my dad has a stutter but the guy who registered my name was a real jerk.”
31. My favorite film is The Hunchback of Notre Dame.
I love a protagonist with a twisted back story.
32. Why are friends a lot like snow?
If you pee on them, they disappear.
33. I threw a boomerang a few years ago.
I now live in constant fear.
34. A blind woman tells her boyfriend that she’s seeing someone. It’s either terrible news or great news.
35. When I see the names of lovers engraved on a tree, I don’t find it cute or romantic.
I find it weird how many people take knives with them on dates.
36. Why don’t skeletons ever go trick or treating?
Because they have no body to go with.
37. My boss said to me, “You’re the worst train driver ever. How many have you derailed this year?”
I said, “I’m not sure; it’s hard to keep track.”
38. My wife and I have reached the difficult decision that we do not want children. If anybody does, please just send me your contact details and we can drop them off tomorrow.
39. You know you’re not liked when you get handed the camera every time they take a group photo.
40. I have a joke about trickle down economics. But 99 percent of you will never get it.
41. My parents raised me as an only child, which really pissed off my sister.
42. What rhymes with “boo” and stinks?
You.
43. I have a fish that can breakdance.
Just for 20 seconds though and only once.
44. What’s pink and dangerous for your tooth?
A brick.
45. “I work with animals,” the man says to his date.
“That’s so sweet,” she replies. “I love a man who cares about animals. Where do you work?”
“I’m a butcher,” he says.
46. Why don’t cannibals eat clowns?
Because they taste funny.
47. Watching my daughter at the park earlier. Another parent asked, “Which one is yours?” I replied, “I’m still deciding.”
They looked horrified.
48. My mother said one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.
Turns out I’m adopted.
49. When my uncle Frank died, he needed his ashes to be buried in his favorite beer mug. His final wish was to be Frank in Stein.
50. Why do vampires seem sick?
They’re always coffin.
51. Do the very last thing my grandfather stated to me earlier than he kicked the bucket? “Grandson, watch how far I can kick this bucket.”
52. Well, it is true that humans eat more bananas than monkeys just as recent research suggests. I agree because I can’t remember when last I enjoyed eating a monkey.
53. Today I made a decision to go go to my childhood house. I asked the residents if I may come inside because I was feeling nostalgic, however, they refused and slammed the door on my face. My mother and father are the worst.
54. What’s the difference between jelly and jam? You can’t jelly a clown into the tiny automobile.
Some of the Witchcraft/Magickal Correspondence for Thursday
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Thursday Source: lightwarriorslegion.com
| Day | Intent | Planet | Colours | Deities |
|---|
| Thursday | Use this day to cast spells for wealth, success, business, luck, health, protection, legal matters, male fertility,money, desires and laughter. | Jupiter | Blue. Additionally: Purple | Zeus and Thor. Gods of thunder |
Thursday Source: flyingthehedge.com
Taking its name from the Norse god Thor, this is a great day to work magic regarding growth, expansion, prosperity, business, abundance, and success. See my prosperity candle magic spell.
Color: Royal blue, green, purple
Planet: Jupiter
Deities: Thor, Zeus, Jupiter, Juno
Crystals: Turquoise, amethyst, lapis lazuli
Herbs: Honeysuckle, oak, cinquefoil
Associations: Honor, loyalty, harvest, prosperity, abundance, wealth, healing
Some of the Witchcraft/Magickal Correspondence for Thursday
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Thursday Source: learningwitchcraft.com
Is associated with Jupiter and the colors of Blue and Metallic Colours.
Thursday is the best time to deal with such matters as: Business, Gambling, Logic, Social Topics, Political Power, Material Wealth, Publishing, Collage Education, Long Distance Travel, Foreign Interests, Religion, Philosophy, Forecasting, Broadcasting, Publicity, Expansion, Luck, Growth, Sports, Horses, The Law, Doctors, Guardians, Merchants, Psychologists, Charity, Correspondence Courses, Self-improvement, Researching, Reading and Studying.
Thursday Source: thewitchandwand.com
Thursday is also known as “Thor’s Day” in honor of the god Thor. This is a day of prosperity, abundance, and good health.
Metal: Tin
Colors: Blue, Purple, Turquoise
Gems and Stones: Turquoise, Sapphire, Lapis Lazuli, Amethyst
Botanicals: Saffron, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Pine, Clove, Sage, Cinquefoil
Spellwork: Wealth, Health, Strength, Prosperity
Goddesses – Diana Roman
Roman Goddess Diana from gods-and-goddesses.com
Long before popular culture yielded such proficient female characters as Katniss Everdeen, Roman mythology held its own bow and arrow wielding huntress. According to the ancient Roman religion, Diana was the virgin goddess both of hunting and of wild and domestic animals themselves. Her name is derived from the Greek words diviana, dium and dius, meaning “the shining one,” “sky,” and “daylight,” respectively. Diana was considered a fertility goddess, a helper of women during conception and childbirth. It was believed that Diana could help a woman deliver a baby easily and safely. She was also associated with worship of the moon.
Diana Facts
Origins
It is thought that Diana may have originated as “an indigenous woodland goddess,” or a local deity. In time, however, she was associated with the Greek goddess Artemis and came to share her mythology. Even before Rome became an empire, during the time of the Latin League of cities, she was worshiped as Diana Nemorensis, or “Diana of the Wood,” by torch-bearing processions in the sacred forests on the shores of a lake near Rome. Here, she was part of a triad, or trinity, of deities including the river spirit Egeria, a guardian of childbirth, and Virbius, the first priest of Diana’s cult. Custom held that Diana’s priests be escaped slaves, and that to attain the priesthood, they first had to kill the preceding priest in combat using only a branch broken from a tree. Other worship took place on a mountain called Tifata, located near Capua.
Symbols
In statues and artwork, Diana is depicted as carrying a bow and a quiver of arrows, often accompanied by a hound (a hunting dog) or a deer. She is typically lightly clad, perhaps with a short dress or only a draping cloth, or wearing nothing at all.
Myths and Stories
Diana’s myths closely mirror those of her Greek counterpart Artemis. For example, the Roman poet Ovid recounts Actaeon’s unfortunate encounter with her. Diana was said to be a virgin, and was lauded for her purity. Diana had been hunting in a sacred valley which no humans had ever before touched. When she became tired, she and her nymphs bathed in a cool stream. Actaeon, a hunter, got lost and stumbled upon the nude and bathing Diana. So that he could not tell others of what he had seen, Diana turned him into a deer, a stag. His own hunting hounds found him and took his life.
In a related story, Ovid again regales a tale of Diana’s sacred chastity. Diana’s loyal follower Callisto was out hunting when she was spied by Diana’s father, Jupiter. Jupiter felt lustful toward the girl, and so disguised himself as his daughter Diana. He greeted the unsuspecting Callisto with a kiss, embraced her, and then revealed his true self and raped the girl. Callisto was ashamed. The next time she saw Diana, she feared it was Jupiter in disguise yet again. Said Ovid, “If Diana had not been a maiden, she could have known Callisto’s guilt by a thousand signs. They say that the nymphs realized it.” When Diana suggested they bathe in a river, Callisto’s pregnant belly was revealed. Diana sent her away, saying, “Be off from here! Do not defile these sacred waters!” Later, Jupiter’s wife Juno turned Callisto into a bear.
Worship
The oldest temple of Diana stood on Rome’s Aventine Hill. It was thought to date to the sixth century B.C., and it housed the founding charter documents of the Latin League. Many plebians, or working class Roman citizens, worshiped Diana, and slaves could seek asylum in her temple. Diana’s festival was held on the Idus of August, or August 13.
Another important temple, the Aretemesium, was located at Ephesus. This temple was famous for its intricate artwork and great size, so much so that it was considered one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. So well known was this temple that it and its patron goddess were mentioned five times in the Bible book of Acts. Today, little remains of the site, but fragments of its columns and statuary are on display at the British Museum.
Facts about Diana
Role in Mythology: Goddess of wild animals and domestic animals, goddess of nature, goddess of the hunt, fertility goddess, goddess of childbirth, moon goddess, protector of slaves and the lower class
Alternative Names: Diana Nemorensis
Family Relationships: Daughter of Jupiter
Symbols: Bow and quiver, hound, deer.
Greek Equivalent: Artemis
A Thought for Today and For Your Listening Pleasure
I am in such an uplifting, positive mood and not tired today I hardly recognize myself from a week ago. This is how I prefer to feel everyday. Plus no nightmares since last Friday helps to put me in this better mood. PTSD, which can be a total disability to function in everyday life, troubling dreams or nightmares can really ruin a person’s day. Those with have PTSD for what ever trauma or traumas that have caused it have a true disability but the average person you come in contact with thinks you are just fine because this is a silent disability just like depression, bi-polar, anxiety things, etcetera. We do not get a special parking place or treatment from others with what I call silent disabilities. Why don’t we? Because to most people the world over if they do not see you using a wheelchair or crutches or other outward helpers to get around they think you are lying when you say you are disabled.
Here is a list of just a few things besides being in a war zone that can cause PTSD:
Domestic Violence or Abuse this goes for men as well as women.
Being in an Automobile Accident even if neither you or anyone else was hurt badly or died.
Being Molested as a child or young adult.
Being Raped at any age. YES, whether you want to believe it or not MEN can be raped though very few report it because4 of fear of being laughed at or ridiculed.
Being Held Captive by a spouse or parent or other care giver.
Being Homeless
And the list goes on and on.
So, the next time you see someone struggling but they have no outward signs of being disabled stop and think for a moment before you pass judgement on them.
I picked this song because to me it means at least one person cares about and loves me unconditionally and I love him back the same way. He stands by me when my PTSD or depression or an anxiety attack or a fibromyalgia flare or any or all of them combined is happening or just our everyday life can be to much for me physically or mentally or emotionally or all three combined.
My hope for each of you is that you have someone like this in your life too!!
All I Have To Do Is Dream – Everly Brothers
A Laugh for Your Day
Some of the Witchcraft/Magickal Correspondence for Sunday
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Sunday Source: Lee Ann Donaldson January 4, 2015 on Elements Of Magick (Blog has changed it name to Everyday Magick)
Associated with our most powerful planetary influence, the Sun, which rules over things such as individuality, creativity, vitality, will power, and optimism, Sunday is the perfect day to celebrate who you are as an individual, and ideal time for self-expression, creative projects, music, dancing, and perhaps spending time with loved ones. Today, I recommend taking advantage of its power, energy, wealth of spirit. If weather permits, this is an ideal day for being outdoors, picnics, games, and being out in the Sun. Whether it’s with others or just you…today you should get in touch with your inner child. Carpe diem! Do what inspires you most! It will always lead you where you need to go.
Solar Deities: Aine, Irish goddess of love, summer, wealth and sovereignty, Jesus, the SUN of God, Horus, god of the sky whose right eye was considered to be the sun and his left the moon, Ra, god of the sun, Apollo, Olympian god of light, the sun, prophecy, healing, plague, archery, music and poetry, Baldr, god associated with light, beauty, love and happiness,
Freyr, god of fertility, sexuality, peace and sunlight, and the list goes on….
Anointing Oil: One drop of Orange, Clary Sage, and Ylang Ylang in a carrier as or just use three drops of Clary Sage. Ginger and Grapefruit oil are nice.
Herbal Tea: Tansy: Considered a herb of immortality, it will help you comprehend the eternal nature of the life force. Chamomile: Steeped with orange rind and a pinch each of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove – perfect to honor the life-giving powers of the sun. Orange and Mango tea is lovely as well.
Herbs & Plants: Sun flowers and flowers in general on Sunday.
Incense: Anything floral, fruity, spicy and warm….citrus, Cinnamon, Ginger, Orange Blossom
Colors: Golds, coppers, oranges, yellows, and neon pinks, blues and greens!
Crystals: Goldstone, Carnelian, Amber and Tiger’s eye.
Metal: Gold
Tarot cards: The Sun, Three of Cups, Strength, and The Ace of Wands.
Some of the Full Moon’s Symbolism, Meaning, and Correspondences
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Wolf Moon
Source: whatismyspiritanimal.com
Table of Contents
The Full Moon & The Medicine Wheel
Cultural & Religious Full Moon Symbolism
A Thought for Today
May the Lord and Lady bless the WOTC Family and our families with love, happiness, all things positive!
SOrry for the short posts for a couple of days but Big Dwag’s job has kept us on the go. I’m barely getting todays’ done as I have had a broken 3 hours of sleep. Hopefully tomorrow I will have the time and energy to do the northern hemisphere’s Sunday and Monday’s post
Samhain Gods – Yama – Hindu
Yama
Yama or Yamarāja is a god of death, the south direction, and the underworld, belonging to an early stratum of Rigvedic Hindu deities. In Sanskrit, his name can be interpreted to mean “twin”. In the Zend-Avesta of Zoroastrianism, he is called “Yima”.
According to the Vishnu Purana, Yama is the son of sun-god Surya and Sandhya, the daughter of Vishvakarma. Yama is the brother of Sraddhadeva Manu and of his older sister Yami, which Horace Hayman Wilson indicates to mean the Yamuna. According to the Vedas, Yama is said to have been the first mortal who died. By virtue of precedence, he became the ruler of the departed, and is called “Lord of the Pitrs”.
Mentioned in the Pāli Canon of Theravada Buddhism, Yama subsequently entered Buddhist mythology in East Asia, Southeast Asia and Sri Lanka as a Dharmapala under various transliterations. He is otherwise also called as “Dharmaraja”.
Hinduism
In Hinduism, Yama is the lokapala (“Guardian of the Directions”) of the south and the son of Surya. Three hymns (10, 14, and 35) in the 10th book of the Rig Veda are addressed to him. In Puranas, Yama is described as having four arms, complexion of rain cloud with wrathful expression, surrounded by garland of flames, protruding fangs, dressed in red, yellow or blue garments, holding noose and mace or sword, and riding a water-buffalo. He wields a noose with which he seizes the lives of people who are about to die.
According to Hindu itihasa, Yama is the son of Surya and Saranyu. He is the twin brother of Yami, brother of Shraddhadeva Manu and the step brother of Shani. His wife was Goddess Dhumorna and his son was Katila.
Buddhism
In Buddhism, Yama (Sanskrit: यम) is a dharmapala, a wrathful god or the Enlightened Protector of Buddhism that is considered worldly, said to judge the dead and preside over the Narakas (“Hell” or “Purgatory”) and the cycle of rebirth.
The Buddhist Yama has, however, developed different myths and different functions from the Hindu deity. In Pali Canon Buddhist myths, Yama takes those who have mistreated elders, holy spirits, or their parents when they die. Contrary though, in the Majjhima Nikaya commentary by Buddhagosa, Yama is a vimānapeta – a that has a mixed state.
In other parts of Buddhism, Yama’s main duty is to watch over purgatorial aspects of Hell (the underworld), and has no relation to rebirth. His sole purpose is to maintain the relationships between spirits that pass through the ten courts, similar to Yama’s representation in several Chinese religions.
He has also spread widely and is known in every country where Buddhism is practiced, including China, Korea, Vietnam, Japan, Bhutan, Mongolia, Nepal, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, and United States.
China
In Chinese texts, Yama only holds transitional places in Hell where he oversaw the deceased before he, and the Generals of Five Paths, were assigned a course of rebirth. Yama was later placed as a King in the Fifth Court when texts led to the fruition of the underworld that marked the beginnings of systemizations.
Japan
Yama can be found in one of the oldest Japanese religious works called Nipponkoku Genpō Zenaku Ryōiki, a literary work compiled by the Monk Keikai in 822. Yama was introduced to Japan through Buddhism, where he was featured as a Buddhist divinity. He holds the same position title as other works depict him – a judge who imposes decisions on the dead who have mistreated others.
Naraka (Hindu)
Naraka in Hinduism serves only as a temporary purgatory where the soul is purified of sin by its suffering. In Hindu mythology, Naraka holds many hells, and Yama directs departed souls to the appropriate one. Even elevated Mukti-yogyas and Nitya-samsarins can experience Naraka for expiation of sins.
Although Yama is the lord of Naraka, he may also direct the soul to a Swarga (heaven) or return it to Bhoomi (earth). As good and bad deeds are not considered to cancel each other out, the same soul may spend time in both a hell and a heaven. The seven Swargas are: Bhuvas, Swas (governed by Indra), Tharus, Thaarus, Savithaa, Prapithaa, and Maha (governed by Brahma).
Naraka (Sikhism)
The idea of Naraka in Sikhism is like the idea of Hell. One’s soul, however, is confined to 8.4 million life cycles before taking birth as a human, the point of human life being one where one attains salvation, the salvation being sach khand. The idea of khand comes in multiple levels of such heavens, the highest being merging with God as one. The idea of Hell comes in multiple levels, and hell itself can manifest within human life itself. The Sikh idea of hell is where one is apart from naama and the Guru’s charana (God’s lotus feet (abode)). Without naama one is damned. Naama is believed to be a direct deliverance by God to humanity in the form of Guru Nanak. A Sikh is hence required to take the Amrit (holy nectar/water) from gurubani, panj pyare (khanda da pahul) to come closer to naama. A true Sikh of the Gurus has the Guru himself manifest and takes that person into sach khand.
Naraka (Buddhist)
Naraka is usually translated into English as “hell” or “purgatory”. A Naraka differs from the hells of western religions in two respects. First, beings are not sent to Naraka as the result of a divine judgment and punishment; second, the length of a being’s stay in a Naraka is not eternal, though it is usually very long. Instead, a being is born into a Naraka as a direct result of his or her previous karma(actions of body, speech and mind), and resides there for a finite length of time until his karma has exhausted its cumulate effect.
East Asian mythology
Mandarin Diyu, Japanese Jigoku, Korean Jiok, Vietnamese Địa ngục literally “earth prison”, is the realm of the dead or “hell” in Chinese mythology and Japanese mythology. It is based upon the Buddhist concept of Naraka combined with local afterlife beliefs. Incorporating ideas from Taoism and Buddhism as well as traditional religion in China, Di Yu is a kind of purgatory place which serves not only to punish but also to renew spirits ready for their next incarnation. This is interchangeable with the concept of Naraka.
In Japanese mythology, Enma-O or Enma Dai-O judges souls in Meido, the kingdom of the waiting dead. Those deemed too horrible are sent to Jigoku, a land more comparable to the Christian hell. It is a land of eternal toil and punishment. Those of middle note remain in meido for a period awaiting reincarnation. Others, of high note, become honored ancestors, watching over their descendants.
Related concepts
Yama and Ymir
In a disputable etymology, W. Meid (1992) has linked the names Yama (reconstructed in Proto-Indo-European as *yemos) and the name of the primeval Norse frost giant Ymir, which can be reconstructed in Proto-Germanic as *umijaz or *jumijaz, in the latter case possibly deriving from PIE *ym̥yos, from the root yem “twin”. In his myth, however, Ymir is not a twin, and only shares with Yama the characteristics of being primeval and mortal. However, Ymir is a hermaphrodite and engenders the race of giants.
In Iranian mythology
A parallel character in Iranian mythology and Zoroastrianism is known as Yima Xšaēta, who appears in the Avesta. The pronunciation “Yima” is peculiar to the Avestan dialect; in most Iranian dialects, including Old Persian, the name would have been “Yama”. In the Avesta, the emphasis is on Yima’s character as one of the first mortals and as a great king of men. Over time, *Yamaxšaita was transformed into Jamšēd or Jamshid, celebrated as the greatest of the early shahs of the world. Both Yamas in Zoroastrian and Hindu myth guard hell with the help of two four-eyed dogs.
It has also been suggested by I. M. Steblin-Kamensky that the cult of Yima was adopted by the Finno-Ugrians. According to this theory, in Finnish Yama became the god cult Jumula and Joma in Komi. According to this hypothesis, from this cult, the Hungarians also borrowed the word vara which became vár ‘fortress’ and város ‘town’. (ibid)
In Javanese culture
There is Yamadipati in Javanese culture, especially in wayang. The word adipati means ruler or commander. When Hinduism first came to Java, Yama was still the same as Yama in Hindu myth. Later, as Islam replaced Hinduism as the majority religion of Java, Yama was demystified by Walisanga, who ruled at that time. So, in Javanese, Yama became a new character. He is the son of Sanghyang Ismaya and Dewi Sanggani. In the Wayang legend, Yamadipati married Dewi Mumpuni. Unfortunately, Dewi Mumpuni fell in love with Nagatatmala, son of Hyang Anantaboga, who rules the earth. Dewi Mumpuni eventually left Yamadipati, however.
In Buddhist temples
In the Buddhism of the Far East, Yama is one of the twelve Devas, as guardian deities, who are found in or around Buddhist shrines (Jūni-ten, 十二天). In Japan, he has been called “Enma-Ten”. He joins these other eleven Devas of Buddhism, found in Japan and other parts of southeast Asia: Indra (Taishaku-ten), Agni (Ka-ten), Yama (Emma-ten), Nirrti (Rasetsu-ten), Vayu (Fu-ten), Ishana (Ishana-ten), Kubera (Tamon-ten), Varuna (Sui-ten) Brahma (Bon-ten), Prithvi (Chi-ten), Surya (Nit-ten), Chandra (Gat-ten).
Source
c. 2018
Spell – Samhain Blessing Printable
Worm Moon: Full Moon for March 2023
The full Worm Moon reaches its peak in the morning hours of Tuesday, March 7. Look for it to rise after sunset on both Monday and Tuesday! What is a Worm Moon? Here are the real meaning and origins of March’s full Moon—and when you can see this Moon at its brightest!
When to See the Full Moon in March 2023
The final full moon of the winter season will appear on the nights of Monday, March 6, and Tuesday, March 7. Specifically, March’s full Worm Moon reaches peak illumination at 7:42 A.M. ET on Tuesday, March 7, 2023.
Of course, you don’t have to wait until the middle of the night to see the Moon! Look for the spectacularly bright Moon as it rises above the horizon on Monday evening. If your weather is poor on Monday night, try again on Tuesday! See when the Moon will be visible in your area.
If you have just a bit of rain on either of these nights, you may even get to spot a rare phenomenon called a moonbow. A moonbow is just like a solar rainbow, but is created by moonlight (rather than sunlight) when it is refracted through water droplets in the air. Moonbows only happen when the full Moon is fairly low in the sky, so look for one in the hours after sunset when the sky is dark. Learn more about moonbows here!
This March Moon will look especially large to us when it’s near the horizon because of the “Moon illusion,” when it looks bigger when near comparative objects than it does when it’s high in the sky without any references.
Why Is It Called the Worm Moon?
The full Moon names used by The Old Farmer’s Almanac come from a number of places, including Native American, Colonial American, and European sources. Traditionally, each full Moon name was applied to the entire lunar month in which it occurred, not only to the full Moon.
The Surprising Truth Behind the Worm Moon Name
March’s full Moon goes by the name Worm Moon. For many years, we thought this name referred to the earthworms that appear as the soil warms in spring. This invites robins and other birds to feed—a true sign of spring!
However, more research revealed another explanation. In the 1760s, click here to read the rest of this article
Goddesses and Gods – Irish Celtic – Aine and Lugh – God of Justice and Oaths and Master of Crafts
Picture by Judith Shawart
Áine – Goddess of Love, Summer and Wealth
As the goddess of summer and wealth, Áine represents the abundance that the land has to offer during its most plentiful season.
Good, fruitful harvests were required to provide for the people and animals, therefore much emphasis was placed on gods and goddesses that represent fertility, such as Áine.
The goddess Áine is strongly associated with the feast of midsummer and the summer sun. She too, like the Morrigan is thought to have the ability to shapeshift and is represented by a red mare, known for its speed.
Áine is sometimes referred to as the Irish goddess of Love or as the Faery Queen.
There are several stories that connect Áine to rape, including one where she bites off the ear of the King of Munster after an unconsented encounter. By disfiguring him, the Celtic goddess of love made him ineligible to be king (only flawless, unmarred men could rule) and so he was removed from his throne.
In another story of rape, Áine exacted revenge by turned her offender, Gerald, Earl of Desmond into a goose.
The Hill of Knockainy (or Cnoc Áine) in County Limerick was an important site, where ritual blessings to this Irish goddess were carried out. Offerings to Áine have also been made at Lough Gur in County Limerick.
Lugh – God of Justice and Oaths and Master of Crafts
The god Lugh, (also spelled Lug or Luga) is one of the most notable of all the Irish deities and equates to the pan-Celtic god of Lugus.
Lugh was the god associated with justice and held power over oaths and law. He was also connected with rightfulness, especially in terms of kingship.
He was king of the glorified race of the Tuatha dé Danann, who were known for their superior skills and knowledge, particularly on the battlefield. The inscriptions on some early texts suggest that the Tuath dé Danann were deities, while others allude more to them having magical powers, including shapeshifting.
Lugh was a master craftsman and skilled warrior, known for his ability to throw a spear a very long distance and hence his other name Lugh Lámhfhada. This name means Lugh of the long arm in Irish.
He is believed to have led the Tuatha dé Danann to victory over the invading army of Fomorians as depicted in the Battle of Mag Tuired.
It is said that Lugh initiated a special games event, known as the Tailteann Games or Assembly of Tailti that focused on horse racing and martial arts that ran over the last two weeks in July and culminated with the start of the harvest celebration of Lughnasadh on 1 August. It is said that the games were founded in memory of Lugh’s foster mother Tailtiu, who was also thought to be a goddess.
Legend states that Lugh was also a bit of a trickster and is sometimes known as the Celtic god of mischief.
Lugh is thought to have been the father of demi god and famous Irish warrior, Cú Chulainn.
Are Celtic gods immortal? Seemingly not all of them, Lugh is said to have been speared and drowned in Loch Lugborta (or Loch Lugh) in County Westmeath, by the sons of Cermait after he killed their father.
Both the gods of Lugh and the Dagda are supposedly buried in the sacred center of the island of Ireland, Uisneach.
Some Humor for Your Day
This laugh is dedicated to my 2nd youngest grandson who loves T-Rex anything!
Remember the laughs we got from Knock, Knock jokes as children? Now we usually groan at them or at least I do inwardly if one of my 10 grandchildren is telling it.
Knock knock
Who’s there?
Yah
Yah who?
Settle down, cowboy!
Knock, knock.
Who’s there?
Nobel.
Nobel who?
No bell. That’s why I knocked.
Knock knock
Who’s there?
Alice who
Alice who?
A list of reasons you should let me in.
Knock, knock.
Who’s there?
Police.
Police who?
Police hurry up, it’s nearly lunch time!
Knock knock
Who’s there
My fell
My fell who?
My fell who Americans lend me your ears
Knock, knock.
Who’s there?
A little old lady.
A little old lady who?
I had no idea you could yodel!.
Knock knock
Who’s there
Cash
Cash who?
No thanks I’m allergic
Knock knock
Who’s there?
Peekab
Peekab who?
There you are!
Knock knock
Who’s there?
Shh
Shh who?
Fine I’ll go then!
Knock knock
Who’s there?
Yah
Yah who?
Sorry, I prefer Google.
Goddess – Greek Sorceress and Goddess – Circe
Circe: Powerful Divine Sorceress Who Mastered Healing, Miracles And Transforming People Into Animals
One of many impressive and colorful figures in Greek mythology is Circe, a divine witch, and goddess of incredible power. She had the ability to predict the future and transform people into animals, Circe was also a shape-shifter and performed cleansing rituals.
She could turn people into animals, change the weather, had knowledge about healing herbs, and was skilled in spinning.
Although Circe performed many miracles, she was not immortal.
Daughter of Helios and Perse, an Oceanid, Circe was one of many divine magicians in her family, including Ariadne, Pasiphae, Angitia, Medea, and Hekate.
The daughter of the sun god Helios, and a descendent of the sun, Circe’s eyes shone with brilliant light, according to Homer’s description. Also, Apollonius of Rhodes writes that she (just like every other descendant of Helios) had flashing golden eyes that shot out rays of light,
Homer wrote that Circe’s dwelling was on the Isle of Aiaia (Aeaea) – the “Island of Dawn.” She lived in a stunning marble palace in a forest clearing. Homer described her as “the fair-haired goddess,” forever young and beautiful, who spent her days singing and weaving. The same habits are also associated with goddesses of fate and destiny in Roman and Slavic myths.
Unfortunately, despite her unusually attractive appearance, Circe – the owner of a magic wand – could not be trusted and treated as an ordinary woman because she is a great sorceress. She could appear in any form and had both positive and negative power over people.
Her island of Aeaea was populated by beautiful handmaidens and tamed animals, including wolves and lions, which were actually humans under her spell.
Circe liked to transform male visitors into lions, baboons, and other animals, but mainly into pigs, her sacred animals.
Many famous appearances of Circe can be found in Greek mythology. In Homer’s Odyssey, we also meet Circe, whose transformations are never accidental, and through them, she reveals the true animal identity within each man.
When Odysseus and his crew, trying to return home from the Trojan War, come to the island of Circe, they discover that the inhabitants of the place are charming handmaidens and strange animals.
For the moment, all of them are under Circe’s spell.
However, Odysseus alone is saved from this fate because Hermes, the messenger god sent by the goddess Athena, meets him. He reveals an herbal antidote to Circe’s magic, a mysterious plant called “moly” that can help to defeat Circe in order to free his crew from their enchantment.
According to Homer’s description of the plant, its root “was black, while the flower was as white as milk; the gods call it Moly, Dangerous for a mortal man to pluck from the soil, but not for the deathless gods. All lies within their power…”
This meant that when Circe touched Odysseus with her divine wand, he did not succumb to her power. Also, following the advice given to him earlier by Hermes, Odysseus threatened the sorceress with a sword that could kill her. It was enough for her, and she finally agreed to restore his companions to human form. She also hosted them for a month (or in other versions, for a whole year). At the same time, Hermes advises Odysseus not to reject Circe’s advances, so Odysseus decides to share a bed with her. He stays with her on the island for years, fathering their son, Telegonus.
As his primary trainer, Circe guides Odysseus into the secrets of shamanism, teaching him how to travel to Hades to interview dead souls and then return.
Thanks to the ability to foresee the future, the great sorceress offers Odysseus travel advice of great importance. Without her help, it’s doubtful that Odysseus would ever have reached home in Ithaca.
No doubt, Circe was often considered as an attractive and seductive but ultimately dangerous woman, but we have to remember that in Homer’s original text, she is a helpful mythological figure.
Strabo writes that a tomb-shrine of Circe was attended in one of the Pharmacussae islands, located off the coast of Attica, ta place associated with ancient hero-worship. Circe was also worshiped in Mount Circeo, in the Italian peninsula, which took its name after her according to ancient legend.
Strabo also says that Circe had a shrine in the small town and that the people there kept a bowl they believed once belonged to Odysseus.
Her sacred plants included enchanter’s nightshade, mandrakes, and junipers.
SOURCE: – A. Sutherland – AncientPages.com Senior Staff Writer
Herb and Essential Oils Magickal and Medicinal Uses of a Cucumber
Disclaimer: No herb should be used for medicinal purpose until you have checked with your health care professional to ask if it is safe for you to use it for any reason. The content provided on this website is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health. WitchesofTheCraft.com, any staff member of WitchesofTheCraft.com and/or Lady Carla Beltane are not responsible for any type of negative reaction when using this herb for any reason.
Cooling, refreshing, and magical, the delicious cucumber has more than just a place in your kitchen!
In the mundane, we’ve seen these pepo cross boundaries from summer salads to sensual spas!
For these reasons, we can feel a direct tie to Venus, the Moon, and beauty!
So, next time you’re slicing or dicing this green gourd, yes gourd, be sure to empower your mundane with lovely, crisp magic!
Magickal Properties of Cucumber | Materia Magicka
Latin Name
- Cucumis sativus
Folk Names
- Cowcumber
- Cuke
Gender
- Feminine
Elements
- Water
Planets
- Venus
- Moon
Signs
- Cancer
- Libra
- Taurus
Deities
- Aphrodite
- Hera
- The Kappa
- Uttu
Chakras
- Sacral
Magical Properties of Cucumber
- Beauty (inner and outer): Empower this green fruit for beauty and use it as a face mask, eye compress, or in beauty spells. You can also use its juice as part of a beauty potion! Because this fruit is so hydrating, it’s great for beauty spells that work from the inside out, as well!
- Fertility: Carry a cucumber with you when trying to conceive to help balance your feminine energies with masculine energies. You can also use this in sympathetic magic.
- Healing: In ancient times, these were used to heal swelling, exhaustion, hangovers, scorpion bites, and much more! Place this fruit on your altar during healing spells or eat when you are feeling ill. Pickles also work well for healing.
- Youth: Similar to beauty work, use this as part of your beauty regimen or in beauty and youth spells.
Source plentifulearth.com
Good Day WOTC Family and Friends!
Well, we have made it through another week in 2023. This has been a strange year for weather so far. Where I live, we were in near drought or drought up to this week when we had flood warnings. The big differences in temperatures and whatever else the weather wanted to do has been hard on me with having fibromyalgia and arthritis this summer. I know many of you are in the same boat as me with daily pain, aches, and stiffness. Hopefully, fall will be kinder to us, but I don’t count on it. I was fortunate enough to have one of my apprentices suggest a baneful herb to help with the pain ectara and to have it work for me. I am not going to give the name of the baneful herb as taken in the wrong dosage it can lead to death. If you would like some more information about it, please write to me at ladybeltane@witchesofthecraft.com and I will forward it to my herbalist to contact you.
At least the finical stress both myself and Big Dawg were under for the last year or so has been mostly lifted because of Lord Genish bring a good paying job to Big Dawg that he enjoys. Yes, it keeps both of us pretty busy most of the time, but it is worth it. The only drawback is driving miles and miles, and more miles through corn and soybean fields which makes getting to where we need to be really boring at times. At least we get to pick what days and hours we work which helps with the care of our fur kids and for them not to get to upset when we get home late for the last potty time of the day. An extra treat usually helps to smooth the upset feelings they have with us.
I’ve got to get back to doing the regular daily posts, so have a great weekend everyone!
Witches Of The Craft® 
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