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The Witchy Moon, Magic, and News

Friday, June 24th, 2016

Friday, June 24, 2016: The moon phase is Waning Gibbous in the zodiac sign Aquarius until entering Pisces at 10:30 PM EST.

Element: Water
Color: Rose
Incense: Orchid (see below for magical uses)

Garden Activities:

  • Kill pests and weed
  • Harvest fruit and root crops
  • Hill up parsnips and carrots
  • Plant out asparagus crowns

Herbal Magic – Orchid

(Orchis spp.)

Folk Names: Levant Salap, Sahlab, Sahleb, Salep, Saloop, Satyrion

Deities: Bacchus, Cronus, Pan

Planet: Venus (Beauty, Fidelity, Friendship, Love, Youth)

Element: Water (Fidelity, Friendship, Healing, Love, Meditation, Prophetic Dreams, Purification, sleep)

Gender: Feminine

Powers: Love, Fertility

Lore: According to legend, Orchis was the son a Satyr and nymph. During a celebration for Bacchanalians he attempted to rape a priestess. Eventually, he was put to death by Bacchanalians. His father prayed to the Gods to give pity on him. Orchis was then given eternal life as this root, which led to the belief that Orchid roots provide a practitioner with the lusty sexuality of  the satyr.

Magical and Ritual Uses:

  • The tuber can be dried and carved into an amulet or talisman for love and romance.
  • The powdered root is considered to be an aphrodisiac.
  • Orchids are ideal for Handfastings.
  • The gift of an orchid puts romantic energy in motion. (It’s been used in the feast or cup for the Great Rite to embody the deities for fertility)

News:

Elderly relatives accused of being WITCHES by their children so they can burn them alive and claim their inheritance
Juma Kalume Musunye’s six grandchildren beat her until she fell to the ground crying, and then doused her in petrol, claiming she had used witchcraft to paralyse their mother’s hands.

‘They wanted to kill me,’ said the 65-year-old widow who lives on Kenya’s coast, where the Mijikenda people traditionally blame witches for illness and misfortune. Read more: dailymail.co.uk

Celebrate the magic of Samhain in Salem.

Thanks for stopping by,

Lisa

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References:

  • Llewellyn’s Magical Almanac
  • Llewellyn’s 2016 Moon Sign Book: Conseious Living by the cycles of the moon
  • Catherine Yronwode: Hoodoo Herb and Root Magic
  • Paul Beyerl: A Compendium of Herbal Magick
  • Scott Cunningham: Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of magical herbs

The Witchy Moon, Magic, and News

Thursday, June 23rd, 2016

Thursday, June 23, 2016: The moon phase is Waning Gibbous in the zodiac sign Aquarius.

Element: Air
Color: Turquoise
Incense: Jasmine (see below for magical uses)

Garden Activities:

  • Plow, Cultivate, and weed
  • Harvest fruits and root crops
  • Hill up parsnips and carrots
  • Plant out asparagus crowns

Herbal Magic – Jasmine

(Jasminum officinale, Jamsminum grandiflorum, Jasminum odoratissimum)

Folk Names: Anbar, Jessamin, Moonlight on the Grove, Peot’s Jessamine, Yasmin

Deities: Diana, Vishnu

Planet: Moon (Fertility, Healing, Peace, Prophetic Dreams, Sleep)

Element: Water (Fidelity, Friendship, Healing, Love, Meditation, Prophetic Dreams, Purification, sleep)

Gender: Masculine

Powers: Love, Money, Prophetic Dreams


Photo By snopek

Lore: Jasmine is associated with the feminine and maternal aspect of the Divine Universe. It was held as a sacred herb of Diana of Ephesus, Quan Yin, and the Virgin Mary. Jasmine corresponds well with the High Priestess and the four nine cards in the Tarot.

Magical and Ritual Uses:

  • For Love: Dried Jasmine flowers are added to sachets, charms and incense to attract a spiritual love.
  • For Money: The flowers will bring wealth and money if carried, burned or worn. It’s beautiful aroma is soothing and helps to lift spirits. Dreaming of Jasmine is said to foretell good fortune and good news for lovers.
  • For prophetic dreams: Burn in the bedroom.
  • For Creativity: Store Jasmine and Quartz crystals together to promote new and creative ideas.
  • Use in rituals when you wish to conjure the feminine properties of the Moon.
  • Jasmine is excellent to burn during meditation.
  • Dress and burn a candle with the oil for Psychic protection and health to one’s aura.

News:

Branded witches and cursed by spirits, Kenyan widows ousted from land
NAIROBI, June 23 (Thomson Reuters Foundation) – Juma Kalume Musunye’s six grandchildren beat her until she fell to the ground crying, and then doused her in petrol, claiming she had used witchcraft to paralyse their mother’s hands.

“They wanted to kill me,” said the 65-year-old widow who lives on Kenya’s coast, where the Mijikenda people traditionally blame witches for illness and misfortune.

“My son told them I had bewitched his wife.”

Hearing her screams, Musunye’s neighbours rushed out and rescued her.

“I am really bitter,” she told the Thomson Reuters Foundation ahead of International Widows’ Day on Thursday.

“I am old, my health is not good and my children do not care about me.”

Musunye was speaking by phone from Kaya Godoma, a centre set up in 2008 to care for elderly people ousted by their relatives. Read full story – dailymail.co.uk

Portsmouth medium jailed as a witch for ‘predicting’ sinking of battleship
My recent picture of HMS Barham leaving Portsmouth Harbour in the 1930s reminded Calum Kennedy of the unusual connection between the battleship, Portsmouth and witchcraft.

He recalls that in November 1941 Helen Duncan, a Scottish spiritual medium, held a séance at the Master Temple Psychic Centre, a room above Homers drug store at 301 Copnor Road, Copnor. During the séance Duncan indicated that HMS Barham had been sunk. Read full story – portsmouth.co.uk

Thanks for stopping by,

Lisa

References:

  • Llewellyn’s Magical Almanac
  • Llewellyn’s 2016 Moon Sign Book: Conseious Living by the cycles of the moon
  • Catherine Yronwode: Hoodoo Herb and Root Magic
  • Paul Beyerl: A Compendium of Herbal Magick
  • Scott Cunningham: Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of magical herbs

The Witchy Moon, Magic, and News

Wednesday, June 22nd, 2016

Wednesday, June 22, 2016: The moon phase is Waning Gibbous in the zodiac sign Capricorn until entering Aquarius at 4:08 PM EST.

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Element: Air
Color: Topaz
Incense: Bay Laurel (see below for magical uses)

Garden Activities:

  • Plow, Cultivate, and weed.
  • Plant onions, potatoes, rhubarb, grapes, winter wheat, and berries.

Herbal Magic – Bay Laurel

(Laurus nobilis) G

Folk Names: Baie, Bay Tree, Daphne, Grecian Laurel, Sweet Bay, Laurel, Laurier d’Apollon, Laurier Sauce Lorbeer, Noble Laurel, Roman Laurel

Deities: Aesculapius, Apollo, Ceres, Faunus, Eros

Planet: Sun (Healing, Legal Matters, Protection)

Element: Fire (Courage, Exorcism, Health, Lust, Strength, Protection)

Gender: Masculine

Powers: Healing, Protection, Psychic Powers, Purification, Strength

Lore: Hermes invented fire by striking a pomegranate against a bay laurel. It is also sacred to Apollo and Zeus.

Magical and Ritual Uses:

  • For Psychic Powers: Burn with Frankincense on charcoal. It can also be placed beneath your pillow for prophetic dreams.
  • For Protection: Carry a Bay leaf in a mojo bag to ward off evil, negativity, and unwanted people. Place around windows and in the attic to prevent lightening. A potted bay is also used to protect against storms and invoking the protection of Apollo. Wearing a wreath of bay is used to conquer one’s fear of thunderstorms.
  • To Remove a Curse or Evil Spirits: Mix with Sandalwood and burn over charcoal.
  • To Attract Love or Romance: Use in a fire sacrifice to the gods. The oil can also be extracted and used to dress a candle which is then burned.
  • For Victory: Take three fresh Bay leaves and write the names of Archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael on each leaf, then wrap the leaves in white cloth and carry them.

News:

Dabble In Magic Using This Handbook Of Witchcraft
There was a time when choosing to invoke an incantation as a means to an end would get one burnt at the stake. In today’s world, taboos seem to be falling like leaves in autumn. So one need not be fearful any longer when choosing to resort to witchcraft in a time of need.

If the thought of dabbling in witchcraft has piqued your curiosity, you are in luck. There is a new handbook you should find very useful. It is titled Witchcraft: A Handbook of Magic, Spells and Potions. This beautifully bound book includes wonderful illustrations. Read full story – huffingtonpost.com

Thanks for stopping by,

Lisa

References:

  • Llewellyn’s Magical Almanac
  • Llewellyn’s 2016 Moon Sign Book: Conseious Living by the cycles of the moon
  • Catherine Yronwode: Hoodoo Herb and Root Magic
  • Paul Beyerl: A Compendium of Herbal Magick
  • Scott Cunningham: Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of magical herbs

The Witchy Moon, Magic, and News

Tuesday, June 21st, 2016

Tuesday, June 21, 2016: The moon phase is Waning Gibbous in the zodiac sign Capricorn.

Element: Earth:
Color: Black
Incense: Cinnamon (see below for magical uses)

Garden Activity:

  • Plant potatoes and tubers
  • Trim to retard growth
  • Pick mushrooms
  • Prune to promote healing
  • Mow lawn

Herbal Magic – Cinnamon

Cinnamomum Zeylanicum, C. verum

Folk Names: Ceylon cinnamon, Sweet Wood

Deities: Aphrodite, Venus

Element: Fire (Courage, Exorcism, Health, Lust, Strength, Protection)

Planet: Sun (Healing Legal Matters, Protection)

Power: Healing, Love, Lust, Power, Psychic Powers, Spirituality, Success


Photo by Dennis Brekke

Lore: Cinnamon was burned to purify temples in ancient China. It also promotes health, vigor and libido.

Magical and Ritual Uses:

  • For Love: Add to oils, powders, and mojo bags.
  • Cleansing Incense: Mix with Frankincense, Myrrh, Camphor, and Sandalwood, burn every day for 14 days to purify your home. The insencse can also be used to smudge the body or gifts received from unknown parties or the dead.
  • To Draw money: Place three Cinnamon sticks with Fast Luck oil in a green bag, add Nutmeg with money drawing oils. Place in an amulet for good fortune
  • When burned as an Incense: Aids in healing, concentration, high spiritual vibrations, stimulates psychic powers, and enhances protective vibrations.

News

Summer solstice events and pagan sites around Britain
The summer solstice festival continues until June 21 on the campsite set closest to Stonehenge, and visitors can enjoy free access to the sacred site to celebrate the summer solstice from tonight at 7pm until 8am tomorrow (sunrise will be at 4.45am). Offerings include various food stands, a real ale bar and cider festival, as well as fire twisters and musical entertainment by night. Read full story – telegraph.co.uk

On the Summer Solstice, it’s not just neo-pagans like me who should be reconnecting with the natural world
We have a deep and undeniable relationship with nature – from the fact that our bodies naturally wake up when they see sunlight, to our tendency and need to live beside water, to the spooky fact that the menstrual cycle is the same length as the lunar month. Read full story – independent.co.uk

French woman accused of murdering daughter on beach blames witchcraft
A French woman who left her baby daughter to drown on a beach blamed “witchcraft” when she went on trial for murder on Monday.

Fabienne Kabou, 39, who was described as having “remarkable intelligence … but subject to irrational beliefs”, travelled to Berck-sur-Mer with her only child, Adélaïde, in November 2013. Read full story - theguardian

Thanks for stopping by,

Lisa

References:

  • Llewellyn’s Magical Almanac
  • Llewellyn’s 2016 Moon Sign Book: Conseious Living by the cycles of the moon
  • Catherine Yronwode: Hoodoo Herb and Root Magic
  • Paul Beyerl: A Compendium of Herbal Magick
  • Scott Cunningham: Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of magical herbs

The Witchy Moon, Magic, and News

Monday, June 20th, 2016

Happy Summer Solstice/Litha to all in the Northern Hemisphere and Happy Winter Solstice/Yule to all in the Southern Hampshire!

Monday, June 20, 2016: The moon is full in the zodiac sign Sagittarius until entering Capricon at 7.55 AM EST.

Element: Earth
Color: Ivory
Incense: Lily (see below for magical uses)

Activity:

  • A great time for sport and adventure
  • Tackle things that need improvement
  • Plant potatoes and tubers
  • Trim to retard growth

Herbal Magic – Lily

Lily (Lilium sp.) Some are poisonous

Deities: Juno, Kwan Yin, Nepthys, Venus

Planet: Moon (Fertility, Healing, Peace, Prophetic Dreams)

Element: Water (Fidelity, Friendship, Healing, Love, Meditation, Prophetic Dreams, Purification, Sleep)

Powers: Breaking Love Spells, Protection

Lilies are associated with a fertility goddesses in some Mediterranean religions. In some Christian lore the white lily is associated with Mary and a symbol of purity. It is also believed the lily came from the tears of Eve when she was banished from the Garden of Eden.

Magical and Ritual Uses:

  • A fresh lily can be worn to break love spells.
  • Plant lilies in the garden for protection against ghosts and evil.
  • Protects against the evil eye and unwanted visitors.

News:

Honey Moon on the Solstice: It hasn’t happened since 1948
It’s rare, all right. A full Moon last landed smack on the Solstice in the 1940s. It’s the kind of thing that would have inspired the Mayans to shove a few extra in-laws from their pyramids – the sort of coincidence that would have made the Stonehenge folks haul additional stones into position. But that’s what’s actually happening this Monday, June 20. Read full storyhudsonvalleyalmanacweekly

Solstice: Don’t expect much sun as Druids and Pagans head to Stonehenge to mark first day of summer
While isolated showers should fade away during this evening, much of the UK will then be dry overnight with clear spells.

Northern Ireland and western Scotland will experience outbreaks of light rain later today.

And the south-east of England will also hold onto a lot of cloud, some areas thick enough to give a few spots of rain. Read full storymetro.co.uk

Summer solstice 2016: Everything you need to know about the longest day of the year
Summer heat has been in full swing across much of the country the last few weeks, but not until Monday’s summer solstice can we officially — or at least, astronomically — say goodbye to spring.

The 2016 solstice occurs at 6:34 p.m. Eastern Time on June 20, marking the first day of astronomical summer and the longest day of the year in Earth’s northern hemisphere. Read full storywashingtonpost.com

Thanks for stopping by,

Lisa

References:

  • Llewellyn’s Magical Almanac
  • Llewellyn’s 2016 Moon Sign Book: Conseious Living by the cycles of the moon
  • Scott Cunningham: Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of magical herbs

The Witchy Moon, Magic, and News

Friday, June 3rd, 2016

Friday, June 3, 2016: The moon phase is fourth quarter (waxing), it falls under the zodiac sign Taurus until entering Gemini  at 11:01 PM EST.

Activity:

  • Mow lawn, destroy weeds, and pests
  • Harvest fruit and root crops

Element: Air
Color: Pink
Incense: Thyme

Herbal Magic – Thyme

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Folk Names: Common Thyme, Garden

Powers: Health, Healing, Sleep, Psychic Powers, Love, Purification, Courage


Photo by H Flannery

Thyme is a perennial shrub, and a member of the mint family. With over a hundred varieties, the most common being garden and lemon Thyme.

The Greeks used Thyme “to make a burnt offering.”  In the Middle Ages, Europeans placed it under pillows to promote sleep and ward off nightmares. Women would also give the leaves to knights to bring courage. Thyme was also placed on coffins and burned as incense during funerals to send one into the next life.

Deities: Ares, Fairies, Mars

Gender: Feminine

Element: Water (Dreams, Fidelity, Friendships, Healing, Love, Meditation, Prophetic Dreams, Purification, Sleep)

Planet: Venus (Beauty, Fidelity, Friendships, Good Fortune, Love, Money, youth)

Magical and Ritual Uses:

  • To stop nightmares or have prophetic dreams: Place beneath your pillow, or burn on charcoal and take in the aroma. (it is also great for meditation)
  • For Money: Plant THYME in the garden. Fold a dollar bill around THYME leaves, then fold again to make a packet, tie it up, and bury it on a full moon at the middle of a crossroads.
  • Growing various types of THYME: Encourages the devas to be lively.
  • To see Fairies: Carry in an amulet or sachet.
  • Money-Protection: Combine THYME, MINT, and BAYBERRY.
  • For purification: Burn prior to a ritual to cleanse the area. In spring, make a cleansing bath composed of MARJORAM and THYME to ensure all the sorrows and ills of the past are removed.
  • THYME is also carried and smelled to give courage and energy.
  • For good health: Thyme is burned or worn in an amulet. It is excellent in healing spells.
  • It is also used to communicate with friends and relatives who have passed.  THYME can be most useful on SAMHAIN.

Entertainment

The Conjuring 2: Movie Review
Between the fantastic talent of and chemistry between Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga, and the vision of James Wan, The Conjuring 2 demonstrates incredible potential for the emerging franchise. Real full story – cinemablend.com

News

First shamanism museum opens in Seoul
South Korea’s first shamanism museum, located at Geumseongdang Shrine, opened its doors in Eunpyeong-gu, northwestern Seoul last week.

The shrine, close in style to the traditional Korean house, or hanok, was founded to appease the spirit of Prince Geumseong (1426-1457), who was ordered a lethal dose of poison upon charges of trying to reinstate the deposed King Danjong. Read full story - asiaone.com

Blogspot

References:

  • Llewellyn’s Magical Almanac
  • Llewellyn’s 2016 Moon Sign Book: Conseious Living by the cycles of the moon
  • Catherine Yronwode: Hoodoo Herb and Root Magic
  • Paul Beyerl: A Compendium of Herbal Magick
  • Paul Huson: Mastering Herbalism: A Practical Guide
  • Scott Cunningham: Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of magical herbs

Thanks for stopping by! Have a blessed weekend!

Lisa

Medinical Monday – Echinacea

Monday, October 17th, 2011

Echinacea

(Echinacea Augustifolia)

Echinacea is a Perennial plant from the the daisy family, Asteraceae. Native to North America, it grows to a height of 2-3 feet.

It was widely used by the Plains Indians for its medicinal qualities as a treatment for symptoms caused by the common cold. In the 1930s it became popular in both Europe and America as a herbal medicine.


Photo by BarefootGardener

Echinacea is produced in a variety of forms:

  • Pills, liquid, chewable tablets and instant tea.
  • Echinacea may be combined with other plant extracts to increase their effectiveness.
  • A combination of Echinacea, wild indigo, water hemp and arnica have been proven to be especially effective for boosting immunity.

Therapeutic Effect:

  • Echinacea contains several ingredients that exert an overall stimulating effect on the immune system.
  • It activates the liver, lymph nodes and mucous membranes, that enhances the body’s overall ability to fight infections.
  • Echinacea also contains substances that have wound healing and germicidal properties.

Components: (2 main ingredients)
Store-bought preparations are usually made from the flower, leaves and root.

  • echinacosides (in the flower and root)
  • polysaccharide heteroxylan (in the leaves)

Echinacea compresses
Echinacea possesses germ killing and wound healing properties.

  • Soak a damp cotton cloth in a solution containing 1 part Echinacea to 2 parts water and apply gently to the affected area.
  • A compresses can help to relieve swollen glands, inflammations of the veins (phlebitis), infected cuts, skin abrasions, burns and inflamed insect bites.

Side effects:
There have been no reports of side effects. However, take caution when taking Echinacea. Many preparations contain alcohol to increase shelf life, children should be given pure pressed juice, lozenges or chewable tablets.

Latest research findings:
Extreme physical exertion can weaken the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections. Many sports physicians recommend that anyone undergoing endurance training take Echinacea for a day or so after extreme physical exertion to strengthen the immune system.

It can also be used for the treatment of coughs, sneezing, hoarseness, sore throat, tonsillitis, sinus infections, skin inflammations, minor wounds, bladder or kidney infections, gynaecologic infections and general immune deficiency.

Duration of use:
Continuous use is not advised. Some studies suggest that it is only effective up to 10 days.

Tip: As soon as fever blisters begin, treat with Echinacea. Place a few drops of pressed Echinacea juice on a cotton ball or swab and gently apply  to the infected area. This remedy can halt the progression of the lesions or prevent them all together.

References:

  • The Complete Guide To Natural Healing

Note: Consult with a Physician if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the information listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all and have a great day!

Lisa

Friday’s Food For Thought – Chunky Potato & Ham Soup

Friday, October 7th, 2011

Happy Friday!

Chunky Potato & Ham Soup

This soup is excellent served in individual bread bowls. Buy small, round loaves. (I like Italian bread) Slice off the top piece, remove the inside of loaf. Leave 1 1/2  inch shell, and fill with soup.


Photo by Aminimanda

Prep time: 35 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients

  • 3 medium red potatoes
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 small onion
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Crushed red pepper flakes
  • Ground black pepper
  • 3 cups milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup cubed cooked ham

Preparation:

  • Peel potatoes, (if desired) cut into 1-inch cubes.
  • Bring water to a boil in large saucepan, add potatoes & cook until tender. Drain and reserve liquid. Set potatoes aside. Measure 1 cup cooking liquid, add water, if necessary. (set aside)
  • Peel & finely chop onion. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onion & cook, stirring frequently. Onion should be translucent & tender, but not brown.
  • Add flour, season with pepper flakes & black pepper to taste. (cook 3 to 4 minutes)
  • Gradually add potatoes, reserved 1 cup cooking liquid, milk and sugar to onion mixture & stir well. Add cheese and ham. Simmer over low heat for 30 minutes, stirring frequently.

Enjoy! Have a Great Weekend!

Lisa

Hump Day Herbs – Mace

Wednesday, October 5th, 2011

Mace

Botanical Name: Myristica Fragrans

Folk Names: Jatiphala, Jatiphalam, Jatikosha, Jatipatri, Jatipatra, Jaiphal, Jayapatri, Javitri, Bicuiba Acu, Qoust, Sadhika, Wohpala


Photo by yumievriwan

Mace is the the bright, red aril which surrounds the nutmeg seed. Nutmeg is known for it’s abuse as a popular recreational psychoactive drug. Based on human study, mace extract, when used as part of a chewing gum, is said to decrease plaque and gingivitis. Not well studied in humans, mace extract may also have antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. It is also popular in India, for treating measles. Not only is it used for medicine, but also in the kitchen and magic.

Deities: Ochun, Oya

Element: Air (Mental Powers, Physic Powers, Visions, Wisdom)

Gender: Masculine

Planet: Mercury (Divination, Mental Powers, Physic Powers, Wisdom)

Powers: Mental & Psychic Powers

Medicinal Uses: Mace has been used in many Chinese and Indian traditional medicines to treat the nervous and digestive system. The compounds in this spice, myristicin and elemicin have stimulant properties on the brain.  The oil contains eugenol, and in dentistry, has been used to relieve toothaches and bad breath. It is also used to reduce muscular and rheumatic pain in joints. A fresh decoction with honey has been used to relieve nausea, gastritis, indigestion ailments.

Magical Uses: Carry Mace blade’s in a charm/sachet for luck, or to improve the intellect. Burn in incense to increase psychic power, or for creative work.

Other Uses: Mace has a delectable flavor, and will give a saffron-like orange-red color to the food items.

Warning: Mace is safe to take in small doses. In large amounts, it may result in hallucinations and can even cause cancer.

References:

Note: Consult with a Physician or a certified herbologist if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the herb listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all, have a great day!

Lisa

Tarot Journal – The Major Arcana As A Journey

Wednesday, August 24th, 2011

The Major Arcana As A Journey

Lesson 3: Intuitive Tarot Certification Course

Welcome to the third installment of my Tarot Journal. I realize there are a few cards missing in the Fool’s journey, but look to the end for a brief overview of the cards in the Major Arcana. (This post is based on homework given)

The Fool is starting a journey, it may be new to him, perhaps a road he has been down before. He first meets The Magician, he learns about power, potential and not to be afraid of what is to come, and how to stay grounded. The Magician shows him how to carry out plans, but be sure that he knows what he wants and stay committed. He also learns to be creative and how to use his talents.

The next stop in the Fools journey is that of The High Priestess, she is opposite of the Magician. She balances what he has learned so far. The fool is learning to look beyond the obvious and delve into his subconscious. He is also learning patience, how to step back and look into things a bit deeper, follow his intuition.

His next stop is with The Empress, she is a vision, she is mothering, she is the earth mother. She teaches him to embrace life and all that it has to offer. It can be anything from human beings, material possessions, as well as taking care of emotional needs. It’s now time to balance what has learned so far.

The Fool comes across The Emperor, he’s not necessarily as appealing as the others. He is a father type, he teaches him about structure and authority. Now there are rules, he must learn discipline. There are some things he can and cannot control. At this stage in his journey he must tie up loose ends before he can move forward.

He now comes across the Hierophant. He reinforces the teachings of the the Emperor, but throws in religion, education and society. Now we have conformity, fitting in at school, in groups, clubs and being loyal to others. The fool needs to learn how to grow and develop in society.

I’ve seen all of these cards play out in my life. As for following them, well that’s a different story. I can relate to the Magician, I’m not afraid of what’s to come. I’m constantly searching and using my creativity, but I tend to put too much on my plate at once. I can relate more to the the High Priestess, I love to use my imagination and intuition. But looking deeper into things, tends to get me in trouble. The Empress, in my case, is something I love, mother nature in all her glory. I love to just follow the natural course of things. Then there’s the Emperor, I’m not a big fan of authority and have a hard time with order, although I do find myself to be disciplined when it comes to any of my crafts. With the Hierophant, I definitely have a problem with conformity. I’m a free spirit and tend to do my own thing. I follow rules, but I also break them, as long as no harm is done. Never been much into groups, obviously, I’m a solitary witch and follow my own path.

I see these cards being the foundation of the great quest. They are the beginning and will be revisited many times again. There are many cycles in our life, and it always comes back to the beginning.

I would have to say the High Priestess is the one card that sticks out to me the most. She’s mysterious. I like to look beyond the obvious, sometimes a little patience is needed to see what is not there, especially when it comes to my art work. When I’m starting a new project, jumping right in is never the answer. I like to find my creativity in a dream world. That place between sleep and awake is where I find the answers.

The Lovers: The Fool has come across an equal, another person to take with on his journey. He’s now establishing  a bond, the relationship may or may not be sexual. There is a feeling of love and/or physical attraction. The Fool has come to a crossroad, he has to look at his morals or ethics.  He is struggling with temptation, trying to figure out right and wrong. At this point he has to figure out where he stands, before making decisions. He’s starting to question the lessons learned thus far, and starts to look into his own personal philosophy. He needs to find out where he stands and stay true to himself.

The Chariot represents the Fools transition into adulthood, no more teachers. He is now determined to reach his goals and be successful, his attitude has become dominant. The fool is self confident and has found faith in himself, he is  disciplined and has much more self control. He has his own identity, his own interests and knows who he is at this stage.

Now that he has become self confident, he needs to learn strength. Strength is not necessarily physical, it can also be emotional. At this point the Fool needs to find patience and compassion. With all that he has accomplished, there maybe setbacks, he needs to be patient and find inner strength. He will have to be strong enough to accept help from others, and maintain his composure. There’s a lot of patience to be had when dealing with downfalls, but he must refuse to get angry and find the strength within himself.

At this stage in my life I can relate to The Hermit in many ways. Lately I’ve been looking for answers that can only come from within. I have found my life going in a new direction and It’s confusing and scary. I need some stillness and alone time to find the answers I’m looking for. Things seem to be coming at me a hundred miles an hour and I need the world to slow down so I can stop and think for a minute.

Even before picking up a Tarot deck, The Death card never bothered me. It’s one of two cards I’ve always been drawn to, Strength being the second one. There are so many misconceptions with this card, most people fear it, thinking it’s the eternal end. I don’t look at it that way, everything in life has an end and a beginning. There are so many stages we go through in a lifetime, whether it be a job, a friendship, a bad TV show and so forth. In the end, there is always something new around the corner. It’s a time of transition, closing one chapter in your life so you can start the next.

Temperance, The Devil & The Tower: (2 Examples of how the three successive cards apply in movies)

In Chasing Amy: Holden meets Amy and is immediately attracted to her. They hit it off immediately and she invites him out to a club. He get’s excited, but there is something he is in the dark about. When he arrives at the club, he gets a big slap in the face. “Turns out, this girl is gay.”

In Buffy The Vampire Slayer: Buffy meets Angel, they fall in love. The relationship goes on for a while. He’s a mystery to her, she knows something is different, but now sure what. The wake up call is, he’s a Vampire.

The Star, The Moon, The Sun: (How the designs reinforce the message on the celestial cards)

The Star (Rider-Waite Deck): The Star card represents hope, inspiration, serenity and generosity. The woman pouring into the stream represents generosity, the ripples show that when we give, we create. The large gold star, (that dominates the scene) shows there is hope, light at the end of the tunnel. It shows that you are on the right path and promises of a better and brighter future. The woman will see the world in a different light, she is inspired to create a new path. It is not necessarily the answer, but it gives her a peace of mind and she is able to relax.

The Moon (Rider-Waite Deck): The Moon card represents fear, bewilderment, Imagination, and illusion. The moon in this scene can represents two possibilities, it holds promise that all you imagine can be yours. It guides you into the unknown, allowing the unusual into your life. At the same time,  it can bring about hidden fears and anxiety, not everything is as what it seems. The dog and wolf could be our animal instinct, just beginning the journey to a higher path. While the towers are the starting point to limitless possibilities, good and evil. This card can inspire insight, as well as bring out fears and confusion.

The Sun (Rider-Waite Deck): The Sun card represents enlightenment, greatness, assurance and vitality.
It follows the Moon card, and in Tarot Readings is a very positive omen. The Sun essentially is a confirmation of what you may already be feeling, all the energy and determination you need to overcome obstacles. It shows that you are on the right path to success and happiness. The baby is rebirth, being taken by a horse on a new phase/cycle in life. It is a feeling of freedom  and honoring oneself, there is a new level of insight. The sun is dominating the scene, shining forth and showing unlimited energy. The light that gives you power, confidence and realizing all that has been accomplished. It’s now time to trust in your abilities and forgive yourself.

Reaching the end of a journey:

The Fool is nearing an end. The journey is almost over, but first he must reach Judgement, as it is necessary. Before moving forward he must look back, be proud of his accomplishments, face his failures, learn from them and put it in the past. It’s a time of cleansing and releasing guilt, he must forgive himself as well as others.

His journey is over, at least this one. The Fool has reached The World, he has a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment. He’s experiencing balance and enjoying a peace of mind. The task is complete and a conclusion is reached. It’s time to savor the present, for the journey is a circular one and now he’s back at the beginning. He can now go into the next phase with confidence and a new perspective.

A Brief Overview of the Major Arcana:

The Fool:

  • Is beginning a new journey, nothing is certain, he has unlimited potential.
  • Nothing is familiar, not grounded.
  • Keep faith and  must trust in oneself.
  • Living in the moment, acts on impulses and feelings. Carefree.
  • Tends to take the foolish path.
  • Needs to stay true to himself and recapture innocence.

The Magician:

  • Grounded, Not afraid to act.
  • Realizing potential and what needs to be done.
  • Set things aside in order to get the job done.
  • Committed, make what’s possible real.

The High Priestess:

  • She balances out the masculine of the magician, by showing the mysterious.
  • Looks into the subconscious, beyond the obvious.
  • Follow intuition, dreams and imagination.
  • It’s time to look deeper and in the unseen, and finding a will to create.
  • Carrying out plans, being committed.

The Empress:

  • The Empress and High Priestess are the two halves of the female archetypes.
  • The earth mother, nurturing and caring.
  • Care for others as well as yourself.
  • She nurtures the mind of the Fool.
  • There are lavish rewards and material possessions, embrace life.

The Emperor:

  • He is fathering, shows the Fool structure and authority.
  • It’s time to learn leadership skills and discipline.
  • Loose ends should be tied up, there is a need for organization.
  • Make order out of chaos, there are rules.

The Hierophant:

  • Conformity, education, religion and society.
  • Coexist with others, not just in churches, but teams and groups.
  • A belief system, cultural heritage, knowing ones faith and an increase in understanding.
  • Growing and developing in society.
  • Following rules.

The Lovers:

  • Encounter a partner along the journey. Sexuality, bond, love and union.
  • Open up to another, mentally and physically.
  • Decision making, struggling with temptation.
  • Permanent unions, family ties.

The Chariot:

  • Entering adulthood and free of teachers.
  • Strength through discipline and self determination.
  • Dominance is a factor, beat the competition and reach for goals.
  • Rise above temptation, and have faith in oneself.
  • Learning to Curb impulses and master emotions.
  • Holding in anger, but getting your way.

Strength:

  • Finding inner strength. Being able to go forward, despite set backs.
  • Patience and compassion, getting angry will only make things worse.
  • Achieving self control.
  • Learn to accept others, be forgiving and kind.
  • Finding perspective and learn to compromise.
  • If pushing too hard, learn to withdraw for a moment.

The Hermit:

  • Focus on inner self.
  • A solitary quest, and a need for time alone.
  • There’s a deeper understanding/truth.
  • Think things over, look within.
  • A desire for a new direction.

The Wheel of Fortune:

  • Unexpected encounters, nothing is set in stone.
  • If you’ve been struggling, you may find the answer you’ve been looking for.
  • Fate, something good may come from an accident.
  • Moving forward in a different direction.
  • A change may show you how everything connects.
  • A greater perspective, discovering a new role or purpose.

Justice:

  • Ultimately, life is fair and just.
  • An impact from the past will come back, be it good or bad.
  • Accept responsibilities, settle past debts.
  • Make decisions for the future, balance all factors.
  • Karma!

The Hanged Man:

  • Pausing to reflect, letting go and giving up control.
  • Live for the moment.
  • Maybe a set back is in order to move forward.
  • A sacrifice is needed in order to get our own way.
  • Truths are hidden in the opposite.
  • Release, when wanting to be forceful.

Death:

  • Not a permanent death, but a time of transition.
  • Might be an important ending, that could trigger great change.
  • Closing one door, to open another.
  • Leave the past behind, start a new chapter.
  • Accepting the inevitable.

Temperance:

  • A need for moderation and balance.
  • Showing moderation, by finding a middle ground.
  • A sense of harmony, bringing opposing parts together.
  • Finding just the right mix.
  • Good health, physically and emotionally.

The Devil:

  • The journey is on hold.
  • Stuck in an unhealthy or unproductive situation.
  • Being in the dark, maybe working from something false.
  • Being negative, lacking faith.
  • A reflection that could make one doubt.

The Tower:

  • A wake up call, something is wrong.
  • A slap in the face.
  • A new direction is forced that causes disruption.
  • Accept the surprise and learn from it.
  • A truth must be realized to get an answer.
  • A downturn of fortune, having things shaken up.

The Star:

  • inspiration, but not the final solution.
  • Being on the right path towards goals and aspirations.
  • Having faith in the future, thinking in a positive light.
  • Finding motivation, realizing inner strength.
  • Finding a peace of mind, holding nothing back.

The Moon:

  • A disconnected feeling, easy to lose your way.
  • Can’t think clearly and losing direction.
  • A guide to the unknown that can allow the unusual into ones life.
  • Chasing after a fantasy, seeing false pictures.
  • Possibly having vivid dreams or visions.
  • Unusual thoughts or fantasies.

The Sun:

  • Seeing clearly finally and being confident.
  • Being sure of yourself, without being cocky.
  • Seeing yourself being successful in all you take on.
  • Experiencing freedom and joy.
  • Forgiving yourself and trusting in your abilities.
  • A new level of insight.

Judgement:

  • Being proud of accomplishments and learning from failures.
  • Leave the past behind and move forward.
  • Looking back and making an honest appraisal.
  • Be open to new possibilities and transforming, making a fresh start.
  • Being able to see everything in a new light.
  • Feeling cleansed and unburdened.
  • Forgiving yourself and others.

The World:

  • The end of a journey.
  • Wholeness and balance, savoring the moment.
  • Realizing goals and seeing dreams come true.
  • One journey is over, but now at a new beginning, with more confidence and a new perspective.

My studies at Sacred Mists have been a great experience, It’s been a positive and challenging change. I have a great teacher that is always there to help and guide me, inside and out of class. I love the new path that I am on, learning the Tarot has helped me open my eyes and find answers in my own life. I’m still searching, and have more questions, but I know with all that I’m learning I’m on my way to finding what I’m looking for.

Feel free to post your thoughts, opinions and comments.

Thanks for stopping by! Have a great day!

Lisa