The Battle of Horus & Set (Seth)

The god-king Ra-Harakhte, in the year 363 of his reign on earth, advanced his army into Nubia to quell a rebellion being led by Seth. Seth had already done a great injustice by brutally murdering Osiris, his brother. Ra-Harakhte's army sailed up the Nile toward Nubia, stoping in Edfu, where they were joined by Horus Behudety. Horus was also Osiris' brother and he was eager to avenge his murder. Ra asked Horus to arm himself and do battle with Seth's army of conspirators that were plotting against the aging king.

Knowing his brother to be a worthy adversary, both cunning and treacherous, Horus enlisted the help of the god of wisdom and magic, Thoth. The magic that Thoth used turned Horus into a sun-disk with splendid outstretched wings. The goddesses Nekhbet and Uazet in the form of uraeus snakes joined him at his side.

When he came upon the army of Seth, he flew straight at the sun to look down upon the enemies of Ra-Harakhte. So fierce was his stare (the heat of midday) that the enemies of Ra became confused and could no longer tell friend from foe. In fear and rage, they attacked one another. When the battle was over and his enemies were either dead or scattered, Horus swooped down upon the battle field to find his brother, Seth. But he was nowhere to be found. When Ra heard of this great victory, he went to see the corpse-strewn battlefield and rejoiced saying "Let us go to the Nile, for our enemies are dead."

However, not all his enemies were dead. Seth's following was still strong. He commanded his agents to turn themselves into hippopotami and crocodiles with thick hides. This they did in preparation for an attack on the boat of Ra. Horus too was making preparations, his army made lances of iron and heavy chains. Upon these weapons, Thoth spoke some powerful magic. When the attack came, many of the thick-skinned beasts were either slain by the magic weapons or fled to the south. Horus pursued the army of Seth, and another great battle took place. These battles continued for some time.

Horus and Ra-Harakhte now sailed north in search of their foe, who took the shape of hippopotami and crocodiles and hid underwater for days. Upon sight, Horus attacked and did great damage to his enemies with his magical weapons. But his brother continued to allude him. Almost four hundred prisoners were taken before the boat of Ra to be executed. When Seth heard this news, he was furious and his curses were terrible. He decided to personally lead his army into battle against Horus. Another long battle raged. At some point, Horus took a prisoner whom he believed to be Seth. He dragged him and threw him at Ra's feet. "Do with him as you will," Ra told Horus. So Horus executed him, cut off his head, dragged him by his feet through the dust and hacked him into pieces, much the same as Seth had done to Horus's father, Osiris.

For many, the story ends here with the death of Seth. However, others say that upon death, Seth lived again as a serpent. But there are other endings as well. Some say that it was not Seth at all that Horus had executed, but mearly an associate. Seth was still at large and had taken the shape of a great snake and hidden himself underground. In some versions of the story, Seth was captured and given to Isis and it is Isis who executes Seth by decapitating him. Yet others say that the final battle of good verses evil has not yet taken place. It is said Horus will be victorious and on that day, Osiris and the rest of the gods will return to the earth.

Fragrant Bedstraw

Fragrant Bedstraw -Love and lust

Also Known As - Barweed, Bedstraw, Catchweed, Cleavers, Cleaverwort, Click, Clite, Clitheren, Clithers, Clivers, Coachweed, Curdwort, Eriffe, Everlasting Friendship, Goose Grass, Goosebill, Gosling Weed, Grip Grassman, Hayriffe, Hedge-burs, Hedgeheriff (Anglo-Saxon “tax gatherer”), Loveman, Madder's Cousin, Mutton Chops, Philanthropon (Greek), Poor Robin, Robin-run-in-the-grass, Scratweed, Stick-a-back, Sweethearts; G. verum - Catchstraw, Cheese Rennet, Cheese Renning, Lady's Bedstraw, Maid's Hair, Our Lady's Bedstraw, Petty Mugget, Yellow Bedstraw, Yellow Cleavers

Bedstraw may be worn or carried for love. Geese are said to have a fondness for the plant, so if you happen to want them around, bedstraw might come in handy. Of course, geese like just about any kind of food you might offer them and will hang around for that as much as anything else.

The dried and powdered root is said to stop bleeding wounds and promote healing, and the juice mixed with oatmeal to the consistency of oatmeal may be applied to “tumors” for three days. Gerard said that the herbs as a remedy for snake and spider bites, probably due to its astringent properties. Culpepper suggested the juice for earache.

Place Bedstraw stalks with leaves under the pillow, secretly, to strengthen a failing marriage.

Andalusite

Andalusite - Seeing Sides of a Problem, Scrying, AIDS
Also Known As - "The Seeing Stone"

Andalusite is sometimes called "The Seeing Stone" because it is used in metaphysical works to calmly see the various parts of one's character without bias. It is also reported to be helpful to see the different sides of a problem, and is used for scrying.

Andalusite is said to enhance memory and recall. It is also said to bring chivalry. Andalusite is said bring moderation and balance. It is also a stone that is said to be helpful for meditation and centering.

Physically andalusite is used in crystal healing and folk healing for AIDS, eye problems, deficiencies in calcium, oxygen, iodine, and water retention.

Andalusite is associated with the solar plexus and heart chakras.

Chiastolite is a variety of Andalusite.

The Legend of Sagittarius

 art by: http://mictones.deviantart.com/

The zodiacal constellation Sagittarius represents the centaur Chiron. Most of the centaurs were regarded in myth as bestial--they were, after all, half horse. However, the ancient Greeks had a great deal of respect for the horse, and so were reluctant to make the centaurs entirely bad. In fact, Chiron was renowned for his gentleness. He was an excellent archer, musician, and physician, and tutored the likes of Achilles, Jason, and Hercules.

Chiron, however, was accidentally shot and wounded by Hercules. The arrow, which had been dipped in the poison of the Lernaean Hydra, inflicted great suffering on Chiron--so great, in fact, that even the talented physician could not cure himself. In agony, but as an immortal unable to find release in death, Chiron instead offered himself as a substitute for Prometheus. The gods had punished Prometheus for giving fire to man by chaining him to a rock. Each day an eagle would devour his liver, and each night it would grow back. Jupiter, however, had at the request of Hercules agreed to release Prometheus if a suitable substitute could be found. Chiron gave up his immortality and went to Tartarus in place of Prometheus; in recognition of his goodness, Jupiter placed him in the stars (Pasachoff, 139).

From the northern hemisphere, Sagittarius may be seen only in the summer, lying low in the south. The Milky Way runs through Sagittarius.

Pele: Hawaiian Goddess of Fire

The legend says that Pele's father sent her away from Tahiti (another island in the Pacific) because she had a hot temper. It seems she was always fighting with her older sister (Na-mako-o-Kaha'i), who was the Goddess of the Sea. Pele left Tahiti in a canoe and went to Hawaii where she made many fiery volcanoes.

However, every time she made a volcano, her sister (who had followed her) flooded the fire and put it out. Finally, they had a very big fight and Pele was torn apart by her sister. Then, Pele's spirit was free and she became a goddess. It is said that Pele's spirit lives in the Kilauea volcano (one of the most active volcanoes on earth). Pele is still known for her violent temper. Some people say that if any visitors take her volcanic rock (lava), she puts a curse on them.

Which Love 3 Card Spread

 This spread is my creation (I <3 card spreads lol) and seems to be on point for things of this nature.

Card 1: Querent
Card 2: First love interest
Card 3: Second love interest

Proud Pagan

Ori: African Orisha of Spiritual Intuition & Destiny

Ori is a metaphysical concept important to Yoruba spirituality and philosophy.

Ori, literally meaning "head," refers to one's spiritual intuition and destiny. It is the reflective spark of human consciousness embedded into the human essence, and therefore is often personified as an Orisha in its own right . In Yoruba tradition, it is believed that human beings are able to heal themselves both spiritually and physically by working with the Orishas to achieve a balanced character, or iwa-pele. When one has a balanced character, one obtains an alignment with one's Ori or divine self.

Alignment with one's Ori brings, to the person who obtains it, inner peace and satistaction with life. To come to know the Ori is, essentially, to come to know oneself. The primacy of individual identity is best captured in a Yoruba proverb: "Ori la ba bo, a ba f'orisa sile". When translated, this becomes It is the inner self we ought to venerate, and let divinity be.

Bayberry

Bayberry- Good fortune, luck, healing, and stress relief. Burn a white candle sprinkled with bayberry bark for good fortune and money.

Also Called: American Vegetable Tallow Tree, Myrtle, Wax Myrtle, Candleberry, Candleberry Myrtle, Tallow Shrub, American Vegetable Wax, Vegetable Tallow, Waxberry, Pepperidge Bush, Berbery

Bayberry is feminine in nature and associated with the earth element and the planet jupiter.

Bayberry candles are burned to bring luck and prosperity to the household. Likewise, bayberries and bayberry leaves can be useful in money drawing spells. Try adding bayberries to a luck or fortune sachet or mojo bag.

The candles themselves are high quality, long burning, and very useful in candle magic.

Candles can be made from bayberry wax. Bayberry candles are harder than beeswax candles, burn with little smoke and have a pleasant odor.

Bayberry boughs with berries on them are very attractive in floral arrangements and smell wonderful.

The decoction is a good gargle for sore throats and mouth ulcers. It is also said to strengthen gums.

The water in which the berries have been boiled to remove the wax can be used to treat dysentery.

Poultices and washes made from the powdered root have been used for ulcers and itchy skin.

Harvest the root in late autumn and pound to separate bark from the root. Dry thoroughly and powder. Store in a dark place in tightly sealed containers.

Gather the berries early in the morning in the fall or winter and boil to remove the wax. The wax will float on top and can be skimmed off. It is called myrtle wax. It can be used to make soap or candles.

***CAUTION*** Bayberry can cause vomiting in large doses. Side affects from ongoing ingestion include dizziness, dry eyes and mucus membranes, dry throat, cramping, and flatulence.

Analcime

Analcime - Mental Clarity, Teamwork, Cope with Change

Analcime is a stone that grows in many colors that is used for a number of purposes in energywork and crystal magic. It is said to heighten mental clarity in a creative and individual way. This brings more individuality and creativity into life, especially where others try to constrain the two.

Analcime has stabilizing energy that can help stabilize on all levels. It is particularly useful for energywork for teamwork, harmonious relations with others, coping with change, and comfortable transformations.

Physically, Analcime is used in alternative crystal healing and folk healing for diabetes, pancreas problems, water retention, strengthen muscles and muscle structure, organic problems that reduce mental clarity such as brain tumors.

Analcime is stimulating to the Heart Chakra.

Analcime is a Zeolite, so it also has the underlying energies of Zeolites as well.

Educate People

I Am A Witch

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Ammolite/Ammonite

Ammolite/Ammonite is used for Good Luck, Prosperity, High Energy

Alternate Names & Name Spellings: Korite, Calcentine, Opalescent Aragonite, Gem Ammonite, Aapoak or Aapok (Blackfoot), Iniskim (Blackfoot - select pieces that can be imagined to resemble a buffalo), Kirin Stone (Eastern mythical beast with scales), Alberta Opal (a misleading misnomer), Alberta Gem, Ammonite Shell.

Ammolite is said to radiate positive Earth energy, and to bring good luck and prosperity. It is also said to grant miracles. Ammolite is excellent as a tool for deep meditation. Ammolite is also used mystically for general good health, stamina and high energy.

Ammonites are the fossilized remains of ancient sea creatures. A type of cephalopod mollusk, they are found around the world. Much of what we know or presume about ammonites comes from the study of their only known living relative, the nautilus. Most everyone has seen the pearly shell of a Nautilus and can therefore picture what an ammonite was, even though they probably became extinct about the same time as the dinosaurs.

The fossil is named for the Egyptian god Ammon, because their shape resembles his ram horns. Ammonite was prized by the ancient Egyptian and Roman societies and was considered to have magical and holy powers.

It is considered to be a protective stone that gives stability and structure to a person’s life. It is said to change negativity into smoothly flowing energy. It is also said to assist with childbirth, depression, and general survival instincts.

They are a symbol of the higher forces of the universe and their shape is said to attract and store wealth. People that believe in Feng Shui in particular may consider ammonite - particularly that with an exterior layer of ammolite - a high energy stone that enhances the vitality, harmony, prosperity, and overall well-being of occupants and visitors of a home.

Ammonite in general is believed to have absorbed the knowledge of the universe, storing that energy in the spirals of the shell and radiating it out, to the benefit of anyone near it. when the ammonite has a layer of ammolite on the exterior of the shell, that ammolite has the energy of light from the centuries. The colors of ammolite represent the harmonious balance of fire, earth, metal, water, and wood. Ammonite with ammolite is particularly thought to enhance the flow of Qi (Chi)(life energy), to radiate strength, and to change negative energy into positive energy. Its presence is considered beneficial even for those that do not believe in Feng Shui.

Bay Laurel/Bay Leaf

Bay Laurel/Bay Leaf is used for purification, house and business blessing, and clearing confusion. Attracts romance. Keep potted plant to protect home from lightning. Place in a dream pillow for sound sleep and to induce prophetic dreams.

Also Called: Bay, Sweet Laurel, Sweet Bay, True Laurel, Lorbeer, Noble Laurel, Baie, Daphne

Gender: Masculine
Planet: Sun, Jupiter
Element: Fire

Both leaf and berry are used as well as the essential oil.

Use in teas for clairvoyance and to aid divination. As mentioned, the ancient Greek Oracles at Delphi and priestesses of Apollo chewed Bay leaves to enhance their trance states when giving prophecies, and burned Bay as an incense.

Wear as an amulet to ward off evil and negativity, burn or scatter in exorcism rituals.

Place in the windows to guard against lightning. Purifies the home.

To remove curses and evil spells, mix crushed or powdered bay leaf with sandalwood powder, burn on a charcoal.

Use in wash water to clean floors as well as sprinkling the powdered herb, then sweeping, to rid the home of crossed/cursed conditions.

To ensure a long and lasting love, a couple should break a twig from the tree, together break the twig in two and each keep a half.

Add a few drops of the essential oil to a cup of water in a spray bottle, mist your pillow to induce prophetic dreams; place bay leaves beneath your pillow for the same purpose.

Use a sprig of Bay to asperge water during purification rituals or place in a bowl of water to wash the hands before entering sacred space.

Bay is appropriate for the consecration of musical instruments.

Use Bay oil or infusion to consecrate candles and other magical tools; asperge or mist home or sacred space to clear unwanted energies.

Write your desire or need on a bay leaf, then burn to bring the spell to fruition.

Write charms or draw symbols of protection on the leaves and hide about your home to keep it safe from all manner of ill will and misfortune.

A Bay tree planted near the home, or bay leaves hidden in the home, are said to protect those within from sickness.

Bay leaves give strength when worn during athletic competition.

Burn a candle dressed with the essential oil to bring about needed change within oneself.

*** Caution: Please note, care should be taken when using bay as it can be toxic when taken internally. The berries can induce miscarriage/abortion, so caution is advised if one is pregnant. That being said, most people add the leaves as seasoning to food, but do not eat the leaves, removing them before serving the dish. ***

Sacred to both Apollon and Artemis. In Greek myth, the lovely Daphne, a nymph, was transformed into a bay tree to escape pursuit by Apollo, thereby remaining, as she wished, a virgin. Apollo, heartbroken, made a crown out of bay leaves and branches and wore it to honor her. Romans dedicated this herb to Fides, goddess of honor and fidelity. In another myth, Hermes is said to have invented fire by striking a pomegranate against a Bay Laurel tree.

The Pythias, Priestesses of the Delphic Oracle, chewed the leaves to induce their prophesies and enhance communion with Mother Earth, Gaia and then Apollon - this is in addition to the inhalation of the fumes from natural gases that rose from deep within the earth. It is also thought that the seeds of henbane were burned as well, intoxicating the priestess and opening the way for prophesy.

Both ancient Greeks and Romans were known to crown victors of competitive games as well as scholars with wreaths of laurel to honor them.
In the 17th century it was believed that bay leaves were protection against witchcraft. Of course, we know that is not the case as withes use bay leaves. However, bay leaves are very protective, bay trees were planted around homes to defend against curses. Folks believed that bay would protect one’s home from being struck by lightning and damaged by thunderstorms.

Artemis Goddess of the Hunt, the Moon, Childbirth, Virginity

Artemis was the offspring of Zeus and titan Leto as per Homeric hymns. She was called the goddess of moon and hunt and childbirth. She has a twin brother named Apollo. And, similar to Apollo, Artemis was also connected with many divine attributes.

As she was a huntress, she is symbolized using along with a bow and arrows. She hunts animals but she also protects them in the forests. Artemis also respected chastity and she was a divine virgin. She was angry with the mortals who seduced her to relieve her virginity. Once a Theban hunter saw her taking bath and when Artemis saw him, she made him into stag and felled by his hounds.

Artemis is a goddess who is self made. She asked her daddy to help her in becoming the goddess of hunt and to stay in mountains. She also asked for a 69 year old Oceanides to be her followers and 20 nymphs from Amnisos River. She also helped the women and female animals during the labor. She also bought the Cyclops made for her in silver and spectacular.

There are many names for Artemis in the Greek mythology. She was called the Agrotera, the goddess who protected the hunters and also gifted them with endeavors. She was also called the protector of the wild creatures known as Potnia Theron. She was also called as Locheia sometimes as the goddess of childbirth. And she was made offerings by the expectant mothers. She is also called the phoebe which is the alternative nickname of Apollo.

Deviant Witchery presents First Flights: A Primer for New Witches

The Legend of Herne

There is an old tale goes that Herne the Hunter,
Sometime a keeper here in Windsor Forest,
Doth all the winter-time, at still midnight,
Walk round about an oak, with great ragg'd horns;
And there he blasts the tree, and takes the cattle,
And makes milch-kine yield blood, and shakes a chain
In a most hideous and dreadful manner.
You have heard of such a spirit, and well you know
The superstitious idle-headed eld
Receiv'd, and did deliver to our age,
This tale of Herne the Hunter for a truth.

"The Merry Wives of Windsor"
Act 4 Scene 4
William Shakespeare

Go To The Woods

The Wiccan Law

Ametrine

Ametrine is used for Psychic Abilities, Disperse Negative Energies

Alternate Names & Name Spellings: Amethyst-Citrine

Ametrine is a natural combination of amethyst and citrine. Ametrine energies are said to stimulate the intellect and rid the aura of negative energy. It is also said to be helpful for releasing negative emotional programming.

Ametrine is used mystically to aid in meditation, boost psychic abilities, relieve tension, disperse negativity and help to eliminate prejudice. It is related primarily to the Crown and Root Chakras.

Note that healing crystal meanings are spiritual supports to healing and are not prescriptions or healthcare information.

Ametrine also has the basic metaphysical and healing properties of both the amethyst and the citrine that comprise it.

Bat's Head Root

Bat's Head Root is used in spellwork, rituals, gris-gris bags, etc. to obtain wishes.

Also called bat nut, bat head, ling nut, ling ko, lingjiao, devil pod, goat head, bull nut, and buffalo nut, water chestnut, singhara, or pani-fol

Bat's Head Root looks just like a bats head. Use in hoodoo and witchcraft spells for wishes, good luck and gambling.

Some hoodoo practioners use it to ward off evil and is included in mojo bags, such as "Keep Away Enemies." For protection placed above a doorway, facing outward or hung on the wall. The bat nut or bat head is used by some for increased psychic awareness.

Many old spell recipes call for Bats Head or Head of Bat in reference to this root. This rare root originates from Mexico and is used in many spiritual practices including Wicca, Hoodoo, Voodoo, Magick and more.

For wish granting bury in a potted plant or yard and make a wish. Carry in a mojo bag for protection and luck. Add to any spell for added power

Basil

Other Names: Common Basil, Sweet Basil, St. Josephwort, St. Joseph's Wort, Tulsi, Tulasi, Krishnamul, Kala Tulasi, Witches' Herb, Alabahaca, American Dittany
Gender: Masculine
Element: Fire
Deity Connection: Mars, Krishna, Vishnu, Ares

Basil is used for love, exorcism, wealth, sympathy, and protection, dispels confusion, fears & weakness, Drives off hostile spirits.

Basil is associated with Candlemas.

carry Basil to move forward in a positive manner despite perilous danger.

Basil strewn on floors to provide protection from evil.

Sprinkle an infusion of Basil outside of the building where you hope to be employed for luck in a job interview (be careful not to be seen!) or in your business to attract money and success.

Wear or carry to aid in attracting money and prosperity.

In Mediterranean countries, it is strewn on floors to purify a home. It also can bring luck to people moving into a new residence - a gift of a potted basil plant guarantees good fortune. Basil plants are also said to attract scorpions, and in some cultures it was believed that smelling the plant would cause a scorpion to grow in the brain.

Magically, basil can be used in love magic and in love divination. Two basil leaves placed on a live coal will give you an indicator about the state of your relationship: if they burn to ash quickly, the marriage will be harmonious, but if they crackle and hiss, your marriage will be disruptive.

Basil can also be used to guarantee fidelity -- or detect the lack of it. If you suspect your lover has been stepping out, place a fresh basil leave on their hand. If it wilts right away, chances are good they've been spreading the love around. To keep your spouse or partner faithful, sprinkle powdered basil in the bed while they sleep -- especially around the heart -- and they will remain true to you.

Chevron Amethyst

Chevron Amethyst is used for Peace of Mind, Self-awareness, Inner Strength

Alternate Names or Spellings of Chevron Amethyst: Banded Amethyst, sometimes Cape Amethyst

Chevron Amethyst is said to combine the strengthening and enhancing energies of quartz with the stress relieving energies of amethyst. Together these minerals create the chevron amethyst, which is noted in metaphysics to enhance peace of mind, relaxation and self-discovery. Chevron amethyst is said to bring courage and inner strength. The stone is said in mystical lore to lessen any resistance to helping oneself, particularly as concerns self-awareness. It also is said to diminish addictive tendencies and assists in recovery from addictions. Note that healing crystal meanings are spiritual supports to healing and are not prescriptions or healthcare information. Chevron amethyst is associated with the third eye (brow) or crown chakra. In addition to its own qualities it also has meanings of amethyst and quartz.

African Orisha: Erinle

Erinle (also known as Inle or Eyinle) is a hunter and a healer. He spends some of his time with Oggun, Osoosi, and Osanyin in the forest and some time with Oko on the farm. He is the patron of fisherman and is said to hunt primarily in rivers. In some traditions, he's also considered a patron of same-sex-love

A story about Inle concerns Yemaja. After Yemaja decides to leave Obatala, she goes away to live in her castle under the sea, happy to be alone and with her children running the kingdom. One day she sees a handsome young fisherman—it is Erinle. They fall in love immediately. Yemaja tells Erinle that she is the queen of this kingdom but that it could be lonely at times.

Erinle promises to keep her company when she is lonely. He cares nothing about power or riches, only her beauty. Yemaja and Erinle go to live in her castle at the bottom of the sea and they are happy for some time. After a while, however, Yemaja begins to take Erinle for granted. She ignores his complaints and takes him for granted.

Erinle became unhappy and wanted to leave. Yemaja saw this, but was afraid that Erinle would tell her secrets to the rest of the kingdom. She wanted to silence him but she cared about him too much to kill him.

Her compromise was this: one night, when Erinle fell asleep, she cut out his tongue. Then he could live but would never be able to tell her secrets. This was when boredom in relationships was born into the world.

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The Power of Intent, Focus, and Energy

Barley

Also known as: John Barleycorn, Barleykerne, Aleseed
Planetary Association: Venus
Element: Earth
Deity: Venus

Barley is used for love, healing, and protection. Harvests. Scatter on the ground to keep evil at bay. Tie barley straw around a rock and throw into a river or lake while visualizing any pain you have to make the pain go away.

Use the grain or barley water in love spells. Scatter on the ground to keep evil at bay. Tie barley straw around a rock and throw into a river or lake while visualizing any pain you have to make the pain go away. Use this herb when performing Love spells. To attract the love of a man, wear in your bosom or put it in your pocket. Depending upon your success it will lose or retain its freshness. Sprinkle Barley around the perimeter of your yard [or on windowsills] to ward off evil. A few grains under your doormat will offer protection and repel negativity and evil that would enter. For love spells use the grain or barley water. A toothache can be cured with barley. To free yourself from pain, wrap a straw of barley around a stone while visualizing the pain into the stone. Next throw the stone into a river (or any running water) and see your pain ‘being washed away’.

barley is a gentle, nurturing force that stimulates the Heart Chakra and is used to ease a person’s emotional burden by turning harsh feelings into love and warding off any negativity that originates from other people. Barley grass juice is considered an effective psychological grounding agent and physical energizer.

Barley is one of the great grains of the world, and the one most closely associated with the sacrificial grain god. It is a Lammas plant, planted late and harvested early, and used in Lammas altar sheaves.

Barley is sacred to Frey in his aspect as Ing, the sacrificial corn god. All barley products, especially the liquid ones, are appropriate to use as libations for him, and to ask his blessing in sorrowful places. As he is one of the Bright Guys, he is especially good to call on when one is depressed and unhappy.

Amethyst

 (Pictured: My Amethyst)

Amethyst is used for Peace, Psychic, Sobriety, Stability

Alternate Names & Name Spellings:  "Sobriety Stone", light Amethyst is also called Cape Amethyst at times

There is a Greek legend of how amethyst got its purple color. Once Dionysus was so annoyed by Artemis that he set his sacred tigers upon a maiden attending her shrine. To preserve the maiden, whose name was Amethyst, Artemis petrified her in sparkling quartz. Lamenting this virgin's demise, Dionysus poured all the contents of his cup over the statue, which immediately became infused with the purple of the grape.

Amethyst is a meditative and calming stone which works in the emotional, spiritual, and physical planes to provide calm, balance, patience, and peace.

Amethyst is used as beneficial when dealing with legal problems and money issues, which can lead to prosperity and abundance, though it is not the best known prosperity stone.

In the psychic and spiritual realms, amethyst is an excellent all-purpose stone that can increase spirituality and enhance intuition and psychic powers of all kinds. It does this by making a clear connection between the earth plane and other planes and worlds. Amethyst is also excellent for meditation and lucid dreaming. It is used to open one's channels to telepathy, past life regression, clairaudience, clairvoyance, and communication with angels. Amethyst also protects against psychic attacks, especially during spiritual work.

Amethyst is not only a psychic protection stone, but is also used to protect one from thieves, and to protects travelers.

Emotionally, amethyst is used in crystal healing  to help heal personal losses and grief, bringing one gently past. Amethyst has a gently sedative energy that ca promote peacefulness, happiness, and contentment. It also is said to bring emotional stability and inner strength. This stability and strength not only helps one hold firm in one's life, but it can enhance flexibility and cooperation. To be flexible at need is a sure sign of strength.

Amethyst is very well known -- as from the ancients -- as a sobriety stone. It has been used for millenia to prevent drunkenness, and is used to assist in getting rid of addictions to alcohol, drugs, smoking, etc, and destructive compulsive behaviors of all kinds.

Physically amethyst is said by spiritual healers and mystical lore to heal the withdrawal symptoms of any sort of addiction, help with headaches, insomnia, arthritis, diabetes, pain relief, circulatory system issues, endocrine system problems, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, immune system deficiencies, asthma, phobias, pregnancy and preventing miscarriage, menopause, PMS, and general healing.

Amethyst is associated with the third eye and crown chakras primarily, but can also open the heart chakra.

As a variety of quartz, amethyst has the energies inherent in quartz, as well as its own unique vibration.

Amethyst is a purple quartz believed by the ancient Romans to prevent drunkenness. The word amethyst comes from the Greek word "amethystus" meaning not drunken, or intoxicated.

Amethyst is a purple quartz. Crushed amethyst was used by the AncientGreeks and Romans as a way to ward off intoxication. One story is told that partly this was due to the fact that the Romans sometimes put amethyst in their wine. Then the wine could be watered down and still retain its purple color from the stones within. That meant less alcohol, and thus, less intoxication. Both the Greeks and Romans made drinking cups of amethyst and wore talismans of amethyst to prevent intoxication.

Egyptian Goddess: Bastet

The goddess Bastet was usually represented as a woman with the head of a domesticated cat. However, up until 1000 BC she was portrayed as a lioness. Bastet was the daughter of Re, the sun god. It may have been through him that she acquired her feline characteristics. When Re destroyed his enemy Apep, he was usually depicted as a cat. As portrayed as a cat, she was connected with the moon (her son Khonsu was the god of the moon). When shown as a lioness, she is associated with sunlight.

Bastet was the goddess of fire, cats, of the home and pregnant women. According to one myth, she was the personification of the soul of Isis. She was also called the "Lady of the East". As such, her counterpart as "Lady of the West" was Sekhmet.

Bastet as a cat headed womanBastet seemed to have two sides to her personality, docile and aggressive. Her docile and gentle side was displayed in her duties as a protector of the home, and pregnant women. Her aggressive and vicious nature was exposed in the accounts of battles in which the pharaoh was said to have slaughtered the enemy as Bastet slaughtered her victims.

Her center of worship was in Bubastis (Per-Bast, Pa-Bast, Pibeseth, Tell-Basta), in the eastern Delta. Her chief festivals were celebrated in April and May.

The Great God Pan by Donna Jo Napoli (Review)

Title: The Great God Pan
Genre: Greek Mythology
Author: Donna Jo Napoli
Buy Link: http://amzn.to/1wHpwHQ

I stumbled across this book while looking for some new pictures to post of my beloved satyr god. It wasn't a purchase I regret.

The story is absolutely beautiful even if there are minor contradictions to the actual mythology. It tells the story of Pan's love for Iphigenia.

Told through Pan's eyes, the reader is shown how many of the most notable events in the Great God's life came to happen, which will give lovers and followers of our carefree god, a new look at him and a much deeper understanding about who he is.

The story nearly broke my heart, but it is a story I will read over and over again.

I would recommend this book to any lover of Mythology, any follower of Pan, and any lover of true love.

I give this book 5 of 5 pentacles

Barberry

Barberry is used for Cleansing, sorcery, atonement, freeing oneself from the power or control of another.
Also Called: Witches Sweets

Barberry, sewn into an amulet, acts as a protective charm for children and is believed to ease teething. Ritually collected and consecrated Barberry can be used as counter magic and protection against evil witchcraft and curses that are transferred by magically prepared thorns.

Sprinkled in the paths of your enemies to bar their way and stop them following you.

Use the bark of the root or the stem for best results. Gather the root in Spring or Fall. Only use the berries when ripe. Used in potions for healing

Used for hexing.  Brings bitterness, sourness.  Sprinkled around the premises to bring bad vibes and quarrels.  On the flip side, it is used with vetivert and Bay leaves to protect against bitterness - but that's risky.  Said to work for good grudgingly and delights in hexing.

***CAUTION***
Use in consultation with a medical practitioner. If taken in excess, barberry may cause nausea, vomiting, convulsions, low blood pressure, abnormally low heartbeat and breathing.

Not to be taken during pregnancy or when trying to conceive.

When taken internally it may counteract short-acting blood thinners.

Men who have problems in fathering a child should avoid barberry, as it contains palmitine hydroxide which could interfere with the maturation of sperm cells which may contribute to sterility.

Amber

Amber is used to Draw out negativity, and for Purification, Romance

Amber is noted in metaphysics to give a soothing, light energy that is both calming and energizing at the same time. It is said to help manifest desires and heighten intellectual abilities, clarity of thought, and wisdom. It is reputed to cleanse its environment by drawing out negativity, and to relieve physical pain the same way. It is used mystically to bring the energies of patience, protection, psychic shielding, romantic love, sensuality, purification, balance, healing and calmness to those who wear or carry it. It is considered a good luck charm for love and marriage. Amber is excellent in crystal healing for inner child work and past life work. Amber is associated with the solar plexus chakra and sometimes the sacral chakra. Mystical lore says that amber is  beneficial for purifying the body, headaches, bone problems, heart problems, circulation, ears, hearing problems, endocrine system, fibromyalgia, intestinal/digestive disorders, kidney, bladder, lungs, and general healing purposes.

NeverStop Believing

African Orisha Babalú-Ayé

Babalú-Ayé a long history in West Africa among the Ewe, Fon, and Yoruba.

Yoruba
Widely venerated in Yoruba areas, he is usually called Shopona and said to have dominion over the Earth and smallpox. He demands respect and even gratitude when he claims a victim, and so people sometimes honor him with the praise name Alápa-dúpé, meaning “One who kills and is thanked for it”. In one commonly recounted story, Shopona was old and lame. He attended a celebration at the palace of Obatalá, the father of the orishas. When Shopona tried to dance, he stumbled and fell. All the other orishas laughed at him, and he in turn tried to infect them with smallpox. Obatalá stopped him and drove him into the bush, where he has lived as an outcast ever since. It is believed by some people that this is the reason why Shopona now lives in exile among the neighboring Fon peoples to the West of Yorubaland.

Fon
In Fon areas of Benin, the deity is most commonly called Sagbatá. Here too he owns the Earth and has strong associations with smallpox and other infections. His worship is very diverse in Fon communities, where many distinct manifestations of the deity are venerated. Because the dead are buried in the Earth, the manifestation called Avimadye is considered the chief of the ancestors. Because all people live on the Earth, which makes our existence possible, and because Sagbatá is considered by many to be the eldest child of the deity, he is considered the most senior deity (in stark contrast to Yoruba notions about the seniority of Obatalá).

Ewe
Among the Ewe people of Ghana and Togo, there is a similar figure with the praise name Anyigbato (Ewe for "Owner of the Earth") who is closely associated with sickness and displaced peoples. He is believed to wander the land at night, wearing a garment of rattling snail shells; the snail shells are also a key feature of his fetish.

In the religious system of Orisha worship, Babalú-Ayé is the praise name of the spirit of the Earth and strongly associated with infectious disease, and healing. He is an Orisha, representing the deity Olorun on Earth. The name Babalú-Ayé translates as “Father, lord of the Earth” and points to the authority this orisha exercises on all things earthly, including the body, wealth, and physical possessions. In West Africa, he was strongly associated with epidemics of smallpox, but in the contemporary Americas, he is more commonly thought of as the patron of leprosy, influenza, and AIDS. Although strongly associated with illness and disease, Babalú-Ayé is also the deity that cures these ailments. Both feared and loved, Babalú-Ayé is sometimes referred to as the “Wrath of the supreme god” because he punishes people for their transgressions. People hold Babalú-Ayé in great respect and avoid calling his actual name, because they do not wish to invoke epidemics.

His worship is widely associated with the Earth itself, and his shrines are often separated from commonly travelled areas. His ritual tools include a ritual broom for purification, a covered terra-cotta vessel, and abundant cowry shells. Usually considered hobbled by disease, he universally takes grains as offerings.

Free Spirit

7 Card Daily Spread

1. What I can expect today
2. What will be totally unxpected
3. What will fulfill me personally
4. What awaits me financially
5. What awaits me emotionally
6. What awaits me in my occupation/at work
7. How my is my health

The Deviant Witches on: The Art of Malediction

I Give You Thanks

Positive Energy

Amazonite

Amazonite is used for Psychic, Integrity, Honor

Amazonite is a mint green to aqua green stone said to be of truth, honor, communication, integrity, hope, and trust. It is said to enhance intuition, psychic powers, creativity, intellect, and psychic ability. Amazonite is often associated with the throat chakra, and as such, said to be beneficial to communication. It is also associated strongly with the third eye chakra. It is said to align the physical and astral bodies. It is noted mystically to lessen stress and self-defeating behaviors by calming and building self-esteem. Amazonite is also said to assist with peacefully making the transition out of this life. Amazonite is believe in crystal healing to heal emotional disturbances and the after effects of emotional trauma. It is reputed to have spiritual energy healing powers of preventive energy that's good for one's health in general, colic, decreasing heart problems, benefiting the muscles, calcium deficiency, pregnancy, eczema, muscle cramps, helping the nervous system, lessening tooth decay and osteoporosis.

African Orisha: Oshun

Oshun is the Yorùbá Orisha (Deity) of the sweet or fresh waters (as opposed to the salt waters of Yemaya). She is widely loved, as She is known for healing the sick and bringing fertility and prosperity, and She especially watches over the poor and brings them what they need. As Orisha of love, Oshun is represented as a beautiful, charming and coquettish young woman. In some tales She is said to be a mermaid, with a fish's tail.

The Yorùbá clans inhabit parts of western central Africa, in present-day Nigeria. Oshun is the Goddess of the river of the same name, and She is especially worshipped in river-towns. During Her yearly festival, She is said to choose one or more women dancers to descend into (much like participants in Vodou ceremonies may be "mounted" or "possessed" by a Lwa). These women then take new names in honor of Oshun and are thereafter consulted as healers.

Oshun was taught divination with cowrie shells by Obatala, the first of the created Orishas, and then She brought the teaching to humans. She was at one time the wife of Shango, the Orisha of storms, as was Oya, the Orisha of the winds and tempests. Oshun is also said to be the mother of the birds or fishes.

With the African diaspora, Oshun was brought to the Americas, and adopted into the pantheons that branched out of the African traditions. In the Brazilian religion of Candomblé, which retains close ties with the Yorùbá religion, as well as in Cuban Santeriá, She is called Oxum. In Haitian Vodou She is an inspiration for Erzulie or Ezili, also a Deity of water and love.

Oshun, like the other Orishas, has a number associated with Her—five; a color—yellow or amber; and a metal—gold or bronze. The peacock and the vulture are sacred to Her. Offerings to Oshun include sweet things such as honey, mead, white wine, oranges, sweets, or pumpkins, as well as perfume.

Oshun in a reading indicates sweetness and good cheer, beauty and flowing joy.

Alternate spellings: Oxun, Osun, Oshoun, Oxum, Ochun.

Titles: Oshun Ana, of luxury and love; Oshun Telargo, as the modest one; Oshun Yeye Moro, as the coquette; Oshun Yeye Kari, "Mother of Sweetness"

Banyan

Banyan is used for Happiness, Luck

Folk Names: Arched Fig, Indian Fig Tree, Indian God Tree, Vada Tree
Gender: M
Planet: Jupiter
Element: Air
Deities: Maui
Powers: Luck
Ritual Uses: The banyan is reverenced by the Hindus, and the tree is planted outside around their temples. It is also connected with the worship of Maui in Hawaiian and Polynesian religions.
Magical Uses: To simply sit beneath or look at a banyan tree brings good luck, and to be married under one ensures the couple's happiness.

The Banyan tree is one of the most magical trees – not only in the way its aerial roots create an astounding structure, but also in the properties that each and every part of the tree holds. It is one of the few elements in nature which is useful in every single aspect.

In Indian culture, the Banyan tree is considered to be sacred and leaves of the tree is considered to be the resting place of god Krishna. In fact, it is also believed that Buddha achieved enlightenment while sitting under a Banyan tree.

The banyan tree occupies the pride of place amongst the sacred trees of India. It has aerial roots that grow down into the soil forming additional trunks. It is, therefore, called bahupada, the one with several feet. It symbolizes a long life and also represents the divine creator, Brahma. It is invariably planted in front of temples. The numerous stems of the banyan tree are even regarded as the home of gods and spirits. It was under a banyan tree that the Hindu sages sat in a trance seeking enlightenment and it was here that they held discourses and conducted holy rituals.

In Hindu mythology, the tree is called Kalpavriksha, the tree that provides fulfillment of wishes and other material gains. The worship of the tree is also represented in a Buddhist sculpture with its long hanging roots dropping gold pieces in vessels placed below.

The tree symbolises the Trimurti. Vishnu is believed to be the bark, Brahma, the roots, and Shiva, the branches.

The banyan is said to have nourished mankind with its 'milk' before the advent of grain and other food. According to the Agni Purana, the banyan symbolises fertility and is worshipped by those who want children. For the same reason, it is never cut. Even its leaves, which are used as cattle fodder, are broken only when there is a famine. It is believed that if the tree is cut, a goat should be sacrificed  in atonement.

Other symbols of Batak (Lake Toba, North Sumatra) mythology include the baringin or banyan tree as the cosmic tree uniting the levels of the Batak cosmos, the hornbill, aboriginal boy-girl twins, star constellations, magic numbers, and the magic colours red, white, and black. Besides the traditional houses, these symbols are found on textiles, funerary masks, boats with hornbill figureheads, the wooden staffs of datu, and megalithic monuments.

"Yes or No" Love Spread

Focus on your question and if 2 of the 3 cards are favorable the answer will be yes, if 2 are unfavorable the answer will be no

Hawk

Raven

African Orisha: Eshu

Èshu (other names include Exu, Echu, Elegua, Elegbara, Elegba, Legba, Papa Legba and Eleda) is both an orisha and one of the most well-known deities of Yorùbá religion and related New World traditions.

He has a wide range of responsibilities: the protector of travelers, deity of roads, particularly crossroads, the deity with the power over fortune and misfortune, and the personification of death, a psychopomp. Èshu is involved within the Orisha-Ifá system of Yorùbá religion as well as in African diasporic faiths like Santería and Candomblé developed by the descendants of West Africans in the Americas, where È?ù was and is still identified with Anthony of Padua, Saint Michael or Santo Niño de Atocha, depending on the situation and/or location. He is often identified by the number three, and the colors red & black or white & black, and his caminos or paths (compare: Avatar) are often represented carrying a cane or shepherd's crook, as well as smoking a pipe.

Èshu is a spirit of Chaos and Trickery, and plays frequently by leading mortals to temptation and possible tribulation in the hopes that the experience will lead ultimately to their maturation. In this way he is certainly a difficult teacher, but in the end is usually found to be a good one. As an example of this, let us look at one of his patakis or stories of the faith. È?ù was walking down a road one day, wearing a hat that was red on one side and black on the other. Sometime after he entered a village which the road went through, the villagers who had seen him began arguing about whether the stranger's hat was black or red. The villagers on one side of the road had only been capable of seeing the black side, and the villagers on the other side had only been capable of seeing the red one. They soon came to blows over the disagreement which caused him to turn back and rebuke them, revealing to them how one's perspective can be as correct as another person's even when they appear to be diametrically opposed to each other. He then left them with a stern warning about how closed-mindedness can cause one to be made a fool. In other versions of this tale, the two halves of the village were not stopped short of extreme violence; they actually annihilated each other, and È?ù laughed at the result, saying "Bringing strife is my greatest joy".

In Brazil, the female counterpart of Exus are called Pomba Gira. Èshu are constantly related to Hermes and Mercury for their heraldic function.

Banana

Banana is used for fertility, potency, and prosperity

Yeast cells that grow on Wild Bananas have been used to ferment beer since around 1400 BC, in ancient Egypt.

Banana stalks have been used as a substitute for humans in sacrifices to the Gods, in both Hawaii and Tahiti. Until 1819 when the kapu (code of laws), certain kinds of bananas were forbidden to women punishable by death. Since the flowers are hermaphroditic, they are used in voodoo rites to represent the gods.

Use bananas to cure impotency and increase fertility. It is said that if a bride is married under a banana tree she will be lucky. Due to the tree’s fruitfulness, the leaves, fruits and flowers are used in prosperity spells. Old belief is that a banana should never be cut, only broken.

Angel White Ajoite

Angel White Ajoite is used for High Angelic Energies, Spirit Potential

Angel White Ajoite is Ajoite in lovely white Quartz, embodying both the energies of Ajoite and Quartz, bringing both into higher realms of energy. It is said to combine the gentle, harmonious energies of pure ajoite with high angelic realm vibrations from the quartz. Some say it's as though they contain the energies of Ajoite and Azeztulite combined. Sometimes an angel image is seen in the Angel White Ajoite, although it is reputed that all of these stones carry high angelic energies. Angel White Ajoite is used for ascension into higher realms while maintaining a close tie to the heart in our manifestation here on Earth. Thus, Angel White Ajoite is excellent for meditation to reach higher consciousness and deeper meditations. In the physical realms, Angel White Ajoite combines the energy and folk crystal healing properties of both Ajoite and Quartz. Note that healing crystal meanings are spiritual supports to healing and are not prescriptions or healthcare information. Angel White Ajoite is said to bring our Spirit energy to its full potential. These lovely stones relate to and resonate primarily with the third eye and crown chakras.