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Salem Witch Trials: The Accused Bridget Bishop

Salem Witch Trials: The Accused Bridget Bishop by Odin’s Daughter

During the Winter of February 1692, unrest was building in the Village of Salem. Elizabeth Parris and Abigail Williams, through fits and mysterious maladies, were diagnosed with being affected with witchcraft. They soon released the names of the accused to their parents. Leading to more than one-hundred fifty accused. One even being a four-year-old child. Soon, June had arrived and here marks the first of the trials. One of whom was the most severely accused by her community, Bridget Bishop.

Born some time in the 1630s, Bridget Playfer, was born in Norwich, England. Soon to follow in the year 1660, she had her fist marriage to Samuel Wasselbe (spellings vary). It is unknown if Samuel had passed prior to her leaving for the new world or if he was still alive. She in the time of leaving England was in fact pregnant from this marriage, the infant did sadly pass in Massachusetts.

She then married again in Massachusetts in 1666, to a Thomas Oliver. They bought a large property that included orchards. They also conceived a daughter known as Christian. Thomas had 3 older children from his previous marriage. Thirteen years later and Thomas had passed away. In 1685, she remarried again, to an Edward Bishop.

Bishop Account by Samuel Parris

Due to the deaths of two previous marriages, gossip of her being a “witch” ensued. It grew into much more as time went on. Her first accusation was in fact in 1680 by a slave who claimed he saw her specter steal, pinch, and frightened horses; in total 10 people testified against her. There was a list of accusations: force girls to sign “the Devil’s Book”, poppets with stuck pins in them, specter visitations of various men, bewitching of others, declining health of others, stealing, arguments, seeing of imps on her property, her flying over her orchards, witches mark found on her body, and use of magic.

Bishop Account by Ezekiel Cheever

On June 10 th , 1692, Bridget Bishop was convicted of being a witch and using witchcraft. Being escorted by Sheriff George Corwin to Proctor’s Ledge. Where she was hanged at the edge of town publicly. She hung until she passed away. The first of the 19 to be hung and the very last to be exonerated by legislation in the state of Massachusetts in 2001.

Note: Her daughter did live on to be married, but soon died in 1693.

Based on twenty-seven years of original archival research, including the discovery of previously unknown documents, this day-by-day narrative of the hysteria that swept through Salem Village in 1692 and 1693 reveals new connections behind the events, and shows how rapidly a community can descend into bloodthirsty madness. Roach opens her work with chapters on the history of the Puritan colonies of New England, and explains how these people regarded the metaphysical and the supernatural. The account of the days from January 1692 to March 1693 keeps in order the large cast of characters, places events in their correct contexts, and occasionally contradicts earlier assumptions about the gruesome events. The last chapter discusses the remarkable impact of the events, pointing out how the 300th anniversary of the trials made headlines in Japan and Australia.
A girl fell sick in 1692. Her convulsions, contortions, and outbursts of gibberish baffled everyone. Then other girls had the same symptoms. The village doctor could suggest just one cause: Witchcraft.

Further Resources

First Salem witch hanging

Bridget Bishop Home and Orchards

Bridget Bishop becomes the first woman to be hanged during the notorious Salem Witch Trials in 1692

Salem Witchcraft Papers

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The Tarot Minor Arcana: Suit of Cups

The Tarot Minor Arcana: Suit of Cups by W1tchsbrew

Be sure to check her Etsy shop Wood ov Wyrd

Introduction:

The Suit of Cups is associated with the element of water. Water is fluid, agile and ‘in flow’ but it’s also very powerful and formative. This tarot suit represents emotions, feelings, subconscious, intuition and psychic ability. 

The Cups often represent one’s emotional condition as it relates to personal relationships, love, hate, and the interaction between one’s spiritual level of consciousness and the natural environment.

Metaphysical Correspondences:

ElementWater

Zodiac SignsCancerPiscesScorpio

Healing CrystalsEmerald

Get to Know the Minor Arcana Suit of Cups:

Ace of Cups
  • Ace of Cups

Upright: When the Ace of Cups appears upright in a tarot reading, it represents an unfailing source of balm for body, heart and soul. It suggests that you can relax into a safety net of love, and support.

Reversed: The Ace of Cups reversed warns of a loss of self-esteem, optimism and faith in the abundance that the universe has to offer. Stop to examine what it is that is causing you to lose altitude. It might be the mental food you are feeding yourself.

Two of Cups
  • Two of Cups

Upright: The Two in this suit signifies a union of souls. This card traditionally describes a romantic relationship, but also includes the idea that all good friendships and partnerships are based on a natural affinity and a deep mutual understanding. As a personal reflection, it can also signify that your mind and your soul are discovering each other, maybe for the first time.

Reversed: The Two of Cups reversed indicates that you may be investing too much in a relationship. Sometimes this is a signal that you must stop seeking so much validation from others.

Three of Cups
  • Three of Cups 

Upright: When seen in a tarot reading, this card resonates with a spirit of agreement, mutual support, encouragement and teamwork. It points to all the benefits of harmonious relationship. This card reassures that it’s ok to ask for the help you may need.

Reversed: The Three of Cups reversed indicates that you may be frustrating the best efforts of those who love you most. Try to find a way to let in some of the love and caring that comes to you.

Four of Cups
  • Four of Cups

Upright: A Four in this suit suggest you may have become dissatisfied with life, and emotionally uncomfortable. You need to take a clear look at how stalled or distracted you have become. You may have been bogged down by negativity, hopelessness or a sense of limitation.

Reversed: The Four of Cups reversed indicates that some part of you is resisting the flow of events. Recognize this mood as a symptom of a deeper dissatisfaction and come clean to yourself about your real feelings. There is something to be learned.

Five of Cups
  • Five of Cups

Upright: When seen upright in a tarot reading, the Five of Cups traditionally portrays the mess that is left after an emotional upheaval, such as a tantrum or fit of rage. Consequences run the gamut from a hangover and lost wages, to abuse and ruined relationships. Take some time to reflect and recover. 

Reversed: The Five of Cups reversed represents a paradoxical situation wherein what seems like the worst thing that could happen actually creates a better circumstance. You are freer to act authentically as a result of this energy turn.

Six of Cups
  • Six of Cups 

Upright: When this tarot card appears upright, it generally represents a refreshing openness and innocence and a willingness to learn. Remember that this same freshness, those new possibilities, are always available to you, even now.

Reversed: With the Six of Cups reversed, you can finally close accounts with the emotional undertow that has been part of your life. Try to revisit those wounded places calmly, without the fear that you will be drawn back in.

Seven of Cups
  • Seven of Cups

Upright: The Seven of this suit typically refers to works of the imagination, the use of dream and vision to invent a future different than the life one is currently living. This card reminds you that your outcomes are not set in stone.

Reversed: The Seven of Cups reversed suggests that you to reawaken to playfulness, joy and curiosity. Perhaps a lack of purpose is having a deadening effect.

Eight of Cups
  • Eight of Cups 

Upright: This is a difficult card, but a realistic one, insofar as it warns against misplaced trust and unguarded vulnerability.

Reversed: The Eight of Cups reversed suggests that you may have experienced a terrible event, yet you have somehow not allowed it to ruin your life. Under the circumstances, you are doing just fine. Recognize how far you’ve come.

Nine of Cups
  • Nine of Cups

Upright: The Nine of Cups in this position advises that you open yourself to circumstances around you. There may be no need to manage a situation that does not require a lot of control or leadership.

Reversed: The Nine of Cups reversed suggests that you are getting what you thought you wanted, but it’s not what you really want at all. This is an essential lesson in life. When you set a goal, specify how you want it to feel in your life, not just what you want to be, do or have.

Ten of Cups
  • Ten of Cups 

Upright: The Ten of this suit upright traditionally signifies family and community. It suggest that you should prioritize teamwork over your personal goals.

Reversed: The Ten of Cups reversed suggests that a group’s collective good will is damaged and its safety net is fraying. Things are being said and done that will be regretted later.

Page of Cups
  • Page of Cups 

Upright: When this card presents itself in a reading, it may be that a sense of being grounded in reality has not yet entirely set in. Be unconcerned with the outcome. Later you will understand why you needed to be in this position. 

Reversed: When the Page of Cups card is reversed it suggests that you may have been overly expressing some self-indulgent feelings. If you impinge upon the good nature of others too much, you may be unpleasantly surprised by the results.

Knight of Cups
  • Knight of Cups 

Upright: The Knight of Cups in this position advises that you jump into your new situation with both feet. Think no more about the route you had to travel to get back here. There is no need to be cavalier about what seems familiar.

Reversed: When reversed, the knight of cups continually looks for excuses or a way to blame his problems on someone else. It suggests you may need to reflect and take personal responsibility for the way things are in your life. 

Queen of Cups
  • Queen of Cups

Upright: The Queen of Cups upright encourages you to be generous, kind and forgiving. Support the ability of others to get what they want. However, you must not allow your willingness to give be misunderstood or abused, as if it were a weakness.

Reversed: When this card is reversed in a reading, it suggests that you stop all efforts to dull your pain or distract yourself from it. Looking the other way is not going to help you anymore. You must be emotionally honest with yourself in order to heal.

King of Cups
  • King of Cups

Upright: When the King of Cups appears in this position, it advises that you closely examine your conscience and bring your personal mission into alignment with what is best for everyone.

Reversed: Reversed, this card suggests you may be bitterly holding a grudge or some hatred — withholding your natural propensity for forgiveness. This will create an emotional vacuum around you. 

What It Takes:

These are extremely brief descriptions of The Suit of Pentacle tarot cards. To fully utilize the art of tarot with confidence takes much time and extensive learning. It is strongly advised that you do further personal research and dive deeper into the complex meanings of each tarot card, prior to practicing this form of divination. 

Further Resources:

A complete beginner’s course with step-by-step lessons on how to work with tarot cards for personal guidance.

Joan Bunning’s “Learning the Tarot—An Online Course” has helped hundreds of thousands of people worldwide discover the personal value of the tarot. Drawing on the material offered in this popular online course and from her previous books, Joan has created a complete guide to tarot for beginners, which serves as a handy and in-depth resource for more experienced tarot card readers as well.

While there are countless books devoted to tarot, what sets Joan Bunning’s book apart is her ability to take a rather complicated esoteric system and break it down into clear, manageable, and easy-to-learn lessons. These lessons cover the basics and then move gradually into more advanced concepts.

Tarot: An Introduction

The Tarot: Major Arcana

The Tarot Minor Arcana: Introduction and Suit of Pentacles

The Tarot Minor Arcana: Suit of Wands

THE SUIT OF CUPS EXPLAINED! Let me teach you Tarot. After the Pentacles and the Wands we are now discussing the Suit of Cups. This is my favorite suit in the Tarot, so I’m really excited to share this with you guys! In this video I explain what the Cups mean in the Tarot, using Astrology and Symbolism, but I also discuss every Cup card one by one. This will definitely be helpful to beginners, but can also add an extra layer to the cards for experienced readers.

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The Tarot Minor Arcana: Suit of Wands

The Tarot Minor Arcana: Suit of Wands by W1tchsbrew

Be sure to check her Etsy shop Wood ov Wyrd

Introduction:

The Suit of Wands all about fiery, creative energy. Whatever you’re about to begin, you couldn’t have hoped for better starting conditions. If you stay focused on your goal, there’s no way you will lose this race.

Metaphysical Correspondences:

Element: Fire

Zodiac Signs : AriesLeo & Sagittarius

Healing Crystals : Carnelian

Get To Know The Minor Arcana Suit of Wands:

Tarot Ace of Wands

Ace of Wands

Upright: The Ace of Wands tarot card brings a message of courage and vitality. If you’ve been struggling with a situation you believed to be hopeless, you are suddenly discovering untapped reservoirs of optimism and resolve.

Reversed: When reversed, the Ace of Wands tarot card points to a moment of confusion. Here, it’s important to keep your head on your shoulders. Your confusion could arise from having too many choices at once. The reversed Ace of Wands also suggests that something is about to come to an end. But that’s not always a bad thing.

Tarot Two of Wands

Two of Wands

Upright: The Two of Wands is a card of accomplishment, opportunity, and risk. Working out all the details and keeping the big picture in mind will do much to tip the scales in your favor. This tarot card also suggests that you have made a commitment to bettering your life and to stay the course.

Reversed: When the Two of Wands is reversed, it’s a good time to review your priorities and long term goals. On a broader scale, the reversed Two of Wands challenges you to examine and overcome your fears. It encourages you to take risks that will profit you in all aspects of your life.

Tarot Three of Wands

Three of Wands

Upright: When the Three of Wands appears upright in a tarot reading, its meanings speak of taking pride in your own strength, learning through experience, and discovering new opportunities.

Reversed: When the Three of Wands tarot card is reversed, it’s a sign the Universe is about to put the breaks on everything. Take a step back and reflect. Your sense of disappointment could be justified. On the other hand, what’s happening may be a blessing in disguise.

Tarot Four of Wands

Four of Wands 

Upright: When you see this card upright in a tarot reading, happiness and joy are right around the corner! The Four of Wands also marks a significant milestone in your personal development. Depending on what your emotional and spiritual needs are, you are about to enter a state of liberation or stability.

Reversed: Sometimes, the Four of Wands card reversed announces a minor delay. It can also suggest that a joyful experience is temporary. But that even if it’s only temporary, it can still be beautiful.

Tarot Five of Wands

Five of Wands 

Upright: This tarot card urges you to prioritize and delegate. When upright, the Five of Wands suggests that you need to become more organized. This card also reminds you to not take things personally. No one means any real harm. 

Reversed: When reversed, the Five of Wands tarot card can also show a period of quiet after a recent turmoil. Now is your chance to regroup and recharge.

Tarot Six of Wands

Six of Wands 

Upright: The Six of Wands not only shows that you are getting the recognition you deserve, it also suggests that your actions inspire others. This tarot card also encourages you not to let fear or misplaced feelings of guilt stand in the way of your success.

Reversed: When reversed, the Six of Wands tarot card cautions that it may be a bit too early to celebrate. It may also suggest that the success of a project you’ve been working on may not be as big as you hoped and to stay grounded.

Tarot Seven of Wands

Seven of Wands

Upright: When the Seven of Wands tarot card presents itself upright in a tarot reading, it’s a sign that now is your chance to show the world what you’re made of! Others can learn a lot from you. This tarot card also indicates an important inner victory.

Reversed: When the Seven of Wands card is reversed, it warns you that you may be sabotaging yourself. This reversal may also be reminding you that quick action is needed before a potential crisis spirals out of control.

Tarot Eight of Wands

Eight of Wands

Upright: When you see the Eight of Wands in a reading, it may suggest that travel may be in your near future. It could be for business trip or that long overdue vacation. The Eight of Wands card could also be an indication of rapid progress. Just be careful not to overlook important details, if you’re in a rush to get things done.

Reversed: When reversed, the Eight of Wands tarot card points out that a situation cannot progress because important issues still need to be resolved. Sometimes it suggests that you are stuck in thinking or behavior patterns that are holding you back.

Tarot Nine of Wands

Nine of Wands 

Upright: This tarot card reassures that you are ready for anything that’s headed your way. Whatever challenges are coming, you already know what they are – and you’re ready for them.

Reversed: When reversed, the Nine of Wands points to obstacles and delays which are often self-created. Maybe you’ve been putting things off for too long, and now your problems have become too numerous and too big to handle on your own. Reversed Nine of Wands suggests that you may need to reach out to others for help, and that’s ok.

Tarot Ten of Wands

Ten of Wands

Upright: The Ten of Wands is a card of success in all things. However it’s also a reminder that there is more to life than work – and that success is not always about you. 

Reversed: When reversed, this tarot card suggests that you need to decide which burdens to carry and which burdens you need to drop. Know your limits and set boundaries. 

Tarot Page of Wands

Page of Wands

Upright: The Page of Wands looks at the world with childlike enthusiasm and optimism. It often suggests new beginnings or looking at the world from a brand new perspective. This card card may also be indicating that you may embark on a quest for spiritual knowledge.

Reversed: When reversed in a tarot reading, the Page of Wand’s childlike disposition can create feelings of confusion or discouragement when faced with obstacles and opposition. Reversed Page of Wands may also point to an immature or simplistic way of looking at things. The Page’s youthful mind reduces everything to its most basic concepts.

Tarot Knight of Wands

Knight of Wands

Upright: When the Knight of Wands tarot card presents itself in a tarot reading, it’s a sign that the road is clear, you know exactly where you’re headed and you can trust your instincts implicitly. Maybe a sudden insight or event is encouraging you to make a life changing decision. New opportunities have come your way, or you’re seeing opportunities you didn’t see before.

Reversed: When reversed, this card suggests that you may be rushing into something that could seriously jeopardize a friendship, relationship – or job. Take your time and think things through before making any important decisions.

Tarot Queen of Wands

Queen of Wands

Upright: The Queen of Wands tarot card embodies creativity, abundance, and fiery passion. This card predicts that you have an ability to see beauty in everything, which allows you to create beauty everywhere. Be passionate in all you do and your passion will inspire others in turn.

Reversed: The reversed Queen of Wands can indicate that certain boundaries have been violated. There are just some lines you should never, ever cross. It may also be a reminder to recharge your emotional batteries every once in a while.

Tarot King of Wands

King of Wands

Upright: An upright King of Wands tarot card symbolizes pure heat and energy. This can be a blessing and a curse. Be sure to direct your energy to the right areas of your life, lest the fire leave you burnt out. 

Reversed: When reversed, the King of Wands cautions you that you need to pay closer attention to how you come across when dealing with people. Try to look at the situation from other’s perspectives so that you can learn to better connect.

What It Takes:

These are extremely brief descriptions of The Suit of Wands tarot cards. To fully utilize the art of tarot with confidence takes much time and extensive learning. It is strongly advised that you do further personal research and dive deeper into the complex meanings of each tarot card, prior to practicing this form of divination. 

Further Resources:

The book includes:
Lessons on how to consider one card by itself, how to look for card pairs, and how to create the “story” of a reading
Contains two pages of information for each card including a picture from the popular Rider Waite deck, a description, keywords, action phrases, and suggestions for cards with similar and opposite meanings
How to work with reversed cards to give tarot readings a natural flow of high points and low points without abrupt transitions
Practical insights on how to work with and interpret a wide variety of tarot spreads

Tarot: An Introduction

The Tarot: Major Arcana

The Tarot Minor Arcana: Introduction and Suit of Pentacles

Basic meanings for the upright and reversed positions for each of the cards in the Suit of Wands in the Rider-Waite Tarot deck.
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Salem Witch Trials: Introduction 1692-1693

Salem Witch Trials: Introduction 1692-1693 by Odin’s Daughter

**Opinions of research may vary. Dates are agreed but times and causes are conflicting according to where information is obtained.**

Salem, Massachusetts is well known for many reasons; one being the home to the Witch Hunts. During the reign of King William and Queen Mary, a war with France began in 1689, noted as King William’s War. This war had a very high toll on the colonies, mostly Salem Village in Massachusetts. Between low resources, family controversies, wealth, greed and those dependent on agriculture; the first ordained Minister of Salem, Reverend Samuel Parris was greatly disliked among the community. He had a very greedy nature. With all of this going on, the village soon gave into the belief this was all due to the Devil.

With winter months coming, people were falling ill. In fact, Reverend Parris’ daughter and niece fell ill in early 1692 and were having convulsions. Tituba, a servant in the Parris household, was especially close with Betty Parris. She had never been accused of witchcraft or dark arts before. This time though, she had been, due to healing a sick child. Tituba fell to not only be the first victim but also the first to witness the Salem Witch hunt.

Map of Salem Village in 1692 Public domain via Wikimedia Commons

As the months went on more and more had been accused by the two girls, Elizabeth Parris (Betty aged 9) and Abigail Williams (aged 11/Niece). In the year of 1692, Chief Justice William Stoughton had presided over the initial trials and had in one day, June 10th, hung 18 people. All being accused of some form of witchcraft and all from different stations in life. Thirteen women and five men met their end at the gallows. One man crushed to death as well by slab of stone. As well as 5 others who died in jail, bringing the number to a total of 25 deaths. Eventually near 200 people had been accused in the end and a listed 25 had died. Many, once released from prison, had died of hysteria(s), or other ailments they had attained while in prison.

Witchcraft at Salem Village by unattributed William A. Crafts 1876 SOURCE

Then like clockwork, Betty and Abigail, started accusing those who had helped them put so many away and to their deaths. One being the governor’s own wife. At this point, Governor William Phipps decided it was time to put an end to the ridiculous claims. He, in October 1692, disbanded the courts who held the trials, replaced them, and then proceeded to rule that spectral evidence was not true evidence. From late 1692 through mid-1693, those still in jail and awaiting execution were pardoned. For many years that followed, those who were affected by the Salem witch trials, were given apologies and restitution.

Based on twenty-seven years of original archival research, including the discovery of previously unknown documents, this day-by-day narrative of the hysteria that swept through Salem Village in 1692 and 1693 reveals new connections behind the events, and shows how rapidly a community can descend into bloodthirsty madness. Roach opens her work with chapters on the history of the Puritan colonies of New England, and explains how these people regarded the metaphysical and the supernatural. The account of the days from January 1692 to March 1693 keeps in order the large cast of characters, places events in their correct contexts, and occasionally contradicts earlier assumptions about the gruesome events. The last chapter discusses the remarkable impact of the events, pointing out how the 300th anniversary of the trials made headlines in Japan and Australia.
In 1692, the townspeople of Salem, Massachusetts found themselves in a panic over witchcraft. But after several months, the paranoia and violence ended almost as quickly as it began. All trials were halted, publications about the terror were officially banned, and the location of the execution site vanished from any records. Today, a group of historians uncovers new information about the infamous witch hunt in an effort to answer its most enduring mysteries.
In 1692, America witnessed the most horrific acts of injustice when 19 innocent people were hanged and one was pressed to death for the practice of witchcraft in Season 1, Episode 7.

Further Resources:

Salem Witch Trials of 1692

Salem Witch Trials

Salem witch trials American history

Unraveling the Many Mysteries of Tituba, the Star Witness of the Salem Witch Trials

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The Tarot Minor Arcana: Introduction and Suit of Pentacles

The Tarot Minor Arcana: Introduction and Suit of Pentacles by W1tchsbrew

Be sure to check her Etsy shop Wood ov Wyrd

Introduction: What is the Minor Arcana?

Of the 78 cards in a Tarot deck, the majority of them belong to the Minor Arcana. However, just because they’re called “minor” does not mean that these cards have a minor or unimportant influence in your life.

The Minor Arcana describe the physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual aspects of the universe. They point out situations, events, challenges, and lessons to be learned in this lifetime. Sometimes, they also show specific people.

These typically have a temporary influence – that is, they represent an energy that is moving through your life right now and that can be easily changed, depending on the actions you take.

Minor Arcana consists of 56 cards within the Tarot deck and is broken into four suits of fourteen cards each: the suit of Pentacles, the suit of Cups, the suit of Wands, and the suit of Swords. Each suit is numbered one (Ace) to ten, followed by four Court Cards which are Page, Knight, Queen, and King.

Each of these four suits represents a different area of your life, so you know where to direct this guidance when one of these cards shows up in your Tarot reading.

Each suit is also associated with an element (earth, water, fire, and air). Some occultists maintain that each suit is also representative of a chakra, picturing the life lessons that are associated with it. Numerologists posit that the numbers on the cards are predictive of their meanings. We believe all such connections hold true, as the deck is replete with mystical connections. 

Get To Know The Minor Arcana Cards: The Suit of PENTACLES

Ace of Pentacles 

Upright: The Ace of Pentacles represents both a gift and an opportunity. This Tarot card suggests that better days are ahead and that the divine source will accomplish this by putting first things first.

Reversed: When reversed, the Ace of Pentacles Tarot card points out an imbalance in the way you are using your resources. This would suggest that your material success is actually enabling you to engage in some very unhealthy behaviors.

Metaphysical Correspondences:

Element: Earth

Zodiac Signs: Capricorn, Taurus, Virgo

Healing Crystals: Amethyst, Bloodstone, Emerald

Two of Pentacles 

Upright: This card says that others are marveling at how you manage to get it all done. The two of Pentacles embodies the principle of balance through constant motion and intuitive awareness. 

Reversed: When The Two of Pentacles card presents itself inverted in a Tarot reading, you’re discovering that there is only so much you can do at a time is a painful but important lesson that you must learn. Constantly living on the edge will burn you out quickly and you need to slow things down.

Metaphysical Correspondences:

Element: Earth

Zodiac Signs: Capricorn

Healing Crystals: Amethyst, Bloodstone

Three of Pentacles

Upright: When The Three of Pentacles card presents itself in a Tarot reading, it’s a beautiful omen that your life is about to enter a self-sustaining rhythm. This card is giving signals that the time has come when you can be trusted with more responsibility.

Reversed: When reversed, the Three of Pentacles warns that the interplay of work, passion, and vision is disrupted. It is also important to acknowledge your own worth and assert yourself.

Metaphysical Correspondences:

Element: Earth

Zodiac Signs: Capricorn

Healing Crystals: Amethyst, Bloodstone

Four of Pentacles 

Upright: If the Four of Pentacles card appears in your Tarot reading, the universe is about to bless you with wealth. There is no shame in taking pride of your accomplishments. As long as you don’t overdo it, this allows others to rejoice in your success as well.

Reversed: This may imply a radical step, such as counting your blessings and walking away, or dropping long standing attitudes and hangups that have been holding you back for too long.

Metaphysical Correspondences:

Element: Earth

Zodiac Signs: Capricorn

Healing Crystals: Amethyst, Bloodstone

Five of Pentacles 

Upright: When this card appears in a reading it’s an urge to stop feeding into your current turmoil, and to take an honest look at your situation. It’s time to  open your eyes and your heart to truth, so that you can truly move forward.

Reversed: When reversed, the Five of Pentacles Tarot card shows that a painful situation is about to end. You’ve been given the tools to dig your way out of that hole. Now, you have to use them.

Metaphysical Correspondences:

Element: Earth

Zodiac Signs: Taurus

Healing Crystals: Amethyst, Bloodstone

Six of Pentacles

Upright: Generally, the Six of Pentacles Tarot card announces some kind of financial benefit. However, it is not always in the form of money itself. Whatever this gift may be, it will get you back on track.

Reversed: When reversed, the Six of Pentacles reminds you to focus on your needs rather than your wants. It may also warn that you are overextending yourself when being generous. 

Metaphysical Correspondences:

Element: Earth

Zodiac Signs: Taurus

Healing Crystals: Amethyst, Bloodstone

Seven of Pentacles 

Upright: The Seven of Pentacles Tarot card tells you that the time is now. While growth is always good news, it also means that the old way of doing things doesn’t cut it anymore.

Reversed: When reversed, this card warns you that you have been pushing yourself too hard for too long. If you don’t take some time to recharge your batteries, the universe may decide to pull the breaks for you.

Metaphysical Correspondences:

Element: Earth

Zodiac Signs: Taurus

Healing Crystals: Amethyst, Bloodstone

Eight of Pentacles

Upright: When the eight of Pentacles appears in a reading it is a reminder that you should look ahead in order to see what needs to be done to make your life’s ambition a reality over time. Keeping the big picture in mind.

Reversed: When reversed, the Eight of Pentacles points out distractions or blocks in your energy flow. These may leave you feeling exhausted and restless. Looking for ways to improve your life is a good quality, but it’s easy to lose your way if you can’t see the forest for all the trees.

Metaphysical Correspondences:

Element: Earth

Zodiac Signs: Virgo

Healing Crystals: Amethyst, Bloodstone

Nine of Pentacles

Upright: Besides being a card of wealth and joy, the Nine of Pentacles also speaks of fertility. All things are now in place so that a major life goal can be manifested. Whatever it may be, it can happen at any moment.

Reversed: When reversed, the Nine of Pentacles Tarot card suggests a premature withdrawal from the material world in order to pursue higher goals. Refocus and tap into those hidden reserves. You will need them going forward.

Metaphysical Correspondences:

Element: Earth

Zodiac Signs: Virgo

Healing Crystals: Amethyst, Bloodstone

Ten of Pentacles

Upright: The Ten of Pentacles Tarot card spells good news in all money related questions. This is a good time to think about ways to expand your business or making long term investments – career related or otherwise.

Reversed: When reversed, the Ten of Pentacles is a stern warning that you have lost sight of the big picture. You are viewing life in terms of how lucky or unlucky you are. But you’re not seeing how you are contributing to your own fate.

Metaphysical Correspondences:

Element: Earth

Zodiac Signs: Virgo

Healing Crystals: Amethyst, Bloodstone

Page of Pentacles

Upright: If the Page of Pentacles card is upright in your Tarot reading, the universe is sending you back to school. New information is challenging you to rethink everything you know about a person or situation – perhaps even your place in the world.

Reversed: When the Page of Pentacles appears reversed, it could be a sign that your mind and energies are scattered. It suggests that you need to treat yourself with kindness and patience as you move forward. 

Metaphysical Correspondences:

Element: Earth

Zodiac Signs: Capricorn

Healing Crystals: Amethyst, Bloodstone

Knight of Pentacles

Upright: The Knight of Pentacles is all about reputation, reliability, and results. Whether it be a business plan, your financial picture, or even a specific person, this card predicts success and stability in your future endeavors. 

Reversed: When the Knight of Pentacles Tarot card is reversed, the universe cautions you to look before you leap. Everything must be in the place, and the timing must be right.

Metaphysical Correspondences:

Element: Earth

Zodiac Signs: Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces

Healing Crystals: Amethyst, Bloodstone

Queen of Pentacles

Upright: This card says that the universe is showering you with its generosity because you have been intuitively sending out all of the right energies. The Queen of Pentacles spells extremely good news in all aspects of your life. 

Reversed:Reversed, this card warns that now is not a good time for new beginnings. You need to resolve old issues first, or you will bring them into your new situation.

Metaphysical Correspondences:

Element: Earth

Zodiac Signs: Capricorn

Healing Crystals: Amethyst, Bloodstone

King of Pentacles

Upright: When the King of Pentacles appears in a reading, it is time to think about your next step, no matter how comfortable you feel where you are right now. Under your care, people are prospering. You’re a great parent, a wise counselor, and a fair boss. This card encourages you to take the next step and to give the faith that others have in you, to yourself. 

Reversed:When reversed, the King of Pentacles Tarot card challenges you to adopt a more flexible attitude. The good news is that coming to terms with this personal growth will enrich your life immensely.

Metaphysical Correspondences:

Element: Earth

Zodiac Signs: Capricorn

Healing Crystals: Amethyst, Bloodstone

What It Takes:

These are extremely brief descriptions of The Suit of Pentacles tarot cards. To fully utilize the art of Tarot with confidence takes much time and extensive learning. It is strongly advised that you do further personal research and dive deeper into the complex meanings of each Tarot card, prior to practicing this form of divination. 

The Tarot is, a powerful tool for exploring our hidden desires, tensions, and potential. This accessible and stunningly illustrated guide offers a practical overview for the modern seeker pursuing a path of personal development. It includes illuminating and instructive workshops, sample readings, interpretations of the Major and Minor Arcana, and advice on using different decks.
TAROT BASICS: The STORY of the MINOR ARCANA

Further Resources:

Tarot: An Introduction

The Tarot: Major Arcana

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The Tarot: Major Arcana

The Tarot: Major Arcana by W1tchsbrew

Be sure to check her Etsy shop Wood ov Wyrd

The tarot is a powerful divination tool that helps people understand more about their life journey and higher self. A Tarot deck consists of 22 Major Arcanas (also known as Trump cards) and 56 Miner Arcana cards.

What does arcana mean in tarot?

The word Arcana finds its roots in the Latin word “arcanus” which means “Secret.”

The Major Arcana is a 22 card set within the tarot that is considered to be the core and the foundation for the deck. All of the deck is filled with archetypal significance, but this is most pronounced within the Major Arcana. The Major Arcana Tarot cards represent the life lessons, karmic influences and the big archetypal themes that are influencing your life and your soul’s journey to enlightenment.

Major Arcana cards in a Tarot reading ask you to critically examine the lessons and themes you’re now encountering in your life. A Major Arcana card may frequently serve as the starting point for the overall Tarot reading, with the remaining cards connecting back to the central meaning of the Major Arcana.

Tarot cards have two positions: upright and reversed. The way cards appear in the spread can change their meaning, especially because reversed cards do not mean the simple opposite of upright cards.

Get to know the cards:

The World Tarot Card

*The World

Upright: fulfillment, harmony, completion

Reversed: in-completion, no closure

The World symbolizes harmony and unity. Drawing this card means that you’re reaching the end of a period of your life, and to look ahead with your head held high. 

Drawing the reversed World is usually a sign that you’re seeking personal fulfillment or closure, but are having difficulty. The World reversed calls you to spell some time working through whatever issues are preventing you from finding that sense of personal completion. 

Judgement Tarot Card

*Judgement

Upright: reflection, reckoning, awakening

Reversed: lack of self awareness, doubt, self loathing

In the upright position, Judgement reminds you to approach upcoming events with compassion, logic, intuition, and strength. This card could also indicate that a time of “reckoning” is coming.

This card reversed is a call to remember to live your most authentic life without fear of outside opinion. Reversed Judgement could be a sign that you’re being too hard on yourself or those around you. 

The Sun Tarot Card

*The Sun

Upright: joy, success, celebration, positivity

Reversed: negativity, depression, sadness

Drawing the Sun card calls you to bring your enthusiasm and vitality to everything you do. If you do this, you are guaranteed to find happy outcomes at the end.

The Sun reversed could be signaling you to keep your ego and enthusiasm in check. It could also symbolize that you’re struggling to see the bright side, and to trust that you will find a way through. 

The Moon Tarot Card

*The Moon

Upright: unconscious, illusions, intuition

Reversed: confusion, fear, misinterpretation

The Moon may represent anxieties that are preventing you from reaching your full potential or that your subconscious might be harboring memories and emotions that are affecting your potential for happiness and peace.

The reversed Moon card is calling you to start listening to your subconscious and to trust your intuition. It could be a sign that you’re repressing thoughts and feelings because you’re scared of dealing with them. 

The Star Tarot Card

*The Star

Upright: hope, faith, rejuvenation

Reversed: faithlessness, discouragement, insecurity

The Star is a symbol of self-assurance and healing. If you draw the Star in a reading, it’s a sign that your challenges are almost over. This card could also be calling you to focus on your emotional, spiritual, and mental well-being.

When the reversed Star appears in a reading, it’s often a sign that you’re disconnected from your truest self. Reversed, The Star tells you that now is the time for simple self-care practices and gentle self-nurturing. 

The Tower Tarot Card

*The Tower

Upright: sudden upheaval, broken pride, disaster

Reversed: disaster avoided, delayed disaster, fear of suffering

Drawing the Tower in a reading shows that a shocking or unexpected event is coming. This card challenges you to stay true to your beliefs and values, regardless of what lies ahead.

Drawing a reversed Tower could indicate that you know you need to enter a period of change and transformation, but you’re being hesitant to do so. The Tower reversed is a reminder that change is needed in order for you grow stronger.

The Devil Tarot Card

*The Devil

Upright: addiction, materialism, playfulness

Reversed: freedom, release, restoring control

Drawing the Devil is always a sign that something needs to change. You might be struggling to overcome dark thoughts or negative energies and this card is a reminder that you can take back control.

The reversed Devil shows that you’ve reached a place of strength and control and are ready to move forward into a more balanced future. Now is the time to release yourself and let it go.

Temperance Tarot Card

*Temperance 

Upright: middle path, patience, finding meaning

Reversed: extremes, excess, lack of balance

Temperance symbolizes the long game. You have a plan, but there’s no need to rush—take it slow and stay balanced. The Temperance card is a calling to approach your life with patience and calm. 

Temperance reversed calls you to restore balance. This could also be telling you that now is your time for healing and introspection. Reversed Temperance urges you to find the source of your imbalance and realign your heart, mind, and spirit.

Death Tarot Card

*Death

Upright: end of cycle, beginnings, change, metamorphosis

Reversed: fear of change, holding on, stagnation, decay

Drawing the Death card doesn’t necessarily mean that death and misfortune are on their way. Instead, it symbolizes a period of transition or rebirth. This card could also be calling you to break unhealthy cycles that are harming your growth.

The reversed Death card shows that you’re on the precipice of change, but are resisting it. Or it could be saying that you need to release  unhealthy parts of your past in order to open yourself up to new experiences.

The Hanged Man Tarot Card

*The Hanged Man

Upright: sacrifice, release, martyrdom

Reversed: stalling, needless sacrifice, fear of sacrifice

The Hanged man tells you to pause and think before you do anything else. This card is a sign that you should try to find a new perspective before jumping into anything new. It could also be an indication that you need to take a break and gain perspective or clarity before continuing on your journey.

Drawing a reversed Hanged Man could mean you’re stalling before starting something new and that now’s the time for action. 

Justice Tarot Card

*Justice

Upright: cause and effect, clarity, truth

Reversed: dishonesty, unaccountability, unfairness

Drawing the Justice card is a calling to impartially weigh up all the influencing factors before making a choice. People experience the truth differently, and this card is telling you to have compassion when deciding which truth is “right”.

The reversed Justice card could be a sign that you’ve done something you’re not proud of, and that you need to step up and face the consequences of your actions. It could also be a sign that you’re judging yourself too harshly or that you need to treat yourself with the same compassion and understanding that you try to show others.

Wheel of Fortune Tarot Card

*The Wheel of Fortune 

Upright: change, cycles, inevitable fate

Reversed: no control, clinging to control, bad luck

Drawing the Wheel of Fortune may show that you need to accept that you’re not in control of everything. Instead of constantly seeking stability, you may need to learn to let go and accept that unexpected changes are always on the horizon. 

In reverse, the Wheel of Fortune may be telling you that a run of good luck is about to end or that harder times are coming. It could also signify that you’re breaking out of a bad cycle or situation, and to expect the unexpected.

The Hermit Tarot Card

* The Hermit

Upright: contemplation, search for truth, inner guidance

Reversed: loneliness, isolation, lost your way

Drawing the Hermit is a sign that it’s time to take a step away from your busy life and focus on yourself for a period of time. It could also be telling you to look deep within yourself for clarity or guidance as this will help you find the next step on your path.

If you draw a reversed Hermit, this could be a sign that you’ve isolated yourself too much or need to leave your inner world, lest you fall into a negative mindset. 

Strength Tarot Card

*Strength

Upright: inner strength, bravery, compassion, focus

Reversed: self doubt, weakness, insecurity

Drawing the Strength card is a sign that you’re looking for balance by learning to control some of your more negative attributes and raw emotions. It’s your call to stay in control during tough times, and a reminder to act from a place of compassion, courage, and love.

In reverse, Strength is a signal that you need to tame the unkind voices in your head and perhaps work on your confidence. It may indicate that you’re lacking inner strength or you’re being led by instinct or raw emotion instead of learning to control your feelings and use them more productively.

The Chariot Tarot Card

*The Chariot

Upright: direction, control, willpower

Reversed: lack of control, lack of direction, aggression

Drawing the chariot is a sign that now is your time. Don’t let anything (including your own passivity) stand in your way: take deliberate, focused action to make your ambitions into a reality.

The reversed chariot is a sign to check you’re heading in the right direction. You may need to reassess your motivation and goals before you get started.

The Lovers Tarot Card

*The Lovers

Upright: partnerships, duality, union

Reversed: loss of balance, one-sidedness, disharmony

While the Lovers often signify the sexual or passionate nature of relationships, this card isn’t only about romantic love. It also represents the vulnerability, openness, and honesty required to build a lasting connection whether that be with a friend, family member or partner. This card is calling to you to be honest with yourself. It could symbolize conflicting personalities or ideas. 

The reversed Lovers might signify that you’re out of sync with the people around you. It can also be seen as a call to align your actions with your values and find balance in yourself.

The Hierophant Tarot Card

*The Hierophant 

Upright: tradition, conformity, morality, ethics

Reversed: rebellion, subversiveness, new approaches

Drawing the Hierophant is a recommendation that it’s time for you to start studying again, either professionally or by exploring your religious heritage.

The reversed Hierophant might be a call to leave convention behind and start innovating and creating or to let your inner wisdom guide you confidently onto your new path. 

The Emperor Tarot Card

*The Emperor

Upright: authority, structure, control, fatherhood

Reversed: tyranny, rigidity, coldness

The Emperor tells predicts that you may be someone who naturally commands authority, thrives within a set structure or demonstrates the traits of a born leader. Drawing the Emperor could also be a signal that you need to step up and take control of a situation. 

A reversed Emperor being drawn could signify that you’re abusing the power you have or perhaps affecting those around you in a negative way. It could also be a sign that now is the time to step up and lead.

The Empress Tarot Card

*The Empress

Upright: motherhood, fertility, nature

Reversed: dependence, smothering, emptiness, nosiness

Drawing the Empress is a reminder that while pursuing spiritual growth is admirable, appreciating the beautiful world we live in is just as important. It’s a call to experience life with all five senses, explore your creativity, and enjoy the fruits of everything you’ve worked hard for. 

The reversed Empress might signify that you need to reconnect with nature and the energy that flows through the world. You could also be struggling with self expression or co-dependency. 

The High Priestess Tarot Card

*The High Priestess

Upright: intuitive, unconscious, inner voice

Reversed: lack of center, lost inner voice, repressed feelings

The High Priestess symbolizes an awareness of things that are beyond our standard cognition. This card is a sign that instead of silencing the voices in your mind or relying solely on intellect, you should start listening to what your subconscious is trying to tell you. 

If you draw this card in reverse it may be a sign that you’re pushing down your gut instinct about a situation or perhaps acting in a way that contradicts how you truly feel.

The Magician Tarot Card

*The Magician

Upright: willpower, desire, creation, manifestation

Reversed: trickery, illusions, out of touch

This card represents manifestation and inspired action. The Magician shows that you have all the resources and willpower you need to make your dreams come true. When you draw this card, it means that now is the time to put your plans into action and make your intentions a reality.

The reversed Magician symbolizes illusion. If you draw it, it might mean you’re struggling to take action to bring your dreams to life or that you’re unfocused and have let go of something you were working towards.

The Fool Tarot Card

*The Fool

Upright: innocence, new beginnings, free spirit

Reversed: recklessness, taken advantage of, inconsideration

This card wants you to embrace the open, free, carefree parts of yourself and see the world as a wonderful, beautiful, curious place. It’s an invitation to bring more fun and freedom into your life, especially as you undertake a new adventure.

In the event of drawing a reversed fool, it would be seen as a warning that you’re displaying some of his more negative traits. For example, you might be so busy living joyously in the moment that you’ve forgotten to plan ahead for the future. It can also be cautioning you to be aware of the people around you, as someone may be trying to take advantage.

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS FOR TAROT CARD INTERPRETATIONS:

When it was first published nearly 40-years-ago, Seventy-Eight Degrees of Wisdom was an instant classic and inspired generations of tarot students. Often referred to as the “bible of tarot books” it has now helped to launch the “tarot renaissance” we’re seeing today. Drawing on mythology and esoteric traditions and delving deeply into the symbolism and ideas of each card, the book offers a modern psychological interpretation of the tarot archetypes rather than a system of esoteric symbolism.
Joan Bunning’s “Learning the Tarot—An Online Course” has helped hundreds of thousands of people worldwide discover the personal value of the tarot. Drawing on the material offered in this popular online course and from her previous books, Joan has created a complete guide to tarot for beginners, which serves as a handy and in-depth resource for more experienced tarot card readers as well.

Sum up:

The Major Arcana cards are the most recognizable and impactful cards in a tarot deck.  Their story-line is a great description of the accomplishments, setbacks, and lessons we all learn as we go through the trials and tribulations of our lifetime, growing into whole, complete beings by the end of our  journey.

All 78 Cards of the Tarot and their Meanings. Tarot deck is the Golden Universal Tarot.
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Plants of the Dead

Plants of the Dead by The Herb Witch

Be sure to check out more from The Herb Witch HERE.

When working with herbs, we have an innate knowledge that they provide us with a connection
to the sacred and assist us in transcending the mundane. Like our ancestors before us, we can
use herbs as a conduit to the “other”, to the world of the dead. I will be discussing the herbs that
I use in my practice and by no means is this a list that must be strictly adhered to as you are
most welcome to explore the herbs that truly resonate with your practice.

Wormwood

Wormwood

Wormwood to put it bluntly, smells bad! But as they say, it works! Wormwood can be burned to summon spirits and to assist in manifestation. I use wormwood when calling back to my distant ancestors as I require an herb that is super potent to aid in this. Wormwood can also be burned to Honor Hel and to ask for entrance into the realm of the dead. I like to believe that because of its strong odor and the staying power of its smoke, it is also effective in keeping away any negative energies or spirits who may want to tag along with the dead you are intent on connecting with.

Cedar

Cedar

Cedar is an amazingly clean and pure burn and it is used by myself and my family as an offering to the beloved dead. It signifies to me the everlasting and the connection to the afterlife. I often bundle cedar and burn it outside in an offering fire to the recently passed members of my family or immediate ancestors such as my grand parents and great grandparents. The smoke from cedar acts like wormwood as it always repels anything negative when engaging in the burning of offerings. Cedar has an pureness that I believe is appreciated by the beloved dead, and with this pureness , comes the pureness of our intent.

Mugwort

Mugwort

Mugwort to me, is an essential herb to burn when transcending this world and traveling into the realm of the spirits. When engaging in spirit journeys, I will burn mugwort for Odin/Woden to assist me in that journeying to the land of the beloved dead. As mugwort is also associated with astral traveling, it makes sense to use it to travel between the land of the living and the dead. It is in essence, a traveler’s herb, a seeker’s herb and hence in my mind certainly with a strong correspondence to Odin.

Dandelion Leaf

Dandelion leaf

Dandelion leaf is my go-to herb when working with the dead. According to my British Nana, Dandelion leaves could be steeped in hot water and drunk as a tea to connect with the dead. She said that drinking the tea would make you temporarily invisible and able to slip into the world of the dead. Unfortunately, as soon as you urinate, you will start to lose that invisibility! Aside from my Nana’s advice, dandelion is an effective herb for communicating with the dead. Burning the leaves can ease the practitioner into the other realms, into a meditative state that serves as a roadway or path to the other side. The smoke from the burning leaves is said to summon spirits. So, either through a tea or burning as an incense, dandelion leaf is yet another conduit to the world of the dead and as such can also be offered to Hel before seeking to travel to the other realm.

Marigolds

Marigolds

Marigolds are often used in funerary rites and memorial services. This tradition began centuries ago and continues to this day. I offer marigolds in incense and will burn on the anniversary of a loved one’s passing. I often use marigolds in any offering to Baldur as to me Baldur signifies death and the great grief that often accompanies one’s passing. Marigolds can be added to bundles of cedar as an offering to your beloved dead or to your ancestors.

Black Eyed Susans

Black Eyes Susans

Black Eyes Susans are said to be connected to those who have passed away and represent the beloved dead. It is believed that they act as a conduit to the dead and can be used for connecting and talking, communicating with those that have passed. My Nana told me that it was always good to have a vase of black eyed susans in the home as it would encourage your deceased loved ones to visit you in your dreams. These flowers can also be bundled with cedar for an lovely offering to the ancestors or as a memorial bundle to the beloved dead.

I will leave you with a few incense ideas, using the plants of the dead I have discussed.

Ancestor Offering/ Beloved Dead Incense
A sprinkle of marigold petals, black eyed susans (the heads of the flower), forget me nots and
cut cedar.

Speak to the Dead Incense
Equal parts mugwort, wormwood, dandelion leaf

As we enter Winterfylleth and the dark months, this is an opportune time to connect with your house spirits, your ancestors or to engage in spirit work. Many Blessings to your home and hearth!

Further Resources

Incorporate herbs into spells, rituals, and divination with this all-inclusive guide to the benefits of using herbal magic in witchcraft.

From creating potions to using dried herbs in rituals, herbal magic is a natural way to practice witchcraft. Herbs can be used in many different ways to help set the intention through every part of a witch’s process.

In The Modern Witchcraft Guide to Magickal Herbs, learn everything you need to use the most powerful herbs and use them as an essential part of your practice. Including information on which herbs are best for what kinds of spells, how to use herbs in divination and rituals, and step-by-step guides to making herbal bundles, potions, and sprays, this guidebook has all the important facts to make your herbal witchcraft a success.

Jam-packed with herbal ideas, this guide is perfect for both beginners and experienced witches looking to incorporate more herbs into their practice. Beautiful and functional, it is easy to navigate and offers a detailed guide to herbal magic!

A highly recommended Youtube channel is that of Freyia Norling who is extremely knowledgeable regarding the use of herbs and more with Norse Folk Medicine.

Freyia’s Herbs is a series hosted by Freyia Norling, a volva living in the wilderness of Arctic Norway who has a University Degree in Norse Folklore and Mythology. The series is about herbs, plants, trees in connection with the Norse Gods, and their use in Trolldom Norse Sorcery.

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Tarot: An Introduction

Tarot: An Introduction by W1tchsbrew

Be sure to check her Etsy shop Wood ov Wyrd

What is Tarot?

Tarot cards and their symbolic meanings have intrigued people for centuries. Tarot reading is the practice of divining wisdom and guidance through a specific spread (or layout) of Tarot cards. However, contrary to popular belief, the cards do not simply tell your fortune.  The cards are meant to give insight into the innermost truths of your higher self.  In other words, the cards provide an evolved awareness of what you already know deep within. Tarot is a system of archetypes, a picture-book of the human condition, reflecting our states of mind and stages of life.

Archetypes are symbols to which we all can relate. They represent significant aspects of life, people around us as well as events.  According to Swiss psychiatrist, Carl Jung, we are all pre-programmed to look for archetypes in our everyday lives because they serve as a framework for our understanding of the world. Each of the 78 Tarot cards is a type of archetype. These powerful archetypes enable us to examine the forces that live deep within us and invoke a mood, a need, or a greater understanding of our personality or soul life.

Tarot History:

From its uptake as an instrument of divination in 18th century France, the tarot went on to be used in hermeneutic, magical, semiotic and psychological practices.

The word “tarot” and German Tarock derive from the Italian “Tarocchi”, the origin of which is uncertain but taroch was used as a synonym for foolishness in the late 15th and early 16th centuries. 

Tarot Card Decks

Tarot decks:

Every card in the 78-card Tarot deck has a different meaning. When you put cards together and read them as a story, you can draw conclusions about your life. In order to see dimensions, the deck is divided into two sections: 

*Major Arcana (spiritual themes) and *Minor Arcana (experiences, people, and characteristics)

There are 22 cards of the Major Arcana, which divulge greater secrets, and 56 cards of the Minor Arcana, which divulge lesser secrets and are further divided into four suits.  The suits of the Minor Arcana include: Wands, Swords, Cups, and Pentacles. 

The fourteen cards in each suit are numbered Ace through Ten, plus the Court Cards which consist of the Page (Princess), Knight (Prince), Queen, and King. 

The Major Arcana cards consist of: The Fool, The Magician, The High Priestess, The Empress, The Emperor, The Hierophant, The Lovers, The Chariot, Strength, The Hermit, The Wheel of Fortune, Justice, The Hanged Man, Death, Temperance, The Devil, The Tower, The Star, The Moon, The Sun, Judgement and The World.

Decks can vary some in naming. And while the suits and individual cards are not always called the same thing, their core meanings are fairly universal.

Tarot card illustrations are generally a single image in an upright position, unlike common playing cards that display a dual image facing both right-side-up and upside-down. 

When Tarot cards are collected and shuffled or moved about, they can show up upside-down in a reading. The reversed Tarot card can be interpreted in various ways.

Tarot Spreads:

The three-card spread is the easiest spread for a beginner and ideal for a quick basic Tarot reading. Although there are multiple types of “spreads” which can be used, some more in depth than others. 

Most legitimate tarot decks come with a small booklet giving brief examples as to what kinds of spreads you can utilize. However one must not rely solely on the instructions of a booklet when practicing this form of divination. Meditation and self educating is key.

Tarot Readers:

To become truly skilled in the art of tarot can take many years of experience and study.

Tarot readers (also known as fortune tellers or seers) are spiritual advisors. Using divination tools such as tarot, they have the ability to both read a persons energy as well as tap into their life circumstances in regards to things that may have or may happen.

Conclusion:

Tarot cards are a powerful tool for greater awareness and transformation. They are a metaphysical medium which enables us to connect with our inner wisdom in order to reveal what is really happening below the surface of events around us.

However, a level of caution must be displayed upon entering this revered practice as a misinterpretation of tarot could both give the wrong message as well as steer one’s mental or spiritual state in the wrong direction.

A complete beginner’s course with step-by-step lessons on how to work with tarot cards for personal guidance.
All 78 Cards of the Tarot and their Meanings. Tarot deck is the Golden Universal Tarot.
Tarot Cards Use and History

Further Resources:

The Ultimate Guide to Tarot Card Meanings

Learn The Basics of How to Read Tarot

Learning Tarot: A Complete Tarot for Beginners Guide

Tarot Card Meanings

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Herbs for the Modern Heathen

Herbs for the Modern Heathen by The Herb Witch

Be sure to check out more from The Herb Witch HERE.

Many of us, do not live in the place that our ancestors lived. I was born in England but moved to Canada
as a child. As a Heathen, I use herbs daily in my daily practice as well as in my sacred spaces and it has
been quite the journey researching the type of herbs and plants that my ancestor would have used. This
is my experience, and I am not going to tell you how to Heathen. I will chat a little bit about how I use
herbs to connect with my ancestors, the gods, the land spirits and wights.

Offering Fire

I often have Offering fires in which I offer food to my ancestors, a drop of ale poured on the ground and certain herbs to burn in the fire as an offering. In my personal ritual I use the herbs that were common and abundant in the time of my ancestors. The herbs I offer are usually wormwood, mugwort, lemon balm, peppermint, clary sage, rosemary, rose petals, lavender and chamomile. I often interchange this with cedar, juniper and pine tips, black walnut, beech, birch, poplar, willow and elm barks. There is no need for a specific list, I offer what is at hand and what is available to me at that time. Better yet, bundling cedar, pine and juniper with these herbs is a wonderful offering as well and these bundles can be placed directly in the fire to burn along side any incense or loose herbs that you would like to add.

Herbs for the Land Spirits or Landvaettir

Illustration of a landvaettr

Throughout all the seasons, I will often walk through a field or a forested area and leave an herbal offering for the land spirits. I will often tie up a cloth bundle with various herbs and flowers and seeds and lay it in a clear area for the land spirits. Upon laying down the bundle, I open it up and lay it down flat on the earth. For me it acts as a token of my gratitude for all the gifts that I receive from the land. You can also sit in a spot of your choosing and burn an herb offering bundle or loose herbal incense. These are only suggestions, and you can certainly create your own way of offering up offerings to the Landvaettir.

Offerings

Herbal offerings

When offering to the Gods the rationale I use to select herbs is to select herbs that symbolize the qualities and skills of that God. I will provide you with a short list of the herbs I use for offerings to the Gods.

Baldur – Sunflower petals, Marigold, Chamomile (flowers I associate with being bright)


Freya- Mints, Roses, Mugwort ( Seidr work) , daisies


Frigga – Flaxseed, Birch Bark, Lavender, Roses, Calendula (Hearth Herbs)


Eir- Lavender, Peppermint, Rose, Chamomile, Lemon Balm (Healing Herbs)


Hel- Mugwort, Plantain, Rue, Wormwood (plants associated with the dead)


Heimdall- Rosemary, Clove, Allspice, Clary Sage ( Herbs for protective vigilance)


Odin- Ash bark, Mugwort, Viper’s Bugloss, Woad, Red Clover (Shamanic Herbs)


Thor-Nettle, Thistle (protective yet aggressive plants) Oak bark ( sacred to Thor, Donar)


Woden – Mugwort, Plantain, Watercress, Chervil, Mayweed (Wild Chamomile), Dried Crab Apple,
Nettle, Fennel and Viper’s Bugloss (borage). These are the herbs from the Nine Herbs Charm poem.

**This is just a sample as I prepare herbs for many gods, but hopefully this gives you a bit of an idea.
Please use your own intuition and definitely use what is at hand.

Yule Herb Bundles

When crafting bundles or incense for burnt offerings to my ancestors I like to offer what ever is in season as well as offering two specific flowers of herbs to my bundles. I often add Forget me nots to my bundles as well as Black Eyes Susans as they are said to act as a conduit to the beloved dead.

I go by the seasons, in early spring it is the first flowers such as violets, tulips and daffodils. Further into summer I will offer roses, lavender, calendula, peppermint, rosemary, clary sage, thyme and what ever else is in season. I the end, it is an offering of what you have and what is available for you to offer up.

Many Blessings to your home and hearth!
wyrþe þanc!!
The Herb Witch

Further Resources

Incorporate herbs into spells, rituals, and divination with this all-inclusive guide to the benefits of using herbal magic in witchcraft.

From creating potions to using dried herbs in rituals, herbal magic is a natural way to practice witchcraft. Herbs can be used in many different ways to help set the intention through every part of a witch’s process.

In The Modern Witchcraft Guide to Magickal Herbs, learn everything you need to use the most powerful herbs and use them as an essential part of your practice. Including information on which herbs are best for what kinds of spells, how to use herbs in divination and rituals, and step-by-step guides to making herbal bundles, potions, and sprays, this guidebook has all the important facts to make your herbal witchcraft a success.

Jam-packed with herbal ideas, this guide is perfect for both beginners and experienced witches looking to incorporate more herbs into their practice. Beautiful and functional, it is easy to navigate and offers a detailed guide to herbal magic!

A highly recommended Youtube channel is that of Freyia Norling who is extremely knowledgeable regarding the use of herbs and more with Norse Folk Medicine.

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Ocean Jasper: The Crystal of Waves

Ocean Jasper: The Crystal of Waves by W1tchsbrew

Be sure to check out W1tchsbrew’s Etsy shop Wood ov Wyrd.

WHAT IS OCEAN JASPER?

Ocean Jasper or Sea Jasper is characterized by the presence of small spherical aggre- gates (spherulites, or “orbs”), just a few millimeters in diameter, that derive from a process of alternation and silicification of volcanic tuff and rhyolite flows. As one of the many known types of Jasper, Ocean Jasper is a member of the Quartz family. Its high mineral silica content accounts for the specks of shimmering druzy quartz often found in Ocean Jasper. This includes orb-like shapes alongside other patterns and strips of colour – hence the name, orbicular Ocean Jasper.

OCEAN JASPER ORIGINS:

Ocean Jasper only comes from one place in the world, northwestern Madagascar. It is found in the Analalava district of the Sofia region in the former province of Mahajanga. 

As the deposits are part of the shoreline they can only be seen and mined at low tide. With no roads in this remote area, material must be removed and transported by boat.

TYPES OF OCEAN JASPER:

Eight different veins of Ocean Jasper have been discovered and each has produced slightly different looking stones. Although this crystal is more commonly found in white, green and brown, Ocean Jasper is sometimes also found in black, blue, red, pink, orange, yellow and gray.

The stone was named “Ocean” jasper by an American mineral dealer in 1922, simply because the first known deposit was located very close to the sea itself as well as its resemblance to waves, ripples, and water drop rings. 

The best known research on Ocean Jasper is by Dr. Werner Lieber. He theorized that it is a sphärolithischer Chalcedon (German, “spherulitic or orbicular chalcedony”) Spherulitic refers to spherulites, a more technical name for the orbs.

8th vein ocean jasper is considered by many as the finest kind of ocean jasper.

METAPHYSICAL HEALING PROPERTIES OF OCEAN JASPER:

Ocean jasper is said to provide calm, uplifting energy to the holder in trying times, feeding into a more optimistic outlook on life. The stone aids clearer communication, and enhances self-confidence as well as insight. 

This beautiful stone draws its soothing power from the element of Water, outputting strength and renewal with a slow, steady frequency and a deep circular energy that embodies the interconnectedness of all things. A highly spiritual Shamanic stone, Ocean Jasper is said to purify everything around us as well as connect us with protective and healing nature spirits.

PHYSICAL HEALING PROPERTIES OF OCEAN JASPER:

Ocean Jasper is also popular among crystal healers for its believed ability to address and relieve certain physical ailments as well as activating and aligning solar plexus, heart, and throat chakras

Ocean Jasper is thought to be highly restorative for tissue deterioration of the internal organs. Said to help stabilize nutritional absorption of vitamins and minerals, especially in balancing sodium and iodine levels and relieving water retention, Ocean Jasper is highly sought out for it’s believed physical healing properties. 

Known as the “Supreme Nurturer,” Jasper is a stone of grounding and stability, providing comfort and security, strength and healing. Its presence balances the aura to a level of wholeness and peace, and acts as a reminder that one is not here on the physical plane simply for oneself, but to bring joy and substance to others.

Like the gentle tides that ebb and flow along the shore, wearing away rocks and bringing gifts from the oceans floor, Ocean Jasper brings to the surface long-hidden and unresolved emotional issues in a soft and nurturing manner. Ocean Jasper inspires compassion towards yourself throughout any healing process. It promotes patience, reminding you that everything is accomplished in perfect time. This is a crystal for being honest with oneself and listening to your heart, especially when confronting problems. As you align with Ocean Jasper you willingly accept responsibility for your actions and experience a more joyous, confident outlook.
Explore the natural wonder of one of the most important petrological discoveries of the last 20 years, the spectacular Ocean Jasper or “Spherulitic Chalcedony” of Madagascar. Coveted by collectors, lapidaries and the jewelry market, this amazing material has become exceedingly rare as large-scale high grade specimens, and remains a geological mystery to petrologists. Find out why conservation efforts are important to preserve remaining large-scale specimens for classification and research studies. Includes full color images of many beautiful specimens.