Grannulus' Grove

The Sacred Ash Tree

2010-03-12T23:30:00.004-06:00

The Ash Tree was very sacred to many cultures around the world. It was called by many different names according to different traditions. Some of the names were; The Tree of Tortu, the Tree of Daithi, Branching Tree of Uisnech.

Our Celtic and Norse ancestors looked upon the Ash tree with honor and respect. It was one of the nine sacred woods used in making the Beltainne bon-fires. The Maypole was thought to originally be made from an Ash tree. In the Celtic legends the ash tree was sacred to the god Lugh, who is celebrated at Lughnasadh. In Druidic traditions, if a magickal staff was made out of ash, then the user of the staff would be connected to the realms of earth and the sky. The handle of the traditional witch's broom was made from the ash. The ash tree was thought to originated in the Celtic underworld Annwn or in the underworld sea realm of Tethys. A Welsh Magician named Gwyddion had a staff made from ash.

One day he tricked Arianhrod to give the young Llew his arms which she has sworn never to do, this having placed a conditional curse of fate upon him. Gwyddion magickal created a phantom army fleet of ships which tricked Arianhrod into giving Llew his arms this of course removed the curse upon his destiny. Later in the tales of Llew, he is said to rest as an eagle in an Ash tree.

In Scotland many oaths and vows were taken by or under the ash tree.

As I said before, our Norse ancestors honored the ash tree in their folklore and myths. Yggdrasil, which is the world tree of Scandinavian myths was consider traditionally an ash tree. The tree that Odin hung himself upon to discover the runes from all of humanity was an ash. Even Odin's spear was considered to be made from ash. The Norse even made mead from a sugary substance that was extract from the ash tree called, Mead of Inspiration.

Traditions and folklore dealing with the ash goes back to the Greek civilization where the ash was sacred to Areas, the Greek god of War. Also in Greek mythology, the Meliae were nymphs of the ash.

Through out time and many cultures that had came and gone, there were many usages for the sacred ash tree. People would hang locks of their babies' hair upon the tree to prevent them from the whooping cough. To cured an infant of hernia, the child would be passed three times through a cleft in an ash at sunrise. It was also thought to heal warts and boils, as well. If one wore a needle in their clothing for a period of three days and then hammer the needle or a pin into the bark of an ash, the skin disorder will appear as a knob on the tree and disappear from the person who had it.

The leaf of an ash was thought to bring good fortune if you carry the leaf in your pocket. Those leaves with an even number of leaflets on it were especially considered to be lucky.
In Greece, when a baby was born it was customary to plant an ash tree. As the child grows along with the growth of the ash, the state of the ash would serve as an indicator of that growing person's health and strength. Because of this, if anyone harm an ash tree can find theirselves the victim of unpleasant supernatural circumstances. In some cultures, witches were suppose to live in the ash trees. In Germany folklore, Askafroa also known as the wife of the ash was an evil spirit which was said to cause much danger. To satisfy her it was said that you had to make a donation to her on Ash Wednesday.

In the British Isles, newborn babies were sometimes given a spoonful of ash sap before leaving their mother's bed for the first time. This was though to prevent disease and infant mortality. In Northern England, if a maiden placed ash leaves under her pillow, she would have prophetic dreams of her future lover. Another traditon connecting the ash with infants was ash berries placed in a cradle would protect the child from being taken away by the mischievous Fae and a changeling left in it's place.

Some sailors would make small crosses of ash and carried it upon them when out to sea to prevent them from drowning.

The tree produces seed pods that are roughly key-shaped. Some thought these were the Keys to Wisdom. Some people actually made keys out of ash wood which they carried on their body to protect them against any black or negative soceries.

I think this is one of the worst and cruel remedies that I have came across in my research. Another use of the ash tree was to cure lameness and swellings in cattle and people. A shrew would be runned over them and then it would be put into a hole bored into an ash tree. Then with the shrew inside, the hole would be plugged up. Then if any animal or person who was brushed with the leaves of this particular ash tree would be cured.

Since I began to publish this blog through a lot of research, I found out that our ancestors didn't let anything go to waste and everything if anything was very sacred to them. Their life depended on it, not as ours do today because we have the technology, but still these trees are and should be very sacred to us, just as they was to our ancestors. You never know one day we made need to know this knowledge again. We may have to use it again.

The Month of March

2010-03-02T17:06:00.000-06:00

There wasn't much to find on the month of March. March comes from ancient Rome. It was considered to be the first month of the year because it was logical that the beginning of spring would be the first of the year and the cold, deathly hand of winter would be the end of the year.
March is named after Martius which comes from the god Mars, the Roman god of war because it wasn't only the start of the year but also the beginning of the military campaign.
In Russia, the year began March the 1st until the end of the 15th century. Until 1752, Great Britain and her colonies celebrated the first of the year on March 25th. In Finnish, the month is called maaliskuu meaning earthly month because the Mother Earth was starting the apprear through the snow covered land. Saxons called March, Lentmonat also Rhed-monat or Hreth-monath which derived from their goddess Rhedam/ Hreth. The Angles called the month Hyld-monath, which means Stormy month or Hraed-monath meaning Rugged Month.

The Willow Tree, Queen of the Waters

2010-02-19T00:55:00.004-06:00

The traditions and the sacredness of the Willow tree has been around for many many countless generations of everyone's ancestors. There are 300 varieties of the willow either in the form of shrubs or trees. The botanical name is 'salix' which is derived from the Celtic word 'sal' which means near and the word 'lis', meaning water. The Gaelic words for the willow are shellach or suil.
   Through out the world, it's many inhabitants and cultures, there are many names the willow tree goes by such as; Osier, Pussy Willow, Saille, Saugh Tree, Tree of Enchantment, White Willow, Witches Aspirin, Withe and Withy. The common Osier or Basket Willow and the Purple Willow tree is what is mostly used for basket making. The Black Willow is named because of it's dark bark. Pussy Willow also Goat Willow usually grows as a shrub along the banks of streams and rivers. White Willow is probably the largest and descended from the White Willow. The popular and very well known of all species of willow is the Weeping Willow which it thought to have originated in China.
   The leaves and bark of the willow has been mentioned many times through out our history in ancient texts arranging from Assyria, Sumer and Egypt as a remedy for aches and fevers. The ancient Greek physician wrote about the willow's medicinal properties around the 5th century BC. Even the Native Americans relied on it for their medical treatments.
   The willow contains salicylic acid, the precursor to the aspirin. In 1897, Felix Hoffmann created a new drug from the willow, named formally Acetylsalicylic acid, named aspirin by Hoffmann's employer which was Bayers AG. An infusion was made from the bitter bark as a remedy for colds and fevers and also was a treatment to treat inflammatory conditions such as rheumatism. People would chew young willow twigs to relieve pain.
   The powers associated with the willow was protection, divination, inspiration, healing, fertility, love, grief and death. The Gods and Goddesses that was associated with the willow was/is; Proserpine, Orpheus, Hecate, Circe, Belenus, Artemis and Mercury.
   Most of the species of willow grows near water sources which in turn our ancestors associated the willow tree with the element of water. We know that the moon controls the water on Earth so the willow also had a connection to the moon, as well. The water realm also had a connection to the Underworld or the Spirit world. The willow became connected to grief and death.
   The Greek sorceress Circe had a cemetery on a riverside. She planted willows in the cemetery and dedicated them to the Goddess Hecate. Male corpses were left exposed wrapped in raw hides in the tops of the trees for the elements to clean and the birds to eat. A tradition of placing willow branches in the coffins and planting young willow saplings on their graves became a tradition. Many thought that planting a young willow and watching it grow would ease the passage of the soul at death. The ancient Celtics believed the soul would rise up into the young sapling and grow along with it through out the years. In Britain many cemeteries that are near rivers, lakes and streams are planted with willow trees to protect the spirits. In the 19th century, the willow were commonly used as ornaments on gravestones and mourning cards of the deceased loved ones.
   Forsaken lovers of the 16th and 17th centuries would wear a cap or crown made out of willow twigs and leaves to show their grief of their broken heart.
   Due to willow's association with fertility and the serpent, in Athens, the priests of Asclepius would place willow branches in the beds of infertile women, thinking that would bring up the serpents from the Underworld and cure the women of their infertility. Through time, the willow became known to turn the serpent away and people started using it to do just that around their homes and farms. Asclepius were shown with a serpent wrapped around his arms and it was told that he had the power over serpents.
   In an ancient Spartan fertility ritual dedicated to the goddess Artemis, the male participants would be tied to the tree's trunks with willow thongs and they would be flogged. Strangely this would get the celebrants into an erotic trance and they would have an erotic reaction and would ejaculate thus fertilizing the land with their seed and blood.
   Orphesus, the Greek poet, was said to receive his gifts of eloquence and communication from the sacred willow tree. He carried with him willow branches while he traveled the Underworld. While he was there, his speech impressed the God Apollo so much that he gave Orphesus a lyre which was made out of willow. Apollo would request him to play music from this lyre. He also taught the Muses to play the lyre. It was said that when he played this mystical instrument, it enchanted the wild breasts, even the rocks and trees would move and follow him all over Mt. Olympus. When Orphesus died, Apollo and the Muses asked and convinced Zeus to place the lyre among the stars.
   The Romanian gypsies had a festival called the festival of Green George which takes place on 23rd of April. In this festival a man would wear a wicker frame made from the willow around his body and it would be decorated with vegetation and greenery to represent Green George. At the eve of the festival, a young willow would be cut down and then re-erected at the place of the festival. It was then decorated with garlands and ribbons. The expected mothers of the village would sit around the tree and place a piece of garment that they own. If a single leaf feel on their clothing over night, then it's owner will be granted an easy child delivery.
   At dawn the appointed Green George would hammer three nails into the tree and then take them back out. He would walk down to the same river that the willow once stood and throw the three nails into the water. This was to wake up the goodwill of the water spirits. He then takes the willow tree itself down to the river, stream or lake and stick it's branches and leaves into the water. All the village's cattle, sheep and any livestock would be brought down to Green George. He then would shake the water off the willow tree onto the animals, thus blessings them. Afterwards the willow tree is taken back to the center of the festival where it once stood and the festival would continue.
   The willow not only had healing abilities but it could also absorb shock and would not splinter. This made it perfect for making cricket bats and stumps. The Dutch originally made their clogs (shoes) from the willow wood. The ancient Celtics made their chariot wheel spokes from the willow tree. The bark was used to make a reddish-brown dye perfect for tanning leather and it was also good for making fodder for livestock, but probably the best well known craft made from the willow tree is basket making by weaving the willow which is still used to this day.
   A magickal use for the willow is using in making wands out of the sacred tree. Another magickal device made from the willow is the traditional witches' broom. The handle is make from ash with birch twigs bound by willow.
   The next time you see a willow in a cemetery, stop and talk to it then listen. You may never told the untold secrets it would tell you. Maybe you would like to communicate with Hecate and leave her an offering. The Weeping Willow with it's drooping limbs and leaves may give you some comfort in your trying times if you ask politely and in the right way.

La' Lugh Brighid's Kiss

2010-02-18T18:39:00.006-06:00

2010-02-17T13:38:00.000-06:00

I just want to take a moment to apologize to all Grannulus' Grove readers. I haven't been posting much here in the last few days because of computer problems. Hopefully, I've gotten it corrected.
  Thank you all for visiting the Grannulus' Grove.
   Blessings As Always,
   Grannulus

Brigit, Brighid or Bride

2010-02-17T12:48:00.004-06:00

She was and has been considered one of the main Celtic goddesses. She is mostly known to be the Goddess of fire.
   She is known as Bride in Scotland, and Brigantia in the British Isles. Her Roman counterpart is the Goddess Minerva and in Greece is was Athena.
   Brigit was the daughter of Dagda and one of the Tuatha De Danann. Bres of the Formorians was considered her husband. Her sons was Brian, Iuchar and Iucharba (Gods of Poetry) by Turenn who was a consort to Brigit. She also had a son, Ruadan who was slain while fighting for the Formorians. She had two oxen, named Fe and Men. They grazed on a plain that was named after them, Femen. She also possessed Torc Triath, the king of boars and Cirb, king of sheep. Her family also included some half brothers named; Aengus Mac Og, Cermat Corm and Midhir.
   In Ireland she was called Breo-Saighit, the Flame of Ireland and also a Goddess of the Forge. When she was born at sunrise, it was said that a tower of flame shot up and reached from the top of her head to the sky/heavens above. It made the whole household as if it was on fire.
   Some consider Brigit to be of the Triple Goddess aspect and believe there are three Brigits. One is in charge of poetry and the inspiration that invented the Ogham. Another in charge of healing matters and midwifery. The third in charge of the hearth fire, smithies, forges and other crafts. So one could see that the Goddess Brighid ( another name for her ) was considered a goddess of many things. She was also perceived as a Goddess to things that were to be of high dimensions such as: high-rising flames, the highlands, hill-forts, upland areas, wisdom, excellence, high intelligence, poetic eloquence, craftsmanship, blacksmithing, healing abilities and druid knowledge. She was also seen as a warrior goddess whom favored the use of the spear and arrow.
   Not only was she a Goddess of the flame or fire, but also of water. There are a countless number of wells and springs throughout Europe that are dedicated in her honor, where she is honored as a Goddess of herbalism, healing and midwifery.
   The festival that's held in her honor is held on February 1st or 2nd and corresponds to Imbolc or Oimelc which celebrates the birthing and 'freshening' of the sheep and goats. It's a Milk Festival. The time when the little lambs are born and the promise of life continuing on after the the harsh times of winter. It was later Christianized, of course, as Candlemas or Lady Day.
   The household fire or fire of the hearth was considered sacred to the Goddess Brigit. Each evening the woman of a household would 'smoor' the fire which means cover it over to keep the fire over night. They would ask for the protection of Brigit on the household and all it's occupants.
   As I said before in Scotland she is called Bride. There are rites that has been preserved to this day in the Outer Herbrides off the Scottish coast in her honor. The women would gather at La' Fheill Brighad and make an image of the Goddess as a maiden. Then they would/will dress her in white and place a crystal over her heart and lay her in a cradle-like basket. Then Bride is invited into the house by the female head of the household with sacred songs and chanting.
   In traditions and stories, the Goddess Brigit had kept a shrine at Kildare, Ireland, where a perpetual flame was tended by 19 virgin priestesses who was called the Daughters of the Flame. No men or males were allowed to come near it or visit the shrine. The women never consorted with the male population. Their food and supplies were brought to them by the women of the local village. Traditions held at the shrine of Kildare was that each day a different priestess was in charge of the Sacred Fire, but on the 20th day of each cycle the fire was tended by Brigit herself.
   Of course we see again as we have seen through-out of ancestors history, the Catholics or Christians had to get their hands on to a good thing because they were having problems converting the pagan populations into Christians, so they did what they were good at.... stealing.
   Brigit was canonized by the Catholic Church into St. Brigit. They started spreading legends and traditions that she was the midwife of the Virgin Mary. Another Christian story states that she was the daughter of a Druid named Dubhthact and they lived on the island of Iona, which is off the coast of Scotland and then moved to Ireland. Brigit or Brighid predicted the coming of Christianity. Now I must say here that there maybe some truth to this story. Anyway the story continues to say that she was baptized by St. Patrick, of course, and then she became a nun and later an abbess who founded the Abbey at Kildare.
   Another Christian version of St. Brigid ( another form of her name) was she was born at Faughart in County Louth. Her father was a pagan chieftain and her mother, Brocca, a Pictish christian. Her father named her after the goddess of fire from his religion which was Brigid or Brigit. In 468, she was converted to Christianity because she was a big fan and follower of the preachings of St. Patrick. She wanted to join a convent and pursue her convictions, but her father refused her so he kept her home.
   Brigit became very well known for her kindness, generosity and charity. She never turned away a poor person who came knocking on her father's door. One day a leper came to the door. Brigit couldn't give away any milk or flour because there were short supply of it so instead she gave away her father's jeweled sword.
   It was then that her father caved in and sent her to a convent; probably because he didn't want to go bankrupt. LOL
   She received her veil from Saint Mel and started a career in establishing convents starting in Clara in County Offaly.
   According to Pagan traditions the convent at Kildare was already there and being attended by the 19 priestess of the Goddess of Fire, Brighid, but according to Christian traditions, St. Brigit founded it in 470.
   Even though the original shrine became a convent under the Christian rule and the priestesses became nuns the sacred traditions was still kept. They kept the Sacred Flame lite and tended to. The flame was kept alive for thousands of years under the nuns care, but no one or no records can say how long it was kept before that.
   In 1220 CE, a bishop became very angry because he or any males wasn't allowed in the Abbey of St. Brigit of Kildare. He kept insisting the nuns to become subordinate to the priests and they must open their abbey to the inspections of the priesthood of the Catholic Church. The nuns stood strong and refused the bishop and asked for an abbess to perform any inspections. The bishop then decreed that their keeping of the eternal flame was a pagan tradition. Here we go! He then ordered the Sacred Flame to be put out.
   Now I must say and I can only say very little. The Sisterhood of the Eternal Flame and the flame itself was not totally put out but they left and carried the flame with them. The pagan traditions of Brigit, the Shrine at Kildare and the priestesses were continued else where and still to this day.
   Anyhow, in the 1960s under the modernization of the Vatican, it was declared there wasn't enough proof of there existing a Brigit or her sanctity, so the church gradually pushed St. Brigit out and decannoized her. Most of the post cards, images or traditions of St. Brigit only exist in Ireland, so it's hard to find them anywhere else in the Catholic world.
   There was an individual named Sister Mary Minchin, who was a nun at the Kildare Abbey, who re-light the Sacred Flame on February 2, 1996. My 'hat' truly goes off to this lady. Goddess bless her!
   Again according to Christian traditions, St. Brigit died in 525 and was buried in a tomb before the high altar of Kildare's Abbey. Later her remains were moved to Downpatrick and laid to rest with other saints. Later, three noble Irishman took her skull and transported it to the Church of St. John the Baptist in Paris, France. It is said that to this day it's still there.
   Rather you see her as Brighid, Brigit or Bride the Goddess of Fire or as St. Brigit, it's still safe to say to remember as the sun starts to shine more and spread it's warmth over us and Gaia, then please also remember life is promise to us. Maybe not as our own individual life, but the promise of new life and the promise of life must go on. After the harshness of Winter and the season of death, life still continues on. Brigit or Brighid will always keep that Sacred Flame. That Sacred Flame that dances within each and every being and child of Mother Earth the Goddess. She has kept that Sacred Flame dancing within our hearth, our heart and now brings it out into the open for us to share with all creation of Gaia.
   Blessings to you and yours,
   Grannulus

February

2010-02-05T22:10:00.002-06:00

February was named after the Latin term februum, which means purification.

Februa was also known as Februatio. It was a Roman festival of ritual purfification, also commonly known as Lupercalia. It was basically one of spring washing or cleaning by water. It was thought that it became associated with water because this month was a month of raininess. The festival was probably from Sabine origin but the Ovid believed it derived from an earlier Etruscan word referring to purging. It fell on the 15th day of Februarius which became February in the English tongue. The god Februus became associated with the festival and the month February.

Februus was the god of the dead and of purification. He was worshipped mostly by the Etruscans, where he became the god of malaria, named Febris. Februalia was held in his honor at the same time that Lupercalia was held in the honor of the god Faun. Through time the two became as the same entity.

Februailia also became the Roman god of February, which became a time period of sacrifices that were made to atone for sins.

February was added to the calendar by Numa Pompilius around 700 BCE. Then it was the last month of the calendar until the time of decemvirs around 450 BCE when it became the 2nd month.

In other parts of the European continent the month that became known as February was also known by other names. The Anglo-Saxon called the month Salmonath which meant mud month and Kale-monath named for cabbage. In the Finnish language it was called helmikuu which means the month of the pearl because the snow would melt on the tree branches therefore forming tiny droplets of water and then re-freezes, forming tiny ice droplets that looked like pearls on the branches. The Scots' term for this month was Feberwary and Februar.

February is the only month that can pass without a single full moon. The birth flower of this month is the Viola plant and the Primrose. It's birthstone is the amethyst.

Of course we know this is the shortest month of the year. Tradition holds the reason why is because the emperor Augustus took away one day from February and gave it to the month named after him, August.

Leshy - Protector of the Forest

2010-01-25T12:41:00.002-06:00

In the Slavic countries there is a spirit that is thought to protect the forest and it's inhabitants. It is said to favored the Birch trees, but most forests have these creatures protecting them. They are very protective of their territory.
   Their name is derived from 'les', which means forest. They have a shape of a human but with long hair and green bush eyebrows like the grass. They say his hair and beard is actually made out of grass and vines. His skin is pale but his blood is blue which gives his cheeks a bluish appearance. His eyes are fiery green and they have a popping-out appearance. In some tales he is depicted with a tail, horns and hooves. Sometimes he was described wearing a red scarf and his left shoe on his right foot. He can shape shift into any form, shape or size depending on where he is seen. In the forest he could be a giant but just outside the forest, in the fields, he could be as small as a blade of grass. He casts no shadow and has a horrible cry. When he is in human form, he usually takes the form of a common peasant, except his eyes glow and his shoes are on backwards. He is said to be the Forest Lord and carries a club or a whip to punish the people who mistreats his animals or property.
   His wife is called a Leshachikha and his children are called the Leshanke. He was considered the son of a demon and a human woman.
   He loves and protect the forest animals. His favorable companion with which he held a close bond is the Gray Wolf and many times he is seen in the company of bears.
   He loves to play tricks and games on people especially the hunters and the rich. He mostly left the poor people alone. He would mislead his victim on the wrong path by imitating the voice of a person they knew and eventually the victim would be lead back to where they started. Some tales state that he would lead them to his cave where he would tickle them to death. He would also cause those that he didn't like to be very sick. Another prank of his would be to take signs of the post to confuse people and get them lost. He didn't particular like the wood cutters for sometimes he would hide their axes to stop them from cutting his trees.
   As I said before, he mostly left the poor people and those who respected the forest and the animals alone. He wasn't totally evil, the Leshy would keep cattle from wandering too far and getting lost. Farmers, shepherds and cattle herders would make pacts with the Leshy and in turn he would protect their crops, their sheep and cows. He also would teach them the secrets of magic. Some cow herders would make a pact with him by handing him their crosses from around their necks and sharing their communion with him.
   If you ever were in his territory and you felt that you were becoming a victim of the Leshy then to escape him you had to take your clothes off and put them back on backwards and put your left shoe on your right foot. He then would respect you and let you go. Another way to escape him would be to set the forest on fire. While he is putting out the fire to protect his forest, the you could run away from him. Some people would leave, as an offering to the Leshy, a piece of bread with salt on it. They would leave it at the base of a tree, on some stones or on a stump, before entering the forest.
   So be careful traveling through the grove. Be respectful to the forest and it's inhabitants for if you don't then the Leshy will get you. Make sure you take some bread and salt with you. I bet Hansel and Gretal wish they had done that. LOL

The Lady of the Woods - The Birch Tree

2010-01-25T11:47:00.002-06:00

There are 60 species of Birch through out the world. Some can grow to 80 feet tall and live for 100 years. It takes the Silver Birch 25 years to bear fruit. The national tree of Russia is the Birch. It is here where it is worshiped as a goddess during the Green week which is held in early June. The Birch tree is also special to Finland where is the national symbol.
   There are several folk names for the birch; Beithe, Bereza, Berka, Beth and Bouleau. Three of the Norse Gods have an association with the Birch tree; Frigga, the goddess of married love, goddess of the skies and clouds, Freya and Thor, who made the Birch tree his personal sacred tree.
   Every part of the Birch is edible. The Native Americans and early settlers of the New World used it's sap as a source of sugar. The inner bark can be used as a pain reliever and the leaves used to treat arthritis. The Native Americans used the bark of the Birch for their canoes to travel the lakes and rivers of North America. Also a usage for the bark, because it contains a large amount of resin which makes it resistant to water, was for basket making and for roofing. The charcoal from the Birch was and is still used today to make gunpowder. The lighter twigs were used for thatching roofs, wattle for fences and brooms.
   The Witch's Broom was traditionally made from twigs from the Birch as well as Ash and Willow. The broom was made by tying the Birch twigs around a handle of Ash with strips of Willow. The three together represented the triple goddess. The Ash had an association with water and had command over the four elements. The Birch drew the spirits of the dead into one's service and the Willow allowed communication with the Goddess.
     The Druids considered the tree very sacred. They place the Birch at the start of the Celtic Tree calendar. A Birch can grow on bare soil and it has become the birth of many large forest and groves. The Birch tree has had a long association with fertility and healing magic. Children's cradle were made from Birch wood, because it was thought to protect the child from evil and to bless the child in the beginning of his/her life. If a criminal was caught, then sometimes they were beaten with a limb from the Birch to drive out the evil influences that cause them to commit the crime. Animals and people would be gently whipped by Birch twigs if they were thought to be possessed. This was done to exorcise the evil spirits out.
   Cattle and deer don't like the taste of the Birch so they stayed away from it, but the twigs were used to bestow fertility on the cattle and also newlyweds as well. People would tied a red ribbon around the stem or branch of a Birch to ward off the evil eye. In the ol' country a lot of the Maypoles were often the Birch tree. The Yule logs were usually birch, too. If someone was planning on building a fire but could not find any dry wood to burn, usually use the wood from the Birch because it will burn even when it's wet.
   Coleridge the English poet of 1772 - 1834 called the Silver Birch the "Lady of the Woods" because of the way she gentle sways with the wind as it blows through it's branches.
   If there are any Birch around where you live maybe go to her and ask if she could help you with any healing or blessings, but don't forget to leave her some treats. If not, just sit and watch her sway and dance with the wind. There are some down here on the river where I live and I have stood and watch them several times dancing. It's a peaceful feeling.

"I am" by Spiral Rhythm music video

2010-01-18T22:04:00.001-06:00

I Am by Spiral Rhythmhttp://www.spiralrhythm.net/Members.html

Marion

MySpace Video

The Pendle Witches

2010-01-18T20:32:00.009-06:00

In 1612, at Lancaster gaol, located in the English county of Lancashire, ten men & women were hanged for witchcraft. This is probably one of the most known and famous case of witchcraft in England. The reason that so much was known about them is because the proceedings of the trials and executions were written down by Thomas Potts, who were the clerk of the court at the time. He also wrote a book about the incident. It contains confessions of four of the 'witches' and also very detailed accounts of their crimes.
   There were 13 people total that were accused. They became known as the Pendle Witches. They were believed to have murdered 17 people, by witchcraft, in and around the forest of Pendle.
   Ten of these 13 people lived at Lancaster gaol; Alizon Device, Elisabeth Device, James Device, Anne Whittle whose alias was Chattox, Anne Redferne, Alice Nutter, Katherine Hewitt, John Bulcock, Isobel Robey. They were hanged at Lancaster gaol.
   The other three were; Elizabeth Southerns also known as Demdike. She died in Lancaster gaol awaiting her trail. Jennet Preston, who lived just over the Lancashire border. She was tried in Yorkshire and then hanged at York in the same year of 1612. Magaret Pearson was found guilty at Lancaster but not guilty of murder. She only received a sentence of one year of imprisonment.
   It mostly was about a family feud between two families, who both known to practice witchcraft. The two families were lead by two elders who were known for their strong power in the craft. Demdike who had been friends with Chattox had an argument and they feuded bitterly. No one could understand why such confessions came out of the four who were questioned, except that they were so mad at each other and wanted to 'do each other in.' Torture wasn't used in England to extract confessions out of accused witches. It was only used on the mainland of Europe at the time. Yes, you read that right. I found that in itself amazing.
   As usual, it was said that they sold their souls to familiars, spirits and the devil then they received the power to kill or lame anyone that 'crossed' them. The popular method of killing or cursing someone was to make an ethigy of the intended victim. This figure was known as the 'picture of clay.' The figurine was then crumbled or burned over a period of time which caused the victim to fall ill and even die.
   Alizon Device, James Device, Elizabeth Device and Demdike lived at a place called Malkin Tower. Demdike was in her 80s and their elder ( mother and grandmother). She was known in the area as a very powerful witch.
   As I stated above, the majority of the confessions came from four of the accused; Alizon Device, her brother James Device, their grandmother Demdike and their enemy Chattox.
   The Demdike family consist of Elizabeth Southerns also known as Demdike, Elizabeth Device, her daugther and the mother of James and Alizon Device.
   The Chattox family was Anne Whittle, known as Chattox and her daughter, Anne Redferne.
   The Bulcock family was Jane Bulcock and her son, John Bulcock.
   The other 'witches' were Katherine Hewitt, alias Mouldheels, Alice Nutter, Magaret Pearson, Jennet Preston and Isobel Robey.
   There were 17 victims of these 'witches' and their little feud that they had going on.
   John Device, Hugh and John Moore of Higham, Anne and Robert Nutter were murdered by Chattox.
   Richard Assheton of Downham, a child of Richard Baldwin of Wheathead were victims of Demdike.
   Now together with Elizabeth Device & Alice Nutter, Demdike were accused of murdering a Henry Milton of Roughles.
   The victims of James Device were John Duckworth, Blaze Hargreaves of Higham, John Hargreaves of Goldshaw Booth and also Anne Towneley of Car.
   Elizabeth Device was accused of killing James & John Robinson of Barley.
   Anne Foulds of Coine was murdered by Katherine Hewitt.
   Jennet Preston's victim was a Thomas Lister of Gisburn.
   Anne Redferne's victim was Christopher Nutter.
   I can only imagine the publicity that this was getting during that time, just as the O.J. trail was getting the attention during our time. This had to be the story of the century.
   Even their familiars and spirits were accounted for. Alizon Device had a black dog as her familiar. Elizabeth Device's familiar was called Ball. Dandie was James Device's spirit. Chattox's familiar was called Fancie. Demdike called hers Tibb. Jennet Preston had a white foal as her familiar. I bet that was cool. LOL Magaret Preston's was a cloven-hoofed man.

Even though this story is fascinating, still people were accused of being a
'witch' and they were hanged or murdered themselves. I'm so glad that we don't have to worry about people's fears and ignorance anymore. We don't have to worry about being hanged or burned at the stake anymore. Let's hope those times don't repeat themselves anymore. Let's keep this country free for ALL RELIGIONS for all of our and our children's sakes.

Janus

2010-01-08T20:19:00.001-06:00

Janus was the god of gates, doors, doorways, beginnings and endings. He was also considered the patron of beginnings of human life, new historical ages and economical enterprises. Home entrances, gates, bridges and passages were dedicated to him.
     He was depicted as having two faces or heads, facing in opposite directions. This was to symbolize him being able to look into the future and the past. His two faces or heads were also said to represent the sun and the moon. He had received this gift of seeing into the past and future from the god Saturn for Janus' hospitality.
     Janus was symbolically used to represent changes and transitions of the progression of the past to future, of one condition to another, from one vision to the next and the young people growing into adulthood. Any transitions were thought to be in control of Janus. He also represented even the middle ground between barbarity and civilization, the rural countries and the urban cities. What ever the transition was, he was the middle ground.
     He was worshiped at the beginnings of the harvest and planting times. Marriages and births were his world as well.
     One legend states that when Romulus and his men had kidnapped the Sabine woman, Janus was upset. He caused a volcanic hot spring to erupt. Romulus men were buried alive. Romulus was in awe of Janus' power. In his honor, Romulus built a roofless structure and called it 'the Janus' (not a temple which what it was in reality). It had a front door and a door opposite. The doors were kept opened. During the war, a symbolic contingent of soldiers would march through it's doors. The doors were closed in ceremony when peace was concluded.
     Numa Pompilius not only honored Janus with naming a month after him, but also built a structure in his honor. The lamus gemimus or Janus Bifrons was a passage that was ritually opened at times of war and shut again when the Roman army would rest. It was a walled enclosure with gates at each end. It was situated in the Roman forum which was consecrated by Numa. In the time of war, the gates of the Janus were opened and in it's interior sacrifices were held to forecast how the outcome of the war would be. The doors were closed during peace time which was very rare. It is recorded that during the times of the Roman Empire, it was closed only 5 times. Augustus and Nero both loved to advertise the idea of universal peace. They closed the Janus during their reigns.
     Through time and many re-written legends these two structures were thought to be the one and the same.
     Janus can be called upon when a troubled teenager is going through some hard times adjusting into being an adult. He can also be called upon to protect your homes or your property by dedicating the doorways, gates, driveways and entrances to your home or property. He can also be your support during times of transition between marriage or divorce or any transition in your life that can/could be hard for you.

The Origin of January

2010-01-08T19:26:00.000-06:00

January is named after the two headed god, Janus. He was considered the god of the doorway. The name origin can be traced back to Roman mythology. It comes from the Latin word ianua meaning door. January is considered the door to the new year. The word janitor can also be traced to the god Janus.
     In Finnish, the month is called tammikuu, meaning the month of the oak, but the original meaning was the month of the heart of winter.
     In Czech, this month is called leden, meaning appropriately the ice month.
     January became the first month of the year in 700 BC. The Roman king, Numa Pompilus added it and Feb. to the calendar. He also moved the start of the year from March to January.
     The Saxons called the month 'wulf-month; meaning the month of the wolf.

2010-01-07T20:28:00.000-06:00

I want to apologize to the readers because

I haven't written anything here

lately. It's been busy around

here.

Please forgive me.

I will try tomorrow, Friday, Jan. 8th.

Blessings,

Grannulus

Happy New Year

2010-01-01T01:38:00.004-06:00

I just wanted to say Happy New Year to all the readers & followers of

Grannulus' Grove.

Since Sept. I have enjoyed writing and sharing apart of myself and

at the same time learning & growing as well.

I appreciate the opportunity to be able to do this.

Since Sept., Grannulus' Grove has had 216 hits and I think that's

awesome.

I hope that all who comes here enjoy what they see and takes a little

with them when they leave.

Blessings As Always,

Grannulus

Father Time

2009-12-29T02:02:00.001-06:00

Well, the year 2009 is almost past and the year 2010 is about to begin. What does the new year have for us?
     The popular figure that is usually use to represent the old year is a figure called Father Time. He is usually represent as an old man with a long white beard, dressed in a long robe, carrying a scythe or a sickle and sometimes also holding a hour glass. Where did this figure come from?
     He can be traced back to the god Chronos, not to be confused with the Titan Cronus. He is said to be the representation of time itself. In some Greco-Roman mosaices, he is pictured as turning the Zodiac Wheel and is often named Aeon meaning Eternal Time. In some traditions he is also called the Father of the Horae ( Hours ). He was the second primordial god to be created He controls the past, present and future of everything. Without Chronos the other Greek gods would not have ever been made. Chronos is sometimes picture as an old wise man with a long beard. His name in modern Greek also means "year".
     Another figure that Father Time origins can be traced back to is the Roman deity of time, Saturn. He was also an ancient Italian corn god known as the Sower. His favorite weapon of choice was the scythe or sickle. He was honored by the Romans at Midwinter festival called Saturnalia.
     Saturn's flint sickle represents the harvest of the crops; last year's crops getting the fields ready for the following year's crops. Time can be seen as a harvester of the 'crops' either of days of the past or for the days of the future. Time can be a teacher of many lessons that we have experienced in the past days or years. We can take the time to reflect on the purpose of these lessons and see how they affected our life. This is how we learn and grow therefore time can be the harvester of our 'crops' and prepare us (the fields) for next year's crops.
     Sometimes Father Time is seen with a hour glass which can be seen to symbolize the flow of time as both a destructive and constructive effect. His decrepit body and long, white beard can be considered a reminder that time itself is a devourer of all things. Nothing can escape time, but the gift of time is the serenity and the wisdom that are harvested only though the experience living of a long life. The downward flow of the sand in the hour glass is balanced by the upward flow of the spirit. The loss of the body's vitality is balanced by the increasing wisdom of the spirit and the mind.
     Some see time as something that is dreaded but it is also something that we can look forward to. Think of all the lessons that we have learned in the past year, 2009, and the ones that we are going to learn in the next year, 2010, that will make us stronger and wiser.
     Yesterday is the past. It's gone. Can never be regain and not to be regetted. Tomorrow is not promised but it is something to look forward to with a song in your spirit and a lift in your step. Today is a gift and that's why it's called the present. Unwrap it and enjoy it!
     Father Time can be considerd a teacher for us.

The Christmas Tree

2009-12-22T19:06:00.003-06:00

The tradition of bringing in a fir or evergreen tree inside the home to decorate it for Christmas is a Christian tradition, but the folklore and traditions of the evergreen associated with the Winter Solstice or Yule is truly pagan.
   The pagans honored a many variations of trees through their myths, lores and traditions. During the Winter months, the evergreen was held in high honor for when everything else was brittle, bare and dark, the evergreen was still green. It represented the eternal life even in the darkest times; that life continued on. Most pagans didn't like cutting down the tree. Some considered it taboo to even cut one down, but they did bring into their homes the sprigs and branches of the evergreen to decorate their homes.
   During the Roman celebration of the feast of Saturnalia, the Romans decorated their homes with the clippings of the evergreen shrubs. They would also decorate the living trees with pieces of metal and images of their god. The Romans are said to be the ones that started the tradition of decorating their homes with the evergreen. They did this in honor of their god Adonia.
   Even the Egyptians decorated their homes during the Winter Solstice not with evergreens but with the palm tree which to them represented eternal life and resurrection.
   The ancient Germanic people would tie fruit and attach candles to the evergreen branches in honor of their god Odin or Woden. The candles would also represent the coming of the sun and also would be light in the promise of the Sun King returning again. Apples and other fruits were hung on the tree to represent the plentiful food to come. The trees were also decorated with roses and colored paper.
   Now the idea of bringing the tree indoors and decorating it for Christmas is credited to Martin Luther. Around the 1500, he went for an early morning walk on Christmas Eve. As he was walking he noticed a group of evergreens glistening in the moon light because of the snow that was on the branches. He was awe stuck at the beauty. When he got home, he set up a fir tree indoors so he could share the story with his children. He then decorated it with candles, which he said represented the Christ child and the light that he brought into the world. The candles were also said to represent the stars in the night sky over Bethlehem with the tree topper star as the Star of Bethlehem.
   The idea of the Christmas tree was said to been brought to England by Queen Victoria's husband, Prince Albert who was from Germany.
   The tradition of the Christmas tree that was started by Martin Luther was probably brought over to America during the Revolutionary War with the Hessian troops and also with the German immigrants to Pennsylvania and Ohio.
   During the beginnings of the United States, the English Puritans was against Christmas and anything connected to the holiday because of the pagan connections that it had.
   In 1851, Pastor Henry Schwan of Cleveland, OH decorated the first Christmas tree in an American church. He was condemned and even his life was threatened because of this.
   Through lots of my research I found a lot of Christian traditions to the origin of the Christmas tree. I do decorate a tree for Christmas or should I say Yule, but I decorate it with dragons, fairies, animals, pine cones and my tree topper is a wizard. I try to re-claim the tradition after all no matter what they say.... we, the Pagans started it.

2009-12-22T17:41:00.003-06:00

The Norse connection

2009-12-22T17:31:00.002-06:00

We all know of the famous jolly figure that roams our night sky at Christmas Eve this time of the year. Many of us know of the connection that he has to St. Nicholas, but can you recall....... the Norse connection. I almost broke into song just then. LOL
   Anyhow, our Santa Claus has it's begins with the folklore and traditions of the pagans of the North, the Norse. Some stories are quite interesting.
   Santa Claus was known as Father Christmas and became a part of the greater European folklore around the 1950s, but earlier than that, he was quite different. His origins steeped in Viking and Norse lore. Britain was largely a Saxon stronghold. Christianity was having it's own troubles at the time. A lot of people think that Christianity took hold of Britain very swift, but it different. It took many years to take root. It was still unknown and isolated from Europe's mainstream. After the Norman invasion in 1066, the oaths that were taken were commonly sworn as "By God and by Odin." King Frost, Father Time or King Winter were known and welcomed by the Saxons. Someone would represented him by wearing a fine hat or crown and then would go from house to house. He would then be brought to the fireside, tell stories and share in the meals. The Saxons believed that by welcoming the figure the element Winter would be less frighten and harsh for them.
   The Vikings came along and brought with them their god Odin. Odin was considered the Father of the Gods. December was known as Yalka or Jul. Odin's month was known as Jultid, this is where we get Yuletide or Yule. At Yule or Winter Solstice, the Vikings believed Odin would come to earth riding his eight legged horse, Sleipner. He was thought or shown to be dressed in a long blue, hooded cloak and he carried a satchel of bread and a staff in his hand. He had two companions with him, two ravens, Huginn and Munin, who would inform him on what was going on.
   Sleipner with his 8 legs represented the number of transformation. The two ravens, Huginn and Munin, represented Thought and Memory. The spear that he carried never missed it's target. It was named, Gungner which represented Clear and Focus Tent. Yes, there is a 'lesson' here. LOL
   When Odin came to earth he was suppose to join groups who were huddled around their fires and hearths. He would sit in the background, listening to all that was going on and to see who was 'good' and who was 'bad'. He was also listening to see who was content and who wasn't. Occasionally he would leave a gift of bread at the poor homesteads.
   Also at Yule, it was thought that Odin lead a great hunting party through the sky with other gods and honored warriors who had came to Valhalla. Children were place their boots near the fireplace or chimney for Oden's flying horse. They would put inside the boots things like carrots, straw or sugar for Sleipner to eat. Odin would then reward their kindness by replacing Sleipner's food with gifts of candy and toys.
   Another Norse god that could have something to do with the beginnings of Santa Claus was Thor. He was the God of Thunder. He was thought to have a long white beard and wore red, representing his element fire. He rode in a chariot being pulled by 2 white goats known as Cracker and Gnasher. His palace was located in the 'northland' or north pole. He was friendly and cheerful. He had the utmost respect among the common folk for it was them that he loved and carried for. Many Norse traditions taught that he would come down the chimney into the fire to visit the household.
   Jultomten or the Tomte/Nisse was another figure who could have loan his characteristics to the legend of Santa Claus. Again this is a Norse figure of Viking lore. He was gnome who lived on the farms. In his beginnings he was known as the Tomte. In ancient times, he was known as the 'soul' of the first inhabiter of the farm. He was usually described as a short man under 4 feet tall, wearing a red cap with a tassel. He wore the hunters' or farmers' winter clothes; a brown jacket and brown trousers. He would take care of the farmers' home and children. He would protect them, including the livestock, while they slept. There are many stories concerning the Tomte finishing the work on a barn or house when the workers would take a lunch break. People would still hammering and banging through-out the nights and they would say that the Tomte was still working. He was kind to the livestock and took well care of them. You could tell which horse he would favor because it would be more healthier than the rest. Even though he was real small, he had immense strength and was a big help around the farmstead.
   Although he was considered kind to the farmer's family and livestock, he was very easily to offend. If the farmer treated his family wrong or didn't take care of the livestock or was lazy on the work that needed to be done around the farm, he would get very angry. He would run around box your ears, kick you, turning over mail pails or teasing the livestock by maybe tying the cows' tails in knots. The family would leave him a bowl of porridge on Christmas night with a pad of butter on top. That's the way he likes it. If he doesn't get it, he throws a fit. One story told of a man who placed the butter under the porridge. The Tomte was very upset and went around ruining the farmer.
   Through-out time stories were re-written or re-told and he became known as the jultomte, who would bring gifts in a sleigh driven by the 2 goats of Thor. He then wore a red suit and a cap, carrying a bulging sack on his back. He would bring the good kids gifts and he would punish the bad kids.
   So we owe the Norse for our famous hero at this time of the year, Santa Claus. There are many more traditions and figures who attributed to the sleigh riding figure such as St. Nicholas, but I figured I would concentrate on his pagan beginnings and I found it interesting and learned a lot. I hope you did as well.

Joy to the World - Wiccan version

2009-12-13T23:59:00.000-06:00

Burning the Yule Log

2009-12-13T22:28:00.002-06:00

Today this symbol of an ancient tradition has become a term meaning a cake that's baked around this time of the year in the shape of a log with maybe holly or poinsettia on top, but I'm not talking about a cake.
   The tradition of having and burning a real Yule log is an ancient tradition dating back to the Druids. Different areas of England, Germany, France, and the Netherlands have their own traditions to the Yule log. In the North East of England it was commonly called a Yule clog. In the Midlands and the West Country the term was Yule Block
   The Yule log has been associated having its origins in Germanic paganism. It was a large wooden log which is burned in a hearth, either in the community or privately in the household.   It was an entire whole trunk of a tree which was cut on Candlemas ( Feb 2 ) and dried all year long. It was brought in a household by a group of males who, for the task, would get free beer from the farmer's wife. The log was of the Oak tree. The fire that was used to burn the Yule log was started from a piece of the log that had been burned the previous year. The log's role was to bring prosperity and protection from evil.
   Druids would pray that the oak would flame, like the sun forever. After the burning, it's ashes were thought to bring good luck and protection into the household. It was considered bad luck if the fire went out before New Years.
   In Southern France, people put the log on the fire for the first time on Christmas Eve and then continued to burn it a-little bit each day until the twelfth night (Jan. 5th).

If the ashes or any part of the burned Yule log was kept under the bed, it will protect the house from fire and thunder. It would also prevent those who live there from getting chilblains on their heels in the winter. The unburned remains are also believed to cure cattle diseases and to help cows deliver calves. If you scatter the ashes over the fields it will save the wheat from mildew.

Note from Grannulus

2009-12-10T19:48:00.002-06:00

I appreciate all those that have visited and viewed my blog. I really do enjoy the writing and sharing. If you like what you see on here and wish to leave a comment please do so. You can send me an email, Grannulus1@yahoo.com under the subject line of: Blog Comment. I will not share your email address. I will be sure to post and share it here on my blog.
  I know that under each article is a comment link but some people has told me that it won't allow them to leave a comment, that's why I'm offering another way for my visitors to leave a comment..
  So please do so if you wish. Also if you have any ideas on how I can improve my blog, then please by all means email me.
  Blessings As Always,
   Grannulus

Silent Night ( a Pagan's perspective)

2009-12-10T19:30:00.001-06:00

Mistletoe

2009-12-10T19:11:00.003-06:00

Among the many decorations that we use during these holidays, the Mistletoe is the most popular. Many home owners will hang the mistletoe somewhere in their doorways hoping to catch some unsuspected victim.
   The Mistletoe is a semi-parasitic plant which means it does grow attached to and within the branches of a tree or shrub, but it can live on it's own. The word 'mistletoe' can be related to the German word mist meaning dung and tang for branch, since the Mistletoe is known to be spread in the feces of birds moving from tree to tree.
   The most popular usage for the Mistletoe is when two people are caught underneath a branch or sprig of Mistletoe, hanging from above, has to kiss. This custom can be traced back to a Scandinavian origin.
   In Norse mythology, Balder was a god of vegetation . His mother, who was Frigga, had a dream of the death of her son. Worried about her son, she made every plant, animal and inanimate object promise not to ever harm Balder. Frigga accidentally overlooked the small Mistletoe plant. The mischievous god Loki who knew of this mistake took advantage of this for he didn't like Balder. He tricked the blind god, Hoor, into killing Balder with a spear which was made from the Mistletoe. Of course Balder died and then the world went into the season of winter until the gods restored him to life.
   Frigga declared the Mistletoe sacred, ordering that from now on it should bring love rather than death into the world.

   The Mistletoe growing in an Oak tree was considered sacred and powerful to the Druids. On the 6th night of the moon, dressed in white, Druids would meet underneath an oak which had the Mistletoe growing within it's branches. Somewould stand at the bottom of the tree holding a white cloth, while another would climb the tree, then cut the Mistletoe with a gold sickle. The ones holding the white cloth would catch the Mistletoe, preventing it from touching the ground. The Mistletoe wasn't allowed to touch the ground for it may loose it's power and enchantment. Two white bulls then would be sacrificed while prayers were being said. Then the Mistletoe was broken and handed out to different recipients, spreading the blessings to their homes or used in incantations, herbal remedies or rituals.
   Many uses of the Mistletoe by the Druids were lost because the Druids did not believe their teachings should be written down. Then the Romans came along and kill a lot of the Druids therefore a lot of sacred knowledge was lost with their deaths. The Mistletoe is a poisonous plant especially the berries. The Druids were considered a pro when it came to handling the Mistletoe. The white berries some say were the seamen of the Gods. It was considered to bestow life and fertility, a protection against poison and an aphrodisiac.  When Balder died it was said that when Frigga cried her tears landed on the mistletoe creating the white berries.
   Mistletoe was regarded as a sexual symbol and the soul of the oak tree. It was gathered both midsummer and winter solstices. The use of decorating homes at Christmas is a tradition that was a survival of the Druids and other pre-Christian traditions.
   During the Middle Ages, branches of Mistletoe were hung from ceilings to ward off evil spirits. Around Europe, they were hanged over doorways, windows and in the stables to prevent the entrance of evil. It was also believed that the Mistletoe from an oak tree could extinguish fire.
   It was a tradition that if enemies were feuding or battling and they met underneath a tree with Mistletoe in it, they were required to lay down their weapons and declare a truce until the following day.
   In Rome, the Mistletoe played an important role in the Saturnalia festivals which were held during the Yule season to celebrate the birth of Saturn.
   Of course the Christians had to get their hands in the action. An old Christian tradition said that the Mistletoe was once a tree that furnished the wood from the cross that Jesus was hung on. After the Crucifixion, the tree shriveled and became a dwarfed parasitic plant. The Mistletoe was ashamed. Imagine that!

2009-12-03T17:39:00.003-06:00