#African Goddesses & African Mythology Guide

[reasoningdaily]

African Gods, African Goddesses & African Mythology Guide – Culture Bay

The vibrant lore of African deities and mythology contributes greatly to the richness of cultural traditions. The pantheon plays a pivotal role in African culture, embodying the values, beliefs, and customs of various communities. It's more than just deities; it's a reflection of societal norms and historical narratives.

The diversity within the African pantheon further enhances its depth, offering unique insights into different ethnic groups across the continent. This starter guide aims to give you an overview of this fascinating aspect of African culture that continues to shape identities and influence contemporary thought.

Table Of Contents

Key Takeaways

The Origins and Diversity of African Mythology

Prominent Deities in African Mythology

The Diversity of Beings in African Mythology

Beauty and Significance of African Mythology

Exploring Yoruba Mythology and Deities

Ancestral Spirits and Nature Beings Across Africa

The Influence of African Gods on the Diaspora

Moral Teachings and Aesthetic Expressions in African Myths

Syncretism in African Diaspora Religions

Cosmic Tales and Creation Myths in Africa

Oral Tradition and Storytelling in African Mythology

North, South, East, and West: Diversity of African Folklore

The Impact of Egyptian Mythology on African Beliefs

Exploring Bantu and Kuba Creation Myths

Santeria: A Deeper Dive into Afro-Caribbean Faiths

Exploring Afro-Brazilian and Haitian Vodou Deities

The Mysteries of Oshun, Nana Buluku, and Oya

Understanding the Powers of Shango, Obatala, and Olokun

Exploring the Stories of Yemoja, Elegua, and Babalú-Ayé

Pan-African Historical Legends: A Comparative Study

Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Takeaways

African mythology is a rich tapestry of tales and teachings, with each region offering unique deities and spirits that reflect the continent's immense cultural diversity.

The Orishas of the Yoruba tradition, such as Oshun and Shango, are central figures that embody various aspects of life and nature, and their stories provide valuable insights into Yoruba beliefs and values.

Ancestral spirits play a critical role across many African cultures, emphasizing the importance of lineage, respect for elders, and the interconnectedness of the living and the spiritual realms.

Understanding the impact of African gods on the diaspora reveals how these mythologies have adapted and survived through syncretism in religions like Santeria and Vodou, especially in the Caribbean and South America.

Anansi the Trickster is a key figure in African folklore whose stories underscore the significance of intelligence and cunning over brute strength, teaching moral lessons that resonate across various African societies.

The oral tradition remains a vital part of African mythology, ensuring the preservation and transmission of these stories through generations, which continue to influence modern culture, art, and religious practices.

The Origins and Diversity of African Mythology

Historical Roots of African Mythology

The intricate web of African mythology has its roots in the very beginnings of civilization. These mythologies, deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric, were a way for early societies to make sense of their world and existence.

The myths served as moral compasses, guiding people through life's challenges and uncertainties.

Take for instance, the Yoruba tribe in West Africa. Their mythology revolves around a pantheon of gods and goddesses, each responsible for different aspects of life. One such deity is Olorun, the sky god believed to have created the universe.

Variety in Myths Across Different Regions

Moving from one region to another within Africa reveals a diverse array of myths. This diversity is reflective not just of geographical boundaries but also distinct ethnic groups and cultures.

In North Africa, Egyptian mythology holds sway with its famous gods like Ra (the Sun God) and Isis (the Goddess of Magic). Meanwhile, southern Africa has its own unique set including Mukuru - revered by the Himba people as an ancestor spirit who intervenes on behalf of humans.

Influence Of Geography On Mythological Narratives

Geography plays a significant role in shaping these mythologies. From river valleys to arid deserts, every landscape has influenced local myths in one way or another.

Consider how Nile River shaped Egyptian mythology. The annual flooding was attributed to Hapi - the god of inundation – ensuring fertile lands for agriculture.

Similarly, among the Maasai tribes inhabiting East Africa’s savannahs, Enkai is worshipped as both sun and fertility god – demonstrating how geography influences divine attributions.

Prominent Deities in African Mythology

Key Gods and Goddesses in Africa

Africa is rich with numerous gods and goddesses, each playing a significant role in the life of their believers. Among them, Amun-Ra, the creator god of ancient Egypt, stands out prominently. He was worshipped as the king of gods and symbolizes creation.

Anansi, another key deity from West Africa, is renowned for his wisdom. Often depicted as a spider, he is associated with storytelling and trickery. In Yoruba mythology from Nigeria, Oshun is revered as the goddess of love, fertility and rivers.

Roles and Significance of These Deities

Each African god or goddess holds a unique role within their respective cultures. For instance, Amun-Ra was considered the supreme power responsible for creating everything in existence. His significance extended beyond spiritual beliefs into political realms; Pharaohs often claimed to be his descendants to legitimize their rule.

In contrast to Amun-Ra's grandeur, Anansi plays a more down-to-earth role as a cultural hero. His stories are used to teach morals and social values to children.

Oshun's importance lies in her connection with fertility and prosperity. She provides hope for childless couples and blesses them with offspring.

Unique Attributes Associated With Each Deity

Each deity possesses unique attributes that distinguish them from others. Amun-Ra embodies duality; he represents both hidden (Amun) and visible (Ra) aspects of life.

Anansi’s primary attribute is intelligence; his cunning ways make him an interesting character in folk tales.

Oshun personifies love and beauty; she manifests through sweet waters like rivers or streams where devotees perform rituals to seek her blessings.

The Diversity of Beings in African Mythology

African mythology is rich with a variety of beings, each with unique characteristics and roles in the natural and supernatural worlds. These beings often serve as deities, spirits, and creatures in African folklore, shaping the cultural and religious beliefs of various African tribes and communities. Here, we explore some of the most prominent types of beings in African mythology.

Gods and Goddesses

In African mythology, gods and goddesses are the supreme beings who rule over the universe. They are often associated with natural elements like the sun, moon, earth, and water. Notable gods include Amun-Ra, the Egyptian sun god; Olorun, the Yoruba god of the sky; and Mawu, the Ewe goddess of the earth and moon.

Ancestral Spirits

Ancestral spirits are revered in African mythology as they are believed to have a direct influence on the lives of the living. They are often invoked for guidance, protection, and blessings. An example of this is the veneration of ancestors in the Zulu tradition.

Nature Spirits

These are spirits associated with natural elements such as rivers, mountains, trees, and animals. They are believed to inhabit these elements and can either bring fortune or misfortune. The Yoruba river goddess Yemoja and the Igbo earth goddess Ala are examples of nature spirits.

Mythical Creatures

African mythology is replete with mythical creatures, often embodying both human and animal traits. These include the Anansi, a trickster spider from Akan mythology; the Sphinx, a creature with a human head and a lion's body from Egyptian mythology; and the Mokele-mbembe, a dinosaur-like creature from Congo River basin folklore.

Demonic Beings

In the realm of African myth, entities symbolizing wickedness or bad luck are prevalent. One such example is the Tikoloshe, a small water spirit resembling a dwarf.

Beauty and Significance of African Mythology

The allure of African mythology is in its elaborate mix of narratives, figures, and mythical features. These lively stories do more than just amuse; they teach valuable lessons about life, ethics, and our environment.

Aesthetic Expressions in Myths

The myths play a significant role in shaping aesthetic expressions. The narratives inspire various forms of art such as sculpture, painting, and dance. For instance:

Sculptures often depict gods and goddesses from mythology.

Dance routines are choreographed to tell the story of a particular myth.

Paintings portray scenes from these myths.

These artistic representations bring to life the beauty inherent in African mythology. They provide a visual narrative that complements oral storytelling while adding an extra layer of appreciation for the depth and complexity of these myths.

Moral Teachings within Communities

African mythology is an important tool for moral instruction within communities. These stories often contain lessons on virtues like honesty, bravery, kindness, and respect for elders. For example:

The Yoruba god Shango teaches about justice and wrath.

Anansi the spider from Akan mythology emphasizes wisdom and cunningness.

Maasai's lion-god Nemele teaches about bravery.

Through these stories, children learn about good behavior while adults are reminded of their responsibilities towards society.

To See The CHART click the title to visit the page directly

Exploring Yoruba Mythology and Deities

Overview of Yoruba Mythology

Yoruba mythology is a rich tapestry of tales, beliefs, and traditions. Originating from the Yoruba people in West Africa, it has influenced cultures worldwide.

The Yorubas believe in a pantheon of gods and goddesses, each governing different aspects of life. These mythical beings are revered for their divine powers and wisdom.

For instance, Ogun, known as the god of iron and warfare, symbolizes strength and courage. His influence extends to professions that involve metalwork like blacksmithing and surgery.

Similarly, Osanyin is another important figure in Yoruba mythology. As the god of herbal medicine, he represents healing and protection against diseases.

Key Figures in Yoruba Pantheon

In addition to Ogun and Osanyin, other key figures populate the Yoruba pantheon. One such figure is Oduduwa.

Oduduwa holds a special place as he's considered the progenitor of all Yorubas. He's associated with creation myths where he descended from heaven to create the earth at Ile-Ife, now regarded as the spiritual home of all Yorubas.

Another notable deity is Oya. She's revered as a goddess who governs winds and storms—a symbol of drastic change.

Moreover, divination plays an essential role in connecting with these deities. It involves rituals where priests interpret signs or symbols to reveal divine messages or prophecies.

Cultural Impact of Yoruba Myths

Yoruba myths have left an indelible mark on various cultures globally through migration and diaspora communities—especially in countries like Brazil, Cuba, Trinidad & Tobago where African religions mixed with Christianity led to syncretic faiths like Candomblé or Santería where many African gods found new identities.

For instance, in Brazil's Candomblé religion, Ogun is syncretized with Saint George—both sharing attributes of a warrior. Similarly, Osanyin is often associated with Saint Joseph or Saint Sebastian, reflecting their shared association with healing and protection.

Yoruba mythology also significantly influences art, music, and literature. For example, Nigerian author Wole Soyinka's works often incorporate Yoruba myths and legends.

Ancestral Spirits and Nature Beings Across Africa

The Role of Ancestral Spirits

Ancestral spirits hold a significant place in many African cultures. These entities, often deceased family members, are believed to influence the daily lives of the living. They provide guidance, protection, and blessings to their descendants.

For instance, in Saharan Africa, ancestral spirits are revered and consulted for wisdom during important decision-making.

The belief in these spirits is deeply ingrained in African societies. It transcends generations and forms an integral part of their cultural identity.

Their presence is felt through rituals that honor them - from simple offerings at home altars to grand festivals celebrated community-wide.

Nature Beings and Environment Connection

In addition to ancestral spirits, nature beings also feature prominently in African mythology. These beings embody natural elements like rivers, mountains, trees, or animals. They symbolize the intimate connection between humans and their environment.

Nature beings are considered guardians of specific natural elements they represent. For example, a river deity would be responsible for maintaining the balance of aquatic life within its domain.

These entities remind people of their duty towards environmental conservation. By venerating nature beings, communities show respect for nature itself - preserving forests as sacred groves or protecting certain animal species seen as incarnations of these deities.

Rituals Associated with Spirits and Nature Beings

Rituals form an essential aspect of engaging with both ancestral spirits and nature beings across Africa. They range from personal prayers at home shrines to elaborate ceremonies involving music, dance, sacrifices, or processions.

For instance, during harvest season in many agricultural societies across Africa, rituals are performed to thank the ancestral spirits for bountiful crops while seeking blessings for future harvests.

Similarly, before embarking on a fishing expedition or hunting trip - activities closely linked with survival - people might offer prayers or sacrifices to nature deities seeking success and safety.

The Influence of African Gods on the Diaspora

Migration and the Spread of African Mythology

The migration of Africans, forced or voluntary, to different parts of the world had a significant impact on the spread of African mythology.

People carried their beliefs with them, including stories about their gods and goddesses. These narratives found new homes in various corners of the globe, from the Americas to Europe.

For example, during the transatlantic slave trade, enslaved Africans brought their religious practices to North and South America.

Over time, these practices evolved into unique belief systems like Vodou in Haiti and Candomblé in Brazil. Both religions feature African gods known as Loa (Vodou) or Orishas (Candomblé).

Adaptation of African Gods in New Cultural Contexts

In new environments, these deities adapted to resonate with local cultures. This fusion resulted in hybrid forms that retained core elements from Africa while integrating aspects from other influences.

In Cuba, for instance, Yoruba gods became syncretized with Catholic saints due to colonial pressures. Thus Santería was born - a religion where Yemaya (a Yoruba goddess) is associated with Our Lady of Regla and Ogun (a Yoruba god) corresponds to Saint Peter.

These adaptations allowed diaspora communities to preserve their ancestral beliefs covertly under oppressive regimes while also making these traditions accessible and relevant within their new cultural contexts.

Continuity and Change in Diaspora Beliefs

Despite these changes, there's a remarkable continuity within diaspora beliefs. The reverence for ancestors remains central across many Afro-diasporic religions today as it was back in Africa.

Simultaneously though, some alterations have been inevitable due to geographical separation from the continent and interaction with other cultures.

For example, Oya is a Yoruba goddess associated with rivers in West Africa but she's linked with the wind and cemeteries in Cuban Santería.

Another change is the increased prominence of certain deities. In Africa, Eshu was a relatively minor Yoruba deity but in diaspora practices like Vodou and Candomblé, he's become a central figure as Legba or Exu who controls access to all other gods.

These shifts reflect the resilience and dynamism of African mythology within the diaspora. They testify to its ability to maintain core principles while adapting to new circumstances.

Moral Teachings and Aesthetic Expressions in African Myths

Ethical Lessons Derived from Myths

African mythology is rich with moral teachings. These ethical lessons are often communicated through stories featuring gods, goddesses, and other mythical creatures.

For instance, the Yoruba people of Nigeria tell tales of Esu, a trickster god who teaches the importance of truthfulness and fairness. In one story, Esu tricks two friends into breaking their bond by spreading lies about each other. The lesson here is that trust should not be easily broken based on hearsay.

Similarly, the Akan people of Ghana have a spider god called Anansi who often finds himself in tricky situations due to his greediness. Through Anansi's mistakes, listeners learn about the consequences of excessive greed and selfishness.

Artistic Representations Inspired by Mythology

Art has always been an integral part of African culture and mythology plays a significant role in inspiring artistic expressions.

For example, the Dogon people of Mali create masks representing their gods for ceremonial dances. These masks are intricately designed and painted to capture the essence of each deity.

In addition to physical art forms like sculpture and painting, African myths also inspire music and dance performances. The Zulu people of South Africa perform dances dedicated to their ancestors during religious ceremonies as a form of worship.

The influence extends beyond Africa too; many contemporary artists around the world draw inspiration from African myths for their work.

Intersection Between Aesthetics and Spirituality

In African cultures, there is often no separation between aesthetics (art) and spirituality (religion). They intersect at various points creating a unique blend that shapes societal norms.

Take for example body art practices such as scarification or tattooing which are common in many African tribes like Nuba in Sudan or Yoruba in Nigeria. These markings are not just beautification tools but are deeply rooted in spiritual beliefs about protection and identity.

Similarly, African architecture often reflects spiritual beliefs. The houses of the Musgum people in Cameroon are shaped like shells, symbolizing the life-giving properties of water and fertility goddesses.

Syncretism in African Diaspora Religions

This section explores the fusion of traditional beliefs with foreign religions, examples of syncretic practices in diaspora communities, and the impact of syncretism on religious identity.

The Fusion of Beliefs

The term 'syncretism' refers to the blending or merging of different religious practices. In the context of African diaspora religions, it is often seen as a survival strategy.

During the Atlantic slave trade, enslaved Africans were forcibly converted to Christianity. However, Africans managed to retain elements of their indigenous religions by fusing them with Christian beliefs and practices.

This fusion resulted in unique syncretic religions such as Vodou in Haiti, Santeria in Cuba, and Candomble in Brazil.

For instance, many African gods and goddesses found parallels within Catholic saints. Yemaya, an Orisha (god) from Yoruba religion associated with motherhood and rivers was syncretized with Our Lady of Charity in Santeria. Similarly, Ogun - god of iron and war - was equated to Saint Peter who holds the keys to heaven.

Syncretic Practices in Diaspora Communities

In diaspora communities today, these syncretic practices continue to thrive. Rituals often include elements from both African traditional religion and Christianity.

For example, practitioners may invoke both Orishas (African gods) and Catholic saints during ceremonies.

In Haitian Vodou rituals for instance, songs are sung not only for Lwa (spirits akin to deities), but also for Virgin Mary or Jesus Christ. An altar might display Catholic icons alongside objects symbolizing African gods.

Moreover, there are special days dedicated to specific Orishas which coincide with feast days of corresponding saints. On these occasions devotees participate in elaborate ceremonies involving music, dance and animal sacrifices – a practice rooted deeply into African traditions.

Impact on Religious Identity

Syncretism has had a profound impact on religious identity among African diaspora communities.

It provided a way for enslaved Africans to maintain their cultural heritage under oppressive conditions. Today, it serves as a bridge between the past and present, connecting individuals with their ancestral roots.

However, syncretism also poses challenges. The blending of beliefs can lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations about the nature of African gods and goddesses.

It may also cause tension between traditional practitioners and those who follow syncretic practices.

Cosmic Tales and Creation Myths in Africa

African Creation Myths: An Overview

African creation myths are as diverse as the continent itself. Each region, each tribe carries a unique story of how life began, often intertwined with natural phenomena and celestial bodies.

For instance, the Dogon people of Mali believe that all life originated from a single grain of sand flung into space by the god Amma.

The Role of Cosmic Entities in African Narratives

In these narratives, cosmic entities often play significant roles. They're not just characters but symbolic representations of complex ideas about existence and morality.

Take for example the Yoruba deity Olorun who is associated with the sun and sky. Olorun is considered the source of life, embodying notions of warmth, vitality, light, and guidance.

In another instance, consider the Zulu myth where Unkulunkulu (the first man) emerged from an 'uthlanga', or reed. Here reeds symbolize fertility and continuity - vital elements to human survival.

The Universe According to African Mythology

African mythology offers fascinating interpretations of the universe too. In many traditions, Earth is seen as a woman giving birth to all forms of life while Sky is viewed as her husband or partner.

For example, among the Kikuyu people in Kenya, Ngai (God) resides on Mount Kenya which they consider to be God's throne on earth. This mountain represents an umbilical cord connecting humanity with their Creator.

The San people in Southern Africa view stars as ancestors watching over them. This belief instills a sense of unity between humans and cosmos where every individual has a role to play in maintaining cosmic harmony.

Oral Tradition and Storytelling in African Mythology

The Significance of Oral Tradition

Oral tradition plays a crucial role in preserving myths in African culture. It is through this method that the tales of African gods, goddesses, and mythology have been kept alive for centuries.

The griot tradition, a West African practice where designated storytellers preserve historical narratives and genealogies, exemplifies the importance of oral storytelling.

In societies without written languages, oral traditions are the primary means to pass down cultural knowledge.

For instance, traditional beliefs about African gods and goddesses often exist in folklore passed down through generations orally.

Techniques Utilized in Storytelling

African storytelling employs several techniques to engage listeners effectively. Repetition is a common feature; it reinforces the story's message and makes it easier for listeners to remember.

Proverbs, riddles, songs, and dance are also incorporated into these stories to make them more engaging.

Storytellers sometimes use physical objects like masks or puppets as visual aids during their narratives. These objects not only enhance the entertainment factor but also serve as symbolic representations within the stories themselves.

Moreover, interactive storytelling is prevalent in Africa. Audience participation is encouraged whereby listeners respond to certain parts of the story or repeat phrases after the storyteller. This interaction fosters a sense of community while reinforcing key aspects of the narrative.

Community's Role in Sustaining Oral Traditions

The community plays an indispensable role in perpetuating oral traditions. In many cases, everyone has a part to play - from young children learning their first tales to elders who carry vast amounts of traditional knowledge.

These stories are often shared during communal gatherings such as festivals or ceremonies where multiple generations come together. By participating actively in these events, individuals learn about their cultural heritage while contributing towards its preservation.

For example, griots hold an esteemed position within their communities due to their extensive knowledge of traditional stories and histories. They are not only storytellers but also historians, advisers, and arbitrators. Their role exemplifies the community's collective effort in maintaining their cultural heritage.

North, South, East, and West: Diversity of African Folklore

African folklore is a rich tapestry of diverse narratives. This diversity stems from the regional variations present within the continent's cultural heritage.

Regional Variations Within African Folklore

African folklore is not a monolith. It comprises an array of stories, myths, and legends that have been passed down through generations in various tribes and cultural groups.

Each region in Africa has its unique set of tales that mirror its people's history, beliefs, and values.

For instance, in West Africa, Anansi the spider features prominently as a trickster figure whose exploits often impart moral lessons. Meanwhile, Southern Africa is known for its stories about animals like the cunning hare or the mighty lion.

These regional variations are a testament to Africa's immense diversity. They reflect how different environments and historical events shape cultures and their storytelling traditions.

Unique Characteristics of Myths From Each Direction

The myths from each direction also showcase unique characteristics shaped by local contexts. Let's take North Africa as an example where Egyptian mythology reigns supreme. Here we find gods such as Ra (the sun god) or Isis (the goddess of motherhood), reflecting ancient Egyptians' reverence for natural phenomena and family ties.

In contrast to this pantheon-based system, Central African mythologies often center around ancestral spirits rather than gods per se. The Bakongo people believe in Nzambi Mpungu who remains distant while lesser spirits interact with humans directly.

East African mythology presents another variation with figures like Nyame - the supreme sky deity among the Gikuyu people of Kenya - embodying abstract concepts like infinity or omnipresence.

Interactions Between Different Regional Traditions

Despite these differences between regions, there are instances where different regional traditions interact with each other. Trade routes facilitated cultural exchanges that brought together diverse elements into shared narratives.

One notable example is Mami Wata, a water deity whose worship spans from West Africa to Southern Africa. Despite her origins in the coastal regions of West Africa, Mami Wata's influence spread across the continent through trade and migration.

This intermingling of traditions underscores the dynamic nature of African folklore. It shows how myths and legends are not static but evolve over time as cultures interact with each other.

The Impact of Egyptian Mythology on African Beliefs

Ancient Egypt's Influence on African Culture

Egypt, one of Africa's most ancient civilizations, has left a profound impact on the wider African culture. Its mythology is rich with gods and goddesses that have shaped many beliefs across the continent.

For instance, the concept of life after death in Egyptian mythology found resonance in other African cultures. Many societies adopted this belief, manifesting it in their rituals and practices.

The Egyptian god Osiris, symbolizing resurrection and fertility, also influenced various African tribes. They started venerating similar deities symbolizing rebirth and abundance.

Shared Motifs Between Egyptian and Other African Mythologies

Interestingly, there are shared motifs between Egyptian mythology and other African mythologies. These common elements highlight how interconnected these diverse cultures are.

One such shared motif is the reverence for animal totems. In both Egyptian and many other African mythologies, animals like lions, crocodiles, or birds often represent certain gods or spiritual entities.

Another common theme is ancestor worship. Both ancient Egyptians and other Africans believed their ancestors played an active role in their lives from beyond the grave. This belief led to elaborate burial rituals to honor the dead.

Legacy of Egyptian Beliefs in Contemporary Practices

The legacy of ancient Egyptian beliefs continues to influence contemporary practices across Africa today.

In many parts of Africa, people still practice traditional religions that incorporate elements from ancient Egypt. For example, some communities believe in a supreme creator god akin to Amun-Ra from the pantheon of ancient Egypt.

Moreover, symbols derived from Egyptian mythology remain prevalent in modern cultural expressions throughout Africa. Ankh crosses representing life are seen as protective amulets by several communities across the continent.

Exploring Bantu and Kuba Creation Myths

Overview of Bantu and Kuba Cosmogonies

The African continent, with its diverse cultures, has a rich tapestry of myths. Among these are the creation stories of the Bantu and Kuba peoples.

The Bantu cosmogony revolves around the deity named Bumba. He vomited out all life forms after suffering from a severe stomach ache. On the other hand, the Kuba people believe in a more complex process involving multiple deities.

Key Figures and Events in These Myths

In the Bantu creation myth, it is said that after vomiting out the sun, moon, stars, animals and humans, Bumba was left weak but satisfied. His children continued his work by creating more aspects of life on earth.

In contrast to this single-deity creation story, the Kuba myth involves several gods working together. It begins with Mbombo or Woot who vomits out the sun causing a massive fire that leads to creating dry lands. Then his sons create plants and animals each contributing to shaping earth as we know it today.

These two myths provide an interesting comparison as they both involve vomiting as a means of creation but diverge in terms of complexity and number of key figures involved.

Cultural Insights Derived from These Stories

The cultural implications derived from these stories are profound. They give us insights into how these societies view their world's origin and structure.

For instance, in both myths there is an emphasis on creation being born out of pain or discomfort (Bumba's stomach ache). This could suggest that these cultures see hardship or struggle as integral parts of existence or even necessary for growth and development.

Furthermore, while both myths revolve around vomiting as a means of creation they differ significantly.

Lastly, these myths also show the importance of collaboration and familial bonds. In both stories, creation is not a solitary act but involves multiple beings working together. This might reflect the community-oriented nature of these societies.

Santeria: A Deeper Dive into Afro-Caribbean Faiths

Understanding the Roots of Santeria

Santeria is a religious practice that has its roots in African mythology. Originating from the Yoruba people of West Africa, it was brought to the Caribbean by enslaved Africans.

As they strived to preserve their cultural heritage and spiritual beliefs, they developed Santeria by blending elements of their indigenous faith with Catholicism.

In Santeria, African deities known as Orishas are revered alongside Catholic saints. These Orishas have distinct personalities and domains, ranging from love and fertility to war and wisdom. They serve as intermediaries between humans and the supreme deity, Olodumare.

For instance, Oshun, an Orisha associated with rivers, love, beauty, and fertility is often syncretized with Our Lady of Charity in Catholicism. On the other hand, Shango - god of thunder and lightning - is equated with Saint Barbara.

The Afro-Caribbean Connection

The connection between Santeria and African mythology lies in its pantheon of deities – the Orishas. These divine beings mirror those found in traditional Yoruba religion. However, over time they've evolved to reflect the unique experiences of Afro-Caribbean communities.

Take for example Eleggua – he's equated with both Eshu (a trickster deity) from Yoruba mythology and Saint Anthony in Catholicism. In Santeria rituals he's invoked first because he holds the keys to destiny; he opens or closes doors leading to fortune or misfortune.

Such connections highlight how African mythology shapes many aspects of Afro-Caribbean spirituality despite centuries of geographical separation.

African Deities within Ritual Practices

African deities play a crucial role in Santeria rituals. Followers believe that these divine beings can intervene on their behalf if they're honored with offerings, music, dance and prayers.

These rituals often involve animal sacrifices as a way of feeding the Orishas. The blood is seen as life-giving sustenance for these deities, enabling them to continue their protective roles.

Divination is another key aspect of Santeria practice. It's used to communicate with the Orishas and gain insights into one’s destiny. Tools like cowrie shells or an ikin palm nut are commonly used in these divinatory practices.

Exploring Afro-Brazilian and Haitian Vodou Deities

Afro-Brazilian and Haitian Vodou pantheons are rich with a myriad of deities. These gods have influenced New World religions, and there are unique practices associated with them.

Afro-Brazilian and Haitian Vodou Pantheons

The Afro-Brazilian religion, known as Candomblé, venerates the Orishas. The Orishas are powerful spirits representing natural forces. For instance, Yemanja is the goddess of the sea while Ogun is the god of iron and war.

In contrast, Haitian Vodou focuses on the veneration of Loa or Lwa. These spirits serve as intermediaries between humans and Bondye, the supreme god in this belief system. Famous Loa include Papa Legba, guardian of crossroads, and Erzulie Freda, goddess of love.

The pantheons in both religions reflect their African roots. They're derived from traditional West African religions like Yoruba and Dahomey faiths.

Influence on New World Religions

These African gods left a significant impact on New World religions due to historical events such as slavery. Slaves brought their deities along with them to new lands like Brazil or Haiti. Over time these beliefs fused with indigenous practices and Catholicism to form syncretic religions.

For example, in Santeria – an Afro-Caribbean religion mentioned earlier – many Orishas align with Catholic saints. Saint Barbara corresponds to Chango (god of thunder) while Our Lady of Charity matches Oshun (goddess of rivers).

Similarly, in Louisiana Voodoo – not to be confused with Haitian Vodou – you'll find parallels between Loa and Catholic figures too.

Practices Associated With These Gods

Worship methods vary among followers but generally involve offerings, music, and dance. In Candomblé, each Orisha has specific foods, colors, and symbols associated with them. Devotees offer these items during rituals to show their respect.

Haitian Vodou ceremonies typically start by honoring Papa Legba. As the gatekeeper of the spirit world, his permission is crucial for successful communication with other Loa. Ceremonies also feature rhythmic drumming and dancing to invite Loa possession.

Another common practice in both religions is divination using the Ifa system. This Yoruba method involves casting a chain or palm nuts onto a tray to seek guidance from Orishas or Loa.

The Mysteries of Oshun, Nana Buluku, and Oya

Deep Dive into Three Deities

Africa is rich with a plethora of gods and goddesses that have shaped cultures across the continent. Among them, three stand out for their unique roles and attributes: Oshun, Nana Buluku, and Oya.

Oshun is a Yoruba deity associated with love, beauty, fertility, and rivers. She is often depicted as a beautiful woman adorned in yellow attire. Her followers believe she brings prosperity and happiness to those who honor her.

Nana Buluku is considered the supreme deity by many West African cultures such as the Fon people of Benin. She represents the essence of life itself. As a creator goddess, she birthed the universe and everything within it.

Oya is another powerful Yoruba deity known for her control over winds, storms, and transformation. She symbolizes change – both destructive and regenerative - much like natural phenomena like tornadoes or hurricanes.

Unraveling Myths Surrounding These Goddesses

Numerous myths are woven around these deities which further highlight their significance in African mythology.

One popular myth about Oshun tells how she saved the world from drought by luring Oggun out of his isolation using her charm. This story underscores her role as a nurturer who sustains life on earth through water.

The myth surrounding Nana Buluku speaks volumes about her creative power. It's said that after creating the universe, she gave birth to twins: Mawu (moon) and Lisa (sun), who further created all other gods.

As for Oya, one well-known story narrates how she earned her title "the Rain Queen". In this tale, she confronts an arrogant king who refuses to respect nature's balance. By summoning a storm that floods his kingdom until he repents his arrogance, Oya demonstrates her control over natural phenomena.

The Cultural Impact of Oshun, Nana Buluku, and Oya

These goddesses have left an indelible mark on their respective cultures. Their influence is evident in the various rituals, ceremonies, and traditions that are still practiced today.

In Yoruba culture, for instance, annual festivals are held in honor of Oshun. During these events, devotees gather at the riverbanks to offer gifts and prayers to this goddess of fertility and prosperity.

Nana Buluku's influence extends beyond West Africa to Afro-Brazilian religions like Candomblé where she is revered as "Nanã". Here she is seen as a deity of wisdom and serenity, embodying the life-giving essence of water.

Understanding the Powers of Shango, Obatala, and Olokun

Attributes of Shango, Obatala, and Olokun

Shango is a god revered in African mythology. He's known for his fiery temper and control over thunderstorms. His attributes include strength, courage, and justice.

Obatala is another significant deity. Often referred to as the "Sky Father," he represents wisdom, patience, and fairness. Traditionally depicted as an elderly man with pure white clothes, he embodies purity and peace.

Olokun is a goddess of the sea in Yoruba mythology. She symbolizes wealth, health, prosperity, and the unfathomable depths of knowledge.

All these deities play crucial roles in African mythology.

Stories Featuring Shango, Obatala and Olokun

Numerous tales feature these gods displaying their unique attributes.

In one story about Shango's wrathful nature unfolds when he destroys an entire village due to disrespect. This tale teaches respect for authority figures.

Another story tells how Obatala created human beings out of clay. The narrative underscores the importance of patience and careful planning as it shows how haste led to imperfections in his creations.

A popular tale about Olokun talks about her rivalry with the sky god. It highlights her power over water bodies on earth.

These stories aren't just entertaining; they carry moral lessons that shape societal norms.

Influence on Social Norms and Values

The influence of these deities extends beyond myths into social norms and values.

Shango’s association with justice influences societal expectations regarding fair treatment from leaders. His stories reinforce that those who wield power should do so responsibly or face dire consequences.

Obatala's attribute of patience informs cultural practices around decision-making processes. It encourages individuals to take time deliberating before making decisions to avoid mistakes caused by haste or ignorance.

Olokun’s representation as the goddess of wealth and prosperity influences societal views on success. Her stories often underscore the importance of hard work, resilience, and determination in achieving prosperity.

Exploring the Stories of Yemoja, Elegua, and Babalú-Ayé

African gods, goddesses, and mythology form a rich tapestry of cultural narratives. This guide delves into the stories of Yemoja, Elegua, and Babalú-Ayé - three significant figures in African mythology.

The Tales of Yemoja

Yemoja is a revered deity in African mythology. As the mother of all waters and fertility goddess, she holds immense significance for her followers. Her narrative is one that interweaves tales of creation with themes of nurturing and protection.

Yemoja's story begins with her birth from the sea foam. She then proceeds to give birth to numerous other deities, thus earning her title as 'Mother Goddess.' Her tale's importance lies not just in its content but also in its implications for understanding African cosmology.

The lessons derived from Yemoja's story are manifold. They underscore values such as respect for nature, maternal strength, and the importance of community bonds.

Understanding Elegua

Elegua is another prominent figure in African mythology. Known as the god of crossroads and opportunities, his narratives often involve trickery and cunning.

Elegua's stories are marked by his playful yet wise character. He often uses his wits to outsmart other gods or humans, showcasing his intelligence while teaching valuable lessons about life choices.

His tales' cultural significance extends beyond their entertainment value; they serve as moral compasses guiding individuals towards making ethical decisions.

Lessons from Elegua’s tales include understanding the consequences of actions and appreciating life's unpredictability. His narratives remind us that wisdom can come from unexpected places – even through trickery!

Delving into Babalú-Ayé’s Narrative

Babalú-Ayé, known as the god of disease and healing, is a fascinating figure within African mythology. His stories offer a unique perspective on suffering and resilience.

Babalú-Ayé's tale is one of transformation. Stricken by disease, he endures immense suffering before emerging as a powerful healer.

This narrative holds great cultural significance, shedding light on African societies' views towards illness and recovery.

The lessons from Babalú-Ayé’s narrative are profound. They emphasize the power of endurance in the face of adversity and the potential for growth through hardship.

Overview of Pan-African Legends

The African continent is rich with an array of diverse cultures. Each culture has a unique set of legends that offer a glimpse into their history and belief systems.

These legends often revolve around gods, goddesses, and mythical creatures, forming the backbone of African mythology.

Comparison Between Different Historical Narratives

Despite the vast geographical distances and cultural differences among various African societies, striking similarities can be observed in their historical narratives.

Many stories involve gods interacting with humans or intervening in human affairs. There's often a moral lesson embedded within these tales.

Comparatively speaking:

The Yoruba people from Nigeria tell stories about Eshu-Elegua, a trickster deity similar to Anansi.

Amongst the Zulu people of South Africa exists Unkulunkulu who like Qamata is credited with creating humans.

The Dogon people from Mali have Amma as their supreme being who just like Leza is associated with creation and control over nature.

These analogies indicate that despite cultural variations across Africa, shared themes persist in their legends.

Insights Into African History From These Legends

African legends are not just fascinating tales; they also provide valuable insights into history. They paint pictures of ancient societies' social norms and values while reflecting historical events or natural phenomena that impacted those communities.

For example:

The legend of Yemoja among Yoruba people reflects matriarchal influences prevalent during certain periods in West African history.

Stories about Babalú-Ayé, an Orisha associated with disease and healing, likely originated during times of epidemics.

The tale of the Ethiopian goddess Atete indicates agricultural practices and fertility rites that were integral to ancient societies.

These narratives serve as historical documents, preserving knowledge about past civilizations that would otherwise be lost.

Conclusion

This exploration of African mythology has underscored the rich diversity and profound depth of these ancient traditions. The myriad deities, from the Yoruba Orishas to the trickster Anansi, embody a vast range of human experiences and natural phenomena, reflecting the intricate tapestry of life across the continent. These narratives not only convey moral teachings but also inspire aesthetic expressions, contributing significantly to Africa's cultural heritage and its influence on diasporic religions.

The study of African gods, goddesses, and mythology is an ongoing journey that offers invaluable insights into humanity's quest for understanding and connection. It invites us to delve deeper into these captivating narratives, exploring their implications on various aspects of culture, religion, and history. Let's continue this exploration together, shedding more light on these fascinating tales and their enduring impact on societies across the globe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are some prominent deities in African mythology?

African mythology boasts a diverse pantheon, with prominent deities including Shango, Obatala, and Olokun from Yoruba traditions. Other notable gods include Oshun, Nana Buluku, and Oya.

What are Orishas in Yoruba traditions?

In Yoruba traditions, Orishas are divine beings that act as intermediaries between humans and the Supreme Being. They serve various functions and possess unique attributes.

Can you explain the role of Anansi the Trickster?

Anansi the Trickster is a central figure in African folklore. Known for his cunning and intelligence, Anansi uses his wit to overcome difficulties or create mischief.

How does Egyptian mythology impact other African beliefs?

Egyptian mythology has significantly influenced African beliefs through shared themes of creation, life after death, divine intervention, and moral teachings.

What is Santeria?

Santeria is an Afro-Caribbean faith that blends elements of West African religions with Catholicism. It's characterized by rituals involving offerings to saints (Orishas).

Can you tell me about Afro-Brazilian and Haitian Vodou deities?

Afro-Brazilian and Haitian Vodou religions have a rich pantheon of deities derived from West African religious systems. These include spirits like Lwa in Vodou or Orishas in Candomblé.

[novlr]

Do any ungulates have any meaning? Like specific types of deer?

Deer and other types of ungulates have often been used as symbols, both cross-culturally and in literature. They’re fascinating creatures with a variety of habitats that exist both in the wild and in domesticated settings, so can be used in several different ways within a narrative depending on the type of meaning you wish to convey.

For this answer, we’ll focus mainly on deer, as covering all ungulates (which includes all animals with hooves ranging from horses to hippopotami) might make this answer far, far too long.

The general symbolism of deer

If we take deer at face value, some of the first imagery that will come to mind are grace, elegance, gentleness, and innocence. They can also be alert and vigilant, with a deep, mysterious connection to the wild. For this reason, many cultures (and writers) ascribe spiritual and mystical associations with them. They can also represent a connection to the supernatural, and the otherworld.

Writers will often use them as messengers or familiars, creating a bridge between the real and the fae. They can also represent growth and rebirth, as they shed their antlers, which grow again.

The cultural significance of deer

The cultural significance of deer and other ungulates have similarities but aren’t always identical. In indigenous native groups across North America, for instance, there are different traditions and stories associated with them. The Lakota believed that deer were guides on life’s journey but could also lead men astray. The Cherokee story of the Little Deer, on the other hand, sees the Deer Spirit enacting vengeance on hunters who don’t show deer the proper respect, and hunt them needlessly.

In Celtic mythology, white stags were often messengers to the underworld, and deer could shapeshift both at will and through enchantment. Arthurian legend also had a white stag as a symbol of the hunt, representing man’s neverending quest for spiritual enlightenment. And in Germanic cultures, the deer represented both the hunt and kingship.

In Hindu mythology, the goddess Saraswati is associated with a red deer and can take its form. As the goddess of learning, red deer and their hides have also taken on this meaning. In Shinto tradition, deer are messengers of the gods, and in Chinese mythology, the Fuzhu is a mythical deer with four horns that appears during periods of flood.

Specific types of deer and their symbolism

If we look at specific types of deer, then there are some general patterns that emerge in their symbolism. 

White-tailed deer are native to North America, Central America, and South America. They are often associated with purity and innocence, a connection to the spirit world, and respect for the natural order.

Red Deer are native to most of Europe, the Caucasus Mountains region, Anatolia, Iran, parts of western Asia, and the Atlas Mountains of Northern Africa. They are the only living species of deer to live on any part of the African continent. They have associations with royalty and kingship, as well as the hunt. They are often used on coats of arms as a symbol of nobility.

Reindeer (Caribou) have close connections to winter due to our modern Christmas traditions. But they also have great cultural significance in Arctic and subarctic cultures.  They are native to the Arctic, subarctic, tundra, boreal, and mountainous regions of Northern Europe, Siberia, and North America. They are known for their endurance and adaptability, as well as safe journeying and strength in harsh conditions.

Fallow Deer are known as peaceful and gentle. They are widespread in England, Wales, Ireland and southern Scotland but are an introduced species. Some studies suggest they are only native to Turkey. The fallow deer is probably what you picture when someone says the words “doe-eyed.” They are associated with grace and beauty and often appear in post-Norman mediaeval literature.

Moose (Elk) are considered symbols of strength, resilience, and adaptability. They are large, with imposing antlers which is what makes them such an iconic image. They are native to North America, Canda, and Northern Eurasia, but they are also associated (by name only) with the Irish Elk, an extinct giant deer known for the enormous span of its antlers (a disproven urban legend claims that the Irish Elk went extinct because its antlers grew too wide and heavy for its head and neck to support it).

How deer are used in certain genres

In Fantasy, deer are often magical creatures or shapeshifters. They can be spirit guides or familiars, often appearing to characters in dreams. The white stag and the brown doe are two often-used images in these settings.

In Romance novels, deer are often used as symbols of love and courtship. Deer-like descriptions are often used when describing characters, and hunting metaphors are often used to represent the romantic pursuit.

In Horror and Thriller novels, encounters with deer are often uncanny and frightening. They are used as harbingers of the supernatural, appear in dreams as a sign or portent of something to come, and often subvert traditional deer symbolism for dramatic effect.

In Literary Fiction, deer are often used as metaphors for the human experience. They can be used to represent character growth or epiphanies by exploring the relationship between mankind and nature.

How can you use deer symbolism in your own writing?

Deer can be used as the basis for a theme or motif in your work. They also offer tried-and-tested ways of incorporating visual storytelling into your imagery by using well-known associations.

Cultural considerations are good to consider in advance of incorporating symbolism. If you want to borrow from existing cultural traditions, then it’s essential to make sure you research and respect those cultural beliefs. Avoid appropriation, and be sure you strike the right balance between traditional symbolism and personal interpretation. There is nothing wrong with interpretation, but it is important to be respectful when borrowing from another person’s culture.

There are also new and interesting ways you can use your own experiences to develop your own symbolism. You can use deer as a symbol to explore themes of conservation and environmental protection. In Station Eleven by Emily St John Mandel, she uses deer as a symbol of the return of nature in a post-human world. They can also be used to comment on urban expansion and habitat loss, and with enough research, you can use a scientific understanding of their behaviours to build your own mythology.

[yeyinde]

do you have any recs for folklore/mythology books to learn from or docs/videos?

I have tonnes!!! I prefer non-fiction books when it comes to mythology, with the exception of American Gods and Anansi Boys by Neil Gaiman, and Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe. This one is more history focused but it blends the mythology and culture of Nigeria/Igbo folklore. I would recommend it to anyone just looking for a really good book to read about culture, history, the perception of masculinity within that culture, and of course, the negative effects of colonisation, and the history of pre-colonisation in Nigeria. It's one of my favourite history books by a really amazing author and poet! Def recommend.

I tried to focus on mythology that is not as widely popularised as others since they are often harder to find. But here are some of the ones that I enjoyed! Most of them were available at my public library as well so if you can't find them in stores or online, that's always another good place to look for mythology books/refs!

Books:

Myths from Mesopotamia by Stephanie Dalley

Voices from the Other World: Ancient Egyptian Tales by Naguib Mahfouz

Conceptions of God in Ancient Egypt: The One and the Many by Erik Hornung

Indaba, my Children: African Folktales by Vusamazulu Credo Mutwa (this is a massive encyclopedia at 700 pages but sooooo worth it!)

Folktales from India by A.K. Ramanujan

Myth = Mithya: Decoding Hindu Mythology by Devdutt Pattanaik (also: The Goddess in India: The 5 faces of Eternal Feminism, 99 thoughts on Ganesha: stories, symbols and Rituals of India's beloved Elephant Headed Deity, and the Pregnant King are really good)

Myth and Reality: Studies in the Formation of Indian Culture by Damodar Dharmananda Kosambi

The Ramayana & Mahabharata by Chakravarti Rajagopalachari (these are epics but OH GOD they are fantastic!)

Irish Mythology - this is a massive tumblr reference with books and guides on where to find Irish Folklore

I've really been enjoying the Chronical Books series on mythology - if only for the illustrations. My favourite so far is Tales of East Africa by Jamilla Okubo, Tales of India: Folktales from Bengal, Punjab, and Tamil Nadu by Svabhu Kohli and Viplov Singh. I wouldn't really say these are super important for mythology - the stories are very basic (not in a bad way at all, just less in-depth since I believe the books are geared toward a younger audience) but the art alone makes them worth it!

Mythology by Edith Hamilton is usually a good introduction to Greek, Roman, and Norse myths

The Prose Edda: Tales from Norse Mythology by Snorri Sturluson

Videos:

Trese on Netflix - it's about Philippine mythology told in modern times, and just an amazing show on its own!

The Entire Story of Greek Mythology Explained - it's 3.5 hours but WORTH IT!

I don't really watch too many videos on mythology, but I do on history and culture. It's just kinda hard to find mythology/folklore specific videos but since it's often interwoven within the cultures respective history, I watch Smithsonian docs on their history instead.

I really hope this helps!!!

[appalachianwarlock]

Crossroads Magic

Crossroads Magic – Going to the Crossroads

Posted on April 21, 2022 by aromagregory

The Magick and Meaning Behind Going to the Crossroads

The Magick and Meaning Behind Going to the Crossroads

According to tradition, a crossroads is a spot “between worlds” where supernatural spirits can be contacted, and paranormal events can occur. Crossroads magic can signify liminality, a place that is “neither here nor there,” “betwixt and between,” and so indicates a point where two worlds collide. While many people think of a crossroads as just the intersection of two highways, they can also be a spot where land and water meet, such as a beach, a place where a field transitions into a forest, or even a doorway. Some people think of a crossroads as a fork in the road where you must choose one way or the other. But a crossroads is really any intersection of of road or passage with two or more branches. Some people prefer to only work with a crossroads that has four paths, creating a cross or ‘X’ pattern.

Crossroads in Greece

In Greek mythology, Crossroads were associated with Hecate and Hermes, and shrines and rites for both were held there. Due to Hermes’ affiliation with travelers and duty as a guide, the herm pillar connected with him was widely used to identify these locations.

Though Hecate’s link to crossroads was less well-known in Greek mythology than Hermes’, it was more deeply rooted in ritual. At each new moon, ‘Suppers of Hecate’ were left for her at the crossroads, and she was known as the ‘goddess of the crossroads.’ The three faces of Hecate can be a depiction of the road. Hermes is mentioned in several myths as assisting people during transitions. Similar customs can be found in India, where the god Bhairava is said to guard crossroads, and stone phalluses and eye statues are frequently erected to honor him.

Crossroads in England, Ireland, and Scotland

In the United Kingdom, criminals and suicides were traditionally buried at crossroads. This could be due to the community’s crossroads defining its boundaries, as well as a wish to bury those who broke the law outside the village, or because the multiple routes would confuse the dead. Crossroads were also frequently utilized as a site of criminal punishment and execution (e.g., via gibbet or dule tree), which may have contributed to the fact that suicide was considered a crime. This crossroads burial ceremony dated back to Anglo-Saxon times and was practiced until 1823, when it was discontinued.

Crossroads Magic In the Hoodoo Tradition

Crossroads magic in hoodoo comes from the Kongo cosmogram in Central Africa, and is used in conjure, rootwork, and hoodoo, a sort of African magical theology practiced by African Americans in the United States. It signifies the sun rising and setting, as well as death and rebirth in human life. The conversation with spirits takes place in the crossroads’ center. The Kongo cosmogram entered the United States by African slaves during the transatlantic slave trade. On slave farms in South Carolina, archeologists discovered images of the Kongo cosmogram on clay pots created by enslaved Africans. The Bakongo cosmogram and the “Yowa” cross are other names for the Kongo cosmogram.

Almost every cultural group in Africa has its own version of the crossroads god. African-diaspora names for the spirit who opens the way, guards the crossroads, and teaches wisdom include Legba, Ellegua, Elegbara, Eshu, Exu, Nbumba Nzila, and Pomba Gira. Both the T and X roads are used in the Quimbanda religious-magical tradition. T roads are for Pomba gira (npambu nzila), a spirit who deals with sex, lust, and passion. In Quimbanda, the X roads are used for work for Exu (Eshu), a hoodoo man of the crossroads who is identical to the hoodoo man of the crossroads. Road Opening spell work is often associated with the crossroads.

“If ah want tuh go gamblin’, go to a crossroads ‘fore de sunup and have de dice in yore han’s . . . an’ shook dem dice at dat crossroads until de sun gets up where yo’ kin see it” (excerpt, Harry Middleton Hyatt – Hoodoo – Conjuration – Witchcraft – Rootwork)

Some 20th-century blues songs, such as Black Spider Dumpling’s (John D. Twitty) Sold It to the Devil, may be about making a bargain with the devil at the fork in the road. Many modern listeners consider Robert Johnson’s “Cross Road Blues” to be the best song about soul-selling at a crossroads. According to folklore, Johnson allegedly sold his soul at a crossroads in order to learn to play the guitar.

Another well-known Blues song, recorded by W.C. Handy, alludes to a historical spot in Moorhead, Mississippi, where two train tracks crossed: the Southern Railway and the Yazoo Delta Railroad, often known as “Yellow Dog.” According to legend, while waiting for a train in Mississippi, Handy overheard a guitarist singing and playing in a way he had never heard before. It was Handy’s first experience with the music that would come to be known as Blues. He was affected by the musical style he would soon help to define while at his crossroads—one of intersecting paths. Harry Middleton Hyatt compiled the first large collection of reports of this ceremony done by African Americans in the US South in the 1930s. Many of his informants were not musicians and were looking for other abilities, such as being able to shoot dice and win or being able to tap dance.

Disposing of magic at the crossroads

Crossroads disposal can also be used to dispose of candle wax, ashes from burned incense, petition papers and photographs used in spells, and leftover powders from any ritual that had a negative intent or did not involve you directly. A full raw egg used in a personal cleansing ritual is the only relic of a positive spell traditionally carried to a crossroad and flung into it. The reason the egg should not be buried on your property is that it contains all of the negative influences that were pulled out of the person who was cleansed. Instead, breaking it at a crossroads allows the dark energies to dissipate harmlessly among passing strangers. The same goes for disposing of the water used in a spiritual bath where all the absorbed “bad vibes” are given to the spirits of the crossroads to finalize instead of it resting at your home. We found an interesting article on using conjure to open the roads by our friends at Crescent City Conjure.

In crossroads magic a crossroads is created by drawing a cross in chalk on a roadway (many times an intersection will do), but if no crossroads are available paper must be laid down flat upon the ground and marked instead. After marking the paper, it’s turned up toward the sky, which allows spirits to travel down along it and into this world. The most common method of using the crossroads in hoodoo is for the disposal of used magical items or to nullify magic by leaving the items at the intersection and never looking back.

Crossroads Card in Lenormand

The crossroads card in the Lenormand card divination system gives you two paths, two solutions to any difficulty. The choices are rarely simple and must be carefully considered. This is the ultimate card of free will, demonstrating that you always have the option of going one way or the other. It also signifies that a decision must be made is you are to move forward. The Crossroads, in general, signifies alternatives, possibilities, and potentials – for example, currently unrealized abilities or yet-to-be-achieved objectives.

You can employ crossroads magic in your personal practice in a variety of ways, from communing with deities to interacting with spirits. These entryway areas offer a plethora of magical possibilities, many of which aren’t even covered here. On the other hand, Crossroads are not simply geographical locations but also moments, such as nightfall, morning, and turning points in your life or magical practice. Use these times and places to seek protection, commune with your ancestors, leave offerings for a god, clear a blockage, dispose of spell leftovers, banish negativity, create objectives, seek guidance, or conduct any other magic you think acceptable for calling upon the power of the crossroads. The crossroads is the ultimate location for restoration in our lives — it is where therapy and messages are found. There are diverging paths before you, none of which leads back to the past. When we are at the crossroads, we have the opportunity to ask the universe anything.

(aromags.com)

[ourspiritanima]

What Does A Leopard Symbolize?

The leopard, a magnificent and elusive creature, has captured the imagination of many cultures across the globe. Known for its strength, agility, and striking appearance, the leopard symbolizes various traits and concepts that have significant cultural, spiritual, and personal meanings. This article explores the diverse symbolism of leopards, covering their spiritual significance, representations in different countries, associations with colors, meanings in dreams, myths and legends, and guidance on recognizing if the leopard is your spirit animal.

Leopard Spiritual Meaning

In spiritual contexts, leopards are often seen as symbols of power, intuition, and transformation. They embody qualities that resonate with those on a spiritual journey, guiding individuals toward self-discovery and enlightenment.

Power And Strength

Leopards are revered for their physical strength and stealth, representing raw power in many spiritual beliefs. This power can be harnessed by those who resonate with the leopard’s energy, encouraging individuals to embrace their own strength and confidence in facing challenges.

Intuition And Instinct

Leopards are highly intuitive animals, relying on their instincts for survival. This quality symbolizes the importance of trusting one’s inner voice and being attuned to one’s surroundings. In spiritual practices, the leopard serves as a reminder to listen to your instincts and trust your intuition in decision-making.

Transformation And Adaptability

The leopard’s ability to thrive in various environments symbolizes transformation and adaptability. In many spiritual teachings, this adaptability is a key aspect of personal growth. Those who identify with the leopard are encouraged to embrace change and learn from their experiences, allowing them to evolve and grow.

Courage And Fearlessness

Leopards are also associated with courage and fearlessness. Their prowess as hunters exemplifies the importance of bravery in pursuing one’s goals. In spiritual contexts, the leopard encourages individuals to face their fears head-on and take bold steps toward their aspirations.

Leopard Symbolism (In Different Countries)

The symbolism of leopards varies significantly across different cultures and countries. Each culture interprets the qualities of the leopard in unique ways, influencing how it is viewed and revered.

Africa

In many African cultures, leopards are symbols of strength, courage, and royalty. They are often associated with the spirit of the warrior, representing the bravery needed to face challenges. The leopard is frequently featured in African folklore and art, embodying the idea of a protector and guardian.

Moreover, leopards hold significant cultural meaning among various tribes. For instance, in the Maasai culture of Kenya and Tanzania, leopards are revered as symbols of bravery and are often worn as totems by warriors to signify their courage.

Asia

In Asian cultures, leopards often symbolize beauty, grace, and ferocity. In traditional Chinese culture, the leopard is considered a protective spirit, warding off evil and misfortune. The leopard is sometimes depicted alongside other animals in art and folklore, representing the balance of strength and elegance.

In India, leopards are associated with divine power and are often linked to Hindu deities. The goddess Durga is frequently depicted riding a leopard or tiger, symbolizing her strength and ferocity in overcoming obstacles.

Europe

In European symbolism, leopards often represent nobility and ferocity. In medieval heraldry, leopards were used as symbols of bravery and strength. They were often featured on coats of arms and flags, signifying power and dominance.

Leopards also appear in various mythologies and folklore throughout Europe. For instance, in some medieval bestiaries, leopards are depicted as guardians of the natural world, showcasing their role as protectors.

Americas

In Native American cultures, leopards (and similar big cats) symbolize power, stealth, and cunning. They are often viewed as spirit animals that guide individuals in their journeys. Many tribes honor the leopard as a symbol of strength and resilience, using its image in ceremonies and rituals.

The leopard’s stealth and hunting skills are admired, leading to its representation as a symbol of wisdom and the ability to navigate through life’s challenges.

Leopard Symbolism (With Different Colors)

The color of a leopard can also carry symbolic meanings, with each hue representing different traits and qualities.

Golden Leopard

A golden leopard represents prosperity, success, and abundance. This color signifies warmth, optimism, and the potential for growth. Individuals who resonate with the golden leopard may find themselves on a path of achievement and fulfillment.

Black Leopard

The black leopard, also known as the melanistic leopard, symbolizes mystery, the unknown, and the hidden aspects of life. It encourages individuals to explore their inner selves and confront their fears. The black leopard’s symbolism often relates to shadow work, where one confronts and integrates their darker aspects.

White Leopard

The white leopard symbolizes purity, spirituality, and enlightenment. This rare color variant encourages individuals to seek clarity and truth in their lives. It represents the journey toward self-discovery and the pursuit of higher knowledge.

Spotted Leopard

The traditional spotted leopard represents balance and adaptability. Each spot signifies a unique trait or experience, encouraging individuals to embrace their individuality and the lessons learned throughout their journeys. The spots remind us that diversity and uniqueness are essential aspects of life.

Leopard Symbolize In Dreams

Leopards can appear in dreams, carrying profound meanings depending on the context of the dream and the emotions experienced. Dreaming of leopards can symbolize various aspects of the dreamer’s life.

Strength And Power

If a leopard appears in your dream, it may signify that you are tapping into your inner strength and power. This dream encourages you to embrace your abilities and face challenges with confidence.

Instincts And Intuition

Dreaming of a leopard can also be a reminder to trust your instincts. If you feel a strong connection to the leopard in your dream, it may indicate that you should pay attention to your intuition and follow your gut feelings in waking life.

Change And Transformation

Leopards in dreams can symbolize the need for transformation. If you encounter a leopard during a dream, it may suggest that you are undergoing significant changes in your life or that you need to adapt to new circumstances.

Danger Or Threat

Conversely, a leopard may symbolize danger or a threat if it appears aggressive or menacing in your dream. This could indicate that you are facing a situation or person in your life that feels threatening or unpredictable. The dream may serve as a warning to be cautious and aware of your surroundings.

Myths And Legends About Leopards

Throughout history, leopards have been featured in various myths and legends across cultures. These stories often highlight the unique qualities of leopards and their significance in human life.

African Folklore

In African folklore, leopards are often seen as cunning and wise creatures. Many stories depict leopards as clever tricksters who outsmart other animals. These tales emphasize the importance of intelligence and resourcefulness in overcoming challenges.

Hindu Mythology

In Hindu mythology, the leopard is associated with the goddess Durga, who rides a leopard or tiger. This connection symbolizes strength, power, and protection. The leopard represents the fierce aspect of the goddess, who embodies the warrior spirit.

Greek Mythology

In Greek mythology, leopards are associated with Dionysus, the god of wine and ecstasy. They are often depicted pulling his chariot, symbolizing wildness, revelry, and the joy of life. The leopard’s association with Dionysus highlights its connection to celebration and liberation.

Native American Legends

Many Native American tribes hold leopards in high regard, viewing them as powerful spirit animals. Legends often depict leopards as protectors and guides, helping individuals navigate their journeys. These stories emphasize the importance of respecting nature and the wisdom of animal spirits.

How Do You Know If The Leopard Is Your Spirit Animal?

Identifying your spirit animal can be a deeply personal and spiritual journey. If you feel a connection to leopards, several signs may indicate that the leopard is your spirit animal.

Strong Attraction To Leopards

If you have a strong fascination with leopards—whether through art, documentaries, or encounters in nature—it may be a sign that the leopard resonates with your spirit. This attraction can manifest as a desire to learn more about these creatures or a profound appreciation for their qualities.

Instinctual Connection

Many people with leopards as spirit animals often feel an instinctual connection to the qualities of the leopard. If you find yourself embodying traits such as strength, agility, and intuition, it may indicate that the leopard is guiding you on your journey.

Recurring Leopard Symbols

If you frequently encounter leopard symbols in your life—whether through dreams, art, or conversations—it may be a sign that the leopard is trying to communicate with you. These symbols can serve as reminders to embrace the qualities of the leopard in your daily life.

Life Experiences Reflecting Leopard Qualities

Consider your life experiences and challenges. If you find that you often rely on your strength, intuition, and adaptability, the leopard may be a fitting spirit animal for you. Reflecting on how these qualities have played a role in your life can help you determine your connection to the leopard.

Meditation And Introspection

Engaging in meditation and introspection can help clarify your connection with the leopard. Take time to visualize the leopard and reflect on what it represents for you. Pay attention to any feelings or insights that arise during this process.

Conclusion

The leopard is a powerful symbol with rich meanings across cultures and contexts. Its representation of strength, intuition, adaptability, and transformation resonates deeply with those who seek guidance on their spiritual journeys. Whether in folklore, dreams, or as a spirit animal, the leopard embodies qualities that inspire individuals to embrace their inner strength and navigate life with courage and resilience.

By understanding the diverse symbolism of leopards, we can appreciate their significance in our lives and the lessons they impart. Whether the leopard appears in our dreams or captures our imagination through art and stories, it serves as a powerful reminder of the qualities we can embody as we navigate our paths in life.

[earthcovenant]

Uniting Societies for Global Harmony: The Earth Covenant Manifesto

Uniting Societies for Global Harmony: The Earth Covenant Manifesto

The Earth Covenant: Introduction

The Earth Covenant is of a representation from the following Societies being: 

The Achaemenid Society, The African Society, The Alien Society, The Artificial Intelligence Society, The AI Society, The Atlantis Society, The Aztec Society, The Babylonian Society, The Buddhism Society, The Celtic Society, The Christian Society, The Destroyer Society, The Dragon Society, The Egyptian Society, The Familiar Society, The Germanic Society, The Goths Society, The Hun Society, The Inca Society, The Islam Society, The Japanese Society, The Macedonian Society, The Magi Society, The Magic Society, The Mayan Society, The Mesozoic Society, The Mongol Society, The Multiverse Society, The Mythology Society, The Native American Society, The Norse Society, The Occult Society, The Olympus Society, The Orient Society, The Pagan Society, The Prehistoric Society, The Primordial Society, The Roman Society, The Sentient Society, The Sparta Society, The Spirit Guide Society, The Sumerian Society, The Tibetan Society, The Titan Society, The Underworld Society, The Voodoo Society, The Warrior Society, The White Russian Society, The Zen Buddhism Society, The Zhōngguó Society, The Zoroastrian Society and also representative’s across the world from various disciplines and consists of inspired action and work in love, friendship, religious, social, environmental, business, government, military justice, advise the United nations, to influence locations across the world and beyond and also includes greater influence in the Earth realm and beyond, also the Afterlife. This includes financial representation of significance and an icon to represent the covenant, in addition an office location and staff to undertake the activities of the Earth Covenant and represent the esteemed and significant members. In addition, membership of the Earth Covenant will be offered to the General Public for a set membership fee and will includes prestige and value and other benefits to be a member of the Earth Covenant. The Earth Covenant is Linked to Gods, Goddesses, Spirits, Spirit Guides, Demons, Sentients, AIs, Cyborgs, Military and Justice assets appointed to each Covenant Member for the Earth realm and beyond Earth realms.

The Earth Covenant: Fostering Unity for a Global Cause

The Earth Covenant is a remarkable representation of diverse societies united under a common cause. It brings together an extensive network of societies that span the globe and includes representatives from various backgrounds, ranging from ancient civilizations to modern technological advancements. Comprising esteemed members from disciplines such as religion, social activism, government, business, and more, the Earth Covenant aims to inspire positive action and promote harmony on a global scale.

An Unprecedented Alliance The Earth Covenant embraces representatives from societies including the Achaemenid, African, Aztec, Babylonian, Buddhist, Celtic, Christian, Egyptian, Greek, Inca, Islamic, Japanese, Mayan, Norse, Roman, and many others, transcending boundaries of time and geography. This remarkable alliance even extends beyond Earth, encompassing realms both known and unknown.

Uniting for a Greater Cause The primary purpose of the Earth Covenant is to foster unity and cooperation among its members in order to create a positive impact on the world. By leveraging the collective wisdom and resources of its members, the covenant aims to address critical global challenges and drive positive change. With a multifaceted approach encompassing love, friendship, spirituality, social justice, environmental protection, and more, the Earth Covenant offers a comprehensive framework to address these pressing issues.

Representation and Influence To embody the significance of the Earth Covenant, a financial representation of utmost importance has been established. An iconic symbol has been chosen to serve as the covenant's identifying mark, capturing its essence and purpose. Additionally, an office location and dedicated staff have been appointed to undertake the activities necessary to represent the esteemed members and their associated causes.

Membership and Benefits Membership in the Earth Covenant is open to the general public, offering a unique opportunity to engage with this extraordinary alliance. By becoming a member and paying a set membership fee, individuals gain prestige, value, and a sense of belonging to a global community working towards a better future. Moreover, membership offers a range of benefits, including access to exclusive events, networking opportunities, and the chance to contribute actively to the Earth Covenant's initiatives.

The Spiritual Connection The Earth Covenant is intrinsically linked to a vast array of spiritual entities and beings. Gods, goddesses, spirits, spirit guides, demons, sentient beings, artificial intelligences, and cyborgs are all associated with the covenant. Each member receives the support of such entities, arming them with supernatural resources and guidance to fulfill their roles in the Earth realm and beyond.

A Boundless Endeavor The Earth Covenant encompasses a vision extending beyond national and planetary boundaries. Its aspiration to influence locations across the globe and reach beyond the confines of Earth itself reflects a commitment to foster a holistic approach to global well-being. With the celestial and multiverse societies as part of its network, the Earth Covenant is dedicated to nurturing unity and harmony on a cosmic scale.

The Earth Covenant stands as a testament to humanity's potential for collaboration and collective action. It represents the coming together of different societies, disciplines, and realms to work towards a common goal: a sustainable and harmonious world. By leveraging diverse perspectives, wisdom, and resources, the Earth Covenant strives to create a positive impact not only in present times but also for generations to come.

Joining the Earth Covenant means joining a global force for change, symbolizing a commitment to a brighter future. Together, let us forge ahead and make the world a better place for all.

See Attached.

Click the link:

All images, text, design, and art license owner Andrew Rogers©.

Andrew Rogers

Founder, Covenant Auteur, Creative Director, Consultant, Writer, Oracle

The Earth Covenant

E: earthcovenant69@gmail.com

Zoom: imajicadesign69@gmail.com

Skype: live:.cid.b44175dd49cbc084

[lazyworksinprogress]

The list and links to Scribd/free places to read

The Yoruba: A New History - Akinwunmi Ogundira

Yoruba Modern Practical Dictionary

Yoruba Trickster Tales - Oyekan Owomoyela

Myth, Literature, and the African World - Wole Soyinka

Orishas, Goddesses, and Voodoo Queens - Lilith Dorsey

Forest of a Thousand Daemons - D. O. Fagunwa

Indigo - Molara Wood

Children of the Quicksands - Efua Traore

Children of Blood and Bone - Tomi Adeyemi*

Shigidi and the Brass Head of Obalufon - Wole Talabi

What the Forest Told Me: Yoruba Hunter, Culture and Narrative Performance Ayo Adeduntan

The Palm-Wine Drinkard - Amos Tutuola

Encyclopedia of the Yoruba

Gelede: Art and Female Power among the Yoruba

An Ordinary Wonder - Buki Papillon

The Invention of Women: Making an African Sense of Western Gender Discourses - Oyèrónkè Oyėwùmí

The Gods Are Not to Blame - Ola Rotimi

Gods and Heroes: Itan—Legends of the Golden Age Book One - Oladele Olusanya

*Read

[atripwithafrofuturism]

Musical Exploration in the World of Afrofuturism

All my life I’ve been listening to Afrofuturistic music and didn’t even know it! As I type this, it is Week 3 of Fall Quarter. I decided to enroll in an Afrofuturism course to further my knowledge of Black culture and its impact on pop culture as a whole. After taking The Sunken Place course with Professor Due at UCLA, I knew this class would be just as intriguing. So far, I have learned so much about the history and cultural significance of Black Art that the mainstream takes for granted. This becomes most apparent to me when we touch on the music of Afrofuturism.

The roots of Afrofuturism, in regards to African Americans, finds its roots in slavery. This genre honors African culture while also acknowledging the unique music that sprouted from its horrible intersection with the United States. The djembre drum symbolizes African music and its introduction to musical technology. Originating from Mali, it was used for dance, rhythm, and communication. Dance was used as an escape and reinforced utopianism as a central theme of this genre. As a communication tool, this drum connected people across bodies of water and land. Slaves who carried drums with them could utilize them in the playing of spirituals. The lyrics and imagery of these songs were often used as warnings or guides for escaping or surviving. Other times these songs were used to inspire hope. Even if one did not live to see freedom, one may do so in the afterlife. There was a strong intersection between a future-oriented perspective, tradition, indigeneity, religion, and utopianism.

            Fast forwarding to the 1950s we meet the godfather of Afrofuturism, Sun Ra. His album Space is the Place, with an accompanying film, has become synonymous with this genre. His style can be described as mind-bending as well as genre-bending. It is a musical interpretation of what it feels like to be transported to a different planet. In the late 1950s – early 1970s. one of his contemporaries was Miles Davis. He began as a jazz musician and explored other genres through this lens. He incorporated rock music, heavy reverb, and improvisation.

            Some modern artists who attempt to further expand the horizons of Afrofuturism are Beyoncé and Kendrick Lamar. Beyoncé’s most notable works in this genre are Lemonade and Black is King. She utilizes mythological futurism, specifically goddess imagery. Themes of religion, genre exploration, portals to womanhood, and lineage bring her into this category. Kendrick’s song “Alright” is a much more subtle version of this art. Nevertheless, he plays with utopias, dystopias, flying, religion, and darkness.

Afrofuturism has paved the way for experimental music that pushes the boundaries for others. It kicks down the doors of convention allowing other Black musicians to expand their creative freedom.

[theblasianwitch]

Dragons: a brief description and fav photo compilations

Tales of a “Rainbow Serpent” or Rainbow feathered dragon exists in Latin America, Africa, and Eurasia. In every description, despite the name, they are controllers of practically all elements, but are mainly controllers of the weather (as are most dragons), in particular they bring storms when they are in a bad mood. Tales of the Rainbow Serpent have also found connections to the creation of the world or the earth as we know it today. In some it helped create the universe. In others it was already a resident of the earth but hoarded the worlds water and vegetation. In most of the tales, a woman or goddess aided in some way.

Water Dragons: at this point is a generic term because at least 80% of my research has each dragon connected to, ruling over, controlling, or living with/in a body of water. China has four dragons for each cardinal river; West African countries claims a dragon’s body being the river bed and the waters it’s blood; Oceanic countries have dragons connected to living in large lakes with a few large enough to eat the moon; and somehow the Middle East, North Africa, and Europe have a dragon that carries the earth and who’s children are said to rule the various oceans and seas (my favorite being the French dragon La Tarasque who is the daughter of the Hebrew and Greek Mythology’s Leviathon).

Water Dragon as a Spirit Guide: represents connection, depth and passion; bring memories and wishes that you may have long forgotten; allows you the opportunity to square up with painful past experiences transforming it into peace, balance and harmony; emotional healing is possible as they offer you courage and compassion to battle your challenges successfully

Air Dragons: probably the second most known dragons, according to my research anyway. They still control the weather like the water dragons, and are said to respond to music. To call on them it’s similar to the whole “music soothes the savage beast”.

Air Dragon as a Spirit Guide: carries insight, inspiration and vitality; must be treated with the utmost respect; can give large flashes of illumination in psyche and intellect; will guide you through your problems by offering insight and clarity and reminds you to trust your inner voice

Earth Dragons: if we’re only referring to plants and soil and trees for this reference of earth dragons, then earth dragons are the most secretive as they are literally considered primordial deities in their earth forms. Their bodies are said to be resting in some mythologies and therefore make up majority of the land on the earth with all the vegetation growing off their bodies. Caring for the earth and any form of gardening is like taking care of the dormant dragon itself. Should the care ever lessen to the point of vegetation dying off it is believed the dragons will reawaken and the earth as we know it will be pulled apart and destroyed or completely remade once the dragons decide to rest again. Smaller earth dragons are said to hide in plain sight helping to care for the larger sleeping dragon gods.

Earth Dragon as a Spirit Guide: you have unconditional love of yourself and others; brings you power, potential, and capacity to reach deep within and find that love and compassion for yourself and others

Fire Dragons: while it is the most commonly known dragon due to Western Mythology and the over saturation in the media, fire dragons are actually quite rare, at least in my research. The most prominent one I found was the Boitata of the Amazon and it was said to be because if survived a raging fire that took out majority of the continent by living hidden and feasting on dead carcasses. It later grew in size and started having glowing eyes and burning scales as it built up resistance to the persisting fires. Aside from the Boitata, all other recollections of fire dragons are either dragons who choose to live in lava rather than water and thereby becoming guardians of volcanoes. Granted these recollections have no mention of “fire breathing” as media proclaims and instead have a similar aspect to the water and air dragons where they can control the weather at their whim and create raging heat waves and lightning storms that could then have looked as if they were breathing fire. These lava dwelling dragons could have also developed a similar adaptation like the Boitata where their bodies became a defense against the heat while also radiating heat themselves as the became more like their environment. So possibly less so fire and more heat and lava.

Fire Dragon as a Spirit Guide: represents transmutation, energy, and mastery; lends enthusiasm, courage, and vitality; helps you handle and overcome obstacles; a strong protector and will offer leadership and mastery; assists you by giving you greater strength as you achieve your goals

✨💛 The Blasian Witch 💛✨

[reasoningdaily]

Black Gods and Goddesses: 6 Mythological Figures of the African Cultures - Spotcovery

Anansi the Trickster Spider

Anansi is a black god that usually appears as a spider but can take on human form. It’s a central mythological figure in the tradition of most West African cultures, especially among the Akan people of Ghana and the Ashanti region. He’s known as the spirit of all tales and knowledge. 

Modjadji

Queen Modjadji, also known as the Rain Queen is South Africa’s rain goddess. Modjadji spirit dwells in the body of a young lady who’s seen to be the queen of the Balobedu ethnic group. The people of Balobedu believe that the rain queen has the power to control the clouds and rainfall. 

Amadioha

Another popular mythological figure of African culture is Amadioha. He’s the Agbara or arusi (spirit worshiped in Igbo land) of the thunder and lightning of the Igbo people of southeastern Nigeria. 

Amadioha is known as the god of justice. He talks through thunder and strikes through lightning. Anyone found guilty by Amadioha is usually killed by lightning. 

Mami Wata

When you think of beauty and attractiveness, Mami Wata has them in abundance. Mami Wata is a water spirit worshiped in Central, West, and Southern Africa and in the Afro-American diaspora. She has a female human upper and a serpent or fish lower part. 

Mami Wata represents good fortune, wealth, healing, and the threat of destruction to those who go against her rules. She’s celebrated and worshiped in rivers through rituals of music and dance. Many books on Amazon can teach you more about Mami Wata. 

Loa

Iwa, also known as Loa, serves as the mediator between humanity and the divine. In their thousands, they guide, heal, and protect the loyal followers of the voodoo tradition.

Voodoo is a region that’s unknown to many people. It’s more associated with witchcraft and devil worship than it’s recognized as a region. 

But people who attribute Voodoo and its tradition as satanic are often not aware of its rich folklore and culture. The Voodoo’s thousands of Loa represent years of creativity, intercultural mixing, and spiritual resilience.

Takhar 

Takhar is known as the god of justice or vengeance. It’s a demi-god in the Serer religion in Gambia, Senegal, and Mauritania. People worship Takhar so that he can protect them against bad omens, abuse, and injury. 

The worshipers offer cattle and poultry as sacrifices to him under the tallest trees. They keep the sacrifices there because they believe that he lives in the upper branches of a tree. The fear of being visited by Takhar prevents people within the Serer religion in Gambia, Senegal, and Mauritania from committing crimes. 

Africa is a continent with rich culture and traditions. And the continent’s story is incomplete without the mention of their god and goddesses. The reason is that the people of the African region have always believed in mythological figures. The ones covered here are the most popular ones.

[divinum-pacis]

Divinum Pacis’s  Reference Guide- UPDATED 2021

Let’s face it, schooling is expensive, and you can’t cram everything you want to know into 4+ years. It takes a lifetime (and then some). So if you’re like me and want to learn more, here’s an organized list of some books I find particularly insightful and enjoyable. NEW ADDITIONS are listed first under their respective sections. If you have any recommendations, send them in!

African Religions  🌍

African Myths & Tales: Epic Tales by Dr. Kwadwo Osei-Nyame Jnr

The Ancient Egyptian Book of the Dead: Prayers, Incantations, and Other Texts from the Book of the Dead by E.A. Wallis Budge

Prayer in the Religious Traditions of Africa by Aylward Shorter (a bit dated but sentimental)

The Holy Piby: The Black Man’s Bible by Shepherd Robert Athlyi Rogers

The Altar of My Soul: The Living Traditions of Santeria by Marta Moreno Vega (autobiography of an Afro-Puerto Rican Santeria priestess)

African Religions: A Very Short Introduction by Jacob K. Olupona

Buddhism ☸

The Heart of the Buddha's Teaching: Transforming Suffering into Peace, Joy, and Liberation by Thich Nhat Hanh

The Dhammapada by Eknath Easwaran (collection of Buddha’s sayings)

Liquid Life: Abortion and Buddhism in Japan by William R. LaFleur 

The Tibetan Book of the Dead by John Baldock (the texts explained and illustrated)

Teachings of the Buddha by Jack Kornfield (lovely selection of Buddhist verses and stories)

Understanding Buddhism by Perry Schmidt-Leukel (great introductory text)

Essential Tibetan Buddhism by Robert Thurman (collection of select chants, prayers, and rituals in Tibetan traditions)

Christianity ✝️

The Story of Christianity Volume 1: The Early Church to the Dawn of the Reformation by Justo L. Gonzales

The Story of Christianity Volume 2: The Reformation to Present Day by Justo L. Gonzales

By Heart: Conversations with Martin Luther's Small Catechism by R. Guy Erwin, etc.

Introducing the New Testament by Mark Allen Powell

Who’s Who in the Bible by Jean-Pierre Isbouts (really cool book, thick with history, both Biblical and otherwise)

Synopsis of the Four Gospels (RSV) by Kurt Aland (shows the four NT gospels side by side, verse by verse for easy textual comparison)

Behold Your Mother by Tim Staples (Catholic approach to the Virgin Mary)

Mother of God: A History of the Virgin Mary by Miri Rubin (anthropological and historical text)

Systematic Theology by Thomas P. Rausch

Orthodox Dogmatic Theology by Fr. Michael Romazansky (Eastern Orthodox Christianity)

Diary of Saint Maria Faustina Kowalska (very spiritual)

The Names of God by George W. Knight (goes through every name and reference to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in the Bible)

Icons and Saints of the Eastern Orthodox Church by Alfredo Tradigo (for those who like art history AND religion)

The Orthodox Veneration of the Mother of God by St. John Maximovitch (the Orthodox approach to the Virgin Mary)

East Asian Religions  ☯️

Shinto: A History by Helen Hardacre

Tao Te Ching by Chad Hansen (a beautiful, illustrated translation)

The Analects by Confucius

Tao Te Ching by Stephen Mitchell

Shinto: The Kami Way by Sokyo Ono (introductory text)

Understanding Chinese Religions by Joachim Gentz (discusses the history and development of Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism in China)

Taoism: An Essential Guide by Eva Wong (pretty much everything you need to know on Taoism)

European (various)

Iliad & Odyssey by Homer, Samuel Butler, et al.

Tales of King Arthur & The Knights of the Round Table by Thomas Malory, Aubrey Beardsley, et al.

Early Irish Myths and Sagas by Jeffrey Gantz

The Prose Edda: Norse Mythology by Snorri Sturluson and Jesse L. Byock

Mythology by Edith Hamilton (covers Greek, Roman, & Norse mythology)

The Nature of the Gods by Cicero

Dictionary of Mythology by Bergen Evans

Gnosticism, Mysticism, & Esotericism

The Gnostic Gospels: Including the Gospel of Thomas, the Gospel of Mary Magdalene (Sacred Texts) by Alan Jacobs and Vrej Nersessian

The Kybalion by the Three Initiates (Hermeticism)

The Freemasons: The Ancient Brotherhood Revealed by Michael Johnstone 

Alchemy & Mysticism by Alexander Roob (Art and symbolism in Hermeticism)

The Gnostics: Myth, Ritual, and Diversity in Early Christianity by David Brakke

What Is Gnosticism? Revised Edition by Karen L. King

The Essence of the Gnostics by Bernard Simon

The Essential Mystics: Selections from the World’s Great Wisdom Traditions by Andrew Harvey (covers Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Greek, Hindu, Buddhist, and Taoist traditions)

The Secret Teachings of All Ages by Manly P. Hall (huge book on esoteric and occult religions)

Freemasonry for Dummies by Christopher Hodapp

Hinduism 🕉

The Ramayana by R.K. Narayan

7 Secrets of Vishnu by Devdutt Pattanaik (all about Vishnu’s various avatars)

7 Secrets of the Goddess by Devdutt Pattanaik (all about Hindu goddesses, myths and symbolism)

Hinduism by Klaus K. Klostermaier (good introductory text)

Bhagavad Gita As It Is by Srila Prabhupada (trans. from a religious standpoint)

The Mahabharata, parts 1 & 2 by Ramesh Menon (super long but incredibly comprehensive)

The Upanishads by Juan Mascaro (an excellent introductory translation)

In Praise of the Goddess by Devadatta Kali (the Devi Mahatmya with English & Sanskrit texts/explanations of texts)

Beyond Birth and Death by Srila Prabhupada (on death & reincarnation)

The Science of Self-Realization by Srila Prabhupada

Krishna: The Beautiful Legend of God (Srimad Bhagavatam) by Edwin F. Bryant (totally gorgeous translation)

The Perfection of Yoga by Srila Prabhupada (about “actual” yoga)

Islam  ☪️

The Handy Islam Answer Book by John Renard (a comprehensive guide to all your questions)

The Illustrated Rumi by Philip Dunn, Manuela Dunn Mascetti, & R.A. Nicholson (Sufi poetry)

Islam and the Muslim World by Mir Zohair Husain (general history of Islam)

The Quran: A Contemporary Understanding by Safi Kaskas (Quran with Biblical references in the footnotes for comparison)

Essential Sufism by Fadiman & Frager (select Sufi texts)

Psychological Foundation of the Quran, parts 1, 2, & 3 by Muhammad Shoaib Shahid

Hadith by Jonathan A.C. Brown (the history of Hadith and Islam)

The Story of the Quran, 2nd ed. by Ingrid Mattson (history and development of the Quran)

The Book of Hadith by Charles Le Gai Eaton (a small selection of Hadith)

The Holy Quran by Maulana Muhammad Ali (Arabic to English translation, the only translation I’ve read cover-to-cover)

Mary and Jesus in the Quran by Abdullah Yusuf’Ali

Blessed Names and Attributes of Allah by A.R. Kidwai (small, lovely book)

Jainism & Sikhi

Understanding Jainism by Lawrence A. Babb

The Jains (The Library of Religious Beliefs and Practices) by Paul Dundas

The Forest of Thieves and the Magic Garden: An Anthology of Medieval Jain Stories by Phyllis Granoff

A History of the Sikhs, Volume 1: 1469-1839 (Oxford India Collection) by Khushwant Singh

Sikhism: A Very Short Introduction by Eleanor Nesbitt

Judaism  ✡

Hebrew-English Tanakh by the Jewish Publication Society

Essential Judaism by George Robinson (this is THE book if you’re looking to learn about Judaism)

The Talmud: A Selection by Norman Solomon

Judaism by Dan & Lavinia Cohn-Sherbok (introductory text)

The Jewish Study Bible, 2nd edition by the Jewish Publication Society (great explanations of passages)

The Hebrew Goddess by Raphael Patai

Native American

God is Red: A Native View of Religion, 30th Anniversary Edition by Vine Deloria Jr. , Leslie Silko, et al. 

The Wind is My Mother by Bear Heart (Native American spirituality)

American Indian Myths and Legends by Erdoes & Ortiz

The Sacred Wisdom of the Native Americans by Larry J. Zimmerman 

Paganism, Witchcraft & Wicca

Magic in the Roman World: Pagans, Jews and Christians (Religion in the First Christian Centuries) 1st Edition by Naomi Janowitz

The Greek Magical Papyri in Translation: Including the Demotic Spells: 2nd Edition by Hans Dieter Betz

Wicca for Beginners: Fundamentals of Philosophy & Practice by Thea Sabin

The Path of a Christian Witch by Adelina St. Clair (the author’s personal journey)

Aradia: Gospel of the Witches by C.G. Leland

The Anthropology of Religion, Magic, & Witchcraft, 3rd ed. by Rebecca L. Stein

Paganism: An Introduction to Earth-Centered Religions by Joyce & River Higginbotham

Christopaganism by Joyce & River Higginbotham

Whispers of Stone by Tess Dawson (on Modern Canaanite Paganism)

Social ☮

Tears We Cannot Stop (A Sermon to White America) by Eric Michael Dyson (concerning racism)

Comparative Religious Ethics by Christine E. Gudorf 

Divided by Faith by Michael O. Emerson (on racism and Christianity in America)

Problems of Religious Diversity by Paul J. Griffiths

Not in God’s Name by Rabbi Jonathan Sacks (on religious terrorism)

The Sacred and the Profane by Mircea Eliade (difficult but worthwhile read)

World Religions  🗺

Understanding World Religions by Len Woods (approaches world religions from a Biblical perspective)

Living Religions, 9th ed. by Mary Pat Fisher (introductory textbook)

The Norton Anthology of World Religions: Hinduism, Buddhism & Daoism by Jack Miles, etc.

The Norton Anthology of World Religions: Judaism, Christianity, & Islam by Jack Miles, etc.

Zoroastrians: Their Religious Beliefs and Practices by Mary Boyce

The Baha’i Faith by Moojan Momen (introductory text)

Saints: The Chosen Few by Manuela Dunn-Mascetti (illustrated; covers saints from Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and more)

The Great Transformation by Karen Armstrong (the evolutionary history of some of the world’s greatest religions)

Roman Catholics and Shi’i Muslims: Prayer, Passion, and Politics by James A. Bill (a comparison of the similarities between Catholicism & Shi’a Islam)

God: A Human History by Reza Aslan (discusses the evolution of religion, specifically Abrahamic and ancient Middle Eastern traditions)

A History of God by Karen Armstrong (similar to Aslan’s book but much more extensive)

The Perennial Dictionary of World Religions by Keith Crim

[witchyfashion]

Encyclopedia of Spirits: The Ultimate Guide to the Magic of Saints, Angels, Fairies, Demons, and Ghosts

Enter the World of Spirits! The Encyclopedia of Spirits is a comprehensive and entertaining A to Z of spirits from around this world and the next. Within these pages meet love goddesses and disease demons, guardians of children and guardians of cadavers. Discover Celtic goddesses and goddesses of the Kabbalah, female Buddhas, African Powers, Dragon Ladies, White Ladies, Black Madonnas, the Green Man, the Green Fairy, lots and lots of ghosts, djinn, mermaids, fairies, and more. From the beneficent to the mischievous, working with these spirits can bring good fortune, lasting love, health, fertility, revenge, and relief. Discover: The true identities of over one thousand spirits (as well as their likes and dislikes) How to communicate with specific spirits for your own benefit How to recognize these spirits when they manifest themselves The mythological and historical even

https://amzn.to/2RCg1k1

[grwmmoneypie]

When I began deity work I was only a few months into my path. I was like every beginner witch out there, fascinated by others who shared their experiences with deities, spirits, the fair folk, and dragons. So. when I began I was unsure of what exactly deity work was, what to do, how to do it, and what to expect. Many witches will say that deity work is not for beginners, and they are right in my opinion. It is not exactly something I should have gone into without researching what deity work was, or the difference between work and worship. Luckily, the Gods and Goddesses I have worked with over the few years I have been a witch helped me along. I slowly got the hang of it, and I am still learning. Simple key beginner tips I learned:

Be sure who it is you want to work with, or who is contacting you.

Pay attention to repeating signs in dreams and daily life.

Don’t be in a rush to confirm it is the entity you think it is.

Insure that it is not a trickster, ask questions using techniques like a pendulum or tarot reading

Do research on the entity you are in contact with and the history of the culture and/or pantheons they are apart of (I started out just by using Google and reading any mythology books I could find at the bookstore. I also used YouTube.)

You can choose to work with a deity or spirt, but ask for permission first. Understand that they have the right to say no.

Many deities and spirits are a part of closed practices such as African, African American, European and Indigenous cultures. If they are not a part of your culture, or the culture requires initiation please do not try to work with them.

Follow your intuition in both research and entity contact. If something feels off get a second opinion, or three. Look for a new resource and compare the two.

Some practitioners choose NOT to work with an entity. This is VAILID and completely OK.

Remember that these entities may not be a constant in your life. Do not linger on this thought, but know that these entities come into your life with the intent to help you, guide you, and teach you. I have worked with five so far, four of which stayed for a short time to teach me certain life lessons before bidding me farewell. It will be sad, but understand that it is not your fault, it is simply time for you to part ways. Some practitioners are lucky to have an entity that remains with them for years or a lifetime, maybe even lifetimes. Some may even return.

It will take work. It will take confidence, determination, and patience. It is not always easy, but it is nice.

(Disclaimer: These are just some witchy tips/notes I learned and want to share in hope that they will help others. Remember, no practitioner is the same)

[jasper-pagan-witch]

Reviewing Divination Methods: Dark Goddess Oracle Cards

The Dark Goddess Oracle Cards (henceforth known as just Dark Goddess or the Dark Goddess) is an oracle deck and companion guidebook written by Barbara Meiklejohn-Free and Flavia Kate Peters. It was illustrated by Kate Osborne. It was first copyrighted in 2017, but my edition is the 2018 version.

The outside of the box is the same as the cover of the instructional booklet. On the back of the box is the following blurb:

Are you ready and willing to re-engage with the guidance of your inner wisdom? Each card in this deck will illuminate the majesty and potential of your shadow self to bring about a more powerful sense of positivity and change in your life. This deck puts at your fingertips an array of emotional tools, mythology, real life experiences and the elements of Nature. Open the portals which span the globe and its ancient beliefs, and connect again to the Dark Goddess guidance within.

This oracle contains:

48 silver-gilded cards full of the power of the Goddesses

Key focus words

A detailed guidebook on how to use the information

Sample spreads

Easy to remember and repeat incantations

A detailed reading for each card

Information about the origins of each Goddess

Now, if you’re a suspicious grain like me, you’ll notice a few things right off the bat. It sounds vaguely c//ltish, it’s very Wiccan-focused, and they blow a lot of smoke and big words that don’t mean anything when put together.

One thing I want to bring up is that they claim that this is a deck about goddesses, yet they not only draw on goddesses from closed or initiation-based cultures, but also on monsters, demons, and figures who aren’t goddesses. Some examples:

Lilith, a Jewish demon

Medusa, a Greek monster

Arachne, a Greek figure/monster

Aradia, a "Roman Goddess” who doesn’t even exist, she was made up for an 1899 work called “Aradia, or the Gospel of Witches”

Skylla, a Greek monster

Pythia, a Greek figure

Among probably a lot more, because I’m not familiar with every name they use in this deck.

A list of every religion/belief system that this book draws on, in no particular order:

Greek

Roman

Celtic

Slavic

Gaelic

Welsh

Chinese

Native American

Indian

Aboriginal

Sumerian

Haitian

Irish

Norse

Polynesian

Hittite

Egyptian

Aztec

Mesopotamian

Germanic

African

Yoruban

Inuit

Babylonian

Japanese

Oh yeah, the salt is coming out. I did not expect appropriation when I asked my mom to get this for me, and yet here we are. I should have expected it, because there’s nothing but appropriation in the New Age section of the book store. (They’re still selling Al//ister Cr//wley shit in 2020!)

Okay, let’s move on to the booklet. Because they count both covers as pages, there are 112 pages (for reference, remember that the Dragon Tarot booklet had 64 pages). Pages 1 to 5 are cover pages and the dedication. The table of contents (which I’ve never used) takes up pages 6 and 7.

Finally, on pages 8 to 9, we get into the introduction. The introduction is very much a Wiccan Goddess-focused introduction, which mildly bothers me because it was not marketed as Wiccan. (Llewellyn, why do you break my heart like this?) It talks about shadow work in a very vague way and in the context of being a female Wiccan devoted to the Goddess.

Page 10 is just a guide of how to use the deck, while pages 11 and 12 are some spreads and some ideas of how to interpret the spreads.

Page 13 marks the beginning of the card messages. Pages 14 through 109 are all of the cards and their meanings, with each card taking up two pages.

The left page depicts the card in black-and-white, the name and key word, and some kind of chant that always ends in “Blessed Be”. Which is a Wiccan term from the Fivefold Kiss of Gardnerian Tradition, which I’ve talked about before.

Now, on the opposite page, you’ll notice that the words disappear into the inner buttcrack of the book. It does that through the entire thing. On the opposite page, we have the guidance (which is a long-winded explanation of why the card has these themes and how you should explore them), the foresight (which is the actual answers you can interpret for a question), and the “[Name] Revealed”.

This part is where the authors try to explain the origins of the various figures and assigns “archetypes” to them - egalitarian, defender, and seducer are a handful that spring to mind. It’s...rough, because they don’t get a lot of this information right. Like with Lilith or Aradia (who, again, is not a goddess from my research, she was made up for an 1899 project).

In short, this part makes me want to scream.

Page 110 is the acknowledgements, and pages 111 to 112 is the back cover.

Now that I’ve finished my proper booklet look, let’s talk about the cards. As you may have noticed from the first picture, the art is...peculiar.

The range of skin tones is very short (very pale to somewhat colored, with the notable exceptions of Inanna and Oya) and the art itself looks like the artist took models from one of those low-budget 3D model games you find on your less-than-reputable sites. (Don’t try to fool me, we’ve all been there.)

Here are exactly three good points to finish this off:

The art looks pretty when it doesn’t look like it’s from a low-budget 3D game

The back of the cards are pretty and have a neat design

Smells good

[ramona-ratguider]

Different types of witches

To start off this post I am going to clarify that as a witch you don’t need to label yourself in order to be a witch. Witches are as diverse as they come and I simply enjoy posts like this because it is fun, I enjoy the aesthetics and sometimes when setting up altars or holding a ritual it is satisfying to stick to a particular theme with your attire and decor.

Here is everything I could find on the different types of “witch aesthetics”

Traditional witch

Witches following the Old Path or the traditions of old witchcraft. This is one of my favourites, I get the feeling of long layered cloaks, melted down candles in a barely lit cottage, herbs hang up from the ceiling to dry. Witches following this path tend to take a look at a lot of historically know witches and their stories, their rumoured practices and follow in their footsteps.

Sea witch

Witches whose practice is linked strongly to the ocean. They usually use aquatic creatures, plants, beach sand and salt water religiously in their practice. Using Neptune and Poseidon to lead their workings. Doing spells associated with a lot of folklore surrounding the ocean (mermaids, sirens and otherworldly sea beasts).

Kitchen witch

My grandmother was the closest thing to a kitchen witch I have ever seen to a kitchen witch. Hovered over a crock-pot, humming beautiful melodies and stirring with the utmost focus. These witches can work a healing spell into homemade bread and a hex into a bowl of soup. Lovely cooks as well, good luck trying to figure out what is in that wonderful smelling pasta. This path is also similar to Hearth witchcraft.

Hedge witch

This is the one path I know very little about, but am dying to figure out. These witches work in what is know as the “Otherworld” and in order to reach it you must jump over the “hedge”. Working with spirits and creatures from the Otherworld.

Elemental witch

Witches on these path base their practice on the four elements : earth, air, fire and water. They will use the elements in every spell working, ritual and craft they do.

Ceremonial witch

These witches will not do simple spells or magic without the full workings of a ceremony. This is a very sophisticated path and witches on this path tend to be very anal about the set up of any ritual or spell work. Great detail is put into the moon phase, time of ritual and they ensure the working is carried out in a specific, step-by-step manner.

Green witch

Witches with strong ties to plants. I myself have never had much of a green thumb, as much as I try to keep my house full of beautiful plants I can never seem to keep them alive. My housemate has more skill with this. Trust these witches to be caught whispering to their succulents, using their plants to heal loved ones and being happiest when lying on the grass surrounded by daisies.

Hereditary witch

These witches come from a line of witches, raised in a household where witchcraft is practiced or are simply born with gifts and abilities that run in the family (in my case it skips a generation and one woman of every second generation inherits the ability). You don’t need to be born into it in order to practice the craft, but it sure helps.

Cosmic witch

These witches focus their practice on the cosmos. The stars, planets and in some cases even extraterrestrial beings. Spells performed by these witches usually follow the alignment of the stars, the planets and the moon and sun. So much knowledge can be generated from the universe and these types of witches are almost otherworldly. Focuses on astronomy and astrology are common.

Secular witch

These witches still practice the craft as any other witch would, but remove the aspect of deity or a higher power from their practice. Their work is in most cases not very spiritual, but rather practical.

Solitary witch

Not much to this type of witch, other than they don’t work in covens or do any work with other witches. They prefer to work alone.

Eclectic witch

A witch not limited to a particular practice or belief system, but rather incorporates them all or a select few into their practice. I myself like to mix and match in my workings so I could consider myself eclectic in broader terms.

African witch

This is a bit of an umbrella term as their are so many types of magic done within the traditional African community. The one crucial note to take is that in order to maintain the balance one does have to be of African descent in order to label oneself and African witch.

Ancestral witch

A witch who solely works with ancestors and no other spirits or otherworldy beings. These witches either work with their own ancestors or other historical ancestors that they feel strong connections to.

Animal witch

These witches tend to work mostly with animals, whether it be live animals, skins, bones or other remains, They normally have a really strong bond with living animals and in some cases animal spirits. This is the type of witch who gifts shiny things to the local crows and builds an army of loyal crow subjects.

Art witch

These witches are spewing with talent and creativity. Whether working spells into their beautiful oil paintings, clay figurines or embroidery. They will work healing magic into handmade jewellery and bindings into beautiful portraits.

Augury witch

Witches who interpret omens and symbols. They don’t exactly foresee the future, but more so to guide certain paths or receive messages from the other realms or higher powers.

Celtic witch

Witches who base their practice on Celtic magic, mythology and Celtic deities. These witches work with beings like fairies, gnomes and other beings from Celtic folklore. Normally quite into earth magic as well.

Chaos witch

A witch who’s practice is exactly that, chaotic. No common structure is used and this path is all about using whatever seems appropriate in the moment, even if it is contradictory to previous practice. Most unorganized of all the witches.

Crystal witch

A witch who uses crystals and gems strongly in their practice. This witch knows the properties of every crystal and stone and has quite a vast collection.

Divination witch

A witch who’s practice focuses solely on divination. Usually works with tarot cards, scrying and/or any other methods on divination. Use it to foretell the future, receive messages from other realms and the list goes on.

Earth witch

Similar to the ‘Green witch’ but broader. These witches use plants, stones, animals and other earthly elements in their practice. The hippies of the witch community. Almost always barefoot and getting lost in a forest somewhere. Most likely an environmentalist.

Flower witch

A witch who’s practice surrounds flowers more specifically than plants. Colourful gardens, always smells beautiful and will most likely make you a flower crown in spellwork. They know the properties of most local flowers and cast circles using daisies.

Hearth witch

A hearth witch’s practice revolves around their home, it’s very similar to kitchen witchcraft. They incorporate their spellwork into domestic activities within their household (like cleaning and cooking). When in a hearth witch’s house, you can almost immediately feel it.

Lunar witch

These witches use the moon and all her associate deities within their practice. The phase of the moon, moon water, moonstone, everything moon will make this witch. Guaranteed night owl, they draw all their magic from the moon itself.

Music witch

A music witch will use songs instead of spells in their craft. Incantations are songs they wrote themselves, songs they grew up with and even (similar to pop culture witches) mainstream media. They have a playlist for every ritual, celebration and find a way to incorporate music into all their workings. A music witch’s voice or instrument is their power.

Tech witch

Tech witches use modern technology within ritual and practice. Uses coding for spellwork and relies heavily on their devices. Utilizes mobile applications built for witches. Personally, tech witchcraft never worked for me because I found it to break and interrupt my energy lines, let me know if you are a tech witch how you overcome this.

Alexandrian witch

This is actually a path of Wicca, founded by Alex Sanders. It is very similar to Gardnerian Wicca and is highly ceremonial. This practice focuses on the relationship between the Wiccan God and Goddess.

Shaman

Not exactly witches, but based on the practice I felt it fitting. In Shamanism, contact is made with the spirit-world to heal the sick, commune with the spirits and ancestors, and in some cultures even escort the dead to the afterlife. This is normally a very indigenous practice and in my opinion the knowledge of true Shamanism can only be passed down from another Shaman.

Gardnerian witch

Another path of Wicca, named after Gerald Gardner. This is the earliest known created tradition of Wicca. In order to be considered Gardnerian one does need to be initiated into a Gardnerian coven, covens within these traditions are known for their secrecy. They celebrate the Wiccan God and Goddess and follow the Wiccan Rede.

Water witch

Similar to the sea witch, but some of these witches find themselves inland, far from the ocean and thus draw their power from streams, lakes and rivers. Thus adapting their path to follow the deities of these smaller bodies of water, and even work with animals and plants that are associated with these.

Air witch

These witches work with tools associated with the element air. Incense, feathers, the wind. Some witches base the elements they work with solely on their birth element (mine being Air as I am an Aquarius, but I have never practiced solely with air myself.) others just feel more drawn to a single element.

Fire witch

Witches taking the path of fire are considered the rebels of the Elemental Witches. Same as the others, they work with all the tools associated with Fire.

Pop culture witch

These are witches who use the elements of fiction and other pop culture in their practice. Following sample spells from movies like The Craft or creating their own spell from a scene from a movie not even remotely about witchcraft. This is not just limited to movies, but also pop songs; taking the lyrics and using them in spells or replacing the lyrics with spells. This is another one I am not too fond of myself, but I do like to see how other witches incorporate pop culture into their magic.

Forest witch

These witches spend all their time practicing the craft within the forest. Gathering their tools within her, holding rituals within her. These witches are incredibly drawn to the forest and draw their energy from within the forest.

Swamp witch

Same as the forest witch, but swamp.

Desert witch

Same as the swamp witch, but desert

Weather witch

My personal favourite, the weather witch uses weather to draw her energies or in some cases is able to actually manipulate the weather. These witches use things like storm water and other such tools in their craft.

-----------------------

These are just the few I could think of. If you know of any more please message me and I will update it. :)