The Celtic Lunar Zodiac: How to Interpret Your Moon Sign

THE CELTIC LUNAR ZODIAC How to Interpret Your Moon Sign

THE CELTIC LUNAR ZODIAC How to Interpret Your Moon Sign

HELENA PATERSON Illustrated by Margaret Walty

1 997

Llewellyn Publications

St. Paul, Minnesota 5 5 1 64-03 83, U. S.A.

The Celtic Lunar Zodiac ©

1 992, 1 997 by Helena Paterson. All rights reserved. Printed

in the United States of America. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in

any manner whatsoever without written p ermission from Llewellyn Publications, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews . Copyright © Illustrations 1 992, 1 997 Margaret Walty.

FIRST LLEWELLYN EDITION First Printing, 1 997 Previously published in 1 992 by Rider Books, London, England. Cover Illustration: Margaret Walty

Chapter Illustrations: Margaret Walty Cover D esign : Lisa Novak

Book Typesetting: Peregrine Graphics Services Proj ect Management: Jan Feeney

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data Paterson, Helena, 1 945-

The Celtic Lunar Zodiac : how to interpret your moon sign I Helena

Paterson : illustrated by Margaret Walty. -- 1 st Llewellyn ed. p. em.

Includes bibliographical references .

ISBN 1 -567 1 8- 5 1 0-X (trade paper)

1 . Astrology. Celtic. 2 . Moon--Miscellanea. 3 . Zodiac.

I. Title.

BF 1 7 1 4 . C44P383

1 33 . 5 ' 9391 6--dc 2 1

1 997

Llewellyn Publications

A Division of Llewellyn Worldwide, Ltd. P.O. Box 64383, St. Paul, MN 5 5 1 64-0383

97-5648 CIP

CONTENTS

Acknowledgments

9

Introduction

11

1

THE BIRCH TREE, BETH

27

2

THE ROWAN TREE, LUIS

37

3

THE ASH TREE, NION

47

4

THE ALDER TREE, FEAR N

57

5

THE WILLOW TREE, SAILLE

67

6

THE HAW THORN TREE, UATH

77

7

THE OAK TREE, DUIR

87

8

THE HOLLY TREE, TINNE

97

9

THE HAZEL TREE, COLL

107

10

THE VINE, MUIN

117

11

THE IV Y, GORT

127

12

THE REED, NGETAL

137

13

THE ELDER TREE, RUIS

147

Bibliography

158

Reference Sources

159

To the Cailleach, the Old Veiled One.

I stood alone within the trees; alone I thought, with all the world but rushing by, so lonely was I. Who in this world could know my heart, its aches, its hurts and striving to Thee? How lonely I was in Thee. But as I stood there in the glade, a peace unknown went whispering by; it looked at me a-standing there and saw the heart in need of Thee, and stayed a while.

from

A Reason for Living by

George Benton-Smith

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Thank you, James Vogh, for writing your book

Arachne Rising;

it

inspired me to make a further study of the 1 3 Druidic signs by reading Robert Graves' masterly work on the subj ect,

Goddess.

The White

Recognition must also be extended to the authors men­

tioned in the bibliography, whose contributions cannot be forgot­ ten, only further praised. Praise must also be attributed to Margaret Walty's magical interpretations-an artist of rare talent and imagination. My grateful acknowledgments to the late Dr. John Penderill­ Church and E dward Harte, two extraordinary characters who lived in Cornwall and who restored long-lost historical myths to their rightful place in the local archives. It was John's pap er, titled " Herbs for the Use of Healers ," given at the annual conference of the National Federation of Spiritual Healers in 1 979 that provided the outline information on Druidic herbs. Special thanks to the staff at Llewellyn-Nancy Mostad, Lynne Menturweck, Andrea Godwin, Jan F e eney, and Judy Gilats­ whose helpful suggestions and editorial skills gave the whole con­ tent a sharper fo cus. Thanks are also due to ]. L . White, astronomer, who advised on the astronomical data. Also to the many friends who loaned their precious books. -Helena Paterson

I N TRO D UCTIO N The Druids The D ruids , a Celtic priesthood who lived in the

apparently excelled him in the leech's art, and in a fit

British Isles from around 1 000 B.C., used a lunar cal­

of j ealousy Diancecht slew his son. However, from

endar of 1 3 months , each consisting of 28 days, and

the grave of the young god sprang 365 herbs from

one intercalary day, to calculate their year and their

the j o ints and sinews of the dead body, each possess­

important festivals . The ritual aspect of their reli­

ing a magic virtue to heal the diseases of the related

gion was based primarily on the soli/lunar cycle,

parts . In this respect Midoch resembles the young

their zodiac being lunar rather than solar. This

Aesculapius, Greek god of healing, who incurred the

reflects a culture based partly on matrilineal succes­

j ealousy of Jupiter and was struck down with a

sion. The D ruidic religion was drawn from a keen

thunderbolt. In Celtic myth, gods were sometimes

awareness of the natural and supernatural energies

p ersonified as the calendar year; in the myth relating

identified with the spirits

of their sacred

to Midoch he is thus honored, and rememb ered

trees, and the Druids' zodiac of tree spirits were

with the numerical life-giving symbol of the solar

emanations that they b elieved came to Earth from

year and with a sacred herb representing each day.

(dryads)

the Sun.

In order to calculate any calendar or zodiac, a

Many centuries later the medical knowledge of

precise knowledge of the movement of the celestial

herbal medicine relating to the trees and plants of the

bodies is required. Stonehenge, a source of many

Druids was found to be surviving in Ireland. Druidic

legends and a site of undiminished curiosity, has

medicine is thus chiefly known from the Irish records

attracted scholarly studies for c enturies. In recent

of

years such study has yielded some profound infor­

The Book of the O'Hickeys and The Book of the 0'Lees, both now preserved in the Royal Irish Acad­

mation regarding the astronomical alignment of the

emy. These books were written in 1 303 and 1 443

ancient stones, showing that the solstices, e quinoxes,

respectively, partly in Latin and partly in Irish, and

and eclipses can all be accurately calculated, despite

probably represent the largest number of ancient

their variable declinations and complex cycles.

medical manuscripts still in existence in any language.

Although the Druids did not build Stonehenge,

The Druidic god of healing, D iancecht, whose

or any of the other Megalithic monuments in

name means " swift in p ower," has long been

Britain and Ireland, it is p erhaps

regarded as the fount of all Irish medical and herbal

tion that t he Druidic religion only flourished where

lore. But his son, Midoch, and daughter, Airmida,

these ancient stones and burial chamb ers were

a

relevant observa­

12

INTRODUCTION

located. The ancient Britons who had erected the

dead," and is almost identical to the Egyptian cult of

imposing stone circles left a l e gacy shrouded in

Osiris , god of the dead, and the underworld. The

mystery and magic, with their own origins being as

Celtic people shared many aspects of their religion

equally obscure as those of the C eltic invaders cast

and culture with the Greeks, including a god of the

up from the sea. According to the archaeologists ,

underworld they called Dis, and from whom all Celts

very few hostilities resulted from the Celtic con­

claimed descent. Dis resembles the Greek god Pluto,

frontation with the indigenous population, and it

god of the underworld in Greek mythology, the most

app ears that an intermingling of tribal customs and

feared god, and, as Lord of the Infernal Regions, an

cultures occurred over several centuries, long before

initiator into their greater mysteries of life. This adds

the Roman invasion.

to the speculation about a common source or com­

The Megalithic religion of the ancient British was based on what has been termed " the cult of the

mon ancestry between all four races-the ancient British, the Celts, the Greeks, and the Egyptians .

Druidic Astrology Hidden in all astrology is the esoteric language of

The circular half of the globe above the rational

symb olism, which contains many references to

horizon was symbolized by the mystical Cauldron of

sourc e or origins . It is probable that within the

Ceridwen (lunar goddess) that contained the divine

astrology of the Druids lies the key to the origin of

feminine essence. It was further divided between the

the Celts and possibly the ancient Britons, for the

equinoctial line from east to west, with the Sun, Tal­

Druids had their own zodiac and cosmology that

iesin, having dominion over the half containing the

had obviously evolved in Britain around the stone

longest day (summer solstice) , and Avagddu or night

circles and observatories of the Megalithic p eople. A

ruling the other half containing the shortest day

summation of the Druidic religion, astrology, and

(winter solstice) .

mythology may also provide a more enlightened

This primeval division of night and day was also

view of a race of people who have influenced the

basic to the Celtic conception of time-a dimension

western world perhaps more conclusively than any

that had no boundaries, only entrances and exits. The

other ancient p eople.

astronomical markers located the portals where the

In the Druidic system of astrology the whole Earth was known as

Buarth Beirdd

or the bovine

enclosure, and the Earth's fertility was symbolized by a white cow and the generating Sun by a white bull.

emanations of divine life both entered and left Earth. The equinoxes and solstices were thus named:

Alban Eilir (second generation) for the first vernal equinox; Alban Hifzn (sunny temperature) for the summer sol-

I N T RO DUC T I O N

Alban Elfed (harvest) for the autumnal Alban Arthuan for the winter solstice

13

stice;

equinox;

powers of darkness . Reference to King Arthur in

and

(Arthur's

their cosmology came later, but it was a Celtic tradi­

season) , when Arthur was engaged in fighting the

tion to identifY heroes and kings with the solar deity.

Druidic Religion The D ruidic religion had a higher philosophy and

of Ceridwen on December 22 (winter solstice) as it

tradition that is seldom touched upon. The Druids

once again began its ascent in the sky.

believed in a creator who could not be seen by man,

It was thought by the D ruids that myriads of

and whose own emanation was beyond comprehen­

lives, quite apart from the physical existence, also

sion, even to the initiated. For that reason they

emanated at the same time and were led by the Sun

named him Celi, which meant " concealing," and his

from the dimension of

consort was the lunar goddess Ceridwen or " aid."

located in the Celtic underworld, into the outer

They did not worship the Sun, but identified it with

world. This "life " or soul-force, which had initially

the only begotten son of Ceridwen, born from the

been deposited by Ceridwen, had evolved through

mystical union between Ceridwen and Celi. The divinity of the Sun was part of the ancient Druidic trinity that had prec eded Christianity. It

A nnwn,

an astral plane

the animal creation up to human form, but it was without the spiritual inspiration of

the rea­

Awen,

soning faculty imparted directly from God. There were three circles of spiritual evolution:

symbolized the three rays or emanations of their great creator Celi, not from the Sun itself. These

the circle of

three " fertilizing" rays were symbolized by thre e

circle of

Abred; the circle of Gwynvyd; and the Ceugant. From Annwn life crawle d into

golden apples, and identified with the triune word

Abred, the

circle of trial-the Earth-plane where the

or

soul-force

logos

of the creator, which held the secret of the

universe in its very breath .

took

physical

form.

This

included

humanity and all below it, and was a place where

Celi and Ceridwen were regarded as incompre­

good and evil were in equal measure and influence.

hensible spirits, Ceridwen being the originator of

Man was free from all obligation, and every act was

crude matter that began in an embryonic condition

one of consent and choice. As man evolved, so did

from across the ocean-the source of all life. This

his

essence of life was feminine and passive in its nature,

system of evolution the "free will" of mankind was

and every spring it was brought over the seas in a

given great emphasis and considered to be an

A wen and a clearer vision

of God. In this Druidic

sacred boat shaped like a crescent Moon and pro­

important factor, unlike the Brahmin religion that

pelled by Ceridwen. The Sun was " reborn" as a babe

this aspect of Druidism has been said to resemble.

14

INTRO D U C TI O N

These " teachings " come from the disputed vol­ ume of material known collectively as

Barddas,

and

were documents that had been gathered from more ancient manuscripts by the Welsh bard Iolo Mor­ ganwg. But careful reading of the

Barddas

And there can be no existence to anything but from intelligence; A nd the non-existence if all things comes from what is not in place.

does

reveal several distinctly C eltic p ersuasions, the

These statements underline the deeper philosophy

" enigma of the Bards " b eing a good example. It

of the Druids, and appear to share common ground

forms two parts , in the question and answer routine

with the

Qabalah, an ancient Hebraic system of mys­

of a riddle, the thought-provoking exercise so pop­

tical evolution, as well as with Brahmin teaching and

ular amongst Celts. It begins :

many other ancient religions . The Druids also considered it possible for man to

There is nothing truly hidden but what is not conceivable; There is nothing not conceivable but what is immeasurable; There is nothing immeasurable but God; There is no God but that which is not conceivable; There is nothing not conceivable but that which is truly hidden; There is nothing truly hidden but God.

evolve to

Gwynvyd

during his lifetime through his

own volition or the memory of God. In other words the Celt was certainly much more a "free agent" than his eastern counterpart. The idea of "memory" has links with the Egyptian preoccupation with learning

all the names of their gods in order to make their way safely to their idea of heaven. But the circle of

Abred

was one in which all

mankind must pass through during their various stages of existence before being qualified to enter

The solution begins :

the circle of felicity- Gwynvyd, a plane of the

What is not conceivable is the greatest if all, and the immeasurable if what is not in place; God is the greatest of all, and the immeasurable if intelligence;

wholly developed spirit. The circle of

Ceugant

was

occupied by God alone, but there also existed a polarity of darkness called

Cythraul

that God had

subdued by uniting with it.

Creation Myths Ceridwen's other son, Avagddu-Night-was her

This duality of light and darkness continued through

first-born in the older evolutionary myths of the

all creation of life in Celtic thought and tradition.

Celts, and later became the dark twin to the Sun.

There are many parallel creation myths to " dark-

I NTRODUC T I O N

ness" prec eding " light ." Apart

from

the

15

most

such events . A lunar eclipse may b e seen over the

well-known one in the Bible, there is also mention

complete hemisphere of the Earth, and can only

of Lilith, whose name means " night," who was the

take place at full Moon; the E arth casts its own

first wife of Adam. In the Talmud, Lilith quarreled

shadow in space, so during the lunar eclipse it is the

with Adam, left him and was pursued by three angels

shadow of the Earth that slowly creeps across the

who sought unsuccessfully to persuade her to return

face of the Moon. It may form either a total or par­

and become the mother of mankind. Later, how­

tial eclipse, but the light of the Moon does not van­

ever, her insane j ealousy of Adam's new wife Eve

ish entirely, due to the layer of atmosphere around

caused her to return and take revenge by instigating

the Earth that refracts a certain amount of sunlight.

Cain's fury against his brother Abel.

Solar eclipses are much more sp ectacular, and occur

In the Celtic myth of Ceridwen it was three drops from her sacred cauldron that transformed

when the Moon stands between the Sun and Earth at the time of the new Moon.

Gwion from a mortal child into a solar deity known

All eclipses were seen by the Druids as a primeval

as the bardic-god Taliesin. The birth of Taliesin was

replay of the regenerating forc es of the spiritual

resented by the great lunar goddess, who cast the

energies in the universe. In all ancient astrological

newborn babe back into the ocean. Both the Sun

records eclipses were initially considered " evil," but

and Earth were seen as life-giving deities, but Cerid­

later they were regarded as more auspicious events

wen was the primeval mother, the lunar goddess

that could be either good or bad; it depended on

whose power, like Lilith's, retained the more mysti­

whose gain or loss they signified, and were mostly

cal and darker asp ect of the female.

linked to national events. The study of the eclipse

In D ruidic mysticism the eclipses were the spec­ tacular and awesome phenomenon that occurred

cycles also formed part of the

Saros

tables of the

Chaldeans and Babylonians , which were lunar-based,

when Celi formed a mystical union with either the

and were later examined by Meton, an Athenian

Moon or Earth-hence their keen observance of

astronomer who "rediscovered" the lunation cycles.

Traces

of Atlantis

Apart from the Sun and Moon there were several

Castor, and D eneb. Arcturus lies close to the tail of

other celestial bodies

the Great Bear constellation, which, with Orion,

D ruids . These

were

clos ely observed by the the

constellations

of the

Pleiades, Orion, and Auriga, as well as some of the chief stars in the northern sky, namely Arcturus,

forms the two main direction finders or navigational aids for all travelers and astronomers . The mythology relating to the Great B ear is

16

I N T RODUC T I O N

both vast a n d very ancient; for example, it was

the sea, who became the founders of all classic civi­

known as the Seven Rishis in Hindu records . Astro­

lizations . According to

nomically it marked the precession of the equinoxes,

Atlantis,

the duration of

recorded the history of Atlantis from his ancestor

Yuga

revolutions or great ages . In

Donnelly, in

his

book

Plato, who lived 400 years before Christ,

Egyptian mythology the Great Bear was known as

Solon, a great law-giver of Athens . Solon had visited

the Mother ofTime and was called the Living Word;

Egypt 200 years previously and been initiated by the

it gave rise to the symbol of the ankh-cross that rep­

Egyptian priests into the occult mysteries of great

resents the "loop " shape of the constellation. In their

antiquity. The priests had also reputedly shown him

Osirian rituals it marked a place in the heavens

sacred obj ects relating to Atlantis that confirmed its

where the Sun was reborn in the northern sky. In

historical existence.

the bardic riddle of Gwion there is mention of the

The island of Atlantis was said by Plato to have

constellation as another marker or direction finder,

existed more than 9 , 000 years prior to the time of

along with the

Solon, and was described as a large island known as

Corona Borealis, in

trying to lo cate the

"the Continent of Atlantis." It was apparently a great

mysterious Castle of Arianrhod. Orion, the

hunter, whose

brilliant

retinue

and wonderful empire that ruled over several other

includes Sirius, the brightest star in the whole sky,

smaller islands , the remnants of which are now

lies south on a winter evening in the northern

known as the Canaries and the island of Madeira.

hemisphere. Its distinctive shape also points out the

Part of this empire also included areas of Libya,

chief Geminian star, Castor. The Great B ear lies

Egypt, and Europe as far as Tyrrhenia (Etruria, in

north-east, with the bright star D eneb belonging to

what is now Italy) . Its founder was Poseidon, a

the constellation of Cygnus almost on the northern

primeval

horizon . Capella, the chief star of Auriga, is almost

Earth-born maiden, Cleito, to produce the first

sea-god,

who

had

mated

with

an

directly overhead. Capella, after the Sun and Moon,

Atlantean people. Poseidon's ten children with Cleito

was the most closely studied star in the northern sky

were five sets of twins, the first-born being Atlas, and

to be observed by the Druids . It is not the brightest

all the descendents became known as "the people of

star in the sky, but the alignment with the other con­

the sea" because of their lineage from Poseidon.

stellations does place it directly overhead during the winter months .

The island of Atlantis was considered by Plato to be a veritable paradise or Garden of E den, im­

The ancient civilization of Atlantis has been

mensely fertile and teeming with every sort of

written about and speculated on for centuries. Many

wildlife and exotic flora. Hot springs and inland

mythologists and esoterics believe that, after the

lakes divided the island into several zones, which

Great Deluge had annihilated the Atlantean civiliza­

were cleverly bridged to allow access to all parts , and

tion, the survivors and outpost colonists were scat­

canals were dug, with sluice gates to control the tidal

tered worldwide. They were the " original" people of

flow of the larger lakes. Many fabulous sea-beasts

I N T RODUC T I O N

17

abounded in these waters , especially dolphins , who

captured t h e imagination of t h e public, a n d are

were treated with the greatest respect, as Poseidon

attracting much attention from astronomers; they

himself was believed to be intimately related to this

represent the great unknown, the primeval " dark­

sacred species.

ness" in our universe.

The buildings and temples of Atlantis were con­

It was the

Sons of Night or D arkness in

structed with great skill, and ornamental stones were

Atlantean myth who upset the balance of their once

intermingl� d with natural stones to delight the eye, . these stones being mainly white, red, and black. The

orderly society. At one time the powers of light and

Atlanteans also covered the outer walls with a coat­

priestho ods known as the Sons of Light and the

ing of brass, so the total effect was a dazzling reflected

Sons of Night. But in some esoteric belief the Sons

darkness were e qual , and there co-existed two

light that appeared to encompass the whole of the

of Night

island. The chief temple was dedicated to Cleito and

left-hand path and fell into the abyss, which in turn

app arently

strayed

off their

narrow

Poseidon, and remained inaccessible because of its

generated an upsurge of demonic forces who cor­

high enclosure made of gold and silver with an ivory

rupted the Atlanteans into acts of great depravity.

roof. The only people to worship or visit this most

Poseidon returned after a long absence, and discov­ ered the chaos of war, with terrible battles raging

holy temple were the gods themselves. If this were true, it reflects the Druidic belief in

between the two priesthoods. Consequently their

the third circle of spiritual evolution, C eugant,

civilization was doomed, in the esoteric sense; Posei­

where God alone existed. The name Ceugant

don, saddened and angry, struck the island with his

closely resembles the English word cygnet (a young

three-pronged sceptre or trident and there followed

swan) , being derived from old French

a catastrophic earthquake that rent the whole conti­

cygne,

which

In the ancient myths

nent apart and a volcanic explosion completely

of the Irish Celts the children of Lir were turned

engulfed the island, which sank in one day. The

into swans , and became a symbol of the radiant

symbol and awesome power of his three- pronged

originated from Greek

kuinos.

divinity of their ancient gods . In Greek myth the

trident is remarkably similar to the three rays associ­

names of their gods and goddesses were remem­

ated with the Druidic god, which also represented

bered in the constellations that b ear their names ,

the three most powerful words that may never be

Cygnus being identified with Jupiter, who visited

pronounced less they destroy the universe.

Leda in the disguise of a swan. But the constellation of Cygnus is now more

According to Donnelly, another surviving frag­ ment of Atlantis, apart from Madeira and the

commonly known as the Northern Cross; it con­

Canaries, is said to be the Azores; hot springs still

tains an expanding supernova remnant known as the

abound there, and its climate is very temperate con­

Cygnus Loop, and is also believed to contain a black

sidering its position in the Atlantic O cean . Geolo­

hole in space. Black holes in space have recently

gists have confirmed that the Azores were once part

18

I N T RODUC T I O N

of a large continent, and deep-sea soundings have

D elians . The Hyperboreans were regarded as gifted

located a huge shelf or ridge situated in the

harpists and poets, who sang hymns to their mutual

mid-Atlantic. This ridge is shown on nautical charts ,

Sun god Apollo in their magnificent temple (Stone­

and is aptly named Dolphin's Ridge.

henge?) that had been built to honor his birthplace

Helena Blavatsky, probably one of the greatest

in their island. Apollo was said to visit the temple

authorities on the occult, was another advocate of

every nineteen years (great lunar year) , to play the

Atlantis and the Atlantean " root race " civilization. In

harp and dance every night from the vernal equinox

her book

until the rising of the Pleiades. In ancient esoteric

The Secret Doctrine

she makes the observa­

tion that the one l ink with Atlantis that all her

astronomy, Latona, Ap ollo's mother, represents the

" descendants" maintained, despite their assimilated

whole Hyperborean continent and its race. She is

cultures and religions, was a memory of their home­

symbolically identified with the p olar region and

land whose location was hidden in the starlore of

night, for the Sun always " reappeared" in this part of

astrology. She refers to the ancient Sinhalese, who

the northern sky.

claim descent from Atlantis and who mention in

This certainly relates to the Druidic religion and

their earliest astrological records "A time when the

cosmology. Is the star pattern mentioned earlier,

summer tropical color passed through Pleiades ,

with Capella b eing almost directly overhead, the

when Cor Leonis would be upon the equator, and

"Druidic marker" that provides a correct compass

when Leo was vertical to C eylon at sunset, then

b earing for the Pleiades, to then b e aligned with

would Taurus (Pleiades) be vertical to the island of

Atlantis and the British Isles? The Pleiades is

Atlantis at noon."

undoubtedly

at

the

center

of some

universal

The constellation of the Pleiades has been con­

intrigue, just as its chief star, Alcyone, is reckoned to

stantly monitored by numerous races, from the Aus­

be at the central point around which our universe of

tralian Aborigines to the North American Indians .

fixed stars revolve.

The rising of the Pleiades is aligned to the Heel

During the darkness of winter the Druids looked

Stone at Stonehenge, and its mythology intimately

up at the sky and observed the astral light. The ris­

relates the C elts with the ancient Greeks . In

The

ing of the Pleiades may have other significance but,

Robert Graves' comparative study of

if the star pattern they observed had any relevance,

Greek and C elt, it is re called in the account

then the Pleiades would be aligned to the Atlantic

J!Vhite Goddess,

recorded by the historian Hecateus . It describes the

O c ean where Atlantis is now said to lie sub­

inhabitants of the British Isles, who were known as

merged-and they are. If the original "p eople of the

the Hyperboreans, as being p articularly friendly

sea" were indeed the Atlanteans , then the Celts must

with the Athen ians and the D elians from remote

not only be their descendants but, by retaining the

times; indeed, their chief priest, Abaris, had visited

same title, were perhaps the last remnants of their

Greece to renew their "family" connection with the

priesthood. The lack of hostility from the "natives"

I NT RO D U C T I O N

19

is perhaps a significant indication that they finally

Arianrhod had twin sons, a solar deity called

met up with other descendants of their own race.

Llew, whom she had rej e cted Gust as Ceridwen

Their claim of being descendants of D is, an under­

deni e d her solar child Taliesin) , and a sea deity

world god, is really a claim of their belief in the

named Dylan. While this is an obvious symbolic ref­

immortality of the soul.

erence to the rivalry between the solar and lunar

The association of the constellation of Auriga with the riddle of Gwion in trying to locate the

deities, it also confirms an ancient lineage or associ­ ation with the sea through their lunar goddess .

mysterious Castle of Arianrhod would be most rele­

Like other ancient gods, the gods of the Celts

vant if a positive link with Atlantis is to be estab­

were often born as twins . This could explain the

lished. Arianrhod represents one of the deeper mys­

interest in Castor, the chief star of the constellation

teries in C eltic myth. She was primarily a lunar

of Gemini and the astrological sign of the heavenly

goddess, but she was also known as a dawn goddess

twins . It also represents the duality of life-light and

because of her "fleeting light" in the sky. This partic­

darkness, the basic pivotal principle on which their

ular aspect or disappearance at dawn may very well

religion was founded-and mirrors once again

be the " timing" aspect of the star alignment observed

Atlantean concepts .

by the D ruids , which adjusted or maintained the exact position of Atlantis on the western horizon.

Lunar Symbolism and Mythology Arianrhod symbolizes the mysterious and mystical

The

secretive

nature

of Arianrhod

is

well

aspects of Druidism, and the mythology relating to

researched in James Vogh 's book

her children has much relevance when deciphering

where he identifies Arianrhod, the "Lady of the Sil­

the origins of the Celts . The twin to Llew, Dylan,

ver Wheel," with the constellation Auriga, which

became a popular marine deity, but the father of

means " charioteer." He then associates her with the

A rachne Rising,

these twins was a mystery because Arianrhod had

Cretan spider goddesses Arachne and Ariadne. Both

claimed to b e a virgin immediately before their

were

associated

with

tre e

worship

in

the

birth. She refused to be questioned by the powerful

Crete-Minoan period, and with secret labyrinths

magician and underworld god, Math, who had man­

and hanged gods . He also makes the interesting

aged to trick her into stepping over a magic wand,

point that Arianrhod was a C eltic goddess who

which in turn had the effect of producing the sud­

stood at both ends of the thread of life, and the quest

den birth of the twins .

to find her " castle" was the quest for immortality.

20

I NT RO D U C T I O N

C eltic kings wore a brooch in the shap e of a

number of fabulous islands that lay due west on any

"wheel" to symbolize their belief in the immortality

compass b earing. From the British Isles and south­

of the soul.

ern Europe this certainly relates to the Atlantic

This quest is also associated with the Celtic voy­ ages to the " other world," a place where their gods

Ocean, and is p erhaps another fragment of memory linking the Celts to Atlantis.

were said to live. The other world consisted of a

The Druids' Zodiac The conclusions drawn by Vogh from the corre­

sign zodiac that corresponds with the Druidic tree

sponding mythology of the Celts with the ancient

calendar. He further explains that the Greeks eventu­

Minoan people is that Arachne presided over a 1 3-

ally settled for a 1 2-sign zodiac, but had obviously at

Comparison of Druidic and Graeco-Roman Zodiacs DRUIDIC SIGN

MONTH

BIRCH, Beth

December 24-January 20

Capricorn

ROWAN, Luis

January 21-February 17

Aquarius

ASH, Nion

February 18-March 17

Aquarius/Pisces

GRAECO-ROMAN ZODIAC

March 18-April 14

Pisces/Aries

W ILLOW, Saille

April 15-May 12

Aries/Taurus

HAW THORN, Uath

May 13-June 9

Taurus/ Gemini

OAK, Duir

June 10-July 7

Gemini/Cancer

ALDER, Fearn

•

HOLLY, Tinne

July 8-August 4

Cancer/Leo

HAZEL, Coli

August 5-September 1

Leo/Virgo

VINE, Muin

September 2-September 29

Virgo/Libra

IV Y, Gort

September 30-0ctober 27

Libra/Scorpio

REED, Ngetal

October 28-November 24

Scorpio/Sagittarius

ELDER, Ruis

November 25-December 23

Sagittarius/ Capricorn

I N T RO D U C T I O N

21

one time considered 1 3 signs and then decided against

tralia, where an aboriginal stone carving found on

it. Thirteen is not a "rational number" and, by being

D epuch Island shows the Moon's position in a

associated with the ancient lunar goddesses, it has, he

zodiac of 1 3 signs . Therefore the Druidic zodiac is not unique and,

concedes, perhaps too many powerful taboos. But the Druids had obviously adopted it, and

for people who would argue that the Druids' 1 3-

then adapted it to form the soli/lunar cycle of both

month calendar does not necessarily constitute a

their calendar and zodiac, which places the Moon at

13-sign zodiac nor is sufficiently authenticated, I

the spiritual center and the solar cycle as the regen­

would recommend they read Robert Graves ' and

erating forc e . The D ruidic zodiac also has some

James Vogh's books, and check all the relevant refer­

interesting associations and similarities with other

ences on the D ruidic religion in the National

ancient civilizations. Another prehistoric 1 3 -sign

Library ofWales in Aberystwyth. The Library's main

zodiac has been found in America near Hot Springs,

catalog and

Arkansas , while yet another has been lo cated in A us-

liography ofWelsh Literature) has a list of works on

Llyfryddiaeth Llenyddiaeth Gymraeg

(a bib­

The Druidic Signs and Their Archetypes DRUIDIC SIGN

Birch Rowan

0

I§

PLANET

ARCHETYPAL CHARACTER

Sun

Taliesin, Bardic-god

The eagle or stag

Uranus

Brigantia

Green dragon

Neptune

Lir, sea-god

The trident

SYMBOLS

Mars

Bran or Arthur

The pentacle

Willow

w d J)

Moon

Morgan le Fay

The serpent

Hawthorn

fo.,

Vulcan

Govannan, smith-god

The chalice

Oak

4

Jupiter

Dagda

The golden wheel

Earth

Danu

Flaming spear

Mercury

Ogrna

The rainbow fish

Venus

Branwen or Guinevere

The swan The butterfly

Ash Alder

Holly Hazel Vine

E9

� S2

Ivy

}"-{

Persephone

Arianrhod

Reed

�

Pluto

Pwyll, head of Annwyn

The stone

Saturn

Pryderi, son of Pwyll

The raven

Elder

"h

22

INTRO DUCTI O N

the Druids, particularly under section (ii)

Crifydd a

of feminine logic that has always existed to counter

numb ered 203-247 . The corresponding

the rigid thinking of men. But it is also drawn from

library in D ublin, I reland, has many copies of

a source much closer to home, and delves into the

ancient manus cripts , and reference material too

national psyche on many levels .

Mytholeg

numerous to list. However, two useful and enlight­ ening works ,

The Book of Leinster,

a twelfth-century

manuscript that preserves the integrity of the Druidic priesthood, and Joyce's book on the

History of Ancient Ireland,

Social

are recommended.

T h e first sign of the Celtic lunar zodiac begins with the birch tree and is associated with the letter

beth

in the C eltic tree alphabet.

Beth is

also the first

of thirteen consonants of the C eltic letters that formed a calendar of seasonal tree magic. The Celts

Mythology is a complex record to decipher, and

believed the spoken word had great power, the pitch

I can only add that, as a practicing astrologer of

or tone being harmful or harmonious, a curse or a

many years standing, I found overwhelming evi­

poem. This is further explained in Chapter 9 of this

dence for the C eltic lunar zodiac of 1 3 signs .

book, where the power of the spoken word is related

Druidic astrology should be restored to a place of

to the month of Coll, the sign of the hazel tr�e.

honor, along with all the other ancient astrologies.

Archetypes are important sources of mythologi­

Britain and Ireland have two " cosmi c " c enters­

cal and astrological interpretation, and their symbol­

Stonehenge and Newgrange-that have never been

ism provides esoteric wisdom. In the chart on page

fully appreciated by either historians or modern

2 1 the D ruidic tree signs are shown with their cor­

astronomers .

responding archetypal Celtic gods or mythical char­

The chart on page 20, comparing Druidic signs

acters , and the associated ancient symbols , while the

with the Graeco-Roman zodiac, provides a useful

list of planetary rulers will provide relevant insight

guide to the Celtic lunar chart shown on page 2 3 .

for astrologers .

T h e 1 3 signs of the Celtic lunar zodiac are divided

There are also many mythical beings and relevant

through the 360 degrees by 12 signs of 28 degrees,

Celtic festivals associated with the signs, which have

while the last sign, the thirteenth, is the elder or

ruis

contributed to the interpretation in the following

and contains 24 degrees. The last sign, by being

chapters . The significant line of poetry that intro­

smaller than the rest, represents the contraction of

duces each sign has been drawn from the ancient

winter in the symbolic sense of reduced sunlight.

D ruidic incantation " The Song of Amergin," as

The title

Celtic lunar zodiac may

sound confusing

to practicing astrologers, who would expect to see a

revised by Robert Graves in his book

The White

Goddess.

zodiac based on lunar cycles. But the title was care­

There is a "missing" day in the Druidic calendar,

fully chosen to denote the different approach to the

the one intercalary day of December 23. It has been

whole subj ect of " solar astrology." The lunar-orien­

included under the sign of the elder, but it has a sep­

tated zodiac is perhaps another " irrational" equation

arate interpretation in Chapter 1 3 . The significance

I N TRO D U C T I O N

23

of this " hidden" sign holds the key to the D ark

harmony of the universe and to influence every­

Queen aspect of the lunar goddess Arianrhod. It is

thing within it. Yin is darkness, the feminine prin­

the

always

ciple, and is symb olized by the M o o n . Yang is

remained concealed. People born on this "nameless

brightness, the masculine principle, and is symbol­

day" have a cosmic spiritual awareness-time travel­

ized by the Sun.

essence

of feminine

wisdom

that

ers , akin to the Australian Aborigines whose dream­ time refl ects an evolving creation and creator. The flower and gemstone associated with each

The C eltic lunar chart will also add another dimension of interpretation by marking the sym­ bolic ascent and descent of the Sun. This remains a

sign has been carefully selected to correspond and

"fixed" position, like a nautical compass-bearing, and

harmonize with the energies associated with the tree

relates to the heliocentric position of the Sun. The

sign. The gemstones were also chosen from a range

Druidic circles of spiritual evolution provide some

of precious and semiprecious stones used by the

interesting points relating to the exits and entrances

Druids as talismans for healing and protection.

of the solstices and equinoxes, and appear to mark

The astrological chart shown on page 23 has

some sensitive areas in the natal chart. The chart fol­

been devised and drawn to equate the Celtic lunar

lows the geocentric movement of the planets used

chart with the Graeco-Roman chart. For all prac­

by most astrologers, but a future heliocentric inter­

ticing astrologers it is still possible to draw up a natal

pretation may provide some highly original data. I

chart and position the planets in the normal manner.

am undertaking further study of the planetary posi­

For example, under the sign of the holly tree, the

tions through the C eltic tree signs , with a future

planet Earth may be substituted by Venus and the

book in mind.

Moon substituted for Persephone, ruler of the ivy

The superb artwork that opens each chapter is by

sign. Vulcan's orbit remains within the orbit of Mer­

Margaret Walty. It provides a sense of fantasy and

cury, and can be calculated from the tables by L. H .

wondrous imagery, for the thirteen original portraits of character have all been meticulously researched to

Weston. The 13 signs " exist" within the 1 2-sign zodiac

provide an authentic vision of the magical qualities

or the same 360 degrees-as they have always

within us all , often lying forgotten or inert, cast aside

existed-and represent the "shadow zo diac " or yin

by the pace of modern life. For p eople who have

principle. The ancient Chinese yin and yang con­

never felt at ease with or been convinced by their

cept

represents

two

complementary

energies

whose interaction is thought to maintain the

traditional Sun sign , the C eltic lunar zodiac may provide an alternative guide.

THE CELTIC LUNAR CHART WlN'fER SOJ.STICE pECEMBER 22 (i\LMN i\RTHUAN)

SOUTH

H��ON

INI:HH NVSW) It 3Nf11 J::>US10S)JlWWf1S

The Signs

CHAPTER ONE

THE BIRCH TREE BE T H December 24

-

January 20

Symbolizing: The Sun Gemstone: Rock crystal Flower: Daisy Archetypal Character: Taliesin, bardic-god

((I

am a stag of seven tines "

28

T H E C E LT I C LUNAR Z O D I AC

The Illustration The stark beauty of the birch in winter symbolizes

If held in both hands , ro ck crystal is said to

the serenity of nature dormant and sleeping. The

induce serenity, a peace of mind, and to sharpen the

spirit of the birch tree proj ects a faint aura of light, as

mental processes .

the Sun, representing the solar-king, begins to rise from the dark slumber of night. The tree is shown in

The Stag

the ethereal light to symbolize the divinity of the spirit. The golden eagle circles overhead,

From ancient times the stag was considered a royal

carrying in his sharp talons a salmon, a dazzling sym­

beast, and figured prominently in Celtic myths and

dryad or tree

bol of knowledge. The proud white stag is a symbol

legends . Antlers have been found in the Newgrange

of the eventual fate of the Sun-king, who will reign

burial site in Ireland, and in various sites around

for seven months in the 1 3-month lunar calendar of

Britain, notably at Stonehenge and Glastonbury. A

the Druids . This was foretold by the chief bard in the

stag cult appears to have first developed among the

" Song of Amergin," an epic poem chanted as an

Gaulish C elts and then spread to Britain, being par­

incantation to establish their supremacy when the

ticularly active around Glastonbury. The horned

Celts first set foot on Irish soil. The daisy represents

deity called Cernunnos became an important inter­

another ancient Celtic symbol of light.

mediary between the animal kingdom, the forces of nature and man. It was a guardian of the gateway

The Rock Crystal This is a naturally occurring substance that has the

connecting a dual world envisaged by the Celts . The fate of the antlere d king, like the proud white stag, had an inevitable conclusion; both were

ability to make invisible light visible by refraction.

symbols of the metamorphic process of soul growth

The alchemists and magicians of medieval Europe

that required radical changes on all levels of con­

claimed that if it was cut in a c ertain way and

sciousness. The Celts drew heavily on their observa­

exposed to the Sun, it could also render a solid

tions of nature in order to understand their own

obj ect invisible. It is a transformer of energy that

doubts and fears of life and death.

relates to inception, the spiritual significance of the birch tree. The Druids reputedly used rock crystal to make themselves invisible and thus be able to travel great

The Golden Eagle This was another symbol of the soul, signifYing the

distances undetected. The tribal aborigines of Aus­

eventual resurrection, the power of life . over death .

tralia continue to use amulets as a protection against

As a bird of prey, the prize of knowledge symbolizes

demons, and the most commonly used stones for

its ultimate victory.

this purpose are fragments of ro ck crystal.

The golden eagle is now almost extinct in

T H E B I R C H TREE

Britain; it is a powerful bird of magnificent flight, but seldom seen except in the north of Scotland. High­ land chieftains still wear three golden-eagle feathers in their bonnets to proclaim their rank. In heraldry the eagle is a bird that makes the most prominent app earance, although it is surpris­ ingly lacking in English devices and coats of arms; the English imagination is perhaps not so wild or free in spirit as that of the Celt. It was used as a heraldic device by the Earls of Cornwall, who occu­ pied a very Celtic kingdom, and some of whom had Celtic Origins . The Romans used the golden eagle extensively on their standards and great seals . The French from Charlemagne to Napoleon used it with superb style and artistry. The Austrians adopted it early on, but develop ed it into a double-headed black emblem that was annexed by Germany. Black birds, however, have always had a sinister association, both symboli­

29

The Common Daisy This is a symbol of innocence and fidelity. D evotion to duty and personal obligation also describe the most positive aspects of the birch tree character. The daisy has an ancient lineage whose botanical name,

Bellis perennis,

came originally from a

dryad

called

Belidis according to some writers of antiquities. It can be further traced to Belenos, a C eltic god of light and a solar deity. The healing power of the daisy and yarrow was used by Druids on the battlefields with great effect; yarrow was used to staunch the bleeding, while the daisy was a great wound healer that counteracted the debilitating shock of such injuries. Both plants grow profusely over wide areas, but only the daisy grows all year round and throughout the world-an ever­ green of plant power that complements the durabil­ ity of the birch.

cally and esoterically; the Austrian royal family, along with several other royal houses in Europe, incorpo­ rated the black eagle in their coat of arms, but most of these families have been either deposed or the royal heirs tragically eliminated. C o incidental or not, black eagles have a powerful occult significance that could never be termed benevolent. The D ruids were believed to be able to change into the form of all birds and beasts, their favorite being the eagle. The very idea of shape-changing is difficult for modern man to accept, but metaphysi­ cal studies relating to the rapid changes of molecu­ lar structure do not rule out such a phenomenon. The Druids had p erhaps tapped into energies that are still waiting to be explored and understood by modern man.

The Birch Tree The birch tree is a native of Europe, from Sicily to Iceland, and parts of northern Asia, where it has been referred to as the Lady of the Woods for its grace and beauty. However, despite its slender beauty, it is hardier than the oak and will thrive in places where the sturdy oak will die. It was also used for many humble purposes, from providing broom handles to the manufacture of cloth. The name of the birch is a very ancient one, probably derived from the Sanskrit word

bhurga.

It is known as a tree whose bark is used

for writing upon. The birch tree is associated with the letter

beth

in the Celtic tree alphabet, the first of th e

thirteen consanants of the Celtic' letters that formed

a

30

T H E C ELT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

calendar of seasonal tree magic. In heraldry, the birch tree forms part of the Birkin family arms . During the first lunar month of the year, the Celts used birch rods in the beating of the bounds

so cial customs and agricultural calendar, spiritually the birch was the alpha and omega, the first and last principle, signifYing the eternity of God and immor­ tality of the soul.

and in driving out the spirit of the old year-two important rituals of re-establishing tribal boundaries

Beth

and the order of the seasons . In Great Britain and

a word strikingly similar to

(meaning

Ireland birch rods were later used for flogging crim­

Beth is

inals , a practice continued right up to the present

world) , the son of Noah and father of Cessair who,

century and only recently rescinded in the Isle of

with the pilot Ladra, were the first people to invade

Man . (Although part of the British Kingdom, the

or settle in Ireland according to the Irish

Bith

Mythologi­

They came to Ireland from the

Isle of Man is an ancient Celtic stronghold with its

cal Cycle if Invasions.

own parliament, the Court of Tynwald. ) Then in

west, after a great deluge had overwhelmed the

March the D ruids made incisions in the tree and

Earth. The shadow ofAtlantis falls across this period

collected the sugary sap to make a cordial to cele­

of history, providing another mysterious connection

brate the vernal equinox. It was also a very symbolic

relating to the Celts .

gesture of releasing the spirit

(dryad)

of the tree at the

According to another earlier but lost ancient

time of the Sun's own liberation into manhood.

manuscript,

Indeed, in the Druidic herbal calendar the birch tree

the first woman who settled in Ireland before the

had a continuous cycle of uses throughout the year,

Flood was Banba, a female progenitor who symbol­

The Book if Druim Snechta,

the name of

with every part of the tree yielding a valuable rem­

ized both water and land in the creation myth of the

edy or product. While their obs ervation of the

ancient Irish.

rhythmic laws of nature was fundamental to their

The Solar Symbolism The solar symbolism associated with the tree is a

Ceridwen. The Welsh bards called this offspring Tal­

sign of the continuous phases of life, which aligns

iesin, and recounted his solar brilliance in the

very well with the alpha-omega principle. The Sun,

romantic and intellectual deeds of numerous po ems .

in terms of Celtic mythology, was a powerful deity.

The Irish and Gaulish Celts, a more warlike peo­

It was a cosmic allegory of Druidic belief, and had

ple, called their Sun-king Lugh and they regarded

been created by the mystical union of C eli and

him as the greatest of warriors. He had an equally

THE B I R C H TREE

mysterious birth as Taliesin, and a strange fostered

31

god o f the underworld. Pluto, lord o f Hades, was the

upbringing with the Dark King of the Great Plain

Greek e quivalent, the Greeks being a rac e with

in the land of the living and the dead-a faery king­

whom the C elts shared many beliefs and customs .

dom. He was therefore very skilled in all the secret

The Sun-king b elief gradually evolved as the

arts and sciences. He had many titles, but as Lugh

Celts exp erienced the changing eons of time. The

Lamfada, or Lugh of the Long Arm, he was guardian

sacrificial aspect became identified with Jesus, which

of a magical sword and spear, the two symbols of

certainly helped to promote their early conversion

power and mastery over other races in battle. The

to Christianity. The solar spirit was e quated with the

other two symbols , the Lia Fail or Stone of Destiny

national psyche, not only ready to be drawn into

and the Cauldron ofDagda, enabled the Celtic kings

action at the time of approaching danger but also a

to believe in rule by divine right and to understand

guardian of national honor and truth. Just as Lugh

the deepest mysteries of life.

went to the aid of the men of Ulster in their des­

The Celts were naturally drawn to delving into

perate hour of need, King Arthur p ersonified Celtic

the subterranean structures of life, both spiritually

chivalry. This solar spirit lies deep within the psyche

and philosophically, p erhaps because they believed

of birch tree characters, and holds the key to unlock­

that all Celts were descendants of Dis, a powerful

ing their innermost feelings .

Myths Associated with the Sign The story of the birth ofTaliesin provides a glimpse

during which time she traveled far and wide to col­

into the Celtic world of fantasy and fundamental

lect the ingredients .

truths . Ceridwen was an ancient lunar goddess and

In her absence, the task of stirring the cauldron

a primeval mother figure. Her first-born child was

was given to Gwion, son of Gwreany, the Herald of

called Avagddu, Black Wings , and in their creation

Llanfair. But on the day it was ready, three drops

myth was referred to as Night or Chaos. Avagddu

flew out, scalding his finger, which he quickly stuck

was so ugly that Ceridwen decided to compensate

in his mouth. In an instant he was transformed from

him with the gift of great wisdom and knowledge.

a boy to man, student to sage. Realizing at once that

She prepared a mystical cauldron of inspiration to be

the whole essence of the brew was contained in

filled with the sacred herbs of every species, their

those three drops and that the residue was now a

optimum virtues determined by the hours or posi­

deadly poison, he fled, knowing full well the fury of

tion of the Moon and planets . It would take a year

Ceridwen. He used his new knowledge to change

and a day to brew (a reference to the lunar calendar) ,

into the elements , then into a hare, a fish, a bird; but

32

T H E C E LT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

Ceridwen pursued him as a greyhound, an otter,

and fostered (a typical C eltic concept of how man

and a hawk . Finally, in desp eration, he took the

evolved from contact with the gods) , and grew up

for m of a grain of wheat, hiding amongst the many

to become the master bard Taliesin, who raised the

thousands on a threshing floor. But the goddess of

skills

all life was not so easily deceived. Turning herself

recognition.

of Welsh

bardism

to

new

heights

and

into a large black hen, she gobbled him up. He grew

This feat of great achievement, against all the

inside her, however, and was born nin e months later

odds, reveals a vein of optimism and enterprise run­

as her second son. Angry as she was for b earing a

ning deep within the Celtic psyche. It also expresses

child of such trickery, she c o uld not kill him

their belief in the free spirit of man, which cannot

because of his radiant beauty; instead, she concealed

b e easily snuffed out or compromised-a complete

him in a leather bag, placed the bag in a coracle, and

contrast to eastern mysticism, which demands a

cast him unto the mercy of the sea. He was found

more obedient spiritual will.

Astrological Significance The significance of the Sun in traditional astrology

astrology for centuries has tended to interpret the

is simply " the life-giver," a vital and principal influ­

Sun through the signs in a rather isolated or abstract

ence throughout the whole birth chart. Its position

way. The Sun in this system is regarded as the ruler

reveals the individual faculties. The symbol itself, a

of Leo, a fire sign that supposedly dominates other

circle with a small dot in the center, represents the

signs . But the soli/lunar cycle of the D ruids pro­

one unity underlying all things . Until a certain stage

vides a balance of energies, placing the Sun at the

of evolution has been reached it therefore represents

b eginning of the Celtic zodiac, a place where it

the self or the ego. Esoteric astrology defines the

begins its return or " rebirth" after reaching the max­

Sun on another level altogether; the Sun is observed

imum point of declination or distance from Earth in

as a fo cus of a ray from the c entral Sun or the

the northern hemisphere. This new rulership sets a

supreme intelligence, presiding over the whole uni­

new precedent in astrological thinking, which will

verse.

hopefully help to refocus and redefine the role of

The 1 2-sign zodiac that has dominated western

the Sun.

T H E BIR C H TREE

33

Archetypal Character The mystical legend of Taliesin relates to the basic

evokes an inward sense of quiet determination as

personal qualities associated with the birch tree sign,

well as a sense of p ersonal isolation.

and reveals the individual facets of character. Taliesin

There is, however, a basic inflexibility in this sign,

is the archetypal birch tree character, symbolizing

symbolized by the changing forms of Gwion as he

the potential light of the Sun, although any achieve­

seeks to escap e from the goddess . The eventual out­

ment or p ersonal recognition has to follow a similar

come is the radiant " rebirth" of the higher self, in the

course or ordeal experienced by Taliesin. Therefore

form of Taliesin. In p ersonal terms the birch tree

the basic character is primarily molded and influ­

character must learn to become less narrow-minded

enced by the need for patienc e, which naturally

and rigid regarding all aspects of life.

Tree Character Birch tree characters hold the seed potential of all

sign has

the signs . The virtue of patience is attributed to this

speaking. Birch tree characters often take on the role

an interesting p arallel, pyschologically

sign, a nec essary requirement when dealing with

of head of the house, not through seniority of birth,

such potential. People born under this sign direct their energy and enterprise through ambitious strat­

but b ecause they take family responsibilities very seriously. They are usually the most successful me �­

egy; each step taken in life has a specific goal in

bers of the family in financial terms , although they

mind. The obstacles can, however, be quite formida­

might not appear so as they do not flaunt their

ble. Personal limitations are not readily accepted, as

success or generally waste money on the symbols of

birch tre e characters become more resolute and

affiuence.

determined. Some notable birch tre e characters include Pasteur, Kepler, Gladstone, Lloyd George, and Richard Nixon.

Negative Asp ec ts A rigid outlook can promote a pessimistic character

Positive Asp ec ts

and impose a form of self-discipline that can be dif­ ficult to sustain. Their willpower can therefore alter­

Birch tree characters are reliable and trustworthy

nate, or fall between two extremes, resulting in some

people, not given to rash moves or bold statements .

wild behavior or acting out of character that may

The second-son aspect in the mythology of the

surprise even close colleagues. It may, however, go to

34

T H E C ELT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

the other extreme of acting with great discipline and

not to be serious. If you should meet one who acts

determination at certain times-but never consis­

j ust the opposite, b eware ! They have an identity

tently. Undisciplined birch tree characters are un­

problem. But with regard to neuroses or phobias,

happy individuals.

these p eople are the least likely to be affected; both physically and mentally, they have developed a pow­ erful resistance to j ust about everything. Having said

General

that, they can become obsessive about their health,

Birch tree characters actually thrive best on strict

in the sense of sticking to a fairly strict regime ; cer­

routines and regimes . The term "workaholic " fits

tain foods may be religiously avoided, and this estab­

them p erfe ctly, although it can e qually apply to

lishes a mode of living that is, again, a necessary

other signs, particularly other cardinal signs.

discipline.

The best way to understand this tendency is to

Do birch tree characters have a sense of humor?

look again at the ambitious strategy; work is the

They could never be termed humorous people, but

means to an end, but do they really enj oy being the

their sense of humour has a droll quality that can

only p erson left in che office at the end of the day?

have some p eople rolling in the aisles . But what

It may be a question all birch tree characters should

makes them laugh is another matter. It would have

ask of themselves every so often, in order to define

to be extremely clever witticisms or j okes so coarse

their true obj ectives in life. The intense desire to

as to make most people blush. The extreme is the

succeed is the bottom line and, on balance, is a pos­

norm because mediocrity is not acceptable in their

itiye aspect overall. The formidable obstacles men­

system of values.

tioned earlier usually arise from difficult family

With regard to material values, the birch tree

obligations or physical weaknesses, all relating to set­

characters have no problems whatsoever. They, above

backs

has

all other signs , understand the value of money; not

occurred at some stage, which is difficult to admit to

only have they worked hard to acquire it, they are

or confront, and yet it has helped to strengthen some

not ashamed or embarrassed about having it.

from

childho od;

p ersonal

isolation

minor weaknesses of character. Are birch tree characters sociable? Their quiet

D o birch tree characters make good friends? The answer is undoubtedly yes, but not many p eople will

reserve can be deceptive. Providing they can choose

get close enough to count themselves as such. They

the company, which falls into a narrow list of possi­

do make very good bosses, not overly generous with

bles rather than probables, they are certainly more

praise, but at the end of the day they will make sure

amenable. After all , socializing is a serious matter if

that their employees have been fairly treated, and

you are intent on becoming the managing director

they are keen to promote people from humble ori­

or, perhaps, marrying the managing director.

gins . There is an autocratic manner that some peo­

The trouble is, they are serious individuals trying

ple may find cold or indifferent. Although this qual-

T H E B I R C H TREE

ity is genuine enough, and related to an inherent sense of dignity, it is also a good cover-up for a basic shyness . Of all the signs, the birch tree character is also the most modest individual.

Love Life There is an initial sense of loneliness associated with this sign that reflects a lack of activity or sensitivity regarding early p ersonal relationships. Successful marriages will often occur later in life and, along with holly tree characters, people born u n der this sign are not inclined to divorce. Separa­ tions are more likely, or the p remature death of spouses . Their love life is rather hit and miss-some sudden passionate affairs , and then zilch. It has to fit into that strict routine, which, no matter how plea­ su rable, has a narrow circuit

35

Summary Some of these points of character may not be so pos­ itive or pronounced, but the p otential pattern is always there. Not all birch tree characters will come from the same family background, or have the same natural abilities, but there is a distinct behavior pat­ tern that separates them from the rest of the crowd and applies throughout the zodiac. Birch tree characters prefer to keep a low profile generally. Even if they attain high office or public standing, they prefer their private life to be very private. Their public image is often a matter of con­ venience to fit the part. Their careers remain a dom­ inant influence overall, and there is no mistaking their p ersonal hand on the wheel . They set their own precedents, and eventually create a degree of growth or success not easily matched by other signs of the zodiac.

CHAPTER TWO

THE R OWAN TREE lu [ s January 2 1

-

February 1 7

Symbolizing: The planet Uranus Gemstone: Peridot Flower: Snowdrop Archetypal Character: Brigantia

ul

am a wide flood on a plain }}

38

T H E C E LT I C L U N A R Z O D IAC

The Illustration The rowan tree is a magical tree, known as the tree

tection against the evil eye and witchcraft. The

of life in Celtic legend, and guarded by a fiery green

ancient Greeks made a headband of the stones,

dragon-a powerful symbol of life at a time of the

which enabled the wearer to foretell the future and

year when night still rules the day. The dominance

speak with spirits . The D ruids also stitched these

of the Moon is portrayed by the lunar spirit in the

.stones, among others, into their robes, for protection

form of the snowdrop, a sign of consolation.

and to strengthen the mind.

The tree stands in the sacred center of Stone­ henge, ancient gathering place long before the Celts

Dragons

arrived in Britain. The feathery greenery and dense clusters of fire-red berries paint a vibrant splash of

In world myths dragons represent the supernatural

color in the gray world of winter. Stonehenge sym­

forces that usually guard great secrets and treasures .

bolically formed a huge candle at the Celtic feast of

In Celtic mythology the dragon is a fiery winged

Candlemas , which marked the quickening of the

serpent associated with the serp ent cult of the

year. The silver shafts of light of the Moon inter­

Druids, a branch of Druidism connected with mag­

mingle with the red glow of the faint light of the

ical rites relating to alchemy and the mysterious

candles-the symbolic germination

energies of ley lines .

p rocess

attrib�

uted to the Celtic goddess Brigantia, who presided

Merlin, the arch-Druid of Celtic mysticism, who

over the mystical aspect of the fertilization of the

is still something of a personal enigma, gave warn­

cold Earth. The fiery breath of the dragon ignited

.ings and prophecies concerning dragons . He warned

the vital current of energy that permeates the stones,

King Vortigern, a Christian Celt, not to build a

symbolically regenerating the flame of eternal life.

defensive tower against the pagan Saxons because it would disturb the two sleeping dragons who lay

The Peridot Stone This is one of the oldest known stones. It is a pale

beneath the site in a dark mere. One dragon was red and the other white, a potent formula of alchemy, representing the positive and negative energies dor­

green variety of the olivine chrysolite, a plutonic

mant in all creation. Furthermore the red dragon

igneous rock derived from magma or lava that has

represented the British Celts and the white dragon

solidified on or below the Earth's surface-a meta­

the Saxons.Vortigern, a treacherous monarch, was

morphic substance relating to fire, the ancient sym­

eventually killed by his own people for inviting the

bol of light.

Saxons over to Britain as allies against their old ene­

It was once regarded as the most powerful magic

mies, the Picts and Vikings . The disastrous conse­

stone by all ancient p eople. The Egyptians and

quence of this alliance was that the Saxons then

Babylonians used it extensively in amulets as a pro-

decided to stay and make their own bid for power.

T H E ROWAN TREE

39

The analogy of prematurely upsetting or activating

the only invading forces to succeed were the Nor­

the dormant energies of the dragons has deep impli­

man French, who came from a similar mixture of

cations, in this instance relating to the future con­

Gaul and Viking. The name Pendragon belonged to another illus­

frontations of the Celts and Saxons . The red dragon (p ositive energy) b ecame the

trious and more ancient Celtic lineage, that of King

emblem of Wales and of the future dynasty of the

Arthur of Camelot and the Holy Grail legend. His

Tudors , an illustrious family who spawned great

name of Pendragon translates as " head" or " chief­

monarchs during crucial periods of history in

dragon." His father, Uther Pendragon, had derived his

Britain. Prior to the rise of the Tudors, the War of

name from a mysterious comet that resembled two

the Roses (late fifteenth century) was fought by the

golden dragons . It suggests a mystical lineage with

Lancastrians and Yorkists for control of the English

powerful supernatural affiliations . The whole saga of

throne, the eventual winners being the Lancastrians,

Arthur, from birth to his strange disappearance at

whose emblem was the red rose. The act of con­

death, has an uncanny quality that doesn't quite relate

j oining the two roses, one red, one white, by the

to previous myths of Celtic kings and gods .

ultimate victor, Henry Tudor, had more subtlety than was p erhaps obvious. However, Henry was not

Candlemas

only observing the importance of symbolism, but was also fulfilling the ancient prophecy of Merlin, who had foreseen such a union . While in prison during this period, Sir Thomas Malory, a Yorkist knight, had written the greatest literary work of the century, Morte

d'Arthur, as a tribute to

Celtic chivalry.

This was significant timing considering H enry's Welsh ancestry-a powerful Celtic bloodline-and indicates a change ofloyalties on Malory's part. Mal­ ory, who had been imprisoned on the charges of theft, extortion, rape, and attempted murder, seems a most unlikely advo cate of chivalry, and remains a rather shadowy figure in history. But it was this union of the Celt and Saxon that transformed two distinctly different races into a mighty nation. The cultural aspects remained sepa­ rate, but their united strength became a formidable challenge and defense against all opposing forces. It is perhaps i nteresting to note that, since this union,

Candlemas was a Celtic Christian festival celebrated on February 2. According to Arthurian legend, it was the time when the C eltic barons gathered around the stone holding the sword that would ·pro­

claim their rightful king. Arthur Pendragon was thus armed with a symbol of divine right at a time when the p enetrating light of the Sun was beginning to pierce the night of Avagddu . This association with the power of the Sun is a parable with Uranus, the power of vision or progressive thinking holding the key to man's own divinity. The true source, however, goes even further back in Celtic memory. Candlemas was also the Christianized version of an ancient festival of candles in honor of Brigit or Brigantia, a triune Moon goddess. The Virgin Mary was duly substituted for Brigantia, and the sacred flame rekindled from the festival of Brigantia, a Celtic

spring festival in her honor.

Brigantia,

40

T H E C ELT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

Beltane, Lammas, and Samhain were the four fire­

certainly used the site for the purpose intended. This

festivals marking the spiritual beginnings of the sea­

was primarily for astronomical observations, for,

sons. Candlemas or Brigantia was seen as the rebirth

whatever else has been associated with this great

of spirit, the spiraling out again from darkness .

Megalithic site, no one can deny that the ex act . alignment of the stones provides a precise soli/lunar

Brigantia This name is derived from Brighid or Brigid, a most powerful Celtic goddess . She was the power of the new Moon, of the spring of the year and of the flowing sea. In Ireland she was most revered, and in Britain she was the goddess of the Brigantes, a wide­ spread tribe. Each year, as the first glimmer of dawn appeared, the Cailleach, representing the old-woman aspect of their triune goddess, was transformed into the fair young goddess bride. Her festival was also called Oimelc, and the rites were celebrated with elaborate preparation by the married women of the tribe. They smeared their bodies with woad and marched naked to the cere­ mony as a mark of respect to the departure of Cail­ leach, the Old Veiled One, while the younger mem­ bers of the tribe collected food and money to make offerings at the shrine of Brigid. The ceremonies took place at such shrines; j ust as the holy shrine in Mecca draws Moslems from around the world, so Stonehenge was the open-air cathedral where the Celts also reverently gathered, if only once in their lifetime.

observatory. And whatever else was conducted there-burials or ritual sacrifices, for example-is open to conj ecture. The Druidic religious and social calendar men­ tioned previ9usly was c eremoniously orchestrated by this cycle. The fire-festivals and solstices relied on the precise calculations of the two great luminaries and the ability of the Druids to predict them. The history of the construction of Stonehenge followed three phases, starting sometime around 3200 B.C., with the final phase occurring around 2600 B.C. During this 600-year period Stonehenge evolved from a simple but imp osing earthwork enclosure with one standing stone to the magnificent tower­ ing circle of Sarsen stones encapsulating the fabulous bluestones . The trilithon design of two stones sup­ porting a third crosspiece lintel to form a complete circle is unique to Stonehenge and not found in other Megalithic sites or any oth er ancient stone buildings . The uniqueness of Stonehenge poses many unanswerable questions , but the people who utilized its position and awesome maj esty were the Celts .

The Snowdrop Stonehenge

This is the first wild flower of the year, and has been

Stonehenge relates to the remote past, but retains a

referred to as the Candlemas b ell, confirming its

mysterious aura to this present day. The original

association with the festival, but it is not a n ative

builders may not have been Celtic, but the Druids

plant to Britain. According to old herbals, the m o n k s

T H E ROWAN TREE

41

brought the tiny bulbs of the plant with them from

and bad luck, which is p erhaps why the Maclachlans

Italy during the medieval period. They called it the

pinned it on their bonnets .

bulbous violet, and used it as a wound healer and for

The Celts also believed that no witches or evil

digestive problems . It quickly b ecame naturalized

spirits could cross a door over which a branch of

and spread in considerable masses around the coun­

rowan had been nailed.

tryside. It is a dainty little flower that complements the graceful beauty of the rowan.

ning. In Wales it was once planted in every church­

The rowan tree or mountain ash is closely related to the rose, and is a cousin of the hawthorn, the apple, and the pear. It is not, however, related to the true ashes, having derived its name from the similarity of the leaves. It has also been called the "whispering tree" because, in some ancient legends, it had secrets to tell those who would listen. It is seen at its best among the wild glens in the north and west of Scot­ it is known as

dwellings and in lonely places to act as a deterrent against evil spirits and the awesome force of light­ yard to scare away the demons who might disturb

The Rowan

land, where

It was planted around

the " lady of the

mountains ." Sprigs of rowan are the clan badges of three Highland clans-Menzies, Malcolm, and Maclach­

the sleep of the dead. During the second lunar month the D ruids made rowan wattles, consisting of a frame of rods tied with leather thongs made from bulls ' hides, which were used to compel demons to answer diffi­ cult

questions

in

order to

divine

the

future .

Bewitched horses and animals were also controlled by rowan wands and whips at a time when the sky was full of omens and a strange new light; lightning was prone to strike suddenly and storms raged across the land and sea. At this restless time in Celtic Ire­ land, rowan stakes were driven through corpses to immobilize their ghosts; rowan fires were kindled by

lan. All have historic associations with the Scottish

the Druids , over which incantations were spoken to

crown, but the Maclachlans have the most ancient

summon spirits to take part in forthcoming battles;

lineage, dating back to Robert the Bruce. Their clan

and the magical power of the rowan was used

chief was killed at Culloden, and his horse made the

throughout the year to combat all evil forces.

long j ourney alone back home to Strathlaclan, but

The fruit and the bark of the rowan have medi­

no one could catch him. The horse, covered in the

cinal powers-there are many old recipes and reme­

blood of his master, galloped around the castle once

dies made from the rowan tree. It was used by the

and disappeared into the desc ending mist of the

Druids as a gargle for sore throats, and later in the

mountains . According to

year the fruit made a delicious j elly to eat with

Highland legend, he

appears from time to time as a ghostly specter and, if anyone is close enough to hear his sad whinny, then tragedy will strike the family. The rowan has always been associated with protection against witchcraft

game. The Welsh made a special ale brewed from the berries, while the astringent properties found in all parts of the tree were used in tanning and making the black dye used for Druidic robes; white robes

42

THE C ELT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

were the c eremo nial rob es worn by Druids, but

the

black robes were also worn at certain lunar cere­

name of the rowan as " delight of the eye," from

monies-the waning part of the lunar cycle, and the

siu,

eclipses. The Druids of Anglesey, who confronted

title of Greek deities, meaning " one who washes

the Romans in a desperate attempt to throw back

away guilt," and was associated with Lusi in Arcadia.

Book of Ballymote,

where he gives the p o etic

lui­

meaning flame. It also suggests Lusios, a divine

the might of Rome, attired themselves in black in

Luis was also the seat of the three oracular

order to perform their darker rites , evoking demonic

daughters of Proteus, a Pelasgian god. This god, like

forces.

the ancient Irish god Uath Mac Immomuin, had the ability to change into many horrible shapes, and his title " Horror Son ofTerror" is the masculine e quiv­

Luis

alent to the Celtic Morrigan-another aspect of the

The connection of the rowan tree or

luis with

Can­

triune goddess .

dlemas is shown by Morann MacMain's Ogham in

Uranian Symbolism The powerful magic associated with the rowan is

penetrating light or lightning, identifie d by the

pure and light; it is a symbol of vision, the kind that

Druids and mentioned in their rituals, fits p erfectly

strikes suddenly, like a flash of lightning. And a bril­

with Uranus, a planet associated with electric and

liant idea that is inspirational is also the visionary

magnetic energies.

aspect associated with Uranus; the zigzag symbol of

Myths Associated with the Sign In C eltic astrology the planet Uranus was not

restless elements of nature, the electromagnetic

known, being too far away to be seen by the naked

forces contained in the phenomenon of lightning.

eye . But the ancient Greek myth of Uranus , a

The magical significance of the rowan tree also

sky-god and consort to Gaia, the Earth goddess, does

corresponds with the esoteric nature attributed to

have similarities with the Celtic myth of Celi and

Uranus .

Ceridwen. At this time of the year, Celi was in the

T H E ROWAN TREE

43

Astrological Significance The traditional astrological rulership for this time of

aligned it with the S eventh Ray, the S chool of

year is the planet Uranus, ruler of Aquarius . The

Magic, and described Uranus as " a planet of violent

planet Uranus is associated with invention and futur­

force, whose graduates will wield the power of the

istic thinking, and the rowan tree character fits that

cosmic etheric prana."

description. Uranus has been called the " awak­

All esoteric astrologers refer to Uranus as the

dener" in esoteric astrology, again a very apt com­

planet of occultism-that which veils what must be

parison that suggests great impulse, p ower, and

discovered. According to such belief, when other

enthusiasm. In her book

planetary alignments concur, Uranus will transmit

Esoteric Astrology, Alice

Bai­

ley refers to the planet Uranus as one of the most

the knowledge of the universe and reveal the greater

significant influences for the New Age that will

mysteries of life.

transform the conscious thinking of humanity. She

Archetypal Character Brigantia represents the archetypal rowan tree char­

qualities and talents . Brigantia is also a symbol of the

acter, symbolizing the first glimmer of spiritual light

feminine mysteries associated with spiritual wisdom.

coming from external force s . The significance of

This p articular aspect is one of developing and pro­

lighting the candles and torches in her honor at

cessing humanitarian vision-the mystical exp eri­

midnight-the magical hour of darkness-symbol­

ence of p erception of the future. But the power or

izes the " germination" of the seed potential con­

deviation of such vision can also become a personal

tained in the rowan tree sign, and indeed in all

stumbling block, promoting an eccentricity of char­

mankind. This " awakening" transforms the rowan

acter, which again relates to the extraordinary axial

tree month and sign with another set of individual

inclination of the planet Uranus.

Tree Character Rowan tree p eople have visionary minds and well­

the

defined humanitarian principles . Those born under

greater awareness . They remain, however, self-con­

this sign experience glimpses of the future and feel

tained individuals, for their vision is not always

frustration

of mankind

struggling towards

44

THE C ELT I C LUNAR Z O DIAC

shared by others . But they are inclined to speak out with authority when persuaded by relevant issues. A cool temperament disguises some passionate b eliefs, for they need to argue their case against bigotry and ignorance. They are natural leaders without many followers , taking up causes that are often unpopular or even slightly bizarre. They prefer it that way, for "vision" is a very p ersonal matter. Notable rowan tree characters include Charles D arwin , Charles Lindbergh, Charles Dickens, and Jules Verne.

Positive Asp ec ts Positive aspects of the rowan tree character include a progressive outlo ok on life, and humanitarian principles. Such people are kind and thoughtful, but they find it hard to tolerate authority in the restric­ tive or repressive role; governments or any authori­ tative powers are usually targeted. But if they are approached on a p ersonal level, rowan tree charac­ ters will listen politely, being the most ardent sup­ porters of free speech and of the mutual resp ect of adversaries.

With regard to their careers, rowan tree characters are unusually clever p eople, with skills and talents of a specialized and unique calib er. This particular aspect of character sets them apart from others and, although

some may be

employed in

ordinary

careers, it will become obvious sooner or later that they have changed the rule book to suit themselves. They are naturally drawn to modern technology and methods , and the overwhelming desire is to reorga­ nize completely any system or method considered to be outdated. Because of their original abilities they rise to and obtain high positions, despite their unconventional attitudes, but they do not court power or promo­ tion. They make sympathetic bosses, but don't like taking responsibility for others . They often belong to elite groups or professional associations, but always retain their individual status or way of thinking. They will have some diverse interests , from bird­ watching to playing bongo drums . They are musi­ cally inclined, and usually prefer modern or fairly obscure composers . They tinker with everything,

Negative Asp ec ts These are centered on the rowan tree character's unpredictable response or reaction to a situation. In trying to be completely unconventional, they may upset people close to them, and generally antagonize p eople or escalate a situation out of all proportion. They can also become extremely tactless in their speech and manner when expressing their contro­ versial opinions .

General

from mechanics to electrics, and are the original DIY exponents . They are extremely inventive peo­ ple and enj oy utilizing what other p eople will dis­ card. The " absent-minded professor" is a good anal­ ogy; it sums up the impression they create generally. In a world of illusion, however, who are they when they are not trying to appear so eccentric or cranky? A good question, but the rowan tree characters will have the answers. Ask them, and learn something quite riveting.

THE ROWAN TREE

45

Their sense of humor is very odd indeed. They

They are supportive parents , but will expect their

tend to laugh at the serious issues of life, which can

children, like them, to become independent at an

be a bit disconc erting, to say the least. Perhaps

early age.

because they see everything in a different persp ec­ tive, the issues that appear serious to others fail to

Summary

impress them. This " alien asp ect" c ertainly makes them candidates for the theory of space aliens who

There is an evolving spirit connected with the

have landed here by mistake. They are, needless to

rowan tree that makes this the most incomprehensi­

say, very drawn to science fiction and the idea of

ble of signs . The fact is that they hate conformity, so

UFOs.

any descriptive analysis will fall short of the mark in

Their general appearance is worth noting; they

their eyes. If they have to agree with anything, they

are people who stand out in a crowd, quite literally,

will agree to differ. This may sound uncomplimen­

due to an unusual and assorted wardrobe.

tary, but they are the necessary catalysts who create a new level of thinking. It is their ingenuity that prods new progress but that alarms the traditional­

Love Life In personal relationships their unpredicrability

ists . The sheer force of their persistence is amazing IS

a

to behold at times.

weak point. Generally speaking, they are deter­

Life is never dull when rowan tree people appear

mined, if somewhat unromantic, lovers . With regard

on the scene. They represent the diverse energies of

to marriage, like birch tree characters , they won't

life-people you can never set a watch by or associ­

marry too quickly, but for different reasons . Basi­

ate with any consistency. Their lifestyle is certainly

cally, they enj oy a great deal of personal freedom and

different to everyone els e 's-they tend to live in

are reluctant to change their ways to suit another, so

unconventional residences in unfashionable areas . In

they will have to be very sure that their intended

short, they are rather unique individuals who breathe

partner fully understands this point. Marriage can,

a breath of fresh air into stale or stuffY environments,

however, b e extremely successful if this way of

and their provocative style confounds apathy.

thinking is acceptable to their partner.

CHAPTER THREE

THE AS H TREE N

1 0

February 1 8

-

N

March 1 7

Symbolizing: The planet Neptune Gemstone: Coral Flower:

Wood anemone

. Archetypal Character: Lir, sea-god

((I

am a wind on deep waters "

48

T H E C ELT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

The Illustration The ash is a tree of imposing grace, tall and hand­

of Medusa, which had dripp ed into the sea after

some, with its black spiral buds that remain tightly

Perseus had slain her.

coiled and res emble tiny sea serpents. The p ale

Coral is one of many substances reputed to have

golden light of the Sun is also breaking through the

a

dark rain clouds with a smile of p ending victory.

deep-pink color is said to fade and dim when the

But the ash is primarily a tre e of sea power, depicted by the magnificent figure of Lir, a sea-god,

sympathy

with

the

wearer.

The

attractive

owner is ill, and to change color when faced with danger.

and one of the ruling divinities in Celtic legend. Holding aloft his trident spear, he commands the waters to abate as he drives two proud seahorses onwards across a stormy sea. With his long hair and

The Black and White Gull The black and white gull, or common tern, some­

beard entwined with seaweed and his blue-green

times called the sea swallow, is a migratory bird

skin, he represents the mystical fusion of man and

b elonging to the family of gulls and terns . All swal­

God through the medium or element of water, but

lows and gulls are prophetic birds regarding bad

he remains a creature of the sea. Two black and

weather, and ancient mariners watched their flight

white gulls seek shelter from a stormy sea, as the tiny

closely for any change of direction, for a storm was

wood anemone peep out from b ehind the ro cky

certain to blow up from the area from where they

crevices .

had changed course.

Coral

Lir

Strictly speaking, coral is not a gemstone, but a ro ck­

Lir was a powerful deity who represented the mysti­

like substance formed from a marine skeleton. It has

cal qualities of God and man, as well as the mystical

been used as a magic amulet throughout history, and

union of creation. The idea of a creation myth or

in many parts of the world. To the Celts, the obvi­

world myth appears to be missing in early Celtic lit­

ous association with the sea made it a favorite talis­

erature, but the zoomorphic and anthropomorphic

man against drowning, but they also used it to make

ornaments based on different forms of humans and

j ewelry. In medieval Europe, coral was of great

animals (as well as birds and reptiles) attributed to

importance ·to the alchemists in the search for the

Celtic art reveal a definite association with spiritual

elixir of life. To the ancient Greeks its importance in

and physical

curing ailments or disease was derived from its asso­

Accordingly, they saw their own creation as a slow

ciation with Perseus; they b elieved that coral had

process, one that not only spanned many mytholog­

been formed from the blood of the decapitated head

ical ages but had also evolved from the very breath

union

on

an

evolutionary level .

T H E A S H TREE

of the surrounding elements . What is confusing is that they tended to p ersonalize and integrate both cosmic and earthly phenomena into the same myths and legends of their kings and queens .

49

The Ash Tree Known as the common ash or weeping ash, this tree b elongs to the olive trib e,

Oleaceae,

and has an

ancient mythology associated with many legends of Celtic and northern European origin.

The Wood Anemone

The ash was so highly regarded in Ireland that

This is one of the earliest spring flowers , flowering

three of the five magic trees that symbolized the tri­

around mid-March. It is also known by the enchant­

umph of Christianity over paganism were ashes, the

ing name of the windflower, as the March winds

other two being the yew and the oak. A descendant

appear to force the tiny flowers to open or blossom

of one of them, the sacred ash of Creevna at Killura,

early. The association with the wind is a significant part of the mythology relating to the month of the ash. In the poem " The Song of Amergin," a short intro duction

to

the

mythical

meaning

of the

was still standing in the nineteenth century; its wood was used as a charm against drowning and was car­ ried by Irish emigrants to America. The great ash, Y gdrasill, sacred to Woden in Norse mythology, was associated with sky-gods, and

letter-month of the ash begins , "I am a wind on

its ro ots and branches were b elieved to extend

deep waters," and is the quote that heads the begin­

through the universe. The Norse word

ning of this chapter. It evokes the "wind" or spirit

which Y gdrasill is derived, originated from the

from

God as an element of water, the four elements being

Greek word

known as the four winds or four spirits of God in

in ancient Greece the ash was sacred to Poseidon,

The anemone derives its name from the Greek

anemos meaning wind, for in

or wet element, for

their sea-god. In Greek mythology the ash-spirits

Druidic cosmology. word

hygra, and meant sea

yggr,

Greek mythology

were believed to have sprung from the blood of the sky-god Uranus when Cronos castrated him .

the flower sprang from the tears ofVenus as she wan­

In Celtic myth the ash was sacred to Gwydion as

dered through the woodlands weeping for the death

a tree of enchantment, from whose twigs he made

of Adonis. In Egyptian and Chinese mythology it is

his wands . A Druidical wand, made from ash, with a

also a flower of death and ill-omen. The Celts and

spiral decoration, was part of an archaeological find

Romans , however, revered the tiny plant, and it was

in Anglesey during the latter part of this century, and

used as a charm against fever and disease.

dated from the early first century

A . D.

Old herbalists made a compound from the juice

During the third month of the year the Irish and

of its roots and leaves, for headaches and rheumatic

Welsh Celts used the wood of the ash to make their

gout. As a cure for leprosy, Gerald, a noted herbalist,

oars and replace any damaged coracle slates . The

recommended a decoction of anemone to be used

wood is impervious to water, and is therefore very

to bathe the body.

durable for all kinds of shipbuilding and furniture

50

THE C E LT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

making. The ash matures more rapidly than the oak

that has been thrust into the tree, and the pins are

and, as a timber tree, was valuable for its quick

then replaced in the tre e with a charming spell,

growth. It makes the toughest and most elastic tim­

"Ashen tree, ashen tree, pray buy these warts of me."

ber, and can be used for more purposes than the wood of other trees. Ancient p eople, including the

Nion

Celts, used it for making their spears and bows, so that the cruelty of the ash mentioned in the "Battle

The Irish Gaelic word for heaven is

nionon,

and

ofTrees" becomes clear. But there is another deadly

relates to the Gaulish goddess On-Niona, who was

aspect associated with the ash, for its roots are said to

worshipped in ash groves. It may be further com­

strangle other trees.

pared to Niobe, a daughter of Tantalus in Greek

The Celts used the ash mainly for its valuable

mythology, whose children were slain by A polio and

wood, but there are two curative uses associated with

his twin sister Diana after she had unwisely boasted

D ruidic remedies that are still used today in the

of them to the gods . Although turned to stone, she

country regions ofWales and Cornwall by folklore

continued to weep for them. Her sad story is an alle­

herbalists . The j ui c e of the leaf is prescrib e d for

gory: Niobe, the mother, represents winter, hard,

snake bites , which concurs with a statement from

cold, and proud; Ap ollo's deadly arrows , the sun­

the Roman naturalist Pliny, who remarked on the

beams, slay her children, the winter months; and her

virtue of ash leaves as being so great that "serpents

tears are emblems of the natural thaw that comes in

dare not touch the morning and evening shadows of

spring, when winter's pride has melted.

the tree." The ash also has a reputation for curing warts; each wart must be pricked with a new pin

The month of the ash is the last month of win­ ter in the Celtic calendar.

Neptunian Symbolism The black and white gulls and the sea-god Lir are

tion) , as is often the case. The former was a place

symbols of the dual aspect of the sign, and of the

where time had a different dimension, but which

powerful alternation of day and night, which had a

existed as a physical reality. It was the home of their

profound meaning for the Celts . This fundamental

gods and the immortal spirits of their ancestors, the

duality formed their two worlds of dimensions of

Sidhe or faery people. It was a place of light and

being-the Gther World of the Sidhe (pronounced

laughter, love and great j oy. Life was enhanced in

shee) and the world of mortals inhabited by man.

every sense, a place where everyone could achieve

The Other World should not be confused with the underworld (Annwn, an astral plane of initia-

their dreams . The j ourney to reach the Other World usually

T H E A S H TREE

51

involved traveling across water, with a compass bear­

comp arative study o f human p sychology i n the

ing of due west, to the farthest westward point,

western world.

where the Other World Islands lay. These Islands had

If the Other World had a pre-Christian vision of

a strange variety of names and provided many expe­

heaven, the underworld was certainly not a gloomy

riences to encounter, but the outcome was mostly

place, unlike the idea of hell. It was a place where

favorable for the traveler brave enough to j ourney

souls waited for the chance of the rebirth that

there.

formed part of the evolutionary process of the soul

Another form of entry into the Other World was finding a doorway or portal where both worlds met. Natural earth mounds were considered the most likely entrances, and relate to the Celts' mysterious subterranean god, Dis. There are numerous stories

in the Druidic tradition. According to this mystic

tradition, the soul had its beginning in Annwn and then proceeded to the circle of Abred (mortal exis­

tence) , eventually reaching the circle of Gwynvyd (perfect union with God) .

and legends of people accidentally falling down these

Although this doctrine of b elief. had evolved

shafts, and these voyages of discovery had significant

within the Druidic structure of religion and philos­

meaning and purpose. The experience brought about

ophy, the realm of Annwn had a more ancient ori­

subtle changes within the human psyche and the

gin. When the first Celtic p eople (the Milesians)

person concerned developed their p ersonal potential

invaded Ireland and Britain they found a powerful

to the full-and then some. Wisdom and knowledge

religion already in place, with a priesthood who had

were always gained, but the gifts from the Other World were primarily artistic-a beautiful singing voice or the talent for writing poetry or music. Their most precious gift, however, was the gift of healing;

erected the imposing stone monuments and tombs in order to observe a religion known as the Cult of the D ead. It took a powerful hold on the imagina­ tion of the Celts, who adapted the basic principles

this was a spiritual gift, and one that related very pos­

and grafted upon it their own mythology. But there

itively to the sign of the ash tree.

followed, not surprisingly, a battle for religious and

It was when people returned from the Other World that time and space somehow collided. What

intellectual mastery, recorded in the epic poem of

Cad Goddeu

(Battle of the Trees) . The armies of King

had seemed a short visit, a matter of days, became

Arawn of Annwn were eventually defeated, but the

transformed into many years. Family and friends

ancient British king was not subj ugated. Two distinct

were now old, while the traveler remained young.

deities emerged, known as the gods of the House of

Or the reverse occurred; a j ourney of several months

D o n and the gods of the House of Lir, which

became transformed into no time at all. The consis­

became united when Dan's daughter Penardun mar­

tency of these stories and legends suggest the

ried the sea-god Lir. Both houses contained many

intriguing possibility of time travel being visualized

integrated qualities associated with solar and lunar

by the ancient Celts , who had an awareness of a

deities and infer, on a mortal level, an infusion of

dimension of the human psyche that predates any

bloodlines with one more ancient than the other.

52

T H E C ELT I C L U N A R Z O D IAC

Myths Associated with the Sign The Celts' ancient tradition of recording their his­

shadow of Atlantis unfolds a mysterious cloak that

tory and sacred beliefs was an oral one, committed

became symbolic of Manannan, son of Lir. While Lir

to the memory of their bards and the Druids . Prior

symbolized the primordial deep, the vast impersonal

to settling in the British Isles and parts of Europe,

presence of the sea, his son Manannan became the

they had a very nomadic existence that probably

most popular marine deity, akin to the great magi­

prompted this tradition; the ancient Egyptians had

cian Gwydion, one of the gods of Don. Manannan

referred to them as a roaming people, " the People of

was, however, a much more powerful deity. He was

the Sea," as far back as 2000

not only a master of tricks and illusions, but the

B.C.

T h e Irish Druids later recorded their own ori­

owner of many magical possessions . His boat, called

gins and evolution as a series of mythological inva­

the Ocean-Sweeper, sailed without oar or sail, con­

sions. Their mythical undersea hoJ;Ue was Lochlann,

trolled only by the thought of the navigator. His

ruled over by the god Tethra, supre � e deity of the

steed, Aonbarr, could travel on land and sea with

Formorians . Tethra is closely related to a Pelasgian

e qual sp eed. The Answerer was the name of his

sea-goddess called Thetis, mother of the Tritons, the

sword, which cut through any armor and weapons .

half-man and half-fish p eople of the sea. All Celts

He wore a great cloak that could change t o any

maintained a fundamental belief that they were the

color or element, and which made the wearer invis­

descendants of Dis, another underworld deity, and

ible. The Isle of Man was his throne or seat of power,

that all life came originally from the sea.

from whence it was named. From there he protected

This association with subterranean gods and sea­

the land of Erin (Ireland) by opposing any invaders

gods corresponds very closely with the Egyptian

who tried to cross the Irish Sea. His thunderous

concept of creation. In their world myth, the begin­

footsteps and the flapping of his mighty cloak pro­

ning of creation started with Nu, god of the watery

duced the fierce winds and storms that deterred

abyss, who emerged after a global deluge. Again the

them.

Astrological Significance The astrological association with the month of the

difficult to determine. Drugs and poisons are also

ash is undoubtedly the planet Neptune. Tradition­

asso ciated with Neptune, the adverse effe cts of

ally, Neptune is not only associated with maritime

which Neptunian p eople tend to suffer from. This

matters, but governs both artistic and religious inspi­

highlights their sensitivity and vulnerability.

ration, the nebulous qualities of character that can be

I n esoteric astrology, Neptune represents the

T HE ASH TREE

planet of chaos, a state of disorder, without shape or

53

the higher and lower emotions . Alice Bailey refers to

definite form, not unlike the mythical sea-god of the

Neptune as the " Initiator," the great teacher of the

Celts . In the mythology associated with the planets ,

west, the present world initiator b eing Christ who is

Neptune also had some mysterious influence in

referred to as Neptune and whose symbol was the

connection with the flood during the Atlantean

two fishes (Pisces) . She also refers to Neptune as the

period that produced the preceding earthquake. This

" Heart of the Sun" when describing the three

does not mean that Neptune is a destructive force,

aspects of the Sun that will bring the latent world

or a force of chaos, but it does imply that Neptune

consciousness to birth, producing the final revelation

has little or no direct influence over the physical

and liberation of mankind. She then reminds us that

plane; it is a sphere of influence largely confined to

Neptune does not really b elong to our universe,

the psychic or emotional plane. It also relates to ' magic, which can be black or white, not the pure

despite its apparent connection with the Sun, for the

white magic of the rowan tree.

the essence of Neptune as an influence generally.

According

to Alan

Leo,

a

noted

esoteric

connection is imaginary. This last point summarizes People born under this sign are escape artists extra­

astrologer, there is more than one element contained

ordinaire, impossible to pin down or to extract a

in Neptune, those of fire and water, which represent

definite commitment from them.

Archetypal Character The archetypal character of the ash tree month and

still " unformed" forces or energies that greatly influ­

sign is best summarized by the sea-god Lir. He rep­

ence the ash tree character.

resents both the duality of the sign and the third

This may sound a rather simple analogy, but it

mystical element of deity, the spiritual link with the

has profound meaning for all spiritual growth as it

evolving psyche. Light and darkness are polarities of

removes the anthropomorphic images established by

nature-spirit and matter-without whose actions

religious dogma and relates to the creative imagina­

life could not evolve on any level. But as the Sun

tion of the ash tree character. The ash tree p erson

moves in a circular motion around the Earth, so too

sees a different vision to the rowan tree character;

the great o c eans ebb and flow in a much closer

the duality of light and darkness becomes more pro­

embrace. The mystical qualities associated with Lir

nounced, and they have to establish, or p e rhaps

and all sea-gods represent the unknown and as yet

reestablish, their own p ersonal boundaries.

54

T H E C ELT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

Tree Character Ash tree people have a dual aspect to their character.

an inability to cope with the practicalities of life .

While having an artistic nature and temperament,

They can also become t o o easily influenced b y oth­

and appearing highly vulnerable and sensitive, they

ers , with disastrous consequences. This can lead to

can suddenly switch tactics and app ear quite prag­

further isolation if they then shut themselves off

matic. It is difficult, therefore, to decide on their true

from everyone. A hypersensitive nature undermines

nature or motive s . Perhaps for that reason alone,

their self-confidence and ambitions .

people born under this sign have the guiding virtue of " compassion," for they understand the baser ele­ ments of man as well as the most spiritually pro­ found experiences . Their compassion for their fel­ low man extends to the animal world, drawing them into charitable works in both fields . Some notable ash tree characters are Albert Ein­ stein, Caruso, George Washington, Jane Austen, and Michelangelo.

General They have a creative genius for making money, and yet appear reluctant to accept or exploit such talent. Great schemes can suddenly fail through lack of resolve or mistiming. Sensitive artists and improvis­ ers of the sourc es available, they require careful direction when young. The dual aspect is a complex but fluid quality of their character, which allows

Positive Asp ec ts People born under this sign have great compassion, and the ability to relieve the suffering of others, in practical terms by nursing sick friends and neigh­ bors , and by their power of prayer, which reflects a deep faith. This faith may not be orthodox or reli­ gious, but relates to their highly intuitive nature that draws its strength from more nebulous sources. They are highly adaptable people generally, and will make the most remarkable recoveries from any adverse conditions or setbacks .

Negative Asp ec ts The nebulous quality associated with this sign can also produce a sense of unreality or confusion, with

great latitude or scope to operate. A rather amor­ phous quality does exist, however, that is difficult to determine, and they retain a mystical aura. They are naturally drawn to the fantasy world of the cinema and the theater-anything to do with the production of films and shows, where they make brilliant cameramen/women, costume designers, or stage scene artists . Acting is a medium they may fin­ ish up in, but it is only secondary to their real gifts of artistic flair and talent. They often have a beauti­ ful singing voice, but the great sensitivity associated with this sign is not really conducive to the grueling aspect of stardom. In psychological terms they are happier and healthier working behind the scenes, but the mystique of their p ersonality will always attract attention. The nautical world will also attract them, but

THE ASH TREE

there are two definite typ es of ash tree p erson. One is drawn-almost hypnotized-by the sea or watery landscapes. The other is secretly terrified by the con­ frontation of water; it represents a vast unknown expanse, or an experience they do not wish to par­ ticipate in. The latter is the hypersensitive ash tree person, who has less control over the dual forces within them, and who relates to the " chaos" dimen­ sion associated with the sign. But there is a definite balance of duality found in the creative ash tree p er­ son. The more the creative energy is dispersed, the more constructive and stable the duality becomes . The career is important in establishing this sta­ bility, but it should not involve too strict a routille or be limited by certain controls . The arts generally are a good medium for the ash tree person but, with their compassionate and caring nature, they are nat­

55

Love Life In personal relationships the duality of the ash tree character can become more pronounced. Ash tree people have their own value system that sometimes doesn't quite relate to the reality of the situation. It is not a question of being impractical or unrealistic, however, more a case of misreading their motives, which to begin with can be extremely diffuse. They are great lovers, nevertheless, and caring parents . Their contribution · to life is to enhance every

asp ect of it-a tall order that can take its toll in

human terms , but then we are dealing with p eople who have one foot in the land of the Sidhe, the faery p eople. They are the romantics and dreamers of life, but quite capable of changing the pace when it suits them.

urally drawn into the medical professions and com­ munity work. They are also the p eople who help to organize the charitable causes in life and, no matter

Su mmary

how large or small the operation, their presence will

Their lifestyle can be surprisingly conventional

add the humanizing touch that can otherwise be

because they actually strive for a kind of order or

lacking in the administration. If they are of a hyper­

routine. This is largely to counterbalance the very

sensitive nature they can use this sort of work to

unreal forces or energies that appear to exert a pow­

siphon off the surplus emotional energy that is so

erful influence. They never really settle anywhere,

necessary.

but have a great affinity for living near water,

They are basically a very gentle p eople, easily

although this can be reduced to a fishpond in the

hurt and yet able to absorb the negative as well as the

garden. Their life pattern is a wonderful tapestry in

positive exp eriences of life. They make very kind

human terms, and they will inspire others with their

and considerate friends, and generally create a very

simple but impressive ideals .

amenable atmosphere.

CHAPTER F OUR

THE ALDER TREE FEARN March 1 8

-

April 1 4

Symbolizing: The planet Mars Gemstone: Ruby Flower: Broom Archetypal Character: Bran or Arthur

a!

am the shining tear of the Sun }}

58

T H E C ELT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

The Illustration The alder tree presents a bold face of color and

tous victory. A breastplate, said to be that of an

warmth at a time of the year that is still crisp with

arch-Druid, was found at the opening of a barrow

late frosts . The power of the Sun has triumphed as it

grave at Barnham Downs in Kent; it was made of

reaches the vernal equinox, for the days will now

gold and encrusted with j ewels that reputedly

begin to rule the night . The spirit of the tre e is

included rubies, garnets , and turquoises .

aroused in the form of Bran, a mighty giant and

The ruby has been worn as a protection against

ancient Celtic king of Britain. Armed with a spear

plague and p estilence, and its powers are said to pro­

and sword, symbolically to push back the darkness of

mote courage, boldness, and virility.

winter, he has slain the green dragon to establish his power over the seasons . The symbolism is one of res­ urrection and new life. But the youthful energy of

T he Vernal E qui nox

the Sun-god Bran is sharp and blindly penetrating,

March 2 1 was known as

as yet untemp ered with wisdom, and armed only

and celebrated with the lighting of a sacred fire from

with courage. Astrologically, the planet Mars is tradi­

which all other fires were then rekindled. The

tionally associated with the vernal equinox, whose

equinoxes were important dates in the seasonal and

symbol of the five-pointed star or pentagram is

spiritual calendar of the Celts . They marked the pre­

Alban Eilir

by the Druids,

depicted on Bran's breastplate. A hunting falcon cir­

cise time when the length of day and night were

cles overhead sear�hing for its prey, to symbolize the

· equal all over the Earth . In spiritual terms it was a

restless spirit of the sign.

brief interlude when the two powerful deities of the Sun and Moon were equal in every respect. But it

T h e Ruby The rarity and beauty of the ruby has connected it

also marked the dividing line that had now been drawn between them; from this date forward the Sun would app ear to have dominion over the

with legends from ancient times . It has been called

Moon, but only in the exoteric sense. The soli/lunar

the lord of gems in the east, where it was said to

relationship was not one of contest, but one of

contain the original spark of life. Next to the dia­

divine union or integration, a point clearly under­

mond it is the hardest of all gems, and is cut to bring

stood by the Druids .

out its brilliant color rather than its shape. The Romans considered the ruby to be the stone of their war-god Mars ; to them it signified nobility, power, and vengeance. Henry V of England

Bran Bran became a god of the underworld in C eltic

wore a magnificent ruby at the crucial Battle of

mythology, and belonged to the gods of the house of

Agincourt against the French, and gained a momen-

Lir. He may seem an odd choice for a solar prince,

THE ALDER TREE

but there are many legends and associations with this ancient god that relate to both solar and lunar deities who were deposed or subj ugated during the various invasions. The intermingling of the races naturally produced an intermingling of gods and goddesses. B earing this in mind, Bran was primarily a god of healing and resurrection, who later became asso­ ciated with solar deities. In some ancient legends he was also associated with the invention of fire, which again suggests a previous solar connection. But Bran eventually became an exiled god, associated with the underworld regions, and his deeds closely parallel those of the ancient Greek god Aesculapius, a heal­ ing god, son of their Sun-god, Apollo.

59

ingly thrust a sprig into his helmet on the way to battle so that his troops might see it and follow him. The Plantagenets derived their name from its medieval name,

Planta genista,

and it was used on the

great seal of Richard I. The broom is the badge of the Scottish Forbes, worn in their bonnets as a mark of the heroism of their chieftains; in their Gaelic dialect they called it

bealadh

as a token of its beauty.

Other notable Highland clans also wore a sprig of

broom as badges, the chief being Sutherland, Mur­ ray, and Home. The broom is a remarkable native plant, with a vast list of curative powers and uses . The first green tips and flowers were picked by the D ruids and added to a sweet wine made from the sap of the

T he Hu nting Fal c on

birch. It made the wine more intoxicating, and was used to celebrate the vernal equinox. Broom bushes

This is one of the three birds associated with Bran,

found on tors or growing on natural Earth mounds

the other two being the owl and the crow. Each has

have also been associated with the enchantment of

a very interesting legend associated with it, but the falcon is the bird of omen, which, according to Cor­ nish augury, relates to doomed souls. There is something of a fateful aspect associated with this sign, but it is primarily one of potential

the faery p eople ; the heavy scent of broom flowers has lulled p eople sitting close by into a soporific state. All such associations have a magic and mys­ tique so akin to the nature and history of the Celtic p eople.

success being created within a short time. This is an important factor of control and direction that app ears to propel the alder tre e character into

T he Alder Tree

achieving as much as possible in the shortest p eriod

The alder's name is derived from Old English

of time available.

meaning chief, and relates to the office of alderman,

ealdor,

a senior member of local government elected by fel­

T he Sprig of Broom This also has an ancient and fascinating history. As a heraldic device it was adopted at a very early period as the badge of Brittany. Geoffrey of Anj o u j aunt-

low councillors and still considered a great honor. The alder tree is not only native to Britain, but has a widespread habitat stretching from Europe, western Asia and north Africa, to south of the Arctic Circle. It is a cousin of the birch and hazel, and, like

60

T H E C ELT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

them, its flowers and seeds are borne in catkins. It is

to war and strife. In the

usually found by the side of a slow-running stream,

fought in the front line as a sign of its courage and

Battle cif the Trees

the alder

for the alder does not thrive on dry ground. The

enthusiasm for a fight. In the Irish Ossianic

wood was much used in olden times, its quality of

the Forest Trees

long endurance under water making it valuable for

witch of all woods, tree that is hottest in a fight." The

pumps, troughs, sluices, and for bridge building. In

alder is a symbol of fire, its virtues a proof against the

even more ancient times it was used as poles on

corruptive power of water.

which houses were built at the edges of lakes and in undrained boggy regions .

Song of

it is described as " the very battle­

The green top branches of alder make go o d whistles, a musical connection that is in a sense

During the fourth lunar month of the year the

related to the singing head of Bran, an alder god. Its

Celts used the wood to make charcoal for their met­

buds , set in spirals , are a symbol of resurrection, the

alworking; this was a time to sharpen and forge new

guiding principle of interpretation.

weapons, ready for hunting farther from the home and, perhaps, for the odd skirmish with neighboring

Fearn

tribes. The bark was also used for thre e valuable dyes-red, green, and brown-the most famed one

This is a name with mythological associations . King

being the aldine red or scarlet, a favorite color of

Fearn was legendary ruler of Ireland in the Bronze

Celts , which certainly relates well to the red planet

Age, and one of the sons of King Partholan. The

of Mars .

was pronounced

The mythology of the alder is also largely related

Fearn

V, and

P

his sacred tree was the alder.

is also the Irish name for alder.

Martian Symbolism The Celts regarded Mars , whom they called Merth,

contrivance they found useful. Of their courage he

with great respect, but the warlike qualities were

spoke with great respect, attributing their scorn of

counterbalanced with a more mercurial and artistic

death, to some degree at least, to their firm belief in

temp erament associated with Venus and Mercury.

the immortality of the soul.

Julius Caesar once commented on this very point; in

Bran represents the positive Martian traits of a

a critical account he re corded the Gaulish and

strong leader in a crisis and a defender of the weak.

British C elts as b eing eager for battle, but easily

The mythology relating to Bran does, however,

dashed by a reverse. He also noted that they were, at

reveal all the Martian traits-from acts of great

the same time, quick to seize upon and imitate any

courage to acts of brutal cruelty.

T H E ALDER TREE

61

Myths Associated with the Sign Bran, according to Celtic legend, was the ancient

prize and sailed back to Ireland with it, and with his

ruler of Britain, and the brother of Manannan, the

new bride, Branwen.

Irish sea-god. His two half-brothers, Nissyen and

What subsequently transpired is not clear, but

Evnissyen, represented the dual energies or elements

apparently Branwen was treated very badly by

of nature, and were opposites in every way. Nissyen

Matholwych and degraded to the position of cook.

was a gentle youth, a peacemaker and arbitrator,

She managed to get a message to her brother Bran,

while his brother Evnissyen loved nothing more

sent by a tame starling she had reared. He immedi­

than turning peace into renewed strife.

ately assembled a great fleet and army, and set sail for

Bran's sister, Branwen, who was considered the

Ireland to right his sister's misfortune. When Math­

fairest damsel in the world, married Matholwych,

olwych saw such a vast and mighty army, he sought

king of Ireland, after a great feast that had united the

to placate Bran with a great feast. He then devised a

two countries . It was during this feasting that Evnis­

crafty plot of hiding armed warriors in the leather

syen conspired to cause mischief, for he disfigured

sacks that hung on the stone pillars in the great hall,

the horses of Matholwych, an insult so dire that any­

supposedly containing meal for the banquet. During

one else would have been put to death by Bran for

the feast, the warriors wo uld then attack the

the dishonor it represented. But Evnissyen was the

unarmed guests and kill Bran. It was Evnissyen who

son of Bran's mother, and therefore of sacred lineage.

stumbled upon the plot by wandering into the hall

So the horses were replaced by finer beasts , and

before the rest of the host had assembled. A master

much gold and silver was given to Matholwych in

of deceit himself, his sharp eyes p erceived the deadly

way of atonement, but he was still not satisfied and

trickery. He went to every bag on the pretext of

wished to depart the scene.

feeling the contents , but squeezed the heads of the

Bran was forced to concede the magic cauldron that, according to a previous legend, came originally

men inside until their brains were squashed. The feasting began and Matholwych proudly

from Ireland. The cauldron is itself the subj ect and

presented

source of many legends, and later identified with the

nephew. The child was passed around to be admired,

most famous Celtic legend of all , the quest of the

a smiling fair-haired child, who melted the anger in

holy grail. But in this particular legend of Bran and

Bran's heart, but not in Evnissyen's, who suddenly

his

son, Gwern

(or

Gwion) , Bran's

Matholwych, it was used as the means of bringing

seized the child and flung him on the blazing fire.

dead warriors back to life or producing a whole new

Branwen would have leapt after him, but Bran held

army of men, the only drawback being that the war­

her back amidst the tumultuous shouting and

riors resurrected in this manner were difficult to

screaming of oaths . The Irish and the British fought

control, and had the bloodlust that created more

a bloody pitched battle until the fall of night.

wars . But Matholwych was very pleased with such a

It was then that the Irish heated the magic cauldron

62

THE C E LT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

and threw in their dead, who came out the next day

with them, but when she reached her homeland, she

stronger warriors than before, but all were dumb

cried aloud:

beings . Evnissyen at last felt great remorse for the dreadful deed he had committed, and the danger in which he had placed his p eople, so he hid himself

Woe is me that I was ever born; two islands have been destroyed because if me.

among the Irish dead and was thrown into the bub­ bling cauldron. The following day, rising from the

She uttered one last cry and her heart broke.

cauldron, he stretched himself in such a manner as to

They placed her in a four-sided grave on the banks

rend the cauldron into four pieces and, his heart

of the Alaw, a place still known as Y nys Branwen. The returning seven found that, during their

having burst with the effort, he died. In the end all the Irish warriors were slain, and

absence, Caswallan, son of Beli, a Belgic Sun-god,

there remained only seven British besides Bran, who

had captured Britain by magical arts an d illusion.

was sorely wounded. Pryderi, the son of Rhiannon

The start of Bran's exile had begun, but his story is

and Pwyll, and Manannan, son of Lir, were among

far from ended. While en route to London, the head

the seven survivors. Bran commanded them to cut

of Bran began to sing and make prophecies . It

off his head and take it back to London, and bury it

became an attraction for pilgrims and renowned for

in the White Mount (now the Tower of London) . It

its healing powers . The head was then duly buried in

was

the

London, where it would have stayed to protect

prophecy that no foreigner could invade the land

against further invasions had not Arthur, another

while it remained so positioned. So the seven took

solar deity, dug it up, asserting the newly acquired

the head of Bran and went forth . Branwen went

Christian zeal for deposing the old gods.

plac ed looking

towards

France, with

Astrological Significance Mars is the ruling planet of the alder sign and, in tra­

soli/lunar relationship was emphasized, and repre­

ditional astrology, a dominant force with which to

sented the primeval male and female energies that

be reckoned. It is attributed with the vital faculties,

pervaded the universe. But planets also have affini­

both physical and mental; a directive to the impor­

ties and polarities regarding personal and universal

tant motivations in life, which, if lacking or badly

influence. Mars represents the masculine (p ositive

aspected in astrological terminology, will indicate a

energy) asp ect regarding mundane interpretation,

lack of self-assurance and confidence.

and has a powerful affinity with Venus , who repre­

The vernal equinox was a tim e when

th e

sents th e feminine (passive energy) asp ect. In this

T H E ALDER TREE

63

relationship they are connected with the passiOns

destruction, an indication of the sexual and spiritual

and desires of mankind.

power that can both liberate or destroy. In Roman

In esoteric astrology Mars is called the energizer,

mythology Mars was the founder of their city and

a force that can be used for go od or evil . It was also

their great empire ; he was the p ersonification of

called the lord of birth, of death, of generation and

their glorious and formidable power.

Archetypal Character Bran is the archetypal character associated with the

The alder sign interpreted in psychological terms

alder sign, a sign that relates to the ancient Celtic

identifies Branwen and Guinevere with the anima

concept of the vernal equinox acting as a division

(feminine) principle in Jungian analysis of the devel­

between the forces of light and darkness . The myth

opment of the personality. The animus (masculine)

relating to his sister Branwen reflects both victory

principle proj e cts itself in the heroic qualities of

and loss . In symbolic terms the Sun, now represented

Bran and King Arthur, who exert or attempt to exert

by Bran, defeats his enemies but loses part of himself

the more forc eful aspects of the personality. The

in spiritual terms . The sign of the alder was later

alder tree character is therefore a mixture of strength

identified with King Arthur· and his wife Queen

and vulnerability-a fabled hero with an Achilles

Guinevere, with a similar scenario taking place.

heel.

Tree Character Alder tree characters emerge as powerful individuals,

the occasion arise, but they prefer to fight their own

no longer bound by hidden fears but prepared to

battles and set the pace for others to follow. Their

make their way in the world. The path ahead is still

destination is always uncertain in life, and a restless

full of pitfalls, however, so the Moon has armed her

spirit prevails as the Sun casts its own shadow across

children with the virtue of courage. So eager are

the Earth.

these individuals to set off and explore life that they

Some notable alder tree characters include David

often leave b ehind their friends and companions.

Livingstone, Mata Hari, Bismarck, Houdini, and

They are nevertheless staunch allies to have should

Zola.

64

T H E C ELT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

finance will also attract. They make excellent sur­

Positive Asp ec ts They have courage in facing up to the difficult and potentially dangerous situations in life. Their sense of adventure may at times be considered foolhardy, but they break down the barriers that have been imposed by lesser mortals . They show great loyalty to friends and family, even if these people should be discredited in any way. Their enthusiasm and vitality promotes them as leaders , who often rise from the ranks , for th ey are the natural heirs of enterprise and initiative.

geons and expert precision toolmakers . With regard to friendships , their p ersonal ego rides high . Equally, though, there is a side to their nature that is highly vulnerable-the need for recognition can make them susceptible to flattery and false friends, the latter being the most difficult to handle because the true spirit of the alder tree char­ acter is one of trust. Alder tree characters may not be easy to live with, but they provide the vital ingredients of life that can be so lacking in other zodiac signs . Polari­ ties attract for fundamental reasons, i . e . to provide the missing qualities or strengths of character; this is

Negative Asp ec ts These become apparent when their desire and impa­ tience for wanting everything now begins to alien­ ate them, for they will press on regardless and make many enemies in the process. A selfish attitude is quickly developed and a quick temper to match. Their sense of humor will also adopt the barbed edge of a satirist.

therefore most noticeable in this sign, as it marks the first union and division of the zodiac. For this rea­ son, also, the stabilizing elements will be found in personal relationships and not in the comp ensation aspect of career, as is the case with birch tree people. Each sign has a polarity that is a good indication of where the comp ensating qualities are to be found. For the totally solo driving force of this sign, part­ nerships both personal and, to some extent, in busi­ ness will provide some valuable anchors . Personal

General Alder tree people are extremely physical, full of energy and the need to be active almost twenty-four hours a day. They are the entrepreneurs of life, a glamorous title that fits their flamboyant lifestyle. And if it doesn't fit, then something is drastically wrong. Dangerous occu­ pations are their forte, and not just in the physical sense; although a high proportion may be drawn into the military arena, or high personal-risk profes­ sions,

the

cut-throat

business

world

of

high

diplomacy could also be cultivated more to curb the headstrong traits of character. People born under this sign make marvelous competitors in all fields of activity, but if they don't win, or they hit a losing streak, they may decide to quit and start again in a completely different career or venture . This can occur time and time again, and can be exhausting for their family or others who haven't the same stamina and willpower. Everything they do they tend to do to the limit of their whole being.

THE ALDER TREE

65

Occasionally, however, there exists a very differ­

not operate in isolation so, along the way, and almost

ent alder tree p erson, one who is gentle and accom­

at a gallop, they make conquests that divert their

modating-one of the rarer alder tree characters,

attention, although only briefly. They tend to marry

who will direct their energy entirely for the good of

in haste, and remain better lovers than husbands or

others and often to their own detriment. In their

wives. They also make excellent fathers or mothers,

own quiet way they will influence others to a very

perhaps because they see life as a kind of battlefield,

high degree. They are the unsung heroes, whose

instructing their offspring accordingly.

passing creates a void or vacuum in life, for what they have managed to achieve is as remarkable as the

Summary

headstrong character. Either way, from the very beginning of their

The sense of bravado of the alder tre e p eople is

lives, alder tree people create an impact. The sharp­

admirable, but it does tend to thin out the support­

ness of their minds and their physical agility breed a

ers on the sidelines . Their sharp wit, rather than a

combatant in life, not a bystander. They are difficult

sense of humor, may also take its toll, but it will

people to keep abreast of; most people will follow in

compel the people on the receiving end to react

their wake, and will probably have a bumpy ride.

more positively. Their lifestyle is one everyone else

There is a definite pattern or statement associated

tries to keep up with, at least initially.

with this sign that is not difficult to understand. Psy­

People born under this sign are the prototype

chologically, they are usually very uncomplicated

models of the extrovert character, and they remain

people because they express their feelings and opin­

intensely passionate where their inner feelings are concerned. The very fiber of their being is difficult

ions openly.

to regulate, but they do nothing in cold blood or

Love Life

with a feeling of indifference. If the rowan tree peo­ ple represent the catalysts for change, then the alder

The need for personal freedom is strong in this sign,

tree people represent the steroids or the

but so is the need for love. A passionate nature can-

totum, not

to be missed at any cost.

stimulus fac­

CHAPTER F IVE

THE WILLOW TREE SAi llE April 1 5 - May 1 2

Symbolizing: The Moon Gemstone: Moonstone Flower: Primrose Archetypal Character: Morgan le Fay

ul

am a hawk

on

a cliff"

68

T H E C ELT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

The Illustration The willow tree at this time of year is a graceful

lucky charm. Miraculous cures have been attributed

sight, with its sweeping branches in full leaf and

to it.

flower. According to Celtic myth, hidden within its

The

Romans believed that the moonstoT,le

branches lies a serp ent whose coils protect two scar­

enclosed the · image of Diana, their Moon goddess,

let-colored eggs containing the infinite potentiality

who represented " the moonlight splendor of night,"

of the world. They also represent the Sun and Earth,

and had the power of bestowing wealth, victory, and

and form a triple alliance with the Moon. The solar

wisdom on its wearer. The Druids hung moonstones

symbol is eclipsed by the Moon, but only briefly, as

on fruit trees to ensure a good crop of fruit, and

the luminaries embrace to form a spiritual or spiral­

believed the stone changed color according to the

ing union of universal energies.

waxing and waning of the Moon. As a gift for lovers

The trailing branches of the willow form an

it is believed to arouse tender affection, and if placed

intricate pattern that symbolizes the complexity of

in the mouth at full Moon it bestows the power of

the sign. The branches are held by a young maiden

foretelling both good or ill fortune.

dressed in white, with flowers in her hair; she has been chosen Queen of the May to preside over the

Beltane

celebration of Beltane, a fire festival held on the first day of May.

B eltane or Bealtaine marked the official start of

The roots of the willow tap the sacred spring of

summer in the seasonal Celtic calendar. However,

the most mysterious and awesome aspect of the lunar

the fire festivals also represented the spiritual cycles

goddess , the Cailleach. Her face is heavily veiled as

that connected the Earth with the chthonic or

she sits on a silver throne in the dark cavern under

underworld forces.

the tree. At her feet a huge wolfhound crouches, his

On the eve of Beltane all the fires in the com­

collar of moonstones reflecting the red glint of his

munity were extinguished, so that the element of

fearsome eyes. There is an atmosphere of enchant­

fire was then completely absent from Earth. The

ment as the solar spirit discovers his sexuality.

Celts reckoned their days from sunset, not from sun­ rise, for, to their way of thinking, the night was the

The Moonstone This is an opalescent transparent gem, said to resem­

primeval source of light, and it was from this stand­ point that they also p erc eived their own spiritual identity and consciousness. So when they gathered

ble a raindrop and to possess a serene, mysterious

on their sacred B eltane hill at sunrise to ritually

b eauty. The moonstone or selenite was used in

rekindle the need-fire, they were also regenerating

ancient times and in different parts of the world as a

their own spiritual vitality. Their bonfire consisted of

THE W I L L OW TREE

69

mne sacred wo ods, from which they relit their

tilled essence of the earth through fire, the alchemy

hearthfires and then drove their cattle through the

of the spiritual nature of earth .

smoke in the rite of saining, or purification with fire.

Special attention was also given to their sacred

Fire was seen as a divine power, and the p eople also

wells and springs at this time. They represented the

j ump ed over the bonfire as an act of personal purifi­

female organs of the Earth, with their life-giving and

cation and transformation of the spirit.

healing properties. The Earth goddess was p erceived

On the first morning of May the Queen of the

by the Celts, and by many other ancient people, as

May was chosen to represent the goddess in one of

the natural consort of the Sun, for both were life­

the triple asp ects of transformation, from virgin to

giving deities. The Moon, or lunar goddess, was the

mother. Thus the human sphere or dimension

primeval mother of creation in the deeper mysteries

united with the etheric forces to promote a new sea­

of life, and had the p ower either to preserve or

son of fertility and fruition. Their Earth goddess was

destroy life in the esoteric sense.

penetrated by the phallic maypole, with the ritual of music and dancing symbolizing the coupling act­

The Two Sc arlet Eggs

m orris dancing is a remnant of this ancient tradition. There was a need to impress a pattern upon the

The two scarlet eggs hidden in the willow tre e,

earth, and the various ancient mazes and labyrinths

according to the D ruidic mysteries, are related to

depicted in temples throughout the world symbolize

both cosmic birth and the birth of mankind.

this fundamental union . But it also became a search for immortality by j oining forces with the divine.

The D ruids b elieved that the universe was hatched from two serpents' eggs that contained the

During the fifth .lunar month of the year, the

Sun and Earth. The egg containing the Sun had a

Druids instructed p eople " to drink from a sacred

double yolk of gold and silver, symbolizing the dual

well before sunrise, wash in the morning dew and

nature of the luminaries . Hens' eggs took the place

adorn thyself with greenery. To watch the Sun come

of snakes ' , were colored scarlet in the Sun's honor,

up, dance around the Maypole and abandon thyself

and were symbolically eaten as part of the feasting of

to the season." It was a time of revelry and orgiastic

Beltane. This act later transferred to the celebration

rites to perpetuate the season. The dew of the May Day morning was also col­ lected and used in the rituals . The formation of dew results from the condensation of the water vapor that rises from the warm earth in summer, but to the Celt it represented an element of the divine ; dew was regarded as a magical substance, being the dis-

of Easter in the Christian calendar, with the eggs becoming Easter eggs . The

glain,

or scarlet eggs, of the sacred serpent

may also be identified with the Orphic world-egg in the creation myth of the ancient Greeks . Their great goddess took the form of a snake and coupled with the world-snake Ophion. The goddess then laid the

70

T H E C E LT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

world-egg that contained infinite potentiality, but

as Gerard and Culpeper also praised the virtues o(

remained imp otent until split open by the Sun

the primrose. Gerard recommended an infusion of

bursting forth.

the flowers to make a primrose tea to be drunk in the month of May for curing "the phrensie " or ner­ vous hysteria (this may have been extremely apt for

T he Serpent

the C eltic revelers) . Culp eper, a herbalist with

In all ancient myths of creation serpents were closely aligned to man's own growth in spiritual terms, and serpent legends usually relate to the aspect of trans­ formation associated with the fire festivals of the

knowledge of astrology, placed the primrose under the dominion ofVenus, and wrote about the virtue of its leaves as making " as fine a salve to heal a wound as any I know."

Celts. The sacred serpent was the goddess aspect of the Moon, Ceridwen, a passive but form-creating spirit. The obj ect of these festivals was also to be made aware of fundamental truths, but the initiation ceremonies associated with the training of the Druids involved a very lengthy and arduous preparation.

T he Willow Tree The European willow found in central and southern Europe is known as the white willow because of its grayish bark, the American variety being known as the black willow because of its blackish bark. But both have similar prop erties or constituents con­

T he Primrose

tained in the bark, which are recommended in the

This flower was highly prized by the Druids, and its abundance in woods and pastures made it easy to collect. A poem ofTaliesin, titled "The Chair ofTal­ iesin," describes the apparatus and ceremony associ­ ated with the initiation of a bard. A draught of inspi­ ration was made from the flowering primrose and

Materia Medica

(plant medicine)

by

practicing

herbalists . The Druids certainly used the astringent bark to cure worms and dysentery but, along with the primrose, it was primarily used as an analgesic or primitive p ainkiller for the arthritic diseases that were prevalent in the damp climate of Britain.

the

The willow tree in Celtic myth was sacred to the

Druidesses during these rituals as a protection from

triune goddess and associated with the " Old Veiled

vervain ,

and

primroses

were

carried

by

evil. Druids and Druidesses also rubbed the fragrant oil of primrose on their bodies before certain rituals , to cleanse and purifY themselves. The curative properties in the plant were used to ease muscular rheumatism, an endemic condition in

One;' the Cailleach (old woman in Gaelic) . She was the " crone" asp ect of the triple lunar goddess who represented the darker force of the Moon, and who later became identified with witchcraft. The Cail­ leach was , however, the ancient spirit of wisdom,

the British Isles, and it was also used for certain

who sometimes manifested in the grotesque specter

forms of paralysis and insomnia. Old herbalists such

of the Morrigan, another fearful aspect of the god-

T H E W I L L OW TREE

dess, in order to challenge the strength and wisdom

71

as pagan practices, but they were conducted with the

of the C eltic leaders . Such confrontations help ed

kind of barbarism and terror that surpassed even the

them to overcome their hidden fears and weak­

darkest pagan rites.

nesses, and formed part of the higher spiritual initi­ ation of fire.

The willow tree has always been known as a tree of enchantment. At the famous temple at D elphi,

Witchcraft or Wicca, a name derived from the

Orpheus was depicted as receiving the mystic gift of

willow, was an ancient cult that used the natural cycle

eloquence by touching a willow in the sacred grove

or rhythmic energies of creation associated with the

of Persephone. The C elts also associated it with

goddess, although this association later became com­

poets, and, as suitors, wore a sprig of willow to pro­

pletely misunderstood with the advent of Christian­

tect themselves from the j ealousy of the "crone" by

ity. The early Christian church at first retained the

acknowledging her undiminished power and status.

mystical powers relating directly to the healing pow­

The willow was also host to the sacred mistletoe,

ers of the goddess; the miracles associated with the

which is more commonly found growing on the

apostles and early saints are remarkably similar to the

willow and the poplar than the illustrious oak.

magical feats of the Druids and Druidesses who had earlier provided the p eople with great comfort and

Saill e

spiritual strength. But the austere theologians in the church hierarchy became embarrassed by the femi­

The Celtic

nine mystique associated with such " miracles" and,

means a sudden outburst of action, expression, or

saille

became anglicized to " sally," which

although the Virgin Mary was a consoling substitute,

emotion. It may also imply an excursion or a j aunt,

they systematically erased and degraded the feminine

as well as a j ocular retort, but equally it can mean a

aspect of godhead. Their patriarchal system adhered

more violent excursion by troops . Sally is also

to a totally masculine god and creator-an unnatural

derived from

saille in

Old French, which translates as

imbalance of the very fundamental principles of life

" to rush out suddenly," from the word

in every stage of evolution and beginning. Witchcraft

ing "to dash forwards," being in turn derived from

unwittingly became the secret order of resistance to

the Latin word

Christianity and a male dominated society, and witchcraft trials were held to suppress what was seen

salire,

saillir

mean­

to leap.

These words aptly summarize the spirit of the willow tree, and reflect the undefined potentiality.

72

TH E C ELT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

Lunar Symbolism The Celtic equivalent of a powerful lunar sorceress

treacherously killed by Uther Pendragon, father to

is Morgan le Fay, the half-sister to King Arthur. It

Arthur, was a primer, but in the Celtic mythology of

was her formidable powers , working against Arthur

archetypes she symbolizes the darker forces of the

b ehind the scenes, that eventually destroyed the

psyche, which require greater understanding and

unity of the order of Knights of the Round Table.

recognition.

Revenge for the death of her father, who had been

Myths Associated with the Sign The mythology of the willow is perhaps overshad­

deity represented by three animal heads . He said that

owed by the dominion of the Moon. There is such

" everything we know of this blood-colored goddess

a vast and ancient mythology surrounding the Moon

may by analogy be applied to the persons born with

that it would be impossible to include every known

the Moon in these Houses." Hecate, granddaughter

association and legend. The aspect relating to the

of the Sun, was versed in all the inventions of evil;

willow of the " crone" or the Cailleach is perhaps an

she used wolfbane to get rid of rivals and knew the

aspect of the lunar goddess that holds the relevant

secret of herbs that produced hallucinations . She was

mythology. In traditional Graeco-Roman astrology

indeed a goddess of enchantment and dark rites,

the first and last lunar houses are those of Hecate,

whose magic medallion dating from the late Roman

"the dark Moon, She who strikes from afar." Hecate,

empire depicts her flanked by serpents, and the

like the Celtic Morrigan, is the darkest aspect of the

action of the lunar houses of Hecate is comparable

lunar goddess.

to the treachery of the serp ent's bite.

In Greek mythology she was also known as the

In this lunar zodiac these analogies fortunately

queen of Hades, wife of Pluto, and one of the

do not apply, but the asso ciation of Hecate and the

guardians of the underworld-another asp ect of

Morrigan with the willow sign does leave a residue

Persephone. Alexandre Volguirie, a French astrologer

of uncertainty and incomprehension, indicating a

who made a particular study of this lunar goddess,

need for affection that is difficult to satisfY.

called her " The Triple Hecate," a mysterious Greek

T H E W I L L OW TREE

73

Astrological Significance The Moon in traditional astrology repres ents the

of the inner soul. But in her reference to the Moon

mother figure, and is associated with the maternal

in

nature as well as public life. It is also associated with

the feud between the forces of light and darkness to

the instinctive mind and the physical form. For a

the Moon.

more complex astrological analysis, Alice Bailey in

A Treatise on Cosmic Fire

she traces the origin of

The Moon, like Neptune, has always been con­

describes the Moon as a

sidered a great symbol of illusion, for nothing born

veiling planet who, as one of the creative hierarchy,

under her influence endures; it is constantly chang­

veils Uranus , Neptune, and Vulcan in an interlocking

ing and dissolving. However, the Moon does relate

triangle of energies, formed through the mother

to the powerful inherited physical traits of character

principle of the Moon, to nourish and feed the life

and the residue of memory.

her book

Esoteric Astrology

Archetypal Character Morgan le Fay undoubtedly represents one aspect of

mankind. In p ersonal terms it underlines the sensual

the archetypal character associated with the sign of

nature of the willow tree character, and the power­

the willow. The festival of B eltane, which occurs

ful influence of the Moon or matriarch figure. The

during this month, also reflects the transformation

overall influence, however, is in the transformation

process of the young woman-the virgin aspect of

or magical aspect of the triple goddess, which pro­

the goddess-into the mother goddess . This signifi­

vides an intuitive wisdom and a deep insight into the

cant factor relates to the sexuality of nature and of

workings of nature.

Tree Character Willow tree characters are difficult p eople to get to

remotest regions of memory. Their lives are full of

know in any depth or detail; p eople born under this

odd experiences, and they are naturally drawn to the

sign touch upon all the mysterious aspects of nature

unexplained mysteries of life. They can become

associated with the Moon. Their psychic antennae

extremely eloquent in explaining such mysteries, for

are switched on, so that they have recall to the

they speak from exp erience. They act intuitively in

74

T H E C E LT I C LUNAR Z O D I AC

all situations, and their virtue of resourcefulness is

employed in very responsible j obs and p osltlons;

their great strength. They make powerful friends, but

couns eling professi o n s or teaching are two that

bad enemies.

attract. Initially, however, these p eople find it very

Some notable willow tree characters are Karl

hard to settle into a definite career. They are inclined

Marx, Leonardo da Vinci, Sigmund Freud, Charlotte

to move residences at frequent intervals, although

Bronte, and William Shakespeare.

when they do eventually settle down they often become the leading members of society. But like the ash tree characters there is still a sense of mystery

Positive Asp ec ts

about them that is intriguing.

These are shown in a passive tenacity and shrewd­

They may seldom express a controversial opinion

ness of character. Willow tree characters are wise

in public, but privately and in their career or profes­

parents and counselors, and their instinctive mater­

sion they are inclined to hold every type of contro­

nal nature has a powerful influence generally, b eing

versial view, and on most subj e cts . They may there­

both protective and resourceful. Although they are

fore app ear as being very amenable p eople, although

great traditionalists, they are also receptive to change,

in fact they have a very sensual nature that is easily

being quick to take the advantage. They have excel­

aroused and liable to change, becoming hot or cold.

lent memories; in business dealings this relevant trait

There are some willow tree characters who may not fit this picture at all; they really are the great

is the key to much personal achievement.

magicians in every sense. They will appear as the most sober and conventional p eople on the surface,

Negative Asp ec ts

but will have an incredible inner life or imagination.

These are related to sudden mood changes that pro­

They could b e styled the Walter Mittys of the

mote some unreliable traits of character, such that

zodiac. There will be a time, however, when this hid­

their power of reasoning becomes blurred and lacks

den potential or energy will suddenly erupt or burst

credibility. There is also a reluctance to forgive and

forth . It may take the form of writing to public fig­

forget, which harbors bitter resentment and limits

ures, or taking the platform themselves in order to

future success. If this becomes a dominant character

address the rights and wrongs of a particular issue.

trait, willow tree characters are capable of causing

But they are not such radical thinking p eople as the

great unhappiness, particularly to their families.

rowan tree characters, for their arguments have a very p ersonal bias derived from close contacts or past experience. And there will b e periods when

General

p ersonal motivation suddenly ceases, and the intu­

Much of this may, however, be carefully screened or

itive nature appears to need a complete break from

hidden

routine and the daily rigors of life.

in

everyday life, for

they

are

usually

THE W I L L OW TREE

75

With regards to health and well-being, willow

tionships app ear to run at a high emotional level

tree people are incredibly resilient, but inclined to

and, once married, the family or children become

worry about their health unduly. Their imagination

paramount in the affections .

again works overtime. Furthermore, because of their

However, if the right partner is found, a close

interest in the health and the well-being of others ,

bond can be formed that strikes an affinity between

they may have enough medical knowledge to diag­

the sexes. There is a depth of emotion associated

nose themselves, albeit wrongly. They will also b e

with this sign that is full of desire and passion that is

less inclined t o s e e k medical help, being drawn to

not always easy to express or channel positively.

natural remedies that have been handed down in the family, and there is a danger of their being influ­ enced by charlatans or medical quacks.

Su mmary

Their interest in family history practically runs to

This lunar energy can, however, be positively chan­

ancestor worship, and they often make a study of

neled into the arts, with great distinction and inven­

genealogy to add to their family archives. This also

tion. It can also suddenly activate latent creative

makes them collectors of memorabilia. Mother fig­

skills that appear to change the p ersonality.

ures , or women generally, dominate this sign and

Willow tree people are incredibly difficult to get

provide the most powerful influence from birth to

to know because there is a kind of veil over their

death. A link with the past also crosses through every

p ersonality and character that hides a great deal .

part of their life and influences their general attitude

Therefore their sense of humor is n o t easy t o define, and could be either totally lacking on occasions or

about life.

be extremely well directed. They have a potential

Love Life With all this interest in the family, it is p erhaps an

wisdom that makes them wise counselors and, if this aspect of character is fully operative, they make the most valued members of society.

interesting point to make that the people born at

The Moon has always been associated with peo­

this time of the year usually marry young and are

ple who can influence the public with the force of

drawn to either younger or older partners. This is

their p ersonality-good or bad-and it is a p ersonal

the aspect of the Moon that likes to be mothered or

quality with which to be reckoned.

to be the mothering partner. Close p ersonal rela-

CHAPTER S IX

THE HAWTHORN TREE U ATH May 1 3 - June 9

Symbolizing: The planet Vulcan Gemstone: Topaz Flower:

Wood sorrel

Archetypal Character: Govannan, smith-god

ul

am fair among flowers ''

78

T H E C E LT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

The Illustration The hawthorn tree is growing from the heart of

difficult for sailors to find (this island is now called

Glastonbury Tor, and the whole scene is bathed in a

Zeberged or St. John's Island) .

pale magenta light, symbolizing the spiritual dimen­

The virtues reputedly bestowed on the wearer

sion of the tree. This is a sign associated with a spir­

are health, wealth, and honor, as well as long life,

itual quest that demands chastity and purification

beauty, and intelligence. The D ruids considered

after the earlier revelries of the month of May. The

topaz to be a stone of strength, deriving its powers

silver chalice of the Holy Grail is held by the radiant

from the Sun.

aspect of the goddess, who represents the spirit of the tor. A warrior prince leaves his weapons behind

Glastonbury

as he begins the ascent up the hill, and the Sun sym­ bolically moves closer to his ultimate act of sacrifice

The legend ofJoseph of Arimathea bringing the sil­

at the summer solstice. But this is still a flowering

ver chalice used by Jesus at the Last Supper to Glas­

month of sweet blossoms, with nature in her most

tonbury help ed to inspire the fabulous Arthurian

seductive rob es, as the goddess prepares to bid

quest for the Holy Grail. The quest of the Grail,

farewell to her consort. Her crown of seven stars

however, can be originally traced back to the earli­

represents the Pleiades, which sets in mid-May and

est roots of Celtic mysticism. The chalice, like the

rises again towards the end of O ctober-an impor­

cauldron of Ceridwen , b e came the vessel of the

tant marker for the Celts , both as a spiritual and nav­

Holy Spirit of God in direct communion with

igational aid.

mankind.

D eep

within the C eltic psyche this

process of spiritual evolution took shap e and procre­ ated their myths and legends. The Knights of the

The Topaz

Round Table were a chivalrous order of knights who

These stones occur in a wide variety of colors and

represented the finer elements of man as he strug­

sizes . The topaz of the ancients is now usually called

gled to maintain the integrity of the soul.

the peridot, but the yellow topaz is the golden-hued

One of the most remarkable, but least known,

gemstone referred to by j ewelers as the precious

Cornish legends relating to Joseph of Arimathea

topaz.

concerns a Celtic monastery and convent built at

Confusion also exists regarding the origin of its

Place near St. Mawes, and originally dedicated to St.

means "fire" or " to

Mary de Valle. It is said to be one of the first Chris­

shine." The English word, from the Greek word

tian buildings erected in Britain, and built on an ear­

topazos, translates as "to seek and find." Pliny used the word topazos in describing an island in the Red Sea

lier D ruidic holy site. Indeed, C eltic monasteries were only built on such holy sites. The orientation

that was invariably surrounded by fog and therefore

of these sites was determined by the position of the

name. The Sanskrit word

topaz

THE H AW T H O R N TREE

stars when Christ was born, such that they always face due north; this is an ancient method of con­ struction that predated Christianity, and is identical to the alignment of stones, associated with the con­

79

Jesus not only visited Cornwall, but spent some of his formative years in the Druidic college at Place. This is not an altogether bizarre claim when com­ paring the two religions; the D ruids also b elieved in

stellation of the Pleiades , used at Stonehenge to

one invisible creator and the immortality of the soul,

determine the north position of the mid-cycle of

two fundamental b eliefs that provided the founda­

the Moon. The ancient Celtic monastery and con­

tion stone of both religions and set them apart from

vent also represent the earliest form of Christian

all other races in the old world at that particular time

worship, coming from Palestine dire ct and not

in history.

through Rome.

Joseph of Arimathea is mentioned in the Talmud

The monastery was later converted in

A . D.

933

into a small cathedral by King Athelstane, a Saxon

as Jesus ' uncle, and, according to St. Jerome's transla­ tion of the gosp els , a reference made to him of

king, who installed a bishop and introduced the

Nobilis Decurio would indicate that he

parish system to Cornwall. In 1 25 9 , some time after

in the Roman Senate and was a Minister of Mines .

the Norman invasion, a new bishop, another Saxon

held a position

He was also known to be a wealthy merchant with

called Bronsecoombe, rededicated the church to St.

a large fleet of ships and caravans that traveled exten­

Anthony, an Egyptian saint born at Coma near

sively to many foreign ports and cities.

Heroclea in

A . D.

25 1 , an association that once again

provides a direct link with the Middle East. This

This relates to another remarkable feature of the church at Plac e-its bell. When

examined by

bishop is believed to be responsible for the design of

exp erts in more recent times, they discovered to

the wonderful arch over the south door of the

their amazement that it was not of a beaten metal

church. This arch is a very beautiful combination of

but a cast one made of wroth bronze. This is a metal

two totally different forms of architecture-Norman

of indefinable strength or hardness, and doesn't cor­

and Saxon. But what is unique about the arch is not

rode. There is no modern metal known to compare

its age or beauty: it is the story recorded in ancient pictographs between the dog teeth, a story that tells

with wroth bronze, which suggests that the p eople who made the bell probably knew more about met­

of the visit of Jesus and his uncle, Joseph of Ari­

allurgy than the scientists of today. Furthermore, in

mathea, to Place. Pictographs have a very ancient

Jerusalem, in the Archaeological Museum in the Jor­

origin and have been found on the doorway to the

dan Quarter, there is apparently a collection of

ancient Temple of D enderah in Lower Egypt. They

wroth bronze cast from stone molds . The items are

are esoteric symbols related to the

known to date back to the Phoenicians , a mysteri­

Qabalah

and later

masomc s1gns . There has long been speculation regarding the

ous race of redheaded people who lived during the middle Bronze Age, 3 , 000 years

B.C.

unrecorded years ofJesus as a youth and young man.

T h e Phoenicians traded with the Cornish Celts,

Some Cornish historians and esoterics believe that

and the Druidic site at Place is believed to be the

80

T H E C E LTIC LUNAR Z O DIAC

very spot where the Phoenicians built a small fort and temple during their extended visits to supervise

the smelting of the metals into ingots for easier transportation. We know that the Celts supplied the Phoenicians with tin, the essential metal for making bronze. But copper and zinc, as well as tin, were all mined in Cornwall-the three metals forming the combination used in wroth bronze. The bell could have been either cast by the Cornish Celts under instructions from the Phoenicians, or presented to them as a gift or payment. However, the formula for casting this metal remains a mystery to this day-a

princess. This could explain their eager conversion to Christianity far more convincingly than the power of the early missionaries. The C elts were strongly motivated in anything they did, and the power of their Druids was a formidable influence to be suddenly swept aside. But blood lineage, espe­ cially from the matriarchal side, held special meaning for the Celts , and this significant factor alone may have been the prime motive for their rapid conver­ sion. The few Druids who at first opposed the spread of Christianity may have come from other trib es with different loyalties and affiliations.

relic, p erhaps, from the lost civilization who p erished in the flood? Cornish miners over the centuries have always

Wood Sorrel

maintained that Joseph of Arimathea was a tin man,

St. Patrick picked the delicate wood sorrel to sym­

and evidence of this claim can be found on a stone

bolize the Holy Trinity when he preached the

now housed in Truro Cathedral . The stone was

gospels to the Celts. It flowered between Easter and

found in a Cornish tin mine and has the word Jesus

Whitsuntide, a period that marked the descent of the

carved on it in Aramaic, the language of Palestine in

Holy Spirit on to the first apostles, who were then

the time of Christ. Around this time Glastonbury

authorized to preach in God's name.

was an island and port from which lead from the

There are a variety of sorrels, some of which

Mendip Hills was exported to all parts of the

have been cultivated since ancient times for their

Roman empire. But the Celts had been exporting

curative and culinary uses . Irish country folk still

tin long before the Roman invasion-Cornish tin

make a very popular green sauce from the leaves,

has been found in the alloys used in the building of

which are beaten with vinegar and sugar, and served

King Solomon's Temple, built in 1 005

B.C.

Glastonbury was n o t only a thriving commercial port, but was also the center of the Druidic religion,

with cold meat. During the sixth lunar month of the year the tiny flowering wood sorrel was ceremoni­ ously gathered and strewn on the fl oors to purifY the

the island being known as the Isle of Avalon.

home from pestilence and sickness . The Druids used

Druidism had prophesied the coming of Christian­

the healing prop erties of the common sorrel found

ity, and the Druids knew of Jesus as Hesus, a name

in meadows as a blood cleanser, and to strengthen

derived from an ancient Sun deity called Hu. The

weak stomachs . It was also used as a wound healer,

Cornish and Breton Celts further maintained that

checking the inflammation and swelling.

St. Ann, the grandmother of Christ, was a Celtic

THE H AW T H O R N TREE

o f MacMurrogh-Murphy, Thornton, and i n the crest

The Hawthorn Tree The hawthorn has a mythology ofbeing both sacred and unlucky. Like the wood sorrel, it is also associ­ ated with St. Patrick, and in County Wicklow in Ire­ land the sacred hawthorn growing over wells is still known as St. Patrick's thorn. In the book of Irish Brehon laws it is associated with the word

sceith

and is connected to the Indo­

Germanic ro ot word

sceath

or

sceth

meaning "to

harm," which relates also to the old Norse word

skathi.

The English derivative is

scathe,

meaning to

inj ure or attack. The hawthorn is known by numer­ ous names in Britain and Ireland, whitethorn and mayblossom being the most popular, while its red fruit has been called pixie pears and cuckoo's beads because of its association with the faery p eople. The sacred aspect of the tree in the legend of the Glastonbury thorn that flowered on old Christmas Day Oanuary 5) and again in May was that it was said to have been propagated originally from the crown of thorns worn by Christ-a sacred, but not exactly lucky, association. Another association with a crown relates to the small crown , from the helmet of Richard

III

81

of England, found hanging on a

hawthorn bush after his death at the Battle of Bosworth. The device of a hawthorn bush was then

of Kynnersley. In Welsh mythology the hawthorn appears as the malevolent giant Y sbaddaden B enkawr, the father of Olwen. Kulhwch, son of Kilydd, seeks to woo and wed Olwen, but the giant hawthorn puts every obstacle in the way of the marriage by demanding a dowry of 1 3 treasures, all impossible to find. The giant lived in a castle guarded by nine gatemen and nine watchdogs , revealing the strength of the taboo against marriage in the month of the hawthorn. There is a duality aspect of May that the lunar division of the Celtic zodiac picks up with great insight. The last two weeks of the preceding month of the willow are a time of revelry and orgiastic rites. This was to perpetuate the fertility of summer, and had nothing to do with marriage. The sanctity of marriage was honored by the Celts , and the favorite time for marriage was the late summer and autumn months , when the rowan berries fell from the tree and stained the earth red, a very potent symbol of future fruition. But the month of the hawthorn, which begins on the thirteenth day of May, is a time for purification and enforced chastity, this diversion of energy being necessary in order to negate the power of the elemental energies that had been evoked in the previous two weeks . The Sun, a sym­

chosen by Henry Tudor to mark this victory. The

bol of the life force surrounding them, was also

hawthorn is also the badge of the Ogilvies, a Scot­

preparing to descend once more into the earth. The

tish clan with a recorded history going back to

p eople must therefore prepare themselves for the

William the Lion of Scotland; they have a noble his­

work that still lay ahead of them-laboring in the

tory and supported Bonnie Prince Charlie in his

fields, and hunting while game was in good supply.

unsuccessful campaign to win back the British

The hawthorn has an ancient folklore, but coun­

throne. In heraldry the hawthorn tree is in the arms

try people in some parts of Britain today still associate

82

T H E C E LT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

hawthorn flowers with the smell of the Great Plague of London. It may be for this reason, or because of other more ancient memories, that mayblossom is still considered extremely unlucky to bring into the home, being associated with the smell of death. Its powerful constituents have, however, been used by herbalists for centuries as a cardiac tonic. The Druids also used these properties to strengthen the body in the frailty of old age. Their smiths used the wood to make the hottest woodfire known, the charcoal thus made being capable of melting pig-iron without the aid of a blast.

Uath This translates to the English word

horror,

and relates

to the ancient Irish God, Uath Mac Immomuin (Horror Son of Terror) , who could change into an infinity of horrible shapes. The word also relates to Uathach (meaning specter) , a daughter of Scathach, the great warrior queen and prophetess who trained the Celtic hero Cuchulain in the more dc;adlier skills of combat. However, Uathach also taught Cuchulain the gentler art of love, but her home was known as the Land of Shadow (Isle of Skye) and only the bravest warriors went there to perfect their skills, many dying in the attempt. Both Uathach and Scathach (shadow) represent the supernatural agents that can transform both men and women into fully utilizing their potential.

Myths Associated with the Sign In Greek mythology Vulcan or Hephaestus was a

There is a close connection between iron-work­

god of fire and the forge, a son of Jupiter and Juno.

ing and alchemy, a supernatural association that links

He unfortunately incurred his father's wrath and was

smithcraft to the initiation into men's societies in

flung off Mount Olympus, the home of the Greek

C eltic mythology.

gods, and fell to Earth, inj uring his leg. For this rea­

Cuchulain and Finn, a smith plays a decisive role as

son he was later known as the Lamed One, a title

an initiator. In Welsh mythology a Druidic brother­

In the youthful exploits

of

also associated with the Lamed Fisher King in the

hood known as the Pheryllt were alchemists and

Holy Grail legends, a title with a sacred context in

metallurgists skilled in the agency of fire ; their head­

all ancient wisdoms and associated with initiation

quarters in the city of Emrys was located in a secret

into the greater mysterie s . The Phoenicians also

castle on top of one of the highest mountains of

identified Vulcan with their smith-god Tubal Cain, a

Snowdon, a mystical and magical place where the

name recorded in the Bible as a descendant of Cain.

higher powers lived. To go there was to exp erience

T H E H AW T H O R N TREE

83

the greatest initiation into the mysteries. The secret

zodiac. He also makes some useful observations

castle of Emrys is also associated with the spiral cas­

regarding the hawthorn tree characteristic of being

tle of Arianrhod (also known as Ariadne) , a lunar

able to influence in face-to-face communication,

goddess with the title Lady of the Silver Wheel, and

whether in politics or in the p erforming arts , and

identified with Arachne, the spider goddess in Greek

maintains that the key to this personal influence was

mythology.

sympathy. He then draws attention to the constella­ the author

tion Auriga, which lies between Taurus and Gemini,

investigates the concept of the 13 Druidic signs with

whos e chief star, Cap ella, has been more closely

great insight and detail. In his equation of parallels,

observed by the Druids than any other star in the

the hawthorn month corresponds with the hidden

northern sky. Auriga also represented Erechthonius,

thirteenth sign of the original Graeco-Roman

the deformed son ofVulcan, in Greek myth.

In James Vogh's book

Arachne Rising

Astrological Significance In traditional astrology Vulcan is still regarded as a

with Vulcan marking the setting by mid-May. B oth

hypothetical planet, but it was known and referred

are initiating forces. The influence of Vulcan lies in

to

Egyp tian

reaching to the very depths of man's nature, while

astronomer-priests . They believed that Vulcan was

Pluto drags to the surface and destroys all that hin­

once an important deity of the Atlanteans ; the

ders in the lower regions .

by

the

Chaldeans

and

ancient

Atlanteans possessed the complete tables of his motion, but these records were lost in the flood. Alice Bailey has a lot to say about Vulcan in her

The importance ofVulcan as a smith-god in the mythology of the C elts is a relevant factor when interpreting their culture and spiritual nature. In tra­

Vulcan is regarded as a sacred

ditional astrology the intra-Mercurial planet Vulcan

planet ruling Taurus through . the throat center or

is p erhaps rather overlooked and ignored by modern

chakra. According to her, the entire secret of divine

astrologers . In the book on Vulcan by L . R . Weston,

book

Esoteric Astrology.

purpose and planning is hidden in the sign ofTau­

he describes the effect ofVulcan in the horoscope as

rus, owing to its relationship with the Pleiades and

being fiery, explosive, and ethereal, a summation that

Vulcan . The

fits the Celtic character and expresses their own par­

p olarity of Vulcan with Pluto, a

non-sacred planet and ruler of Scorpio, marks the geocentric rising of Pleiades by the end of October,

ticular brand of elan or fire.

84

T H E C ELT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

Archetypal Character The Celtic smith-god Govannan or Goban is the

ter. The hawthorn character is primarily a combina­

archetypal equivalent to Vulcan, while their Sun-god

tion of multiple talents, and the mysterious element

Lugh also forged weapons. These ancient connec­

attributed to Arianrho d provides the sixth sense,

tions with smithcraft and the initiation of fire is an

which equates with the sign of the willow. There is

aspect of purification that relates very well to the

a difference of temperament, however, the hawthorn

special signficance of the hawthorn month . The

character being less influenced by the emotions; this

combined mythology of the hawthorn and the

relates to the initiation asp ect ofVulcan's knowledge

smith-gods of the Druids provides a clear analogy

and skills . His ancient lineage and mythology also

for interpretation.

provide much relevant information concerning

The association with the mysterious Celtic god­ dess Arianrhod adds the latent ingredient of charac-

interpretation, but is perhaps more symbolic of the darker element within the human psyche.

Tree Character Hawthorn tree characters are most charismatic, full of innovations and new ideas . There is a need for creative activity expressed in a variety of interests and occupations . People born under this sign are multi­ talented and adapt easily to any changes in their lives. They are akin to the Celtic bards and Druids of old, often excelling in the performing arts and naturally drawn to the spheres of influence. This gift for influ­ encing others is wisely tempered with the virtue of

Positive Asp ec ts They have a lively spontaneity and the ability to communicate on every level or channel. They have a great variety of personal skills and a glowing self­ confidence that produces great leaders and p eople who inspire others . Their sympathetic nature also promotes good listeners , and they make honest and sincere friends .

sympathy, a very positive response and personal quality. Some notable hawthorn tree characters are Mar­ ilyn Monroe, Lawrence Olivier, John E Kennedy, Sir Arthur C onan D oyle, Florence Nightingale, and Queen Victoria.

Negative Asp ec ts But there also exists a volatile temperament, likely to explode every so often-bursts of anger directed verbally with the cutting edge of steel. If they feel threatened at any time, they will also aevise plans or . schemes to thwart their enemies, with· astute insight into their opponents' weaknesses .

THE H AW T H O R N T R E E

General Their great strength is in fact knowing the weakness of their opposition, but they are not ruthless p eople, merely clever strategists . Their strategy, however, has the definite psychic element of playing a hunch, which may involve more personal risk. For this rea­ son they relate very well with the alder tree charac­ ters , both being quick-thinking action p eople. These two signs are the direction finders for others, and have all the impetus of movement rather than con­ solidating influences. Hawthorn p eople will there­ fore be participants in almost any sporting activity, and keen supporters of a variety of public events .

85

relationship. They have a low boredom threshold that tends to keep them acutely aware of all the possibil­ ities in life. The vivacious quality that attracts people makes them glamorous friends, but at times perhaps impossible p artners . They have a highly sensual nature and personal attractiveness similar to the wil­ low tree people, but a more gregarious temperament overall. Some hawthorn tree characters are less extro­ verted, however, and remain difficult to pin down when it comes to making p ersonal commitments . They are affectionate, but strict parents, p erhaps knowing only too well the tricks and maneuvers that are possible.

Their sense of humor can be sharp and full of

Summary

innuendo, the type often missed by less quick-witted people, and a talent that attracts them to writing and

Their lifestyle is colorful and exciting, at least on the

journalism. B eing highly communicative on all lev­

surface, but they are often much quieter people in

els , the public media is an area of life that draws

private-or so they would have you believe. Life is

them like a magnet. They adapt to every situation

a challenge to the hawthorn characters; they intend

that life has to offer, and will redefine their p ersonal

to

sample

everything on offer. Their youthful

skills to a fine art. Whatever their background or

appearance has a kind of freshness that appears to last

natural abilities, they will, therefore, rise to the fore , sooner or later.

even into old age, the secret being their agile minds and willingness to experiment with what life has to offer. This Mercurial-Vulcan quality has all the

Love Life With regard to personal relationships, it is a question of keeping still long enough to forge a p ermanent

alchemy and ingredients of life in a flux, ever chang­ ing, never still . When they do relax, perhaps the whole Earth is momentarily on hold.

CHAPTER SEVEN

THE OAK TREE D UI R June 1 0 - July 7

Symbolizing: The planet Jupiter Gemstone: Diamond Flower: Coltifoot Archetypal Character: Dagda

((I

am a god who sets the head afire with �moke "

88

T H E C E LT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

The Illustration The O ak tree is a magnificent symb ol of great

asso ciated with the most famous diamonds , for

strength and royalty. D e ep within its roots lies the

example the Koh-i-Nor (Mountain of Light) and

double head of Janus , a dual god of life and death,

the Hope diamond. The Hindus believed that dia­

who represents the turning of the year from summer

monds were formed by lightning striking ro cks, and

to winter. The dense green canopy hides within its

the D ruids also associated it with supernatural

boughs the sacred mistletoe, whose magical berries

forces. Its most popular virtues are said to invoke

glisten like p earls, and a white-robed Druid stands

fidelity and enduring love ; hence its use today in

ready with a golden sickle to harvest this symbol of

engagement rings .

immortality, a symbol of life not growing directly from earth. The tre e stands in a circle of fire, the flames engulfing the sacrificial oak king, who sits astride a

Janus Janus is a god of the past, present, and future, of gates

white horse. The horse rears up, skyward bound, as

and entrances, of war and p eace, and the patron of all

the roaring flames send showers of arrows in all

beginnings in Roman mythology. The Celts appar­

directions . The golden wheel of the Celts symbol­

ently "borrowed" this god during their contact with

izes the changing face of the Sun, which, having

the Romans , but as the Celts have also been associ­

reached the highest p o int in the sky, is about to

ated with the Troj an race who founded Rome it

begin the descent. The summer solstice, celebrated

could be from an earlier connection. Janus repre­

on June 2 1 , was known as Alban Hefin in the

sented several aspects of their own gods, for in their

D ruidic calendar, and marked this turning point,

own mythology there was a series of gods and god­

when the Sun appeared momentarily to stand still as

desses who represented the intermingling of mortals

it reached its most northerly point.

with the immortal spirits . The Celts were oppor­ tunists in every sense of the word, eager to absorb both cultural and religious b eliefs , which then

The Diamond

became transmuted into the very unique and some­

In most religions the diamond is the symbol of a supreme deity. In the early days of Christianity it

what eli test religion of the Druids . References to Janus in C eltic mythology re­

was regarded as a symbol of Christ. Its very name is

corded by Geoffrey of Monmouth in his book on

linked to the Greek word

meaning invinci­

the ancient rulers of Britain mention a C eltic

ble or unconquerable. The Greeks b elieved that fire

princess by the name of Cordelia, who buried her

and water had no effect on it, and that it represented

father, King Leir, in an underground vault under the

adamas,

a kind of cure-all, capable of b estowing many bless­

river Sore-a structure originally built to honor

ings . E qually, there are als o legends of bad luck

Janu s . This is a comparable story to that of the

THE OAK TREE

89

singing head of Bran buried at the White Mount in

horse b eing a favorite totem or tribal god. Horses

London as a protection against invasion. In another

were shown on the earliest C eltic coins , and the

reference, which occurs in the prophecies of Merlin

mysterious hill figures carved into the hillsides

and in which he foretells of the ancient Druidic reli­

around England are predominantly horse figure s .

gion based on the oak cult b eing swept away by

T h e Saxons and Danes also venerated t h e horse, and

Christianity, Merlin alluded to Janus thus: "After this

the tab o o on eating horse flesh still survives

Janus shall never have priests again. His door will be

Britain as a strong physical repugnance.

m

shut and remain concealed in Ariadne's crannies." Janus came to represent the hidden wisdom of

Coltsfoot

their ancient gods and goddesses, the head being sacrosanct to all Celts . The sacrificial Sun-gods and

Coltsfoot is a wild herb that flowers during the

earlier oak kings later became synonymous with the

month of the oak tree, and is aptly named to com­

archetypal figures in legend, such as King Arthur

plement the mythology of the white horse. An old

Pendragon . He p ersonified all the virtuous attributes

name for coltsfoot

is Filius ante patrem,

meaning the

of truth, honor, mercy, and j ustice. King Arthur was

son before the father, because the golden star-like

the bridge between the evolving spirit of man and

flowers app ear before the broad sea-green leaves.

the wondrous virtues of all solar deities previously

It was a herb most used by the D ruids for cough

identified with Hu Gadarn, the son of the creator

remedies, and for shortness of breath or asthma, its

C eli and the b ardic-god Taliesin. O ther parallels

most popular name b eing coughwort. It was also

with ancient world myths similarly relate to the

known as horsehoof, foalswort, fieldhove, bullsfoot,

Egyp tian god O siris and the Greek god Ap ollo.

and donnhove. In France its flowers are still painted

Janus was the son of Apollo, completing the circle

on the signs of apothecaries' shops.

and revealing a root source of all spiritual evolution.

The Oak Tree The White Horse

The oak tree of the Celtic lunar zodiac is the tree of

This is a symbol that has a sacred origin in a horse

Zeus, Jupiter, and Hercules in Greek mythology. In

cult in Britain long before the Celts arrived, and is

Celtic legend it is associated with the Dagda, the

associated with the origin of the hobbyhorse mum­

chief of the old Irish gods .

mers in the English Christmas plays .

The Norse god Thor, and all thunder-gods, are

A relic carved in bone during the British Stone

also connected with the sacred oak of the D ruids ,

Age and found in the D erbyshire Pin-Hole Cave

for the oak, like the ash, is said to court the light­

shows a man wearing a horse-mask. Animal worship

ning flash. During the s eventh lunar month the

was evident during the Iron and Bronze Age, the

Druids carved a circle, divided into four equal parts ,

90

T H E CELT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

on the oak for protection against lightning, a prac­

to all ancient people. The astringent properties of

tice still found today in Britain among some old

the bark were used by old herbalists to combat fevers

foresters who continue to carve the symbol lest the

and hemorrhages. Oak bark finely powdered and

tree shall fall .

inhaled had also proved very beneficial in the treat­

The oak is bound up with the history of the

ment of consumption in its early stages. The Druids

British Isles. A spray of oak was long engraved on

made a decoction of acorns and oak bark mixed

the coinage, and in heraldry it is the tree most fre­

with milk as an antidote to poisonous herbs and

quently employed, its symbol being found in the

medicines. At the time of the flowering season in the

heraldic arms of Aikman, Baldwin, and Trelawney,

month of the oak they also made a distilled water

and in the crest of Accrington. The oak is also the

from the flower buds to cleanse the internal body,

plant badge of the Highland clans of Buchanan,

and the water found in the hollows of the tree was

Cameron, Kennedy, Sinclair, and Stewart; all have a

used ritually to cleanse the external body in time for

distinguished Celtic ancestry, the Stewarts in partic­

the midsummer festivals.

ular having royal blood lineage. Strangely, they have

The midsummer festival of fire, celebrated on the

all suffered from the tragic and premature deaths of

eve of St. John's day in the Christian calendar, was

their sons and heirs , with some direct lines now

originally celebrated by the Celts to mark the sum­

being extinct.

mer solstice after the sacrificial rituals of the oak

The oak is noted for its slowness of growth, but

king. In Ireland it is still known as the festival of

is one of the largest and oldest living trees in Europe.

Aine, patroness of Munster, a faery goddess. She was

The strength and endurance of the oak give it an

also a lunar goddess, who inspired mortals with pas­

indestructible quality that made it a favorite wood

sion, a kind of love-goddess . Her name, from

for building large houses and churches and for boat

means "bright," and the underlying purpose of her

an,

construction. O ak logs have been dug from peat

ceremony was to exorcise the land from evil spirits .

bogs in a good state of preservation, having been

Torches were carried by the young girls in a proces­

submerged for 1 , 000 years , and then used for build­

sion around the fields and among the cattle and, at

mg purposes. There are many old stories and legends concern­ ing oaks . King Charles II ofEngland was reported to

certain times, Aine has reputedly been seen leading the sacred procession . Midsummer

eve

c elebrations

were

re cently

have hidden in one when b eing hunted by the

revived by the Old Cornwall Societies, with a chain

Roundheads . There are gospel oaks in England and

ofbeacons or bonfires being lit throughout the Cor­

many other Christian countries that are still used as

nish p eninsula. The Cornish legend associated with

religious meeting places for the preaching of the

midsummer day is related to a mysterious Earth

psalms and gospels-a truly Druidic link.

goddess known as the Lady of the Flowers . In an

The curative powers of the oak were well known

effort to revive their ancient tongue, the Cornish

T H E OAK TREE

gather on the hillsides before lighting the bonfires and say a prayer in Cornish for a blessing on the bonfire. They also carry bunches of herbs and flow­ ers that are cast on the stack, before it is lit by a local dignitary-a strange ceremony indeed, but the act of throwing the flora on the bonfire is reminiscent of the sacrificial flower of the oak, the oak-king.

91

Duir The oak tree's letter word

duir means " door," and is dorus, the Latin word

related to the Old Goidelic

]oris

and the Greek

Sanskrit

dwr.

thura,

all being derived from the

In every tongue it is a word that infers

that doors made of oak are the stoutest guardians against evil.

Jupiter Symbolism Jupiter, as a deity, was the symbol of ritualistic wor­

Earth, and the days become shorter and darker. This

ship, a priest and sacrificer in the Druidic religion.

was seen as another initiation in the spiritual sense,

At the time of oak month in the ritual year of the

but the changing seasons marked a changing solar

Druids the Sun is sacrificed by his dark twin, who

cycle, whereas the lunar queen always remained

then assumes control of the life-source surrounding

constant.

the people. The dark Sun is now moving away from

Myths Associated with the Sign The horse-goddess Rhiannon in Welsh mythology

ries Manannan, son of the sea-god Lir. During her

has conne cting links with the Gaulish goddess

first marriage Pwyll became impatient to have an

Epona and the Irish goddess Macha. Rhiannon also

heir. A child was eventually born after a long and

provides a suitable Celtic link with Jupiter, a god

p ainful delivery, only to be stolen by Gwawl, a

associated with Cheiron, the wise centaur, a mythi­

rej ected suitor of Rhiannon. The women who had

cal half-man with the lower body of a horse.

attended the birth had fallen asleep and, to save their

Rhiannon, daughter of Hevydd Hen, was mar­

own lives, concocted a horrible plot. They killed a

ried to Pwyll, ruler of Annwn (Hades) but in the

staghound puppy and smeared its blood over Rhian­

continuing saga of Celtic myths she eventually mar-

non's face and hands as she slept. When she awoke

92

T H E C E LT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

and asked for her child they said she had devoured it

but Teirnyon immediately smote the arm with his

in the night, overcoming them all with her furious

sword, severing it to the elbow. When he rushed

strength . They repeated the false story to Pwyll, who

outside he could see no one, and could only hear

believed them but who would not put Rhiannon to

the sound of a loud wailing disappearing into the

death as his nobles demanded. Instead he set her a

darkness .

terrible punishment, known as the penance of Rhi­

Upon his return, there in the doorway, wrapped

annon: she was forced to sit at the gates of the cas­

in a mantle of satin, lay a newborn babe. Teirnyon

tle, tell the tale to every passing stranger and then

and his wife were childless, so the baby was lovingly

offer to carry them on her back into the castle. This

cared for, and the colt born the same night became

she did for several years .

the child's devoted companion. As the child grew,

Not too far away, and at the same time, a man

however, Teirnyon and his wife heard of the punish­

called Teirnyon of Gwent Is Coed, who owned the

ment of Rhiannon, and they saw the distinct features

most beautiful mare in the world, had also been

of their king in their foster child. With great heavi­

exp eriencing some mysterious disappearances. The

ness of heart they decided to take the child to the

mare 's foals were being stolen in the night, and

castle and tell their story. So Pryderi, son of Pwyll,

Teirnyon was determined to get to the truth of the

Lord of Anuwn, was restored to his j oyful parents ,

matter. When the mare next foaled, Teirnyon hid

the treacherous serving women were put to death,

himself in the stable and stood watch. A long clawed

and Rhiannon was restored to her rightful position,

arm reached through the window to snatch the foal,

with much feasting and celebration.

Astrological Significance In Greek mythology, the source of traditional astro­

Jupiter has been called the uplifter in traditional

logical interpretation, Jupiter, who was the son of

astrology. As a planetary influence he symbolically

Cronus or Saturn (time) , eventually displaces his own

exercises a very fortunate and beneficial influence.

father, just as Saturn had dethroned his father Uranus.

However, there is a dual nature to all planets that can

Jupiter then fought a long battle with the Titans to

be both positive or negative. The excessive or

rule heaven as the supreme deity. The sacrificial ele­

extravagant nature ofJupiter symbolizes the extreme

ment is in the deeper significance of the mythology,

self-indulgent behavior in mankind. In the esoteric

the procreation of light being an ongoing battle with

astrology of Alice Bailey she explains this dualism

the darker forces, or, in some cases, like Cronus, with

with great clarity. When discussing the polarity signs

the limiting and restrictive forces of time.

of Gemini and Sagittarius, which are ruled by Mer-

THE OAK TREE

93

cury and Jupiter, she describes the signs as not

Jupiter to develop these two qualities, and to inte­

focused on the physical plane but on the mortal and

grate the h ead and the h eart, or the mind with love.

immortal brother, resp ectively. It is the role of

Archetypal Character All oak kings are related to Jupiter and Zeus, as pre­

The oak tre e character is therefore endowed

viously mentioned. Jupiter is therefore the ruling

with

planet attributed to this sign, which in Celtic astrol­

hawthorn character, but the sacrificial element men­

the

multiple

talents

associated

with

the

ogy is associated with sacrifice. The Dagda, known

tioned in all the myths relating to this sign does rep­

as the Good God, is the Celtic archetyp e that best

resent a very different attitude to life altogether. The

summarizes the individual qualities associated with

associations with Janus, a symb ol of the deposed

the oak tree sign; the Dagda performed all sorts of

gods , and the significance of the mysterious cult of

miracles to help people, and influenced the weather

the horsegoddess Rhiannon, also relate to the sacri­

in order to produce a good harvest. He was the

ficial aspects, and provide the spiritual balance of a

Druidic god of the Tuatha de Danaans , who became

soli/lunar zodiac. After the death of Pwyll, Rhian­

their chief god at the Battle of Mag Tuiread, when

non's marriage with Manannan , a sea-god and

he declared that he would p erform all the deeds

enchanter, would also indicate that the power of the

promised by the council of gods in attendance. He

goddess continued through a more magical and

became known by the name of Samildanach or the

mystical veil. The myths associated with all the signs

Many-Gifted One, a title also associated with their

have been chosen to interweave and thus integrate

Sun-god, Lugh .

solar qualities with lunar aspects.

94

T H E C ELT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

Tree Character O ak tree characters are enterpnsmg individuals .

ardize or mar their best achievements by leading to

People born under this sign have a breadth of vision

blind optimism.

and sense of humor that can defuse the seriousness of a difficult situation. Their greatest p ersonal asset is a sense of optimism and the ability to speak the truth

General

no matter what the consequences may be. This ele­

Oak tree characters are the type of p eople who per­

ment of self-sacrifice tends to make them scap egoats

sonify all the very best p ersonal qualities imaginable.

or martyrs, but it can also regenerate interest and

They are, therefore, naturally drawn to the demand­

further their case. A lack of discretion is, however,

ing professions and responsible positions in life. They

their weak point. Financially they are inclined to

often wield great power in whatever career they are

take risks or make hastiy p ersonal commitments .

drawn to, and this power is usually well temp ered

But they attract attention and inspire others with

with a sense of fair play. But they can make formi­

their natural powers of leadership.

dable business rivals, not unlike the birch tree char­

Some notable oak tree characters include Stanley,

acters, the difference being that they enj oy the con­

Lord Kitchener, Cecil Rhodes, W B. Yeats , and John

test or the confrontations in life and are prepared to

Wesley.

be magnanimous in both victory and defeat. There is, however, a degree of naivete in their overall strategy, which leaves them open to criticism.

Positive Asp ec ts

This can have deeper implications, and is linked to

They have a p ersonal magnetism similar to the

trusting other p eople's judgment, and being slack in

charisma of the hawthorn characters , this factor con­

checking the finer details of a proj ect or plan. But,

tributing a great deal of p ersonal charm. They will

generally speaking, oak tree p eople appear to sail

also react instinctively with a great deal of personal

through life with great style and self-confidence.

integrity in difficult or dangerous situations. They

They attract powerful friendships and loyalties .

are

deeply philosophical p e ople

and

generous

friends .

Love Life Negative Asp ec ts

They are prone to exaggerate, a tendency that can

With regard to p ersonal relationships, and in their family or domestic life, they have some remarkable qualities that make them ideal partners and parents .

become extremely irresp onsible and tactless on

The blind spot mentioned earlier, of being of a trust­

oc casions . They are also inclined to be vain and

ing nature, will make them the victims rather than

glory-seeking. A restless spirit overall can often j eop-

the p erpetrators of discord.

THE OAK TREE

They set high standards of personal behavior that

95

tration. They may become councilors, even priests

are sometimes difficult for others to live up to, and if

or lay preachers . This will not occur too early in life,

they are undermined at home or in marriage a great

for they have some grand schemes and plans to com­

deal of their motivation will be temporarily drained

plete first. They will always endeavor to utilize the

or misdirected. Bearing this in mind, they also have

benefit of their experiences of life with flair and

the necessary strength of willp ower to overcome most obstacles and setbacks, providing they have the

generosity, for everything they do has a purpose in their eyes. Time for them has a different meaning, in

heart for the fight. They are perhaps more vulnera­

so much as it is never a limiting factor, only the

ble than any other sign regarding the affairs of the

reminder of completion. During their lifetime they will manage to

heart.

achieve many obj ectives and set in motion many

Summary

more for others to finish. Their acts of bravado and sacrifice can, however, detract from the more impor­

The moral issues in life are recognized by the oak

tant and practical realities of life. But they prefer to

tree characters as being of great importance, and this

carry on regardless-a powerful characteristic that

particular trait will eventually draw them into posi­ tions in local government or community adminis-

sets them apart from all other signs .

CHAPTER EI GHT

THE HOLLY TREE T[ N NE July 8 - August 4

Symbolizing: The planet Earth Gemstone: Red carnelian Flower: Meadowsweet Archetypal Character: Danu

ul

am a battle-waging spear"

98

T H E CELT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

The Illustration The holly tree symbolizes the evergreen asp ect of

When cut and polished, the carnelian or car­

the whole psyche. The tree radiates a red glow of life

nelian was a favorite stone for carving religious sym­

and is growing on top of an ancient burial mound

bols upon, and was used for crests and seals by the

that signifies the transformation of solar energy into

Babylonians and Romans . The Druids believed it

the Earth mother. The Earth goddess is dressed in

was a protection against being struck by lightning,

scarlet to symbolize fruition and the beginning of

and also used it as a protection when summoning

autumn. She is seated upon a black onyx throne and

demons or spirits from the underworld.

holds the triple symbol of the Sun, Moon, and Earth. The lunar aspect of the goddess has ascended to the brightest symbol of light and, with the solar

Lammas

energy now fully harnessed, the Earth mother has

Lammas or Lughnasad was the Celtic festival mark­

complete dominion.

ing the beginning of autumn in the seasonal calen­

A flaming spear has pierced the earth at the feet

dar, and the transformation of the mother aspect of

of the goddess, as she symbolically renews her power

the goddess. Having come to fruition at Lammas by

at the Celtic festival of Lammas . This festival was an

entering the Earth, she will slowly become trans­

ancient fire festival celebrated on the first day of

formed into the Old Woman or Cailleach figure

August, and was associated with the transformation

who will emerge at the festival of Samhain. The

concept of the magical powers of the female. The

Earth goddess has many names in Celtic myth; the

sacred symbol of the Earth, a circle surrounding a

ancient Irish knew her as Tailtiu or Tailte, a foster­

four-equal-armed cross, forms the astrological glyph

mother of their Sun-god Lugh. Games and warlike

and reflects !lll the magical energies of the sign .

exercises resembling the old Olympic games were held in her honor at the festival of Lammas . Mar­

The Red Carnelian This is a red or reddish yellow translucent variety of chalcedony, a form of quartz or rock crystal.

riages also formed a special feature of this festival, a tradition remembered to the present day. The British Celts also associated Lammas with marriage, and with the mythical marriage of Lug, or

The magic symbolism of the color red has sur­

Lleu, to Bloddeuedd, one of the loveliest forms of

vived from prehistoric times . Red ochre has been

Earth goddess. The story of Bloddeuedd is a sad one,

found painted on human bones in Stone Age burial

however, and tells the tale of an unfaithful wife. Its

sites, and was used with more elaborate application

significance to the holly month is in the role of

in the ancient Egyptian burial rites . It was believed

opposites, which enables new growth through

to ensure that life would return to the body after

adversity. Lleu Llawgyffes was the son of Arianrhod,

physical death, and thus sustain the immortal spirit.

a lunar goddess who apparently rej ected her role as

T H E H O L LY TREE

mother and placed every obstacle in the way of her son's happiness . Her brother Gwydion, a master magician, and the shadowy figure of Math, a god of great wealth, became Lleu's protectors and benefac­ tors . When Arianrhod decreed that her son "shall not have a wife of the race now on Earth," they con­ j ured up from the flowers of the oak, the broom and the meadowsweet the lovely Bloddeuedd. Unfortunately for Lleu, Bloddeuedd fell in love with Gronw, the lord of Penllyn, and plotted with her lover to kill him. Lleu, being under the protec­ tion of Gwydion and Math, was not easy to kill in the mortal sense but, as in all ancient myths relating to Sun-gods and heroes, he had one weak spot or Achilles heel. Bloddeuedd tricked Lleu into telling her of his mysterious vulnerability, and then with Gronw attempted to kill him. Wounded, and barely alive, he managed to escape, and took flight in the form of an eagle. After a long search Gwydion dis­ covered him in an oak tree, "the sanctuary of a fair lord" in Celtic myth, and with his magic restored him to his human form. Gronw was made to suffer

99

Meadowsweet Meadowswe et, watermint and vervain were the three herbs held most sacred by the Druids, who used meadowsweet as a primitive but highly effec­ tive p ainkiller or analgesic. Meadowsweet's Latin name, spiraea, via Greek, is the root word of the modern aspirin . I ts aromatic and astringent con­ stituents make it a most valuable remedy for a vari­ ety of ailments where pain and fever is evident. Its medical uses were p erhaps the most sacred aspect of the herb, and the knowledge of such herbs con­ tributed to the Druids ' powerful status. Sweet-smelling herbs such as meadowsweet, mint, valerian, and violet were strewn on the floors of bridal chamb ers in Elizabethan days . All were sacred to Venus or Gwena, the Celtic name attrib­ uted to Venus . A popular country name for the fra­ grant meadowsweet in Britain is bridewort, and its creamy white flowers in bloom from June to Sep­ tember mark a favorite time for marriage, going back to Druid times .

the fate he had intended for Lleu, and Lleu eventu­ ally became the lord of Gwynvyd. The realm of Gwynvyd was the place in the Druidic system of evolution that all men aspired to obtain, and the bridge between the months of the oak and holly marks the entry or portal . Blod­ deuedd was changed into a screech owl and flew away to haunt the night scene. Lleu will also surface again in the ritual year as Taliesin, the newborn babe of Ceridwen.

The Holly Tree This is a native of most of the central and southern parts of Europe. It grows slowly, but is the most important evergreen in the British Isles. Its associa­ tion with Christmas as a decoration in the home goes back to Roman times, when they observed the custom of sending holly boughs , along with other gifts , to celebrate Saturnalia. But the origin has been traced even further back to the Druids, who deco­ rated their huts with evergreens during the winter as an abode for the sylvan spirits . They also used the

1 00

THE C E LT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

curative powers of the holly leaves in the relief of intermittent fevers and rheumatism.

Other popular names for holly are hulver and holme, and it is still called the holme oak in Devon,

The holly is the plant badge of the Scottish clans

and holme chase in parts of Dartmoor. During the

of D rummond, Innes , Maclean, Macnab, and Math­

eighth month of the lunar calendar the barley crop

eson. In heraldry, holly branches are also found in

was harvested-a time of thanksgiving.

the arms of families named Irvine or Irwin, and are invariably blazoned as sheaves of holly or three holly

T inne

leaves tied together. The evergreen holly, flowering in July and bear­

Tinne is the letter word associated with the month

ing fruit throughout the winter months , has a won­

of the holly, and is the equivalent to dann or tan, a

drous lineage itself, b eing the subj ect of many

Celtic word for any sacred tree. It is also related to

ancient myths and legends . In one old legend, the

Tannua, a Gaulish thunder-god, who was associated

holly is given the name of Christ's thorn, having

with the dark Tanist god of the underworld and

sprung from the footsteps of Christ when he trod

known by a variety of names such as the Green

the Earth; its thorny leaves and berries like drops of

Man, Jack-in-the-Green and Robin Hood. All rep­

blood were thought to be symbolic of the Savior's

resent the dual concept of life following death

suffering. It is a story that dissociates the holly with

through the creative power of ancient tree magic.

the original pagan customs , and provides a sanc­ tioned form of veneration.

Earth Symbolism Myths are often woven around fundamental truths .

ciated with Morgan le Fay, an enchantress who once

The legend of the Green Knight associated with the

again represents the mysterious powers of the

holly tre e has to do with the eternal spirit of

female. Morgan also represents the magic of the

mankind represented by the oak kings , who are

Sidhe, the faery p eople, who are never far away, their

tested but spared by the holly kings, representing the

presence forming the integral link regarding the

Holy Spirit of God. In the Celtic mythology of the

C elt's own nature and origins .

holly, this Holy Spirit is identified with the Earth

There are however, two asp e cts of the great

Mother goddess, who is dressed in scarlet and holds

mother goddess that are clearly defined in the Celtic

the secret of life and death . She is later identified in

festivals of Beltane and Lammas . Morgan le Fay is

the Arthurian legends with the archetypal role asso-

primarily a lunar goddess, whose influence is highly

T H E H O LLY TREE

101

evo cative and seductive in the sexual sense. Her

transformation o f the mother goddess , but into the

association with B eltane is in the aspect of transfor­

aspect of mother within the Earth, or Earth mother,

mation and growth above the ground, which relates

that relates to a spiritual culmination, and it is here

to a spiritual conception. Lammas is also a time of

that the distinction lies.

Myths Associated with the Sign The most appropriate Celtic myth relating to the

ter at boasting of their brave deeds than performing

holly tree sign, and the one that b est describes the

them. With this the king is stung with great shame

magical element of the tree and the virtue of honor,

and anger and, for the honor of his own knighthood,

is the story of the Green Knight in the Irish

leaps forward to accept the challenge. But he is held

Romance of Gawain and the Green Knight. This is

back by his knights , all now alarmed at the danger­

a story that later finds its way into the Arthurian

ous position in which he has been placed.

fables as an annual battle between the Holly Knight

Gawain, Arthur's young nephew, makes his voice

and the Oak Knight. In the Arthurian version by

heard above the din and pleads for the chance of

A. R. Hop e-Moncrieff, a blend of both legends pro­

gaining his own spurs . Arthur reluctantly agrees, but

vides this colorful account. Camelot, festive with the celebrations of New

the Green Knight smiles grimly and asks the name of the young man with such a bold spirit. Gawain

Year's Day, is interrupted by the arrival of a fierce

tells him his name and swears that he will seek out

red-eyed giant armed with a huge ax. His broad

the Gre en Knight within the twelvemonth to

bushy beard covers his chest, but he wears no armor,

receive a similar blow. Young Gawain then strikes a

nor does he bear weap ons apart from the razor­

hefty blow with the ax across the giant's neck, and

sharp ax. Dressed entirely in green, With only his

the giant's head falls to the floor. The giant remains

spurs made of bright gold, he is mounted on a green

standing, though, having not flinched a muscle, then

horse, with green trappings hung with golden bells .

calmly picks up his head and springs back on his

All sit dumbfounded at such a sight.

horse. With his head held in one of his hands , he

The giant lays down a challenge, asking if there is anyone bold enough to strike one blow at him with the

reminds Gawain to meet him at the Green Chapel next New Year's Day.

on the condition that, on the following New

A year passes, and at All Hallows (Samhain) the

Year's Day, they shall stand a stroke from his hand. At

king holds a great feast and the whole court make

ax,

this, all the knights fall silent, and the giant sneeringly

their farewells to Gawain, thinking they may never see

declares that the Knights of the Round Table are bet-

him again. With New Year's Day now approaching,

1 02

T H E C E LT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

and not wishing to appear cowardly or unwilling,

lovemaking, but he resists her with great courtesy

Gawain rides off several days before the allotted hour

and modesty.

to find the Green Chapel. He rides fast, riding

At the app o inted hour he rides off to seek the

through the night, trying not to give way to his real

Green Giant, and finds him waiting in the Chapel.

fears . Having ridden through a dark forest, he is sud­

Placing his neck on the block provided, he flinches

denly aware of a castle set above him on a hill. He

slightly at the intended blow. The giant roars at him

decides to seek shelter for the night and, spurring on

to hold fast, then delivers an almighty blow that

his weary horse, he reaches the castle j ust before the

singes Gawain's neck as the ax is buried deep in the

drawbridge gate is let down.

blo ck. Gawain is both amazed and shaken at his

The gateman takes him to the lord of the castle,

narrow escap e . The giant leans on the retrieved ax

a tall, sturdy knight, from whom he receives a hearty

and begins to smile as he removes his hairy disguise

welcome. Everything of comfort is provided and, later that evening, he i � escorted into a banqu�ting

to reveal his true identity-that of lord of the castle.

hall filled with a merry company of knights and

The Green Knight explains that, by refusing the

ladies. Gawain is impressed with the richness of the

amorous attentions of his lady, and by the keeping of

setting and the warmth of the hospitality, thinking

his pledge, Gawain has restored the honor of the

his last days will indeed be merry. He inquires of the

Round Table. He tells Gawain that his name is Sir

Green Chapel, and is told that it is less than an hour's

B ernlake, and to explain how the mighty Morgan le

ride away. But he tells no one of his mission. . He gladly accepts his host's kind invitation to

in order to test her brother, King Arthur, and make

Fay, who also lives at the castle, had arranged matters

stay at the castle. However, during the first night,

him aware of her powers . Gawain is not disposed to

he is startled to see the fair lady of the castle, the

hear more about his uncanny kinswoman, and he

wife of his host, in his b e dchamber. She tries

departs after swearing eternal friendship and alle­

unsuccessfully for thre e nights to entice him into

giance with the Green Knight.

Astrological Significance Astrologically the planet Earth is designated by this

and Virgo, two Earth signs . But both miss the p eriod

sign, its ancient association with the Celtic festival of

of the year when the earth is in its most fertile sea­

Lammas providing an authentic rulership. The

son in the northern hemisphere. Its exclusion in the

planet Earth has long been suggested as a possible

traditional astrology derived from Graeco-Roman

ruling planet for several zodiac signs, notably Taurus

sources is highly questionable, considering its role

T HE H O LLY TREE

during eclipses, and the great shifts in the Earth's axis, creating cataclysmic changes that have undeni­ ably affected all of mankind. The science of astrology has been largely based on geocentric observations that symbolically place the Earth at the center of the universe. But the posi­

1 03

Astrologers have always emphasized the incoming influences and energies as they beat upon and play through our little planet, but they have omitted to take into adequate consideration the emanating qual­ ities and forces which are the contribution of our Earth 5 etheric body to the larger whole.

tion of the Sun can only be expressed through the position or orbital motion of the Earth, a valid point

In future interpretations, the E arth's sign in the

to remember. The heliocentric system that places

Celtic lunar zodiac, which corresponds with the

the Sun at the center was believed to have been

ancient constellation signs starting from approxi­

studied by the Atlanteans and other ancient races,

mately 15 degrees of Cancer to 12 degrees of Leo,

but is now used by very few astrologers. The Nauti­

may b e worth noting. Planets occupying these

cal Almanac gives the heliocentric positions of all

degrees may appear more " earthy," and the calcula­

celestial bodies, and this very point confirms its value

tion of midp oints taken from the heart of the

to seafaring p eople ; both the Atlanteans and Celts

degrees, which happen to be the cusp b etween Can­

have mysterious origins associated with the sea,

cer and Leo, may, like the galactic center, provide the

which may have considerably influenced their gen­

true center or hub of the natal chart. These degrees

eral observations.

also contain the heavenly twins, Castor the mortal

Esoteric astrology and, it seems, Celtic astrology

one and Pollux the immortal one. The dual aspect of

both attempt to include the Earth in all asp ects of

this ancient mythology is not only a parallel story of

spiritual growth . Alic e Bailey mentions this very

the oak kings and holly kings, but once again reveals

point at the beginning of her long treatise,

Esoteric

a common origin or source that appears to p erme­ ate all myths .

Astrology:

Archetypal Character The Celtic archetypal deity of Earth mother best

god) foster mother, who took care of Lugh's educa­

suited to the month of the holly is Danu, known as

tion and instructed him in the principles of govern­

the mother of all Irish gods . Danu was eventually

ment and the refinement of polite learning. Both

masculinized into Don or Donnus, but originally

these aspects of mother goddess represent a benefac­

she represented the powerful matrilineal succession

tress, who symbolizes the positive aspects of charac­

of kingship. Tailte or Tailtiu was also Lugh's (solar-

ter associated with the holly tree sign .

1 04

THE C E LT I C L U NAR Z O D IAC

Tree Character Holly tree characters have a p ersonal integrity, a spe­ cial regal quality reserved for the hierarchy of the Celtic lunar zodiac. They may b e less flamboyant than the oak tree characters, but they exert a power­ ful influence from b ehind the scenes. Their word is quite literally their bond and the virtue of honor their guiding principle. Their strength of character is rarely undermined, but they are extremely sensitive to p ersonal criticism, this being their Achilles heel. Nevertheless, they invoke great loyalty and devotion from friends and colleagues. Some notable holly tree characters are Queen Elizab eth, the Queen Mo ther, Helena Blavatsky, C. G. Jung, Mary Baker Eddy, and Henry Ford.

Positive Asp ects These people have a firm set of values. They are strong-willed, affectionate and trustworthy. They have tremendous powers of physical endurance and will never exp ect anyone to do things they them­ selves can't manage. Their strength of character and quiet discretion make them excellent confidantes.

Negative Asp e c ts They can become dogmatic, pompous, and patron­ izing. A need for constant attention or affection can also make them excessively demanding parents and partners . They will interfere with things generally and cause discord. A miserly attitude will also inflict unnecessary suffering and personal hardship.

General People born under this sign, unlike the oak charac­ ters, are less inclined to take risks of any kind until they have carefully checked the odds . They may still become involved with grandiose schemes, but they will also hold on more tightly to the purse strings . This particular asp ect of character, plus a natural business acumen, attracts them into banking and insurance. They are often the founding members of societies or institutions; this relates to a highly prac­ tical down-to-earth quality of character, with the ability to solve difficult problems through simple logic. There is a spiritual contentment in their nature, however, and most holly tree p eople have a deep and abiding faith . They have a strong blend of personal qualities that denotes great strength of character, not unlike the resolute birch tree character. They are, however, more approachable, b eing an extremely generous p eople, in the sense of providing what is necessary at the time, b e it hospitality or supportive action. Indeed, holly tree characters, like the oak tree p eople, are great benefactors , but they will expect the people concerned to work as hard as themselves, again like the birch people, but unlike the oak tree people, who tend to take on other people's responsibilities. Holly tree characters , like the willow people, are great collectors, and their homes are often filled with extraordinary artifacts . They enj oy collecting a cer­ tain amount of memorabilia, and have a keen eye for a bargain; their collection will consist of obscure items that have a unique history and value. Their feel

THE H O LLY TREE

for history or tradition is a key influence on their whole approach or attitude to life.

Love Life With regard to personal relationships they are loving partners in every sense, if somewhat overly protec­ tive. They are not inclined to have affairs at any time during their life, and often marry childhood sweet­ hearts . They do, however, have a numb er of very affectionate friendships of both sexes. Because they are very discreet p e ople, their love life remains something of a mystery, even to close friends . They are ideal parents , tolerant, affectionate, and very supportive.

1 05

Summary There is a very serious side to their nature, which can make them app e ar to be lacking a sense of humor. They don't like sharp innuendos, or laughter at the misfortunes of others, but the traditional antics of circus clowns and old-fashioned comedies will bring tears to their eyes . They often dwell in remote places, o ff the beaten track and difficult to find. Or you will find them in old or historic buildings, their lifestyle appearing to slot into the past rather than the future. But p eople born under this sign are fully conversant with life, and their reclusive tendencies are devised to take stock or provide a necessary pause ; they require this p ersp ective in order to maintain the enormous responsibilities often placed upon their shoulders .

CHAPTER NINE

THE HAZEL TREE c o ll August 5

-

September 1

Symbolizing: The planet Mercury Gemstone: Amethyst Flower: Vervain Archetypal Character: Ogma

((I

am a salmon in the pool"

1 08

THE C E LT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

The Illustration The hazel tree is a small but highly productive tree. At

The amethyst is a stone of royalty and divine

this time of the year the leaves are turning slowly to

blessing, and has been worn by British monarchs and

gold and the nuts have already formed into clusters of

Arabian sultans . The D ruids, along with the ancient

three--the sacred number of the universal goddess .

Greek priests, believed it protected the wearer from

The tree is growing over a beautiful natural spring

drunkenness, and improved the memory.

that flows into a crystal-clear pool. The nuts are drop­ ping into the pool and feeding the salmon, a magical

T he Stalking Crane

symbol of knowledge of the arts and sciences. A handsome youth sits by the spring, dressed in

This is a name asso c iated in C eltic myth with

green and silver, a book lying open nearby as he

Gwyddno Garanhir, the Lord of C eredigion. In the

gazes into the pool. Wisdom is not found in books,

Welsh

but it can be found within the concealing aspect of

Gwyddno

secret hieroglyphs and ancient symbols. Such sym­

salmonweir after he had been cast into the sea by his

bols , which include astrological glyphs , are every­

mother Ceridwen. The infant Taliesin had already

where in the universe and will at times subc on­

been through one initiation or birth as Gwion, who

sciously instruct the mind.

had unwittingly gained the knowledge of the caul­

legend

of Taliesin, Elphin, the

Garanhir,

fishes

Taliesin

son

of

from

a

The stalking crane bird stands erect, an elegant

dron intended for Ceridwen's first son Avagddu . In

interloper, whose sharp eyes have enabled it to catch

escaping from the goddess, Gwion had transformed

a splendid salmon supper. Catching the salmon is

himself into a grain of wheat, and the mother god­

perhaps more suited to some fishermen than others .

dess had swallowed him up, only to give birth to him as Taliesin (meaning radiant brow) . This transforma­

T he Amethyst This is a stone of beautiful color variation, from vio­

tion aspect in the mythology of the Celts relates to their belief in shape-changing and the initiation into the deeper mysteries of life.

let to deep purple. It was well known in ancient

Taliesin became the chief bard of the Cymry

times and was reputed to be the favorite j ewel of

(Welsh bardic order) , whose role was upholding the

Cleopatra. The early Egyptians believed it possessed

oral tradition of storytelling and composing new

a power for good, and it was placed in the tombs of

material in order to record their history, culture, and

the pharaohs . There are . also religious associations

religion. The Druidic tradition was basically an oral

with the stone; it was worn on the breastplate of

one, but three forms of writing and communication

Aaron, high priest of the ancient Hebrews, and is still

were also employed, as well as the earlier tradition of

worn today by both Anglican bishops and Catholic

using Greek letters . The first form of Druidic writ­

cardinals.

ing was developed in Ireland and is known as the

THE H A Z E L TREE

1 09

Ogham alphabet, taking its name from Ogma or

and drowned in the attempt. The Boyne held a mys­

Ogmius, an ancient C eltic god of learning. I n

tic aura among Irish poets, and their hero Finn Mac

Robert Graves' b o o k

Cumaill obtained knowledge by eating the salmon

The White Goddess he mentions

a connection between Ogham and the inscriptions

of wisdom taken from the river, a similar initiation

of a Greek alphabet from Etruria from around the

to that of Taliesin tasting the contents of the sacred

fifth century

cauldron of C eridwen.

B.C.

Ogma apparently represents a mix­

ture of the Greek gods Cronos, Hercules , and

In world myths the eating of salmon or fish has

Apollo. He also suggests that the origin of the Greek

long been associated with the receiving of knowl­

alphabet lies with the Pho enicians , the mysterious

edge or special gifts . Finn, after eating the salmon,

race of p eople who also visited the British Isles.

had only to put his thumb in his mouth to have

Ogham consisted of a series of strokes with a

prophetic knowledge and, like Taliesin, was then

dividing line, and was a very easy alphabet to master,

capable of vanquishing all enemies with both deeds

but did not allow for any depth of literary expres­

and words . Taliesin, as befits a great bard, would con­

sion. It was, however, a form of magical invocation,

found his opponents with the eloquence of words ,

and used solely by the D ruids of Ireland, Cornwall,

but it was also recognized that the pitch or tone of

and Scotland. The Druids also invented a finger-lan­

an incantation could stun their enemies' senses and

guage based on Ogham and it was used as a secret

disarm them both physically and mentally.

sign language among initiates. Another system of writing employed by the

Gaelic curses, the darker side of such knowledge, are recorded in the Highlands of Scotland with an

Druids was called Boibel-Loth or tree writing, and

uncanny accuracy, and a great proportion of High­

known in old Gaelic as the Beth-Luis-Nion alpha­

land families carry a curse of some sort in their his­

bet. It derived its letter names from the names of

tory. Cursing, as distinguished from blasphemy, is or

their sacred trees. A whole system of tree magic was

was, it seems, a Highland custom; it was considered

developed through this alphabet and became part of

a fine art, requiring courage, for it had to be face to

the Celtic lunar calendar that forms the foundation

face. It also required a certain patience and ingenu­ ity, plus a considerable command of language. In

of Celtic astrology.

nearly all cases the cursers represented the victims of

The Salmon

great inj ustices, and usually operated when they were on the point of death, having nothing more to

The ongm of the poetic vision and literary style

gain or lose in this life. The cursed would then have

found in Irish mythology was said to be from the

to live out their days under a black cloud, knowing

well of Segais, known as Conla's well, whose own

that the curse was nearly always attached to their

origin or source was the River Boyne, named after

family and descendants . Places were also associated

the goddess Boann. According to one legend, the

with curses; for example, the castles of Glamis and

goddess decided to challenge the power of the well,

Fyvie are said to be both haunted and cursed. The

1 10

TH E C E LT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

best curses often took a very long time to be ful­

ommended for a variety of ailments , from the treat­

filled, and some of them are apparently still in oper­

ment of ulcers to relieving the condition of pleurisy

ation. The doom pronounced on the houses of

and severe headaches. In one old legend it was said

Seaforth, Mar, and Mackintosh are reckoned to be

to be growing on the Mount of Calvary, where it

among the most impressive and enduring.

was used to staunch the wounds of Christ. To com­

The house of Mar is one of the oldest, noblest

bat bad luck and curses, the herb vervain was used as

and most unlucky families in Scotland. The origin of

a charm or talisman by the Druids; it was one of

their curse is disputed, but it is thought to be around

their most sacred herbs, and they included it in their

the sixteenth century, when John, Earl of Mar,

lustral water to purify their altars, and cast lots for its

evicted the Abbot of Cambuskenneth in order to

use in divination.

build a palace in Stirling from the proceeds of the

All herbs and sacred plants were always ceremo­

abbey. The Abbot set down a very long curse, first

niously gathered by the D ruids , with due regard

stating that the palace at Stirling would never b e

being made to the phases of the Moon and other

completed, the dwelling of a descendant would be

astronomical factors . Vervain, for example, was only

burnt and his wife sacrificed in the same flames (a

gathered at the rise of the dog star, Sirius , at a time

favorite weapon of the D ruids) . The palace never

when the Sun or Moon cast not a light. In its gath­

progressed further than a facade, and was known for

ering the earth was propitiated by a libation of

years as "Mar's Folly." This famous curse appears in

honey, and dug up with the left hand. It was also

its entirety in Burke's

and

worn by their heralds as a protection against snakes

all the terms have been duly fulfilled according to

and venomous bites, and to sp eed them on their

historic reference. The last part of the prophecy was

nusswn.

Romance if the Aristocracy,

that "the line of Mar shall be broken, but not until . its honors are doubled and its doom ended." A claim on the estate, which started in 1 8 6 6 , lasted until

The Hazel Tree

1 88 5 , when an Act of Parliament solved the problem

During the ninth lunar month the Druids used hazel

by recognizing two earldoms of Mar, and thus duly

wands for all kinds of divination, but mostly to find

completed the terms of the curse.

secret wells. Water diviners in the British Isles and other countries around the world use hazel rods as

Vervain Vervain is a name derived from the Celtic feifaen,Jer

the most reliable way of finding water in places where it is concealed in deep wells, a tradition that may have originated with the Druids . Scotland is

meaning " to drive away" and faen meaning "stone."

said to have been called Caledonia from

Old herbalists used vervain as an aphrodisiac, and

which means the hill of the hazel. Hazel rods are still

thought it was good for the sight. It was also rec-

used for fishing in the Highlands , a custom that

cal dun,

THE H A Z E L TREE

111

probably stems from its association with the salmon

ing a hazel wand and eating a fern- seed. In the Irish

of knowledge. In Surrey the name ofHaslemere tells

legends of Finn the ancient dripping hazel was a tree

its own story, and obviously relates to an ancient

of wisdom with destructive uses; it dripped poiso­

sacred lake in Celtic times. In heraldry, hazel leaves

nous milk but had no foliage, and was the abode of

are found in the arms of Hesilrige or Hazelrigg.

vultures and ravens , the birds of divination. Finn

The nut in Celtic legend has always been a sym­

used its wood for a shield in battle, and its noxious

bol of concentrated wisdom. It represents something

vapors killed thousands of his enemies. Like Gaelic

sweet and compact enclosed in a small hard shell;

curses, the destructive power of knowledge could be

hence the relevant expression " This is the matter in a

used as a deadly weapon.

nutshell." In the folklore of both England and Scot­ land it was a custom to burn hazel nuts on the night

Coli

of All-Hallow's Eve (Celtic Samhain) . Two nuts, rep­ resenting two friends, would be placed together in a

The letter

clear red fire, and if they burned quietly and evenly,

another sacred numb er of the universal goddess,

coli

was used as a bardic numeral nine,

the future was sure to be a happy one. But if they

being the multiple of three, and because the hazel

flared up angrily or burst with a loud report, then

tree fruits after nine years . The hazel also gave its

misfortune was said to follow that friendship.

name to a god named Mac Coli or Mac Cool (son

In England a forked hazel stick was used until the

of the hazel) who was, according to legend, one of

seventeenth century for divining not only buried

the earliest rulers of Ireland. With his two brothers ,

treasure and hidden water, but in determining the

Mac Ceacht (son of the plough) and Mac Greine

guilt of p eople charged with murder and theft. In

(son of the Sun) , together they celebrated a triple

the

marriage and alliance with the triple goddess of Ire­

Book of St. Albans,

dated around 1 496, a charm is

given for making oneself invisible by merely carry-

land-Eire, Fodhla, and Banbha.

Mercurial Symbolism The C elts , according to Julius Caesar, had gods

all Celts claimed descent from Dis or Pluto, god of

equivalent to the Roman deities. He had been told

the underworld. The Romans had a numb er of

by his own historians that the British Celts were

gods , and were fairly tolerant of other religions .

descendants of the Troj an race, and therefore distant

Caesar made several interesting observations

kin. In trying to assess their religion, he was of the

concerning the Celts . While he tended to dismiss

opinion that Mercury was their chief god, although

them as a semi-barbarous race, he obviously admired

1 12

TH E C E LT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

their daring courage during battle. He was particu­

This Mercurial facet of their character was per­

larly impressed by their ingenious counter-moves in

haps the most obvious one, and one that Caesar had

combating his own impressive war machines. He

keenly identifted. Although he despis ed the bar­

also noted their sudden changes of heart if things

barism of the Druids, with their dark sacrificial rites,

went against them, which he put down to their

he was nevertheless impressed with the Druids'

superstitious religion, and blamed the D ruids for

knowledge of the arts and sciences. The skills associ­

holding sway over good military sense.

ated with learning are another Mercurial attribute.

Myths Associated with the Sign An admixture of gods is perhaps an appropriate way

Lir, was the messenger and guide to the underworld

of describing a Mercurial god. Lugh, the Sun-god of

regions . He was also a master of tricks and illusions

the Celts , was said to possess a variety of skills that

and owned all kinds of magical possessions . There­

made him a master craftsman and bard, a sort of

fore the mythology relating to Ogma, Lugh, Taliesin,

Mercurial

and Manannan provides the relevant significance and

Sun-god.

The

role

of Mercury,

or

Mugher, was more than just a multi-talented deity,

interpretation.

however. Their Mercurial sea-god Manannan, son of

Astrological Significance Astrologically the planet Mercury is the designated

Mercury will operate from pure reason or abstract

ruler of this sign, its association with the hazel tree

brilliance. With regard to interpretation Mercury is

being firmly established in Celtic myth and legend.

strictly a neutral agent, in the sense of being influ­

In traditional astrology Mercury is also a dual-god

enced by the inclination of the individual, or with

and identified with the mental faculties, p erception

the prevailing forces

of all forms, memory, speech, reason, and intelli­

instance is related to the mythology of the hazel tree

gence. D epending on the position in the natal chart,

and the associated archetypes.

operating, which in

this

T H E H A Z E L TREE

1 13

Archetypal Character According to the Irish, the Celtic love of poetry and

who carried the treasures of the sea, the secret alpha­

rhetoric originated through the inventive nature of

bet of the peoples of the sea, in a bag made from the

their ancient god Ogma or Sun Face. He was known

skin of a crane-a reference to their remote ances­

as the god of eloquence for being skilled in speech

try-indicating the true status of Manannan as a

and poetry, and had devised the first means of writ­

ry first use was sent as a warning to Lugh,

guardian of truth and keeper of the records . He does

ing. Its ve

represent, therefore, another archetypal god attrib­

their Sun-god, telling him that his wife would be

uted to the sign of the hazel, and this twin or dual

carried away by the faery p eople unless the birch was

asp ect has significant relevance regarding interpreta­

set to guard her. Ogma therefore represents the early

tion. While Manannan represents the hidden aspect

archetypal god associated with the month and sign of

of knowle dge or learning-intuitive wisdom­

the hazel, which symbolizes all aspects of learning.

Ogma represents the eloquence of speech and the

Manannan, son of Lir, is the Mercurial sea-god

learning associated with the great bards .

Tree Character Hazel tre e characters have tremendous p ersonal potential. They become the arbitrators in disputes or debates, wise enough not to take sides but keen observers of the truth. They have knowledge of the arts and sciences, and make fine tutors and writers . The key to wisdom is knowledge, and this is the important word to grasp in understanding hazel tree characters . They are keen historians and accumulate

Positive Asp ec ts They are p erceptive, clever p eople, endowed with good reasoning powers . This sharpness of intellect promotes excellent debaters and writers . They are also great planners and organizers, down to the smallest detail. The urge to acquire knowledge pro­ motes scholars and exp erts in their fields .

information on mostly classical subj e cts. With their sharp eyes they can record a scene in an instant, and, like the willow and holly tree p eople, they possess the most remarkable memories. Some notable hazel tree characters are Lawrence of Arabia, Goethe, Tennyson, and Napoleon.

Negative Asp ec ts They can become hypercritical, argumentative, and cynical. Their inquisitive nature can also become prying, and underhanded. There is a tendency towards paranoia and a lack of self-worth. A high

114

T H E C E LT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

nervous energy exists, which needs to be constantly

leaders , they are clever planners regarding logistics or

directed and channeled, and reflects a tense mental

strategic moves. People born under this sign are probably the

and emotional state.

most rational p eople in the Celtic lunar zodiac. They

Gen eral

see all too clearly the realities of life but, as a result, can adopt a pessimistic viewpoint. Fortunately, their

They dislike the presence of false values, but often

agile minds can cope with any extremes or inflexi­

have secret p ersonal indulgences. The critical ele­

bility, and they are perhaps most critical of their own

ment of their nature makes them appear rather cool

shortcomings .

or reserved, and enables them to remain outside the emotional sphere of influence. But their own emo­

Love Life

tions are only controlled on the surface, perhaps to cover up a highly sensitive nature underneath. There

They make honest partners and caring parents , but

is a duality asso ciated with this sign, which tends to

they may be inclined to indulge their children and

paint a black or white picture of characteristics. But

partners at great expense, which can be detrimental

the existence of this dual image means that they can

to their own financial security-a comp ensating

appear, like the ash tree people, as two distinctly dif­

trait, balancing their guilt or unease at not always

ferent types of character, depending on one's own

being able to express their own feelings or affections

personal bias .

openly.

Nervous tension can engulf them, and they are

Although hazel tree characters are not overtly

often very prone to sudden headaches or migraines.

demonstrative p eople, they are deeply sincere and

Their physical body is usually not as robust as their

this special quality attracts great loyalty from others .

mental stamina and personal endurance, but this fails to deter them, and they are great examples of the power of the mind over matter. There is also an artistic ability that will operate with flair, but it is

Summary Their lifestyle is usually hectic, but not in an obvi­

balanced with a need to be practical. Part of this tal­

ous way. They spend a great deal of time doing their

ent is designing useful equipment by utilizing what

own thing, but it can be just a ploy, and their private

is available ; they hate waste of any kind. Their abil­

life is often much more humdrum. The need to be

ity to blend into the background or to take charge

continuously occupied stems from their high ner­

of a situation is again linked to their dual asp ect of

vous energy, and an intense curiosity with life. By

character, but, while they make the most unlikely

adopting a low profile they can live in a neighbor-

T H E H A Z E L TREE

hood for -years , and never really know anyone. But

1 15

particular lifestyle wherever they live. With regard to

they appear to have a stream of people who con­

careers, they appear to make a reasonable, if some­

stantly visit them, and their personal contacts or

what precarious, living by relying on their wits or

acquaintances are numerous and varied. They have a nomadic soul that takes them on

ingenuity rather than by b eing employed in the more p ermanent professions .

many j ourneys , and they never tire of seeking new

They are incredibly interesting people to know

knowledge. They nearly always live near railway sta­

and converse with, and, by constantly challenging

tions or airports, the means of instant travel, but may

the theories and opinions of others , their own con­

never travel anywhere themselves. However, most

tribution, if used positively, will certainly re-define

hazel tree characters do tend to move residences at

the issues .

frequent intervals, and they will establish their own

CHAPTER TEN

THE VI NE MUIN September 2

-

September 29

Symbolizing: Th e planet Venus Gemstone: Emerald Flower:

valerian

Archetypal Character: Branwen or Guinevere

ul

am a

hill ifpoetry }}

1 18

THE C E LT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

The Illustration The vine is not, strictly sp eaking, a tree but a climb­

were fine j ewelers and goldsmiths, particularly the

ing shrub, and is depicted growing over a doorway

Irish Celts , who may have sent it over to Alfred as a

leading to a round tower-part of the mysterious

gesture of friendship. The Irish Druids considered

castle of Arianrhod. D eep within the castle is the

emeralds to be a powerful antidote to all types of

seat of Annwn, center of the Celtic mysteries of the

poison, a significant or relevant association with a

astral plane. Four white swans wearing golden

drinking cup. Wearing the emerald has a similar

crowns are swimming in the moat that surrounds the

association as wearing the diamond, as it is said to

castle, a symbol of the radiant aspect of the psyche

enhance love and understanding.

approaching another revelation and initiation. The fruit of the vine holds this spiritual potential, and is associated with the Celtic festival of the autumnal

T he Four White Swans

equinox on September 23, known as Alban Elfed by

These represent the children of Lir, the sea-god

the Druids . This is a powerfully evocative scene, with

who was also the father of the Irish sea-god Man­

the wild flowering valerian growing as profusely as

annan . In this saga, which forms part of the Mile­

the vine, and no mortal pres ence to disturb the

sian cycle, he married two sisters in succession­

realm of Arianrhod, lady of the silver wheel . The

Eve and Aoife, the foster daughters of Boy D earg,

solar spirit, transformed into the four swans, relates

king of the South of Ireland. Lir had recently lost

to an ancient Celtic myth of the four children of Lir,

his wife and there was a rift b etween himself and

a Danaan divinity.

the newly elected king of the South, whom Lir had refused to recognize. Boy D earg decided to heal the rift by offering Lir the choice of three sisters, Eve,

T he Emerald

Aoife and Alva, in marriage. All three were of iden­

The emerald is one of the most beguiling of all

tical and unsurpassed beauty, but Lir had chosen Eve

gems . Its association with royalty goes back far into

because she was the eldest and possessed the great­

antiquity. Emeralds and pearls were worn by Queen

est wisdom of the three.

Cleopatra, a combination ofj ewels she is said to have

Within a year Eve bore twin children, a girl and

liked best. One of the most fabulous emerald crowns

boy, called Fionnuala and Aedh. Another year passed

ever made was worn by Atahualpa, the last Inca king

and she bore twins again, two boys called Fiachra

of Peru . The King Alfred Cup, decorated with semi­

and Conn, but this time it was a difficult birth and

precious stones and emeralds, is now in a museum in

Eve died. Lir had loved Eve more ardently than his

858,

first wife, and his grief became as wild and tor­

b u t around the sides i n Gaelic letters of gold are the

mented as the raging seas that pounded the north­

words "Alfred ordered me to be made." The Celts

ern shore s . But as the children grew, their own

Oxford; it was used by the Saxon king in

A.D.

THE VINE

1 19

radiant beauty, the like of which had never been seen

remorse to calm their fears, and they continued on

among the Tuatha De Danaans , helped to ease the

the long j ourney. When they reached the shores of

grief of their father and his people. Everyone mar­

Lake D erryvarach, a lonely stretch of land in the

veled at their remarkable singing voices, their grace­

middle of Ireland, she ordered the charioteer to stop

ful bodies and their gentle, loving natures, and slowly

once again, and told the children to wash and refresh

the heart of Lir mended.

themselves in the water. But as they waded into the

After a decent interval of mourning, the king of

water, she cast a spell with a wave of her wand, trans­

the South sent messengers to Lir suggesting another

forming them into four white swans and pro­

marriage, and who could be better suited as a foster mother for the children than Aoife, who had deeply lamented her sister's sad passing. In the beginning,

nounced the following doom: " They are to spend three hundred years on the Lake of Derryvarach, three hundred on the Straits of Moyle [between Ire­

Aoife clearly loved the children and they made a

land and Scotland] , three hundred on the Atlantic by

happy family, with Lir sitting among them recount­

Erris and Inishglory, and when the woman of the

ing the stories of the old gods and ancient heroes.

South is mated with the man of the North, the

But the intense love that Lir showed for his children

enchantment will end."

eventually made Aoife insanely j ealous, and her heart and mind became poisoned with a twisted fury.

Aoife had been unable to render them mute, b ecause of the powers of Fionnuala, although in

This change of heart, although carefully con­

some versions of the legend it was said to be due to

cealed, had been observed by the eldest child Fion­

Aoife's sudden remorse and sorrow in destroying the

nuala, who grew wary of her aunt and frightened for

finest potential of her own race. She also redeemed

the safety of her younger brothers . Aoife quickly

the Danaan gift of music by setting a time limit on

made her plans , realizing that Fionnuala could be a

their fate. The children of Lir then had the power to

dangerous adversary. One morning, she roused the

rise from the mists once again and restore the

children in the early hours by telling them that she

Danaan traditions. But either way, it was a dreadful

was taking them to visit Boy D earg. They were all excited, except Fionnuala, who tried to find her

fate that imprisoned the shining radiance of the Tuatha D e Danaan.

father to warn him of their danger. But when Aoife

When Lir and Boy D eargh discovered Aoife 's

leapt into a chariot with her brothers , Fionnuala

wickedness, the king of the South transformed her

decided she must go along to protect them.

into "a demon of the air," a cold and whistling east

After only a short distance Fionnuala's suspicions

wind, where she is said to reside to this day. But

were confirmed as Aoife ordered her servants to kill

what of the fate of the four white swans? They pre­

them. The servants refused, but they were frightened

served the Danaan gift of making sad sweet music,

of their queen, who possessed the power of enchant­

which reverberated across the Lake and reached the

ment, one of the awesome powers of the Danaans .

stars . The power of music in healing was clearly

Aoife then cunningly resorted to a show of false

understood by the Celts, and the magical effect of

1 20

T H E C E LT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

this music eased the pain of Lir and Boy Deargh

purgative and for hysterical complaints . Valerian is

every time they visited their children. It also helped

still used as a mild sedative by modern herbalists .

to ease the pain and inflictions of their people who, for many centuries, continued to pay homage to the children of Lir. The corning of Christianity coincided with the

The Vine T h e name of the vine i s derived from

viere,

which

prophecy being fulfilled, when a princess of Munster

means " to twist" and relates to its spiraling growth.

became betrothed to Lairgmen, the chief of Con­

Although not native to Britain, it was an important

nacht. Nine hundred years had passed as the four

motif during the British Bronze Age. In British her­

white swans landed near the cell of a saintly hermit;

aldry, the vine appears in the arms of Ruspoli, and

indeed some legends say it was the sound of the bell

the family of Archer-Houblon. Both have obscure

being rung by the Christian monk that finally broke

origins similar to the D anaan p eople, who had

the sp ell of Aoife. But after they had changed only

brought the vine with them when they invaded Ire­

briefly into their former radiant bodies they linked

land. Initially it was successfully grown in a few shel­

arms and died, as the holy man blessed them and

tered southern regions , but since it could not be

accepted them into the Christian church.

established as a wild plant, the hardier bramble was

Singing swans in Ireland still exist and , j ust as the

apparently used as a substitute; the color of the

legend of King Arthur evokes a sense of C eltic

berries and the shape of leaves of the two plants do

chivalry, so the haunting cry of the swan's lament at

correspond, and blackberry wine is a heady drink

the death of his lifelong partner recalls the last days

when compared with the intoxicating grap e wines. In all Celtic countries there still appears to b e a

of Lir's children.

taboo in eating the fruit of the bramble, a taboo that

Valerian

was originally associated with the vine. In Brittany and Cornwall the reason given is that "it belongs to

Valerian is a wild herb that is still flowering in the

the faeries ." In the West Country folklore of Britain,

month of the autumnal e quinox, and the Druids

eating blackberries was refrained from after the last

used it extensively. They referred to it as an " all

day of September, when the devil was said to enter

heal," a name that best describes its amazing virtues.

the fruit. Similar taboos exist in Wales and Ireland,

There are numerous species of valerian, widely

although the medicinal properties of the roots were

distributed in the temp e rate p arts of the world.

utilized by the Irish Druids to stop diarrhea. During

Ancient p eople from India to Ethiopia and from

the tenth lunar month the healing prop erties of the

Egypt to Turkey used its aromatic essences in their

bramble were considered most active and children

baths . The Druids gathered the wild growing true

were passed through a hoop of the blackberry bush

valerian, which had no scent, and used it mainly as a

to cure hernias or ruptures.

;

THE VINE

121

Britain, have some very ancient origins , going back

Muin This is the Ogham letter name for the bramble. The myths relating to the vine, albeit the bramble in

to the early passages in the Bible. The vine was fre­ quently mentioned at the time of Noah, and has also been associated with a symbol relating to Jesus .

Myths Associated with the Sign The musical skills of the Danaans and their knowl­

restore Eurydice, but Pluto imposed two strict con­

edge of using music to heal relates to the myth of

ditions . Orpheus must not turn back to look into

Orpheus, a music-god, who discovers his own fate

Hades at his wife or attempt to speak to her on the

when he meets Bacchus or D ionysus, the Greek

return j ourney.

vine-god. Orpheus, son of Apollo and the fair Cal­

Orpheus happily agreed to these terms, but his

liope, one of the muses, had inherited all the musi­

j oy inevitably turned to curiosity, and having nearly

cal and poetical gifts of his parents . He fell in love

reached the entrance he glanced back to see if Eury­

with the enchanting Eurydice, but shortly after their

dice was still as lovely as he remembered. The form

marriage she was bitten by a venomous serpent and

of his b eloved wife vanished before his eyes, and

her spirit conducted down into the gloomy realm of

filled with great despair he wandered off into a for­

Pluto. Orpheus' subsequent heartrending laments

est to seek solitude. Here he fatefully stumbled upon

made life unbearable for both mortals and immortals

the revelries of Dionysus, and, because he refused to

alike, so finally Jupiter gave him permission to seek

play for them, the Furies tore him to pieces and cast

Eurydice, but warned him to abide by any j udg­

his remains into the Hebrus River. With his head

ments set down by Pluto.

still murmuring the name of Eurydice, it drifted off

So it was that the magic sounds of Orpheus' lute p enetrated into Tartarus , the remote depths of

downstream towards Hades as his spirit rushed to j oin her-a bittersweet ending.

Hades, where even the condemned shades ceased

The tale of Orpheus and Eurydice was seen by

their groaning and momentarily stopped from their

the ancient Greeks as the p ersonification of the wild

toil. Cerberus, the monstrous dog who guarded the

music of the winds, and of the morning, with its

gates of Hades, sat down and allowed Orpheus to

short-lived beauty. Orpheus was also seen as the Sun

pass . No living b eing had ever before p enetrated

plunging into the abyss of darkness in the hope of

these regions , and even Pluto sat in silence with his

overtaking the vanishing dawn-Eurydice. Together

wife Persephone, both moved to tears by the exquis­

they represent light slain by the serpents of darkness

itely haunting melody. They graciously consented to

at twilight.

1 22

TH E C E LT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

The autumnal equinox (Alban Elfed) was seen by

renew their relationship at the festival of Alban

the Celts as representing the twilight of their solar­

Elfed, only to bid farewell as the light of the Sun

god, and the sign of the vine is therefore associated

begins the final descent in its yearly cycle.

with great j oy and sadness . The Sun and Moon

Venusian Symbolism The relationship between Arthur and Guinevere also

Guinevere represents all the facets of woman­

represents a spiritual polarity that requires growth.

hood, from the innocent maiden to the unfaithful

Theirs is an untenable situation, which explains why

wife, depending on the theme of the myth. When

Arthur cannot hold his wife 's affections ; j ust as she is

she faces Arthur across the dividing line of the

stolen by Melwas, king of the Summer Land (Som­

equinoxes, he can only catch a glimpse of her and,

erset) in the twelfth-century

she is

like Orpheus, can only briefly sample a union with

carried off by her lover Lancelot in the

his bride, who is then snatched away j ust as he is

Arthurian tale. Before that, she escapes from the

about to have her restored to his side. So Arthur and

clutches of Mordred by shutting herself up

Guinevere symbolize the irreconcilable forces of

also

Vita Gildae,

so

m

a

fortress to escape his unwelcome attentions.

summer and winter, light and darkness .

Astrological Significance The planet Venus is also associated with the autum­

forming energies of the seasons was seen in basic

nal e quinox in traditional astrology. Her polarity is

terms of male and female principles; the equinoxes

seen as a partnership with Mars, who rules the ver­

and solstices were associated with and activated by

nal e quinox . Venus was known by the name of

male gods, while the fire festivals were distinctly

Gwena to the Druid astronomers, and later associ­

female in nature, and symbolized the ritual year.

ated with Branwen, sister of Bran, and Queen Guin­

Venus has been referred to as the unifier by Alan

evere, wife ofiZing Arthur. With Arthur representing

Leo, and is said to represent the human soul, while

the vernal equinox, their fleeting partnership sym­

Mars represents the animal soul of mankind. But

bolized the division of the seasonal year. The trans-

there is also a complex esoteric mythology associ-

T H E V I NE

1 23

ated with the planet Venus , which stresses the dual­

influence. Venus is regarded in these positive terms as

ity

representing a symbol of harmony and refinement,

of

her

nature

and

has

b e en

called

the

Venus-Lucifer effect. This description p erhaps con­

an appreciation of beauty and the arts , a gentle

veys this particular duality: "Venus is a symbol of

nature, and generally a refining energy or influence.

external splendor and internal corruption."

The negative qualities are the extreme of all these

In mundane astrology, however, Venus is regarded as a benefic planet, which means a most fortunate

traits-not the opposite-for Venus defines a recep­ tive passive principle that proj ects inwardly.

Archetypal Character Guinevere and Branweri are the Celtic archetypal

The character of Guinevere is complex but not

characters associated with the sign of the vine, and

difficult to interpret in human terms . The vine itself

the myth of Lir's children represents the shining but

has a surrogate symbol of the bramble, yet another

elusive potential. The myth of Orpheus expresses

significant factor, which relates to the role of surro­

the anguish or sorrowful aspect of the sign; this is

gate motherhood (Aoife) or fostering other people's

related to the seasonal aspect of the month, which is

children and ambitions .

one of inevitable change bringing uncertainty or apprehension, and is another relevant point of char­ acter interpretation.

Tree Character Vine characters are an odd mixture ofj oy and wrath.

the field when it comes to contingency plans . But

One moment they are full of enthusiasm and exhil­

the harmonious balance required is mercy, the abil­

aration, the next moment full of suppressed anger or

ity to forgive with true compassion, for they find it

sadness . People born under this sign have emotions

hard to come to terms with certain aspects of their

that always run at a high level, yet they can appear

lives.

remarkably cool in the face of opposition. It is a

Some notable vine characters include Tolstoy,

great mistake to underestimate vine characters ; they

Queen Elizabeth I of England, Lord Nelson, and

are the instinctive organizers of life, always ahead of

Greta Garbo.

1 24

T H E C E LT I C LUNAR Z O D IAC

Underneath their cool reserve and efficiency lies

Positive Asp ec ts There is much to be admired if the positive asp ects are dominant. Vine people can be kind and gentle, adept in love and the social arts . Their creative tal­ ents show great flair and style. They also help to cre­ ate harmony and stability.

an extremely sensual nature, and how they manage to control their passionate nature is perhaps the key to their strength or weakness of character. They cer­ tainly have a sense of survival or a p ersonal indem­ nity factor, and they will be employed when every­ one else has been

given notice to

quit. This

enduring quality or trait of character is their trump card in the competitive game of life. But they are

Negative Asp ec ts These character asp ects are excessive self-indul­ gence

and laziness.

Such p e ople will tend to

overindulge in all things , and become careless or sloppy in their dress and manner. There is also lack of consideration for other p eople's feelings , and they can become totally dependent on others , almost parasitical.

not necessarily ambitious people, for their needs or obj ectives in life are usually quite simple; providing they maintain a certain standard of living, they are often content to sit back and let the world go by. Their weak point of character can be this kind of inertia or lack of motivation, and this sudden swing or lack of enthusiasm is a serious undermining fea­ ture. Vine p eople must learn both to sow and to reap the harvest of life ; nothing can be gained by one action alone. Successful vine characters are, however,

General They are drawn into public service careers, having a keen sense of duty and patriotism. But their profes­ sional

and p ersonal

circumstances

can

change

overnight, and they may suddenly find themselves in an altogether different environment or situation. These apparent swings of fortune are perhaps responsible for their instinctive need of always mak­ ing those contingency plans, a similar trait associated with the p olarity sign of the alder tre e-a sign marking significant changes. A restless quality exists within the psyche, which requires a great deal of emotional and material security to feel content.

the best examples of what can be achieved, and often against all the odds .

Love Life In personal relationships their passionate nature lets off steam more openly. This may be due to a sense of p ersonal frustration on o c casions, for there is much to be resolved. Marriage is a difficult relation­ ship to sustain, and vine people are p erhaps the least married sign of the Celtic lunar zodiac. Much will depend on the choice of partner. The emotions and feelings of the Venusian character are not always easy

THE VINE

125

to control, and represent the passions , the intense

I n t h e domestic s c e n e these qualities change

kind of emotions , oflove or hate. There is also a very

again, and their homes are usually well furnished,

earthy quality associated with vine characters that

c omfortable abodes. They like to live in sc enic

some p eople find extremely sexy and sensual, but

places, not too isolated but close to the amenities of

they can remain strangely aloof and proj ect a very

the community. They enj oy the theater or cinema

disinterested or indifferent response.

and generally patronize the arts , and some will have highly specialized musical talents .

Summary

They like shopping for their friends and family. There is a very feminine aspect to their nature, in

The changing cycles of life seldom run smoothly,

both men and women, which promotes a great sen­

but Vine p eople appear to experience a series of dif­

sitivity. They can therefore b e easily hurt or sad­

ficult adj ustments from the very beginning of their

dened by the lack of feeling in others . The mythol­

lives. The most positive aspects to emerge are a great

ogy ofVenus is well worth a study in understanding

serenity of character and a calmness of spirit. Their

the feminine p ersona. There is a light and dark side

sense of humor also swings to extremes; their laugh­

that requires considerable balance or control, but if

ter can so easily change to tears and vice versa. They

balance is found, vine people represent some of the

are, generally, a refined people, who dislike coarse

finest examples of humanity.

j okes or uncouth p eople. But there is another side to a Venusian character that can be both coarse and vulgar.

CHAPTER E LEVEN

THE IVY (} O R T September 30

Symbolizing:

-

October 27

The Moon veiling Persephone

Gemstone: Opal Flower: Archetypal Character:

((I

W