The Broom or Besom in Wiccan Practice

Of all the tools of the Craft, the broom is probably the most well known. For better or for worse, it has been the image of Wicca and Witchcraft for generations. The picture of a powerful Witch riding through the air, though far from accurate, is something almost every has seen before. But the true nature of the broom in Wicca is more complex.

The broom, in one form or another, has been in use magickally and mundanely for thousands of years. In ancient times, it was used during ritual as women would straddle a broom and jump, showing the crops how high they should grow. Today it is used primarily for cleansing, and the broom is still found in most households today. However, it also has more symbolic purpose.

The Symbolism of the Broom

Typically, the broom is thought of as a masculine tool due to its phallic nature. However, it may also be considered a balanced tool. The handle (or stave) is certainly phallic, and so is masculine. The bristles, on the other hand, receive the stave much as the female receives the male. In this way, the broom can be said to embody both the male and the female.

Ritual Uses of the Broom

The broom can be used for a variety of purposes. It can serve as a decoration, especially in the winter month. More commonly, Wiccans will use the broom to cleanse a ritual area. This is done by sweeping your ritual space, often the Magick Circle itself, in a clockwise motion, visualizing the negative energy leaving the Circle. Some Wiccans will chant as they do this, perhaps saying something like: “As I gently sweep this place, I cast out negativity from this space.” It doesn’t have to be complicated.

Brooms are also laid across the entrance to a coven circle or hung on doors for protection. They can also be used during a wedding, in some traditions. In this case, the broom is laid before the newly-wedded couple, who proceed to ‘Jump the Broom’ to seal their commitment to each other.

How to Make Your Own Broom

The traditional broom of the Witch is a besom, a broom that is rounded instead of flat. These are very easy to make at home. First you’ll need a stave, traditionally made of ash. However, you may use any wood you choose. You’ll also need twigs, straw, or herbs for the bristles. If you are making a traditional besom, you’ll want birch twigs for your bristles, but really you can use anything that works for you.

The twigs should be gathered to the stave and tied together tightly. You can use rope or twine or even a leather thong to bind to the twigs. Keep the bristles as even as possible, and bind them only tight enough to secure them to the stave. If you bind them too tightly, they could break.

The broom is a common tool of Wiccan practice. Though surrounded by much myth and legend, the modern use of the broom is for ceremonial cleansing and protection.

Wiccan Sabbat Ritual Recipes — Spring Eggnog Recipe

Any good celebration needs a festive beverage. In Wiccan and Pagan practice, eggnog is not just for Yule, but is a great addition to your annual Ostara celebration. The word ‘nog’ really just means ‘strong ale’ and is not connected to a particular season. Eggs, however, are connected to spring, and so eggnog is very appropriate for spring gatherings.

Ingredients for Spring Eggnog

Have the following close at hand:

• 12 eggs, preferably medium in size
• 1 ¾ cups confectioner’s sugar (sometimes called powdered sugar or icing sugar)
• 1 ¾ liter cream of rich milk
• A pinch of salt
• 1 tsp powdered nutmeg
• 1 tsp powdered cinnamon
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Traditional eggnog often calls for the addition of rum. You may or may not decide to add rum to your own eggnog, depending on your personal preference and those with whom you will be sharing your eggnog. Regardless, to make preparing your eggnog easier, gather all necessary ingredients beforehand.
 
Preparing Spring Eggnog
 
Begin by separating the white and the yolks of the eggs. There are devices you can purchase to do this, or you can simply pass the yolk from one half of the eggshell to the other. Do this over a bowl to catch the whites as they drain. If you have never done this before, you might need some practice, to have a few extra eggs, just in case.
 
Beat the egg yolks in a large saucepan until they are smooth. Mix in the sugar, cream, and salt. Heat on low until barely simmering, stirring frequently. Keep an eye on the mixture, because the cream will curdle if it gets too hot.
 
In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff, but just barely. Fold the egg whites into the cream mixture. Add the spices and the vanilla extract. Simmer the entire mixture for several minutes, stirring constantly to kill any bacteria.
 
Cool the eggnog completely, then refrigerate for at least six hours before serving. Overnight is better, as it will allow the flavors to develop. If you’d like to add rum, do so immediately before consuming your eggnog. If you have not consumed all the eggnog in three or four days, discard unused portion.
 
This recipe makes approximately two liters of eggnog. Spring Eggnog is a favorite of many Wiccans and Pagans around the time of the Vernal Equinox. It will make a wonderful addition to any Ostara feast table, especially when paired with Baked Sandwiches or Ostara Egg and Artichoke Pie.

Wiccan Sabbat Ritual Recipes — Baked Sandwiches Recipe

Eggs are a traditional food in the spring and summer, and they are associated with the Sabbat of Ostara. There are many different ways to use eggs to create a meal, but if you’re serving a large group, such as a coven, Baked Sandwiches are a simple way to feed everyone a delicious bunch or lunch.

Ingredients for Baked Sandwiches

Have the following ingredients close at hand:

• 12 slices of bread without crusts;
• 2 cups of milk;
• 4 medium eggs;
• 1 cup of grated Cheddar cheese;
• 1 cup of grated Monterey Jack cheese; and
• 2 cups of diced ham.

To make preparing the sandwiches a little easier, ensure you have gathered all ingredients beforehand. If you like more of a bite to your food, the Monterey Jack cheese can be substituted with Swiss cheese. Also, instead of ham, you could use pork, chicken, turkey, tofu, or even alfalfa sprouts. It is also possible to use regular sandwich meat to create this dish.
 
Preparing Baked Sandwiches
 
Take a 9”x13” cake pan, preferably glass, and grease it well. Line this greased pan with six slices of bread. You can use your favourite bread, such as white, whole wheat, French, Italian, or rye bread. Consider who will be eating your sandwiches when making your selection.
 
On top of the bread, evenly distribute the diced harm (or other filling, if you choose). Add ½ cup each of the grated Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on top of the filling. Cover all of this with the remaining six slices of bread.
 
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs gently with a fork. Add the milk and blend well. Pour this mixture over the sandwiches, being careful not to splash the milk and egg mixture outside of the pan. Preheat your oven to 350ºF and bake the sandwiches for approximately one hour, or until the top of the sandwiches are golden brown. Be careful not to over bake your sandwiches.
 
For those people who’d like to use less bread, line the pan with your six slices of bread and add filling as describes. However, instead of topping with additional bread, simply pour the milk and egg mixture on top and bake as directed.
 
This recipe makes eight to ten servings. Baked Sandwiches are a favorite of many Wiccans and Pagans around the time of the Spring Equinox. Though you can serve this dish all year round, it is especially appropriate in the spring, as it is light and delicious. It will make a pleasing addition to any table, especially when paired with baked white fish or gammon ham.

The Sabbat of Ostara — Eggs as Amulets and Talismans

The magick of eggs has a long and varied history. From being used for spells and rituals to being decorated as gifts for the Goddess, the archetypal symbolism of the egg is powerful indeed. However, egg magick doesn’t have to be as complicated as a structured ritual or spell. There are many ways in which a simple egg can be used as an amulet or talisman.

Egg Talismans to Promote the Growth of Crops

In eras past, both the Teutons and the Anglo-Saxons would bury eggs near gardens and fields in the hope that this practice would bless gardens and farmland with abundance. The idea of using eggs to encourage crops to grow quickly spread across Europe and Asia. This is still practiced by many Wiccans and Pagans today.

If you wish to follow this tradition, take a raw or hard-boiled egg and draw upon it symbols of fertility and growth. This can be done with a brown or green crayon, as both are colors of the earth. Dig a small hole near or in your garden using your bare hands. Place the egg in the hole while visualizing your garden as lush and healthy. Cover the egg and continue tending your garden as normal.

Eggs as Fertility Talismans

The Teutons often used eggs as talismans. They would bury eggs under animal dwellings to encourage the livestock housed there to breed. To encourage human fertility, eggs were sometimes placed beneath beds.

Some modern Wiccans and Pagans will use crushed eggshells to create a fertility amulet. This can be done by making or purchasing a small green drawstring bag. Into this bag can be placed the crush eggshells, fertility stones such as geodes or holey stones, and two or three fertility herbs or other natural items. Consider:

• Honeysuckle;
• Juniper;
• Rice;
• Acorns;
• Pine cones;
• Cedar;
• Barley; or
• Lemongrass.

Place these all inside the bag and pull it closed, visualizing your end goal; in this case, you probably would focus on a baby. Ensure that the bag is closed well enough that the contents cannot fall out. Wear this amulet as often as possible.
 
Other Egg Magick
 
There are many other ways to use eggs for magick that do not involve spells or rituals. To bring abundance and fertility into your home, use a broom to sweep a hard-boiled egg from outside your home to inside. You could also decorate a plastic or wooden egg as a fertility talisman.
 
Brown eggs are particularly associated with animals. Brown eggshells can be added to protective or healing magick for your pets or livestock. Traditionally, brown eggs were placed around an animal in labor, as these were thought to help ease the birthing process. This is still occasionally done today.
 
In times of old, when food could quickly become scarce in the winter, eggs were sometimes used to keep everyone safe and ensure an adequate supply of food. This was done by burying one egg at each of the cardinal points of a property. The cardinal points are: north, east, south, and west. Some Pagans still follow this practice, and it has seen a resurgence in recent years.
 
Eggs are often used for magick around the time of the Spring Equinox. They can be decorated, buried, eaten, or crushed (only the shells, of course!) to invoke their ancient power.

The Hedonistic and Sexual Nature of Ostara

With the spring comes the irrepressible urge to experience joy and indulgance. The sun begins to warm the earth, and us as well, and we revel in our ability to remove the heavy winter clothing of past months, exchanging parkas for T-shirts. The arrival of the Spring Equinox breathes new life into all of the natural world.

The Atavistic Hedonism of the Vernal Equinox

There’s no doubt about it. Ostara’s arrival causes a primal shift in our consciousness, no matter how hard we might try to repress it. At the first hint of warm spring weather, we move our activities outdoors under the sun. We bask in the gentle caress of the sun upon our bare flesh. And we anticipate the sensual feeling of cool water over hot flesh on a steamy afternoon.

We also rejoice in more practical things, such as the sudden companionship of other that is often curtailed by the cold of winter. We find it easier to get out of bed in the morning as the sun begins to rise earlier. We head to the local swim shop to purchase new bathing suits, and gather on beaches and in parks with those who feel a similar impulse.

These powerful impulses are still with us today, even in a world full of air conditioning, electricity, and convenience stores. Imagine, then, what spring must have meant to our ancestors. The long winter months brought with them the very real possibility of starvation or freezing to death. Spring brought relief from all of this.

There was also very little entertainment to be had. Theaters and libraries, if they existed at all, were difficult to access with the roads covered in ice and snow. Shopping malls didn’t exist in their current form. The only mobile forms of entertainment — poets, storytellers, and musicians — had as difficult a time traveling as anyone else. It wasn’t until spring that minstrels could make their rounds once more. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that music and dance are intimately tied to the rites of spring.

Sex and Ostara

Spring brings with it the necessary impulse of shedding heavy winter clothing. As this clothing is replaced by bathing suits and shorts, we cannot help but feel just a little sexy - sexier than we did in heavy parkas, at any rate. This feeling is implanted in the human psyche, and has been since the time of our earliest ancestors.

We are all a part of the human experience, regardless of our various backgrounds. We all share the same primal coding, though many people in the modern world try to suppress this. Even in denial, it is not possible to ignore the sexual nature of spring. Animals emerge from hiding in search of mates to create offspring. Plants and lowers begin to emerge from the earth. Seeds are planted within the earth, creating new life through an almost miraculous process. Fertility is the one overriding theme of spring. And fertility is inseparable from sex.

Throughout ancient Europe, it was common for a man and his wife to have sex on freshly ploughed fields immediately prior to planting. It was through that this act of symbolic planting would invoke the blessings of the Goddess and help ensure the fertility of the land. Sex was considered a divine process, thoroughly connected to the Goddess and the God. The divine pair were conceptualized as mating in the spring and giving life back to the earth. Spring sex at festivals such as Ostara became a sacrament to ancient man, a way in which to receive divine blessings.

The Use of Symbolic Sex

Sacred sex does not have to involve sexual intercourse. Instead, sex can be a symbolic act, and symbolism can be understood through ritual. Just as the symbol of a stone, glyph, herb, or rune is understood in magick to represent a certain goal, there are many symbols of the joining of male and female. The act of an athame being lowered into a chalice is common in many Wiccan and Pagan rituals. The inverted triangle, often called the Triangle of Manifestation, is the symbol of the masculine and the feminine coming together in an act of creation.

The ritual union of the male and the female, either symbolically or literally, is called the Great Rite. The Great Rite is the foundation of most Pagan belief systems. It is our creation myth, representing the principle of creation that gave birth to the universe. This is reflected in the old axiom, “As above, so below.” In other words, what the deities do in the macrocosm is reflect by what we do in the microcosm.

Spring is a powerful time of year in the human psyche. The atavistic impulses that arise within us should be embraced and appreciated as the cold of winter is banished for another year.


First published at Suite101: The Hedonistic and Sexual Nature of Ostara | Suite101.com http://leigh-ann-andersen.suite101.com/the-hedonistic-and-sexual-nature-of-ostara-a357310#ixzz1lkWsFlSo

The Sabbat of Ostara — Egg Spells for Ostara

Many Wiccans and Pagans practice spells and rituals to celebrate the Spring Equinox. Since eggs are so closely linked to Ostara, it makes sense that many of these spells would involve the magick of eggs. Eggs are typically used for spells relating to fertility and rebirth, but here are other options.

An Egg Rebirthing Spell for Ostara

This is a spell designed to bring something back into your life, such as luck or romance. This spell should not be directed toward a specific person, but is rather aimed at bringing about a set of circumstances to accomplish your goal.

Place a raw egg in boiling water. As you watch the egg boil, concentrate on something you would like to manifest in your life. See this desire as being trapped within the egg, waiting to spring forth. Visualize this as clear as you are able for at least five minutes.

Allow the egg to cool, then decorate the egg in a way that symbolizes your desire. Perhaps a pink egg with a heart for love, a green egg with a dollar sign for money, etc. You may use crayons, markers, paints, dyes, or any other medium to decorate your egg.

Bury your egg near your front door. When you walk past this spot, reaffirm your desire. Soon, the egg will begin to break down and decompose, giving rise to your desire. This symbolic life, death, and rebirth is linked by magick to your intention, and will help to birth your stated desire.

A Caxcarone Love Spell for Ostara

A cascarone is a hollowed-out egg filled with certain things such as herbs, rice, or other grains. Make one by poking two small holes in either end and gently blow into one end. The yolk and white of the egg should slowly emerge from the other end. Wash out the shell and let dry before proceeding.

Fill the egg with an herb associated with attracting romantic love. Some of these include:

• Yarrow;
• Apple blossom;
• Lavender;
• Rose petals;
• Daisies;
• Willow;
• Rosemary; and
• Lemon verbena.

Herbs connected to lust may increase the effectiveness of the spell. Consider adding:

• Dill;
• Cinnamon;
• Clove; and
• Damiana.

You may use any combination you like, but do not fill the shell more than three-quarters full. Begin decorating your egg using dyes, paints, jewels, stickers, or anything else you desire. Focus on your intent as you decorate your egg.
 
Make sure you seal the ends of the egg with wax or tape and save it until Ostara. Traditionally, you would break the egg over the head of your love, but this may not be appreciated! As an alternative, visualize the face of your love clearly, holding the image in your mind. Break the egg into a flowing river, visualizing the contents finding their way to your beloved.
 
There are many other spells that might involve eggs. Eggs can also be used for divination or simply for decoration. The possibilities for using eggs to celebrate the Vernal Equinox are limited only by your own creativity.

The Sabbat of Ostara — The Magick of Eostre's Eggs

Eggs are a powerful symbol of spring and the decorating of eggs is common throughout the world. For Wiccans and Pagans, however, this is often more than just a craft. Eggs can be used as charms, simply by using colors and symbols to imbue the egg with your intent.

Colors for Ostara Eggs

The color you use to decorate your Ostara eggs can have an effect on what the eggs can be used for. Though traditional colors include pink, blue, green, and yellow, other colors should not be ignored. Some colors that might be used are:

• Pink — one of the most popular Ostara colors, pink is used for household peace and romantic love;
• Red — the color or blood and linked to life, death, and rebirth, red can be used for charms involving desire, lust, sexuality, courage, and strength;
• Orange — a solar color, orange can be used in spells involving attraction, friendship, drive, and willpower;
• Yellow — yellow is the color of the sun and egg yolks, and represents creativity, intellect, communication, and the power of the mind;
• Green — this color represents abundance, fertility, prosperity, and personal appearance, but it can also be used to induce calm or encourage love;
• Blue — blue is the color of peace, healing, fidelity, unity, sleep, dreams, and astral projection;
• Purple — a powerful color in many parts of the world, purple represents spirituality, metaphysical mysteries, past lives, communication with higher beings, and the divine;
• White — used for healing and purification, white is an all-purpose color that can be substituted when you’re unsure of what color will work best; and
• Black — though not a common Ostara color, black can be used in spells to absorb and dispel negative influences.

Symbols for Ostara Eggs
 
There are many different symbols that could be used to decorate your Ostara eggs. Anything that rings true for you will work well. However, runes are easy to draw and very popular. You could use runes that represent wealth, protection, strength, or wisdom. Or, anything else you can think of. There are many rune systems available on the internet, so do your research and pick a rune that represents your intent.
 
Though Eostre’s eggs can be used for simple decoration, they can also be utilized in the casting of spells and rituals surrounding the Spring Equinox. Egg spells are simple and numerous, but you can make egg talismans as well. They also make a fun craft for children and are an exciting way to teach youngsters about the magick of spring.

The Sabbat of Ostara — Decorating Eostre's Eggs

The decorating of eggs to celebrate the coming of spring is a tradition that stretches back to the legend of Eostre’s Bunnies. Often called Easter eggs, these fun crafts are an excellent way to celebrate the Spring Equinox. Commercial kits are available for this art, but natural dyes can also be used.

Egg-Decorating Kits and Their Value

Around the time of Ostara, you can go into almost any store and purchase a kit to dye your Ostara eggs. These kits include dyes and stickers and many little things to make your egg decorating experience complete. The colors are bright and resilient, and most kits are fairly inexpensive and easy to use, and come with specific directions. These artificial dyes, however, are not always very good for the environment.

Natural Dyes for Decorating Eggs

Many Wiccan and Pagans prefer natural dyes for decorating their Ostara eggs. These dyes are better for the environment and allow you to decorate eggs the way our ancestors did. In addition, plant material can be used to imbue individual eggs with specific magickal tasks.

Of course, there are downsides to natural dyes. It is almost impossible to produce colors as rich and dark as commercial dyes, and the finish tends to be fragile. In the case of most natural dyes, it is quite easy to scratch or rub the color off the eggs. Natural dyes also take more preparation, and drying times will also be increased.

Preparing and Using Natural Dyes for Decorating Ostara Eggs

Before you begin dying eggs, you’ll have to choose your plant material. I have personally used the following materials to produce these colors:

• Carrots — yellow;
• Daffodils — yellow-green;
• Dandelions — orange;
• Heather — pink;
• Bracken — green;
• Red cabbage — blue, like a robin’s egg;
• Blueberries — blue; and
• Beets — blue-violet.

There are other options, of course. I have heard that grapes produce decent colors, and raspberries will probably also make an excellent dye. Think about what plants stain your fingers when you touch them. These plants usually make good dyes. Experiment and see what works. However, make sure you’re using only non-toxic plants. You don’t want to make yourself or your family ill.
 
When you’ve gathered you plant material (you will need a generous amount), add it to 3-5 cups of boiling water. Reduce heat slightly (to a low boil) and wait until the water takes on a very deep version of the shade you want. Stir occasionally. You may need to add more plant material to achieve the desired shade.
 
When ready, strain out the plant material and bring the water to a light simmer. Add a pinch of salt, 2 tablespoons of vinegar, and 3 tablespoons of cream of tartar. These will help to set the dyes. Mix well and remove from heat, allowing the mixture to cool.
 
Place your hard-boiled or hollowed eggs into the dye until they achieve the desired shade. This may take some time, so be patient. Once removed from the dye, the eggs will have to completely dry before you handle them. Remember that natural dyes might rub off on your hands, so keep handling to a minimum.
 
Dying your own eggs is simple, whether you use a commercial dye kit or natural dyes. Experiment, have fun, and enjoy Ostara, Easter, the Spring Equinox, or any other spring holiday you choose to celebrate.

Wiccan Sabbat Ritual Recipes — Ostara Egg and Artichoke Pie

Eggs have traditionally been associated with the coming of spring, as the Vernal Equinox is when chickens naturally begin to lay eggs. As such, they are often used to create many holiday dishes for the Spring Equinox, Easter, and many other spring celebrations. One of these dishes is Ostara Egg and Artichoke Pie, often known as Ostara Quiche.

Quiches, a French dish which is essentially an egg pie, are typically thought of as quite delicious but difficult to concoct. However, this particular recipe is a little less elaborate than some traditional quiches, and is much easier to prepare. With a little patience and some planning, you can make a delectable quiche for you and your family to enjoy this Ostara season.

Ingredients for Ostara Egg and Artichoke Pie

Have the following ingredients close at hand:

• 6 eggs
• ½ cup milk
• 1 can artichoke hearts
• ½ cup fresh mushrooms, sliced
• ¼ cup onions, diced
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp pepper
• 1 deep dish pie shell

You can add other ingredients as well, if you like. Try sundried tomatoes, spinach, ham, or turkey to change the flavor of your pie. Experiment and discover what you prefer. The options are limited only by your own creativity.
 
Preparing the Ostara Egg and Artichoke Pie
 
Drain the artichoke hearts thoroughly. Chop them into small pieces, no more than a quarter inch in size. Beat the eggs for several minutes with a fork. Add the milk to the eggs and blend well.
 
Combine the milk and egg mixture with the artichoke hearts, mushrooms, and onions, mixing well. Add the salt and pepper and stir, making sure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
 
Preheat the over to 325ºF. Pour the egg mixture into the deep dish pie shell. Place the pie in the oven and bake for approximately forty minutes. Check frequently, and if the edges of the pie crust seem to be baking too fast, cover the pie with foil. This will help even browning and prevent burning.
 
After forty minutes, check the pie for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, the pie is done. If not, leave it in the oven for an additional five minutes. Allow the pie to sit for at least five minutes before serving.
 
This recipe makes eight to ten small servings. Ostara Egg and Artichoke Pie is a favorite of many Wiccans and Pagans in the spring. It is especially delicious when paired with Spring Eggnog or Eostre's Chili Eggs.

Wiccan Sabbat Ritual Recipes — Eostre's Chili Eggs Recipe

Eggs are associated with Ostara and are a traditional breakfast food. However, the same old eggs can eventually become a little boring. Instead of having your eggs hard-boiled, scrambled, or fried, try Eostre’s Chili Eggs. This delicious recipe can add some spice and zip to your morning meal.

Ingredients for Eostre’s Chili Eggs

Have the following ingredients close at hand:

• 1 can green chili peppers;
• ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese, cubed;
• ½ cup Cheddar cheese, cubed;
• 1 ½ cups salsa;
• 8 large eggs;
• ½ cup Cheddar cheese, shredded; and
• Salt and pepper.

The salsa you choose may be any kind you like, and of any intensity. Consider those who will share your meal when deciding on a salsa. If there will be small children dining with you, opt for a milder salsa. For crowds that enjoy a little more spice, feel free to use a medium or hot salsa.
 
Additional ingredients can be added, if you like. Pork or chicken are particularly suited to this dish, but you can choose whatever you prefer. It can be made spicier by the addition of cayenne pepper, or milder by the omission of pepper. The options are limited only by your own taste.
 
Preparing Eostre’s Chili Eggs
 
Drain the chili peppers thoroughly and beat the eggs well. Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Grease the bottom of a 9x9 inch baking pan, taking extra care in the corners to prevent sticking.
 
Line the bottom of the pan with the chili peppers, distributing evenly. On top of the peppers, place the cubed cheeses (both the Monterey Jack and the Cheddar), but set aside the shredded cheese. Cover with 1 cup of salsa, reserving the remaining ½ cup.
 
Over this pour the beaten eggs and top with the remaining salsa and the shredded Cheddar cheese. Add salt and pepper to taste, remembering that the chili peppers and salsa will already give you a spicy dish. Be careful with the pepper, or you might overwhelm the flavors already present.
 
Bake for twenty minutes, or until the top starts to turn gold. Insert a toothpick into the center to test for doneness. If it comes out clean, the eggs are done. If not, bake for an additional five minutes.
 
This recipes make eight to ten small servings. Eostre’s Chili Eggs are a favorite of many Wiccans and Pagans around the time of the Spring Equinox. They are especially delightful when paired with Ostara Eggs and Artichoke Pie or Spring Eggnog.

For a similar recipe, check out this video:

The Faery Lineage and Irish Mythology — The Daoine Sidhe

The Daoine Sidhe (pronounced deena shee) are considered to be the Faery Folk of ancient Ireland. They were what the Tuatha De Danann became as they diminished. Some early myths from the Church indicate that they were fallen angels, considered to be too good for Hell, but this was simply a way for the Church to invalidate the mythology of Ireland. It had little to do with the true legends regarding the Daoine Sidhe.

The Daoine Sidhe and the Fenian Heroes

The Fenian Heroes, those of the De Danann who chose to follow the high kings of Ireland, joined with the fiana and fought alongside their human allies. The Daoine Sidhe did almost the opposite. After the Tuatha De Danann and the Milesians battled and divided up Ireland into the land and the spirit-world, those who became the Daoine Sidhe retreated beneath the earth to live in hollow mounds. Others chose to make their home in the ocean, under the waves.

The Fenian Heroes had a great respect for the Daoine Sidhe despite their different choices. The mounds where the Sidhe made their homes became places of worship for the Fenian Heroes, and so for the people of Ireland. The waves which were said to be inhabited by the Sidhe were held as sacred.

The Seelie and Unseelie Courts of the Daoine Sidhe

In some versions of Irish mythology, the Daoine Sidhe eventually divided themselves into the Seelie and Unseelie Courts. The Seelie (seleighe in old Irish) Court was considered to be blessed or holy, containing those of the Sidhe who were benevolent and generally considered harmless. This was not to say that they would not seek vengeance, but if given the choice between harming and helping, the Seelie would choose to help.

The members of the Seelie Court were said to be fun-loving and mischievous. They loved their games and pranks, but would never take a joke too far. They were known to be kind and generous, and were seen as the champions of the people of Ireland.

The Unseelie Court was just the opposite. They were malicious and tended to be inclined towards evil. They were said to assault travelers at night, often carrying them off into their own world for various purposes. As the Seelie were not always entirely kind, the Unseelie were not always entirely evil. However, if faced with the choice, they would rather cause harm than offer assistance.

The Daoine Sidhe were the last of the Tuatha De Danann to resemble the gods and goddesses of ancient Ireland. Though they generally chose to take human form, they could also appear as much larger or much smaller than the average person.

In time, the Daoine Sidhe would dwindle further away from their origins, eventually becoming the Heroic Faery of the Faery Lineage.

The Faery Lineage and Irish Mythology — The Fenian Heroes

The noblest warriors of the Tuatha De Danann joined forces with the honorable fiana, the greatest fighting force of ancient Ireland. They retained some of their magick and power, and greatly enhanced the respected group, contributing their sorcery and their wisdom. Those De Danann who chose to join the fiana became known as the Fenian Heroes. The remainder became the Daoine Sidhe.

The Fenian Heroes and Finn mac Cumaill

The fiana (Irish war bands) were led by Finn mac Cumaill. He was the last and greatest leader of the fiana, and the son of Cumhal mac Baiscne. Cumhal was also head of the fiana in his time, but was killed by the sons of Morna, who wanted to assume his leadership. Finn’s mother was Muirne, the granddaughter of Nuada of the Silver Hand and Ethlinn. Ethlinn was the mother of Lugh of the Long Hand. Both Nuada and Ethlinn were powerful members of the Tuatha De Danann, so Finn himself was of the Faery, and somewhat god-like in stature.

As a child, Finn was sent away in secret. As he grew, he was trained in poetry, weaponry, and magick. At one point during his training, he accidentally drank a mouthful of water from the Well of the Moon and gained the power of prophecy. This power, combined with the Sidhe blood running through his veins, is one of the many reasons the Tuatha De Danann were said to willingly follow him, even though it meant diminishing themselves.

What Became of the Fenian Heroes?

When old age finally killed Finn mac Cumaill, his fiana fell apart. When this happened, the Tuatha De Danann who had become the Fenian Heroes drifted away, searching for a just and honourable High King to serve in battle once more. Some Irish legends indicate that they never found what they were looking for. Others suggest that perhaps they traveled to Britain and followed the legendary King Arthur.

Regardless, the Fenian Heroes diminished in stature and power, but the Faery Lineage of Ireland did not end with the Fenian Heroes. They survived into medieval times as the Medieval Fairy, beginning to spread to the rest of Europe, and would one day lead to the modern vision of tiny little fairies with gossamer wings.

The Faery Lineage and Irish Mythology — The Tuatha De Danann

The Tuatha De Danann, which is often translated to mean ‘tribe of Dana,’ were the people of the Goddess Dana. Sometimes, they were considered to be the people of the god whose mother was Dana. The ancient Celts called them the Sidhe, the spirit-race of ancient Ireland. They are the source of the Faery Lineage.

Who Were the Tuatha De Danann?

The origins of the Tuatha De Danann are quite unclear. However, according to the traditional history of Ireland, specifically the Mythological Cycle, the Tuatha De Danann were the fourth waves of invaders to come to Ireland, conquering the Fir Bolg. Eventually, they would be challenged by the Milesians, and take refuge in the Underworld. They were to become the gods and goddesses of Ireland, worshipped, respected, and sometimes feared.

When they retreated, they moulded the Underworld to suit themselves. Their country of choice was Tir na nOg, the Land of Perpetual Youth. They lived here in beauty and joy, never aging, and never knowing pain, disease, or death. They were masters of sorcery and magick, and the Celts often said that the Tuatha De Danann had been sent from the stars to teach humanity about love and living in harmony with nature.

The Tuatha De Danann and the Faery Lineage

The Tuatha De Danann became a Faery people of Ireland, and many were great warriors under the High Kings of ancient Eire (another name for Ireland). Some of them even became a part of the legendary fiana. However, in time and with the changing beliefs of the people of Ireland, they began to dwindle.

Eventually, they lost the awesome power they had once possessed. They shifted with the Celts, and became the Daoine Sidhe and the Fenian Heroes. The Daoine Sidhe retained some of their god-like stature, while the Fenian Heroes were the poets, the romantics, and the warriors of the Tuatha De Danann. In time, even these incarnations would shift and change, eventually resulting in the modern view of the fairy.

These immortal characters greatly enriched the lives of the Celts. As fantastical creatures of magick, the Tuatha De Danann were the focus of songs and tales for thousands of years, and eventually became the stuff of legends and fairy tales, even into the modern era.

Wiccan Sabbat Ritual Recipes — Butterflied Lamb Recipe

One of the traditional foods for Imbolc, which is celebrated on February 1st, is lamb. Lamb can be prepared in many different ways and using many different herbs and spices. This recipe, which is designed to be prepared on a grill or barbeque, has been created specifically with Wiccans and Pagans in mind, using some of the spices of the season to make this dish more festive.

Ingredients For Butterflied Lamb

Have the following ingredients close at hand:

• 4 lbs boneless leg of lamb
• ½ cup red wine vinegar
• ¼ cup mustard, coarse grained
• 8 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

To make preparing the lamb easier, ensure you have gathered all ingredients beforehand.

 

Preparing Butterflied Lamb

 

Before you begin your preparation, you will have to butterfly your leg of lamb. This is a simple enough process and can be done in just minutes. Slice the lamb approximately every inch or so, but only cut about halfway through the meat. Certainly do not cut any deeper than three-quarters through, or the meat will fall apart on the grill. Not only does this enhance the presentation of your dish, but it decreases cooking time. At some supermarkets and many butchers, you can purchase lamb that is already butterflied.

 

Combine the vinegar, mustard, garlic, rosemary, salt, black pepper, and olive oil in a large glass dish. This dish should be large enough that the entire leg of lamb can rest comfortably. Add the leg of lamb, and turn to coat completely and evenly. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least eight hours. The flavor of the lamb will be enhanced if you let it marinade longer, perhaps as long as two days.

 

When you are ready to cook the leg of lamb, remove it from the marinade. For health reasons, discard any remaining marinade. Grill the leg of lamb on a covered grill over medium briquettes for twenty-five to thirty minutes. Turn the leg of lamb at least four times during the cooking process. Before removing it from the grill, check the thickest portion of the lamb for desired doneness.

 

This recipe makes eight to ten servings. Butterflied Lamb is a favorite of many Wiccans and Pagans around the time of Imbolc. Though it can be served all year round, it is especially appropriate in the winter, as it is warm and savory. It will make a wonderful addition to any table, especially when paired with young fresh vegetables or omelets.

Types of Animal Totems

Totem animals are sacred spiritual guides who will instruct and protect you when you need them most. They have skills and abilities that can help to deepen your understanding of yourself and your own inner strength. However, most people do not realize that there are different types of totem animals, and that each has something unique to contribute. In general, there are four types of animal guides:

• Life totem;
• Message totem;
• Journey totem; and
• Shadow totem.

The Life Animal Totem and Its Significance

 

A life totem is the animal that follows your throughout your life, in a spiritual sense. This animal’s primary purpose is to protect a child, guide an adolescent, and wait for instruction from an adult. Its purpose will change as you grow and expand, but usually, your life totem will not change as you mature.

 

There is an exception to this, however. Emotional trauma that alters your very nature can sometimes cause a shift in life totems. For example, a child who loses a parent will sometimes change life totems. A parent who loses a child will almost always receive a new totem. Divorce is another common trigger.

 

This is not to say that these events will cause your life totem to change. But it could, so if you know who your life totem is, and you do experience emotional trauma, you would be wise to search within yourself to determine if your life totem is still the same.

 

The Significance of the Journey Totem Animal

 

Not everyone has a journey totem all of the time. This is because everyone undergoes different journeys at different times, and the purpose of the journey totem is to guide you through these journeys. For example, if you are recently divorced, the panther may become your journey totem animal until you are through this difficult time, and then it will fade away until it is needed again.

 

The purpose of the journey totem is to aid and assist you in completing your task. If you listen to your journey totem, you will find that you receive advice that can help you, but only if you heed it. If a journey totem is ignored completely, it may abandon you before your journey is complete, so make sure you respect and honor your journey totem.

 

The Immediacy of the Message Animal Guide

 

If you receive a surprise message from an animal spirit that does not usually visit you, then you have just received a message from your message totem. Message totems are very short-term, and usually only stay long enough to deliver their messages.

 

Some people experience these types of ‘visitations’ every day, others much less frequently. If you do receive a message from an unexpected totem, then you should heed it immediately, for the message is probably important to the present, not the future. These messages are usually received at the tail end of a dream, or sometimes immediately upon waking.

 

The Importance of the Shadow Totem Animal

 

The shadow totem is perhaps the totem that has the most impact on an ongoing basis. This is the totem that hunts and stalks you throughout life, trying to bring you down as a hunter would its prey. If you hide from or ignore this totem, it will continue to haunt you, looking for an opportunity to strike. The shadow totem can describe fears and anxieties, and is often an animal that truly frightens you.

 

If you wish to be free of it, you must discover the identity of your shadow totem. Confront what this totem represents, face your fears, and accept this totem as a part of you. If you can do this, then the shadow totem becomes a friend and companion, instead of a threat.

 

Each of these totems has a lesson to teach. And each of them is important in its own way. These totems should not be ignored, but should be sought out for their guidance and their wisdom. If you can find your animal totems, you can access their ancient knowledge.

The Mythology of Ancient Ireland — The Faery Lineage

The chief characters in Irish mythology are the Tuatha De Danann. In times of old, these mystical people were often referred to as the Faery. However, the term faery (or, more commonly, fairy) usually brings to mind diminutive little creatures with tiny little wings flitting about the garden. This image, while a part of the Faery Lineage in Ireland, does not represent all that the Faery were.

Who Are the Faery?

The traditional understanding in Ireland was that the Faery were independent beings living in an immaterial state. They were close to humanity, but not a part of it. They were considered to have a kingdom all their own, and they only seldom made themselves known in the physical world.

They were beings with the ability to change their shape at will, made of light and cloud, and so always fluid. Over time, with the changing beliefs of the people of Ireland, the Faery underwent many alterations, from the powerful and awe-inspiring Tuatha De Danann down to the classic Folk Tale Fairy. As this happened, the Faery Lineage was born.

The Faery Lineage of Ancient Times

Up to the Middle Ages of Western Europe, the development of the Faery was almost completely confined to the land of Ireland and its people. There was a great focus on heroism, magick, and romance.

The Tuatha De Danann are the source of the entire Lineage. They were the gods of the people of Ireland, and are considered to be the most superior and pure form of the Faery. They were at their most powerful during the Mythological Cycle. This group eventually branched into two very distinct groups: the Fenian Heroes and the Daoine Sidhe.

The Fenian Heroes were among the most notable heroes in all of Ireland, existing during the Fenian Cycle. Many of them were descendants of the Tuatha De Danann, and some of them were the De Danann themselves. Many of the Fay served as a part of the fiana, and the Fenian Heroes were not considered to be all that far removed from mortal man.

The Daoine Sidhe existed in about the same time period as the Fenian Heroes. However, these were the Tuatha De Danann who truly did remain removed from humanity, who preserved the purest form of Faery magick, and who were still worshipped as the gods of the Irish pantheon. Eventually, however, even the Daoine Sidhe had to change and adapt.

The Heroic Faery was born out of the Daoine Sidhe. These were the ladies and knights of classic medieval romances, the heroes of the great tales of the era, and were very much like the Fenian Heroes. In fact, it could be said that the only difference between the Fenian Heroes and the Heroic Faery is the time period in which they existed in mythology.

Meanwhile, the Fenian Heroes had become the Medieval Faery. These characters were practiced in magick and sorcery. It is here when the first outside influences begin to creep into Irish mythology. No longer are the Faery the powerful and frightening Tuatha De Danann. They are no longer gods. Instead, they begin to grow smaller in size, and with the coming of Christianity, they are sometimes assumed to be evil.

The Heroic Faery makes one last appearance, merging with the Medieval Faery and becoming the Diminutive Fairy.

Fairies in the Middle Ages and Beyond

With the birth of the Middle Ages, the traditional image of the modern fairy was born. The Diminutive Fairy became connected to death and the departed. Sometime in the 16th century, the idea of the literary fairy is introduced. These fairies are nasty little things, demanding their privacy and pinching those who dare to invade it.

The Elizabethan Age brings about another change in the fairy. Instead of a nasty little thing intent on its privacy, the Elizabethan Fairy is mischievous and bothersome, but not particularly evil. These fairies tend to irritate more than harm.

In the 17th century, the Jacobean Fairy makes an appearance. They are so small that they are difficult to see with the naked eye. These little guys have gossamer wings and, purely due to Puritan influences, are regarded as demons or devils.

The 18th century saw a reversal of this idea. The fairies of this era were flowery little fertility spirits. These little Flower Fairies were said to flit and fly in the most beautiful gardens, entertaining children and delighting anyone who chanced to see them. This version of the fairy is still very much a part of modern folk tales.

The 19th century saw the development of the Folk Tale Fairy. These characters were written into stories created for children, and generally featured characters such as the classic fairy godmother. These creatures were relentless moralists. Like the Flower Fairy, the Folk Tale Fairy has persisted into the modern era.

With the coming of the 20th century, the Age of Faery seemed to have truly come to an end. The gods of Ireland had become no more than fairy tales, and most had forgotten they were ever anything more. However, this same century brought about a renewed interest in ancient religions and beliefs, and today, there are those who have resurrected the ancient Faery Faith in a more modern incarnation, with the inclusion of the Elemental Faery.