Mesquite
Keywords
Persistence, Protection, Purification, Success
Historical
Background and Folklore
Mesquite is most widely known as a firewood to flavor barbecued
meat, but its use by humans dates back to prehistoric times. It
is mentioned in the Aztec creation myth: During the second sun—the
second time the universe was created (we are presently in the fifth
sun)—Quetzalcoatl in his role as god of winds created the
world and fed people by the fruit of the mesquite tree.
Native Americans used fire-hardened pieces of mesquite wood as arrow
tips for duck hunting, and gum from the tree for creating designs
on pottery.
The wood from this tree is becoming increasingly popular for a variety
of applications. Woodcrafters who work with mesquite claim that
its properties and beauty of colors and swirling grain can rival
oak, cherry and walnut. In the American southwest mesquite has become
a symbol of the region. |
Other
Names for Tree: mizquitl (Aztec), southwest thorn
Color: beige/tan, sage green
Celestial Bodies: Moon, Saturn
Other Association: compassion; increases the power of healing herbs;
opening to receive; root chakra; strengthen through healing
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