Rowan
Keywords
Blessings, Centering, Dedication, Expression, Fertility, Grounding,
Healing, Imagination, Insight, Luck, Music, Poetry, Protection,
Quickening, Strength
Historical
Background and Folklore
Songbirds are particularly attracted to the berries giving rowan
its association with music, poetry and the goddess Brigid. In England
during the 15th and 16th centuries, rowan had a negative reputation
because it was linked with witchcraft. Most likely because the berries
carry a pentagram design at their base. During this period, herbalists
avoided using it for fear of being labeled a witch.
Because of the rowan’s hardiness, country folk in England
either had one on their land or hung branches on their house and
barns for protection. According to Jean Markale, rowan was used
by the Celts when reciting magical incantations. Since it had an
association with Thor, it was planted near homes and stables to
protect them from the Norse god’s lightning. |
In the lore of the Celtic salmon of wisdom, it is sometimes rowan
berries rather than hazelnuts that these fish feed upon. Rowan berries
are said to have given the salmon their red spots.
Associations
Elements: earth, fire
Energy: feminine
Goddesses: Aphrodite, Brigantia, Brigid, Cerridwen, Hecate
Gods: Dagda, Herne, Pan, Thor, Vulcan |
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Other
Beings/Characters: elves, dragons, Fionn
Zodiac: Capricorn
Celestial Bodies: Moon, Saturn, Sun, Uranus
Colors: gray, red
Gemstones: diamond, peridot, smoky quartz
Ogham Character: Luis – Letter: L
Rune Character: Nyd – Letter: N
Dates: January 21 - February 17 (Celtic tree calendar); April 1
- 10 and October 4 - 13
Miscellaneous: contacting elementals; enhances psychic abilities;
counteracts negative energy; sabbats: Beltane, Imbolg, Lughnasadh;
Celtic peasant/common tree
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