THE FOX:The Sumerians said that the fox was connected with the Trickster god Enki. Those who followed Zoroastrianism believed that the fox, with his supernatural powers, was capable of frightening off demons. In Greece and certain other ancient Mediterranean cultures, the god Dionysus was called Bassareus when he was in his fox form. His priestesses wore fox skins and were called Bassarids. A Trickster figure in the West, the fox is considered even more powerful in the Far East where they say it has supernatural powers as a shape-shifter. China and Japan have many legends of fox spirits taking human form just to cause trouble. If a fox-human's reflectionwas shown in water or a mirror, however, the true form could be seen. They also believed that if the fox was treated with respect and the proper attention, it could be persuaded to bring good fortune. In Japan the rice gos Inari had a fox as one of his symbols. Seeing a fox in Japan had special significance; a black fox was good luck, a white one misfortune, and three together meant disaster. In China, the fox symbolized craftiness as well as long life. For many centuries fox fire has been associated with foxes. Fox fire is the phosphorescent light that comes from decaying wood and can be seen at night as an eerie glow. The Japanese associate this light without heat with the "will-o'-the-wisp", as do other cultures. In Scandanavian countries, the aurora borealis was known as "the light of the fox." During the Middle Ages, the fox was used as a symbol for the devil. SuperstitionsIn Wales it is still said that to see opne fox is lucky, but to see several together is unlucky. The Welsh also say that witches transform themselves into foxes.When hungry, the fox will pretend to be dead, then grab the curious birds that come near him. Magickal AttributesCunning, slyness; the ability to make fools out of those who aggressively pursue you.Remaining unobserved while watching the actions and motives of others. Stealth, wisdom, invisibility. Cunning when needed to deal with possible troublesome people. ChantStealthy messenger of the gods,Cunning and wise, reliable friend, Guide my steps through this maze of deception And see this problem to its end. |