THE RABBIT or HARE:There is an old Teutonic legend that the hare was once a bird and was transformed into its present form by Eostra, the goddess of Spring. In gatitude for this, the hare laid eggs during the April festival of the Goddess. The North Germanic goddess Holda was said to be followed by hares carrying torches. This creature was also sacred to the British Moon goddess Andraste; its movements were used as a form of divination. Queen Boadicea's banners were said to have the image of a hare on them. It is also associated with other deities around the world, such as Freyja (who was accompanied by hares), Hermes (who used a hare as a messenger), Aphrodite, and Eros. The American folk tale Brer Rabbit comes from the African Trickster deity who always outwits other animals. Some Native Americans said that the Great Hare was the original creator of the universe; they said that the face of the Full Moon was the reflection of the rabbit in his own eye. The Hindus say the outline of a hare can be seen in the spots on the Moon. Sanskrit calls the Moon "cacin", which means "marked with the hare". Certain European cultures said the hare was the spirit of the corn. The last sheaf of corn was called "the hare"; the peasants shaped it into a rough form of a hare and used it in rituals. To the Japanese, the hare is a very ancient symbol of long life. The Moon Hare in China symbolizes long life and is the guardian of all wild animals. Various colors mean different things: white, divinity; red, good fortune, peace, prosperity; black, good fortune, a successful reign. SuperstitionsThe saying "Mad as a March hare" refers to the ferocious fights between male hares during March mating season.During the Middle Ages in Europe, the hare came to be associated with witches and black magick; they believed only a silver bullet could kill a hare. The left hind foot of a rabbit is thought to be a powerful charm against all evil. To work properly, it should be carried in the left pocket. If an ingant at birth has its feet brushed with a rabbit's foot, it will not have accidents. It is a general belief in England that a hare crossing your path brings bad luck, probably because hares are said to be witches in disguise. A local witch is said to show the wounds of any maimed or killed hare. If a pregnant woman sees a hare, her child will be born with a harelip. To see or kill a black rabbit is bad luck. Magickal AttributesTransformation; receiving hidden teachings and intuitive messages.Quick-thinking when necessary; don't push yourself on others. A fear of disaster or illness. Sometimes the appearance of this creature signals that you need to stop worrying about your future; just take what steps you can to protect and provide for yourself. Strengĺeng ��tu��ion. ChantScurry, scurry, worry, worry,Like the hare I run about, Busy, busy, in a tizzy, I only hear the voice without. Quiet, hare. Do not despair. The voice within is strong and sure. If you just listen, you'll learn your mission, Be confident and self-assured. |