THE VULTURE:Although a repulsive-looking and bad-smelling bird, the vulture has long been held in high regard by ancient cultures. It was a symbol of compassion and protection, but also of destruction. Vulture claws were said to detect poisons in food and drink. This bird was considered to be prophetic, knowing beforehand the site of battles. The vulture has been associated with the Great Mother for thousands of years in her aspect as life-giver and destroyer. The Egyptian glyph for mother was a vulture; for grandmother, a vulture carrying royal symbols. As a representation of love and care, the goddess Isis is sometimes shown with vulture wings in her role as Great Mother. Mut, goddess of maternity and the sky, was often portrayed with the head of a vulture or wearing a vulture headdress. Hathor and Nekhebet could also take vulture form. In the funeral rites of Osiris, four vulture feathers were attached to each corner of the coffin. Nekhebet and Mut, both vulture goddesses, were said to guard mummies and protect the dead. The early Arabs had a vulture god named Nasr. The king of the birds in West Africa was Fene-Ma-So, the Vulture Spirit. Pictures of the Harpies show them as having women's heads and breasts, but the feet of vulture. The Harpies were also called the Keres (Fates) of Death. SuperstitionsVultures do not copulate, but the female reproduce without male assistance.Vultures can live for 100 years. Magickal AttributesCycle of death and rebirth.Deep love of the Mother Goddess. Asking for understanding and wisdom concerning the death of a loved one. ChantGathering bird of the Dark Goddess,Teach me not to fear physical death. Ease the sorrow in my heart and mind. Let me understand the hidden wisdom of the Goddess. |