THE WOLF:The Egyptian god Wepwawet was either pictured as a wolf or with a wolf head. A banner bearing his image was carried before the pharoah in victory processions. The Hindus and the followers of Zoroaster considered the wolf to be evil and the symbol of evil in human nature. As with the goddess Artemis being called the Great Bitch, so was the Great Goddess, under the title of Lupa or Feronia, called the Great She-Wolf in early Rome. The Romans considered this aspect of the goddess to be the mother of their ancestors. Among the Celts, wolves were considered to be powerful, but helpful animals. Legend says that Cormac, king of Ireland, was always accompanied by them. The god Cernunnos was pictured with a wolf, bear, and otter. Odhinn had two wolves as constant companions in Valhalla. They were called Geri and Freki. One of Loki's children, the great wolf Fenrir, was chained by the gods because of his viciousness. It is said that Fenrir will break free at Doomsday, the Day of the Wolf. The Valkyries were sometimes shown riding wolves, in their aspect of soul-collectors. Native Americans said that when the wolf howled, he created wind. If he continued to howl, fog came. They considered the Moon its power ally. SuperstitionsIn Britain it was believed that if a wolf saw a man before the man saw it, the man would be struck dumb and couldn't cry out. If the man sees it first, the wolf loses its ferocity and can't run away.In many parts of Europe they believe that if you say the word wolf in December you will be attacked by one. The French at one time hung a wolf's tooth about a childs neck to protect it from evil spirits. Wolves give birth only in May and during thunderstorms. Hair taken from a specific area on the rump of a live wolf is aphrodisiac in nature. The eyes of a wolf will glow in the darkness. Magickal AttributesCunning, escaping hunters, ability to pass by dangers invisibly, outwitting those who wish you harm.Fighting when necessary. Sometimes an astral wolf will lead you to a spiritual teacher. Wisdom, hunting and seeking, magick, dreams, introspection, intuition, listening, death and rebirth, transformation. Strong protection. Spiritual guidance in dreams and meditations. ChantThe mournful cries rise in the night.We are seeking! Wolves' song greets the Moon so bright. We are brave and wise! Sleek, muscled bodies beneath the Moon. We help turn the wheel of death and rebirth! By our magick we send a boon Of true dreaming! |