The SprIng Quarter of March, AprIl, May
As the earth awakens and loosens the bonds of winter, Imbolc’s promise of renewal is carried forward. Even where I live in northern New England, March ushers in a freshness in the air that lightens the heart and entices us to spend more time outdoors. This windy month blows away the staleness of winter and symbolically helps us cast away the things we want to remove from our lives to make way for growth. In the past, this part of the year was called the Plow Quarter because it signaled the time to ready the fields for sowing and planting.
Spring arrives on Ostara and the natural world seems to vibrate with quickening energy. After each rain shower, life bursts forth with renewed vigor turning the landscape many shades of lush green. The softness of spring is like a shimmering pool of life-force energy that feeds our bodies and souls. Plants, new life in the womb, and the creativity of our spirits blossom and grow, leading us into the magical month of May and Beltane. Warm weather entices us to walk barefoot in the grass and enjoy nature’s potpourri of fragrances carried on the gentle kiss of a breeze. Under the stars, it is easy to feel the greatness and magic of the universe and the enchantment of the fairy realm. Open your heart and let your energy reach out to the constellations.
The spring night sky is populated by people, animals, and objects: a woman, a herdsman, a centaur, hunting dogs, bears, a lion, a crow, a water snake, a cup, weighing scales, and a crown. Some of their ancient stories overlap as do their significance for twenty-first-century Pagans and Wiccans. We will take a look at the constellations, their stories, and their stars as we discover new ways to draw on their magical influences.
Some of the bordering constellations noted throughout this chapter may fall within other seasons. The directions given to locate constellations and stars assume that the reader is facing south. Also, have a look at Chapter Eight as some of the southern constellations listed only in that chapter may be visible to you.
Figure 4.1. The spring sky. The dotted shapes show the four asterisms of the Great Diamond, the Spring Triangle, and the Big and Little Dippers. The four brightest stars are also noted.
The Spring Constellations
Boötes: The Plowman/The Herdsman, Green Man
Pronunciations: Boötes (bow-OWE-teez); Boötis (bow-OWE-tiss)
Visible Latitudes: 90° North to 50° South
Constellation Abbreviation: Boo
Bordering Constellations: Canes Venatici, Corona Borealis, Draco, Hercules, Serpens, Ursa Major, Virgo
Description: The central part of this constellation has a kite shape with a triangle of stars above. The triangle represents Boötes’s raised left hand holding the leash of his dogs represented by the constellation Canes Venatici.
To Find: Follow the handle of the Big Dipper to the southeast and according to the saying, “arc down to Arcturus,” the bright star located at the bottom of the kite shape.
Considered a plowman or herdsman, one theory about the name Boötes is that it comes from a Greek word that means “noisy” or “clamorous,” which describes how shepherds sometime use sound to get their animals moving.11 Boötes has also been considered a herdsman or wagoner with the stars of the Big Dipper representing his oxen and wagon. He later became known as Arctophylax from the Greek meaning “bear keeper” or “bear watcher” as he appears to follow the Great Bear across the sky.
Polish astronomer Johannes Hevelius (1611–1687) put forth the idea that Boötes was a hunter. He depicted some stars as Boötes’s hunting dogs pursuing the Great Bear. This is how the constellation is usually regarded today.
According to legend, Boötes was the son of Demeter and a mortal man. When Boötes was getting on in years, rather than watch him die Demeter gave her son the ultimate reward and placed him among the stars. In some stories, Boötes is attributed with the invention of the plow. Other legends equate Boötes with Icarius (not to be confused with Icarus, who flew too close to the sun), whom Dionysus taught to grow grapes and make wine.
Ptolemy equated the energy of Boötes with Mercury and Saturn.
Figure 4.2. Boötes the herdsman, plowman, Green Man brings us closer to the natural world.
Notable Stars in Boötes
Official Designation: Alpha Boötis
Traditional Name: Arcturus
Pronunciation: ark-TOOR-uhs
This orange star is the fourth brightest in the entire sky. It is located at the bottom of the kite shape and represents the herdsman’s left knee. The Arabs called this star the Keeper of Heaven, and the Chaldeans called it the Guardian Messenger. Associated with protection and guidance, Arcturus was one of the fifteen important fixed stars in medieval magic. Arcturus is the eastern anchor point for the Spring Triangle and the Great Diamond asterisms.
Official Designation: Beta Boötis
Traditional Name: Nekkar
Pronunciation: NECK-ahr
Nekkar is a yellow star located at the peak of the kite shape that marks a point near Boötes’s left ear. The name of this star comes from Arabic and means “herdsman” or “ox driver.”
Magical Interpretations and Uses for Boötes
Although the figure of Boötes does not have horns, he is evocative of the Horned God and is a deity of shepherds and farmers. He represents Pan, Faunus, Cernunnos, Herne the Hunter, and Silvanus. He is lord of the animals and god of forests, fields, and herding. To farmers and herders, the cross-quarter days of the year were more important than the solstices and equinoxes because they marked seasonal changes. Symbolizing fertility, Boötes represents the Lord at Beltane.
Prepare for spring planting and call on Boötes as you take a stick to break up large clods of dirt in your garden. Do this gently with reverence and respect. Take time to pause and smell the richness of the soil. Using your hands, create a level area and draw the simple kitelike shape of the constellation as you say: “Boötes, Boötes, send forth your light and make ready this ground to receive the blessed seed. So mote it be.”
Whether Boötes is considered as a plowman, shepherd, herdsman, or hunter, he represents someone intimately associated with the land and animals. As such he serves as the Green Man, the wild and potent spirit of nature, and he can help us connect with the natural world on a deep and meaningful level. Boötes also serves to remind us to observe and know the natural world.
Go outside on a warm spring night and sit quietly. Smell the air, the plants, and the soil. Ask the Green Man/Boötes to reveal something relevant to you. If you think of him as being more of a herdsman, listen for the sounds of animals. Don’t look for them or approach them, just close your eyes and listen. Become familiar with night sounds. Also call on the power of Boötes for inspiration in helping the environment or learning about the natural world. Your work or study does not have to take place at night, but seeking his help works best when Boötes is overhead.
Throughout the centuries, this constellation was considered a weather maker. Roman naturalist and author Pliny the Elder (Gaius Plinius Secundus, 23–79 CE) noted that this constellation’s rising at dusk “portended great tempests” in the spring rainy season that could bring violet storms.12 If you engage in weather magic, call on Boötes to aid you. Use an oak or hazel wand to point to each cardinal direction as you say: “Rain, rain, go away; Come again another day. Bring skies that are fair and blue; Boötes for this I call on you.”
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Canes Venatici: The Hunting Dogs/Energy of Renewal
Pronunciations: Canes Venatici (KAN-es veh-NAHT-ih-see);
Canum Venaticorum (KAY-num veh-NAHT-ih-KOR-um)
Visible Latitudes: 90° North to 40° South
Constellation Abbreviation: CVn
Bordering Constellations: Boötes, Ursa Major
Description: Canes Venatici is a constellation without a memorable pattern, and it is usually noted on star charts by two or three of its brightest stars.
To Find: Canes Venatici is a dim constellation located between Boötes and Ursa Major, slightly closer to and under the bear’s tail. Draw an imaginary line from the star at the end of the Great Bear’s tail to the star at the end of Leo the Lion’s tail. Canes Venatici is about one third of the distance from the Great Bear.
Figure 4.3. Canes Venatici represents the energy of spring and renewal.
As previously mentioned, this constellation represents the leashed hounds of Boötes the Herdsman. Originally these stars were split between Ursa Major and Boötes with some of them representing Boötes’s club. Mistakes in translating Ptolemy’s work from Greek to Arabic and then into Medieval Latin resulted in the word “club” ending up as “dog.” Boötes was first depicted accompanied by dogs on the 1533 star map of German astronomer Peter Apian (1495–1552). By the seventeenth century, the dogs had acquired names. Asterion, meaning “little star” or “starry” in Greek, marked the northern dog, and Chara, meaning “joy,” the southern dog. Over time, the name Chara was also adopted for the name of the northern dog, which tends to cause some confusion.
Previously, these stars were part of a constellation called Cor Caroli, “the Heart of Charles.” It was named in honor of King Charles I, who was executed in 1649 during England’s Civil War. The constellation was also called Cor Caroli Regis Martyris, “the Heart of Charles the Martyred King,” and first appeared on star maps in 1673. Cor Caroli is now used as the name of the southern dog.
In medieval times, the influence of this constellation was believed to bestow a keen mind as well as faithfulness.
Notable Stars in Canes Venatici
Official Designation: Alpha Canum Venaticorum
Traditional Name: Cor Caroli
Pronunciation: core ka-ROLE-ee
Cor Caroli is a double star located on the neck of the southern dog. Alpha-1 is a yellow star and Alpha-2 is white. Cor Caroli is the northern anchor point for the Great Diamond asterism.
Official Designation: Beta Canum Venaticorum
Traditional Names: Asterion; Chara
Pronunciations: as-TEE-ree-on; CHAH-ruh
Asterion/Chara is a yellow star that marks the northern dog. Although it causes confusion, this star of the northern dog is known by two names, one of which was the former name of the southern dog.
Official Designation: Gamma Canum Venaticorum
Traditional Name: La Superba
Pronunciation: LAH sue-PER-bah
La Superba is one of the reddest stars in the sky. It was named the Superb One by Italian astronomer Pierto Angelo Secchi (1818–1878) because of its striking color and its change in brightness, which occurs every 160 days. This star is not used in depictions of the dogs.
Magical Interpretations and Uses for Canes Venatici
Like a number of other spring constellations, the dogs have a dual nature. Throughout time, the dog has been portrayed as a dangerous creature of the night and of the otherworld as well as a faithful companion, guardian, and guide. The dog was associated with themes of spring in the ancient cultures of Europe. According to Lithuanian professor and archaeologist Marija Gimbutas (1921–1994), dogs represented the energy of spring and renewal. Associated with life and death, dogs were the guardians of life who oversaw the growth of vegetation and the fallow periods of rest. According to Gimbutas, “they promote the lunar cycle and plant growth” and functioned as a symbol of becoming.13
Canes Venatici can be a powerful influence for your garden, especially a vegetable garden, where the dog’s association with fertility and abundance would be apropos. An outdoor statue of a dog would work well to draw on the energy of this constellation. We can take a cue from the ancients who portrayed processions of dogs on their pottery to encourage the growth of plants. Don’t worry about being an artist as you can draw or paint the most simple side view to represent dogs end to end (snout to tail) to depict a procession. As an alternative, you could draw two dogs to represent Asterion and Cor Caroli. The image does not have to be large; in fact, I like to draw them on a few bricks that I place around the garden in early spring.
At Beltane, show the fairies that you honor their legendary Cu Sith, the green fairy dog, by placing a green toy dog near flowers in your garden or inside your home. Because dogs were believed to possess supernatural powers including shape-shifting, call on Canes Venatici for aid in your divination practices or other psychic endeavors. In addition, because dogs are well known for their guidance and protection, Canes Venatici can be called upon for protection while traveling or for guidance when journeying. To foster the energy of this constellation during all of these activities, wear a dog collar around your ankle or wrist.
In classic Mediterranean and Celtic myth, dogs were associated with the power of healing, perhaps because of the effect of their self-healing licking. To enlist their magical support for someone you love, write the name of the person on a piece of paper. Fold it up as small as you can and say three times (filling in the blank on the last line with the name of the person to whom you want to direct healing energy): “Star dogs, star dogs, in the spring; Shine on high and healing bring. Loyal dogs, Canes Venatici; Help bring health to [name] for me.”
Do this on a clear, starry night and then place the paper on a windowsill or outside. The next day bury it in the ground.
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Centaurus: The Centaur/Chiron the Healer
Pronunciations: Centaurus (sen-TOR-us); Centauri (sen-TOR-ee)
Visible Latitudes: 25° North to 90° South
Constellation Abbreviation: Cen
Bordering Constellations: Crux, Hydra, Lupus
Description: The centaur’s front legs are marked by two of the brightest stars in the southern sky, Alpha and Beta Centauri.
To Find: Although this constellation can be seen across the southern United States, it is below the horizon for many of us in the Northern Hemisphere. Find the bright star Spica in Virgo and draw an imaginary line south beyond the tail of Hydra the Water Snake. The next constellation to the south is Centaurus.
This constellation was associated with the mythical half-man, half-horse centaur. Sources differ on which centaur the constellation represents, but it is usually considered to be Chiron, who was a mentor to Achilles, Hercules, and Asclepius. Chiron was said to be wise and gentle, unlike the wild and less-civilized centaur Sagittarius.
According to legend, Chiron was the son of Cronus, the Titan god of time, and the sea nymph Philyra. When Cronus’s dalliance with Philyra was almost discovered by his wife Rhea, he turned himself into a horse. The resulting child of his union with Philyra was a hybrid of human and horse. As a teacher, Chiron was well known for his knowledge of medicine, music, and hunting. Ironically, he was hit by one of his former pupil’s (Hercules) arrows that had been poisoned with the blood of Hydra the Water Snake. There was no cure and because Chiron was immortal (as the son of time), he suffered rather than died. Zeus came to the rescue, releasing him from his earthly bonds and placing him in the heavens.
In other Greek legends, Centaurus taught the Argonauts how to read the sky and placed an image of himself among the stars to guide them across the sea. In addition, Centaurus was often depicted on star maps sacrificing Lupus the Wolf on Ara, the constellation that represents an altar.
Figure 4.4. According to Greek Mythology, Centaurus represents the centaur Chiron, a healer and teacher.
Located in the Southern Hemisphere, Centaurus was catalogued by Ptolemy in the second century, but mentioned in earlier writings of astronomer Eudoxus. The constellation was also called Hippocrator, which means “the ruler of horses.” The Babylonians equated this constellation with a Bison-man that was often depicted with four legs like a centaur and sometimes as a Minotaur with two animal (instead of human) legs.
Ptolemy equated the stars in the human part of this constellation with the energy of Venus and Mercury, and those in the animal part with Venus and Jupiter. In medieval medicine, Centaurus was believed to foster good health and long life.
Notable Stars in Centaurus
Official Designation: Alpha Centauri
Traditional Names: Rigil Kentaurus; Toliman
Pronunciations: RYE-jill ken-TAW-rus; toll-ee-MAN
Alpha-3 Traditional Name: Proxima
Pronunciation: PROK-sa-muh
Alpha Centauri is one of the brightest and most famous stars. It is one of the few that is known most widely by its official designation. After the sun in our solar system, Alpha Centauri is the nearest star to Earth. It is actually a multiple star system with a pair of similar stars. Alpha Centauri-1 is a yellow-white star and Alpha-2 is orange. The third star in Alpha Centauri is a red dwarf called Proxima. The name Rigil Kentaurus, which is often shortened to Rigil Kent, comes from Arabic and means “the foot of the centaur.” The name Toliman also comes from Arabic and means “hereafter.” Alpha Centauri has also been known as Bungula, a name that comes from a Latin word meaning “hoof.” This star supports psychic abilities.
Official Designation: Beta Centauri
Traditional Names: Agena; Hadar
Pronunciations: ah-JEEN-ah; hah-DAHR
This blue-white star is located on the leg of the centaur. Its traditional name, Agena, is Latin for “knee.” The name Hadar comes from Arabic and means “soil” or “earth.” This star is associated with health, honor, and friendship.
Magical Interpretations and Uses for Centaurus
Like many of the spring constellations, Centaurus presents us with duality and balance. Here we are dealing with the duality of being half-human and half-animal and the struggle in bringing these two natures together. When we find ourselves struggling with two aspects of self, we can call on Centaurus for guidance or to simply assist us with coming into balance.
Since Centaurus is most often equated with Chiron, we will focus on his qualities, most notably that of a healer. For help in drawing down the energy of Centaurus for healing, lay out the constellation’s star pattern using pieces of amethyst, clear quartz, moonstone, hematite, or moss agate. In addition to the crystals and gemstones, have a small bowl of spring water or if you live near the ocean, seawater. Hold the bowl between your hands as you say: “Centaurus, I call on you to send forth your light to charge this water with healing energy.”
Visualize the energy of Centaurus coming through your celestial chakras, into your body, and into the water. Dip a finger into the water and then draw the Centaurus pattern of stars on the part of your body that needs healing. If this is not easy to do, draw the pattern on the palm of your hand and visualize the healing energy flowing to the area of your body that needs it. When you are finished with your visualization, take the bowl outside and pour the remaining water on the ground as you say: “Centaurus, may you always be strong, and may your stars shine forever. Blessed be.”
According to some legends, Chiron taught music and other skills to the children of the gods. In addition, he has been associated with psychic abilities and serving community needs. We can call on Centaurus to provide us with wisdom as we embark on these endeavors with this incantation: “Chiron the centaur, shining above; Send me your wisdom, healing, and love. May this year unfold like music so sweet; I bid honors to you. Merry meet.”
To honor Centaurus or for aid in drawing down his power, plant the flowering herb known as Centaury or Common Centaury (Centaurium erythraea) in your garden. In the Middle Ages this plant was used as a cure-all. It was believed to have the power to attract luck and to ward off evil. Its folk names include Chironia and Centaur’s Hoof. If you don’t have this plant in your garden, you might find it in a meadow or woodland. Wherever you find it, pick three small flowering sprigs for your altar. Spread them fanlike with their stems touching and flowers toward you to represent the energy of Alpha Centauri. Because it is a triple star it carries the symbolism of the sacred number three and can be used to boost magical and spiritual energy.
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Corona Borealis: The Northern Crown/Guidance and Power
Pronunciations: Corona Borealis (kuh-ROE-nuh bore-ee-AL-iss);
Coronae Borealis (kuh-ROE-nye bore-ee-AL-iss)
Visible Latitudes: 90° North to 50° South
Constellation Abbreviation: CrB
Bordering Constellations: Boötes, Hercules, Serpens
Description: Seven of the most visible stars are fairly evenly spaced and form a semicircle.
To Find: Draw an imaginary line east and slightly south from the end of the Big Dipper’s handle through the top of the kite shape in Boötes. Look for the distinctive semicircle of Corona Borealis to the east of Boötes.
In Latin, Corona Borealis means “the crown of the north.” This name was translated from the Greek korone, “crown,” and combined with Boreas, the name of the north wind. Corona Borealis has also been translated as “the crown of the north wind.” This constellation was first catalogued by Ptolemy and known simply as Corona. The ancient Greeks called it the Wreath as well as Ariadnaea Corona, “Ariadne’s Tiara.” It was also called the Coiled Hair of Ariadne. Most often it represented the crown of Ariadne, the daughter of King Minos of Crete.
According to myth, Ariadne helped the hero Theseus find his way out of the maze after he killed the Minotaur. The Minotaur was a creature with a human body but the head of a bull. Ariadne fell in love with Theseus and gave him a ball of thread to take with him into the maze so he could find his way out again. He promised to take her with him when he left Crete, but instead he abandoned her. She wasn’t alone for long, as Dionysus began courting her. This constellation’s circlet of stars represents the crown she wore on her wedding day.
The Romans also regarded this constellation as a crown and called it the Crown of Vulcan. They also called it the Crown of Amphitrite, a sea goddess, because of its proximity to Delphinus, the dolphin constellation. At various times, Corona Borealis was considered part of the Boötes constellation, representing a sickle in his hand.
Figure 4.5. Corona Borealis is the celestial crown of authority, knowledge, and spirituality.
In Celtic Welsh mythology, Corona Borealis was called Caer Arianrhod, which means “the castle of Arianrhod.” It is also known as the Silver Wheel (of birth, death, and rebirth)and associated with the moon. The semicircle of this constellation’s stars is thought to have been associated with Arianrhod because its shape suggests a wheel as well as a crescent moon.
Ptolemy equated this constellation with Venus and Mercury. Corona Borealis is said to influence one’s ability to assume a position of command.
Notable Star in Corona Borealis
Official Designation: Alpha Coronae Borealis
Traditional Names: Alphecca; Gemma
Pronunciations: al-FECK-ah; JEM-uh
Alphecca is a double star: Alpha-1 is white and Alpha-2 is yellow. Its traditional name comes from an Arabic root word that means “break” or “broken,” which is a reference to the shape of the constellation as a broken circle. Corona Borealis was also regarded as a broken bowl or dish. This star’s Latin name is Gemma, which means “jewel.” Another Latin name that was used during the Middle Ages is Gnosia Stella, or just Gnosia, meaning “the star of knowledge.” Alphecca was one of the fifteen important fixed stars in medieval magic. It is associated with artistic abilities and goodwill. The alpha star in Corona Australis the Southern Crown also has Alphecca as part of its name.
Magical Interpretations and Uses for Corona Borealis
Because Corona Borealis is associated with a crown, let’s first consider this symbolism. A crown indicates a person’s position and/or authority and his or her ability to provide protection. With this in mind, we can call on Corona Borealis for guidance and protection in our everyday endeavors. As a celestial crown, Corona Borealis can take on a spiritual meaning and aid in illuminating our spiritual paths. In addition, its name Gnosia comes from the Greek gnonai, “to know” or “to perceive,” which enhances its role for providing guidance. Its association with knowledge and perception makes the energy of Corona Borealis apropos for divination and any form of psychic work.
A crown is also symbolic of success and the ability to rise above things that might otherwise hold us back. With this in mind, light a semicircle of seven candles as you sit in front of your altar. Imagine the stars of Corona Borealis shining in the heavens and then slowly descending to form a crown on your head as you visualize your success.
Similarly, instead of a crown you can choose to see Corona Borealis as a bowl or dish as you sit in front of your altar. Cup your hands, one in the other with palms upward, as you visualize the bowl of Corona Borealis pouring silvery light down into your hands. With this light comes blessings and the ability to attain what you desire.
By equating Corona Borealis with the Silver Wheel of Arianrhod, this constellation becomes instrumental in turning the Wheel of the Year as the world is reborn after winter. Corona Borealis can be used to draw down the energy of Arianrhod, for although she is associated with the moon, she is a goddess of night and magic. Like other spring constellations, Caer Arianrhod also carries the theme of duality and balance as seen in the goddess’s sons Lleu (associated with light) and Dylan (associated with dark).
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Corvus: The Crow/Messenger from Other Realms
Pronunciations: Corvus (CORE-vus); Corvi (CORE-vee)
Visible Latitudes: 60° North to 90° South
Constellation Abbreviation: Crv
Bordering Constellations: Crater, Hydra, Virgo
Description: The most recognizable pattern is an uneven rectangle or trapezoid of four stars with two spokes protruding at different angles.
To Find: Corvus is low in the sky near the horizon below Virgo. Locate the bright star Spica in Virgo, and as the saying goes “curve down to Corvus.” It is just above the tail of Hydra the Water Snake.
This constellation is located in the Southern Hemisphere, but can be seen low in the sky in the north. Meaning “crow” or “raven” in Latin, Corvus is the genus name for both of these birds. The Babylonians knew this constellation as the Great Storm Bird and depicted it perched on a sea serpent, pecking at its tail. It was associated with Adad, a god of rain and storms, because the constellation was most visible just before the rainy season. The ancient Arabs originally regarded this constellation as a camel, but after European influence it became known as a crow or raven.
In Greek mythology, the crow was sacred to Apollo and Athena. Corvus shares a legend concerning Apollo with the constellations Crater the Cup and Hydra the Water Snake. Versions of the story vary as to whether Apollo was simply thirsty or needed water for an altar sacrifice. At any rate, he sent Corvus with a cup to get water. Distracted from his mission by a fig tree, the crow decided to wait until the fruit ripened. After his feast, Corvus finally fetched the water and returned to Apollo. To bolster his alibi for being late, Corvus took a snake along to show Apollo that he had to subdue it to get the water. Angry at the obvious ruse, Apollo threw the crow, the cup, and the snake into the sky. He also put a curse on Corvus by placing him near the cup, but never allowing him to reach it. Perpetual thirst is said to be the reason why crows and ravens make raspy sounds.
Another well-known story about a crow and a cup is one of Aesop’s fables. It tells about a thirsty crow that could not reach the water in a cup so he carefully dropped stones into it to raise the water level so he could drink. This story illustrates crows as intelligent and patient rather than greedy and deceitful.
Figure 4.6. Corvus is the night crow, messenger of wisdom and prophecy.
According to Ptolemy, the energy of Corvus is equated with Mars and Saturn. Its magical influence was believed to give rise to craftiness, ingenuity, and prophecy.
Notable Stars in Corvus
Official Designation: Gamma Corvi
Traditional Name: Gienah
Pronunciation: JEEN-ah
Sharing its traditional name with Epsilon Cygni in the constellation Cygnus the Swan, Gienah is a blue-white star and the brightest in the constellation. Also spelled Giena, the name comes from an Arabic phrase meaning “the right wing of the crow.” In depictions of the constellation, this star is on the right side; however, from the bird’s perspective it is actually his left wing. Together, both wing stars, Gienah and Algorab, were considered one of the important fifteen fixed stars used in medieval magic.
Official Designation: Delta Corvi
Traditional Name: Algorab
Pronunciation: ALL-gor-ab
Algorab is a double star on the crow’s other wing. Delta Corvi-1 is a yellow-white star and Delta Corvi-2 has been described as lilac or purple. This star’s traditional name comes from Arabic and means “crow” or “raven.” Along with Gienah, Algorab points toward Spica in Virgo and is one of the fifteen fixed stars.
Magical Interpretations and Uses for Corvus
To the Greeks, crows and ravens functioned as messengers of the gods, carrying wisdom and secrets. The crow was considered an attribute of Mithras and a mischievous associate of Loki and Mercury. As an important symbol of war and death in Celtic mythology, the triple goddess known as the Morrígan (Morrígan, Badb, and Macha) appeared as a crow over battlefields. Because crows are scavengers and feed on dead things, they came to be regarded as messengers from the otherworld.
The crow is considered to be on the edge between light and dark, life and death. In the cycle of life and death, death gives way to new life. Like so many of the spring constellations, Corvus has a dual nature. He is the solar crow, white by day (we cannot see him) and black by night (his stars reveal him). Perhaps it is the crow’s duality that makes him mysterious.
The Celts believed crows and ravens to have powers of divination and prophecy. For this reason, we can call on Corvus to aid in divination and otherworld journeys. If you have seen crows in your neighborhood, go to that place on the day you plan your divination session. Wait, watch, and listen. Quite often more than one will appear. When you see or hear one, close your eyes and reach out to it with your energy. Don’t try to do anything, just observe what you feel. Be patient, and when you sense a slight shift in energy begin to chant: “Corvus, Corvus, black as coal; May your wisdom touch my soul. When you fly by dark of night; May my energy with you take flight.” When you are back home and ready for your divination session, take a moment to settle yourself and recall the feeling of that energy shift.
As an alternative to locating a crow, place a picture of one on your altar, and then take time to center and ground your energy. When you are ready, light a black candle and recite the Corvus chant noted above. Proceed with your divination or journeying.
If you sense that the crow is a totem animal for you, find a picture or figurine of a crow to keep on your altar. In the early spring, place it in a window exposed to the southwestern sky at night as you recite the Corvus chant. Draw down the energy of Corvus and release it into the picture or figurine. Leave it on the windowsill overnight, and then return it to your altar so your sacred space will absorb the energy of the constellation for a boost of crow magic.
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Crater: The Cup/Chalice of the Goddess
Pronunciations: Crater (KRAY-ter); Crateris (kray-TER-iss)
Visible Latitudes: 65° North to 90° South
Constellation Abbreviation: Crt
Bordering Constellations: Corvus, Hydra, Leo, Virgo
Description: Six of this constellation’s stars form a crescent shape. Two other stars suggest an uneven rectangle attached to the crescent.
To Find: Locate the bright star Spica in Virgo. Crater is to the southwest of Spica and west of Corvus the Crow. Crater and Corvus are tucked into a curve of Hydra the Water Snake.
The name Crater is Latin and means “cup” or “bowl.” On old star maps this constellation is often depicted as a double-handled chalice. In some myths, it represented the cup or goblet of Apollo. See the entry for Corvus for the story about Apollo that links Crater with Corvus and Hydra. According to other legends, this constellation was called the Bowl of Bacchus. Due to its association with Dionysus, who is also called Bacchus, Crater was also linked with sensuality and enjoyment. Additionally, this constellation was known as Ganymede’s Cup and represented the sacred goblet used to serve nectar to the Olympian gods.
Figure 4.7. Crater represents the chalice of life and is a primary symbol of the Goddess.
To the Babylonians, this constellation represented the cup of Ishtar, who used it “for brewing fertility.” 14 Noting that the Nile flooded at the time of year when Crater was visible, the Egyptians also associated it with fertility. To the Celts, this constellation represented the prophetic drinking vessel of Bran’s cauldron.
Ptolemy equated the energy of Crater with Venus and to some degree with Mercury.
Notable Stars in Crater
Official Designation: Alpha Crateris
Traditional Name: Alkes
Pronunciation: AL-kez
Alkes is an orange star located on the base or stem of the cup. Its name comes from Arabic and means “the wine cup.” Variations in the spelling of this name include Alker and Alhes. This star is associated with spirituality and mysticism.
Official Designation: Delta Crateris
Traditional Name: Labrum
Pronunciation: LAY-brum
This yellow star is actually the brightest in the constellation. Labrum is one of the six stars that form the bowl of the cup. In Latin its name means “lip.” Labrum is associated with psychic abilities.
Magical Interpretations and Uses for Crater
Classic mythology links the three constellations of Corvus the Crow, Crater the Cup, and Hydra the Snake with Apollo. However, for twenty-first-century Pagans and Wiccans, all three are ancient and powerful symbols of the Great Mother Goddess.
The cup, or chalice, is the well-known magical and ritual tool for the element water. It is the symbol of the Goddess and of feminine powers. The cup represents the vessel of plenty, nourishing breast, and sacred womb. It is the chalice of life and an appropriate symbol for spring. Because the chalice on our altars represents the Goddess, we can use it to draw down the energy of this constellation to amplify her presence. This can also be used to bless your altar and ritual space.
Place a plain black cloth on your altar and a single candle in whatever color represents the Goddess to you. Use star-shaped glitter/confetti to lay out the star pattern of Crater. Fill your ritual chalice with water to represent the Goddess’s sacred moisture. Stand with the cup in both hands at arm’s length in front of you as you draw down the energy of Crater, and then say:
“May the abundance of your earth bring stability and strength to this altar.
May the freshness of your air bring clarity of mind to this altar.
May the heat of your fire bring healing and passion to this altar.
May the depth of your water bring forth your ancient wisdom.
Great Goddess of all things, bless this space and make it sacred in your eyes.
So mote it be.”
Because the cup/chalice represents a womb, Crater is an appropriate constellation for spellwork relating to fertility. Also, as the bowl of Bacchus or the cup of Dionysus, call on Crater’s energy at Beltane or for any magic relating to sensuality in the lusty month of May.
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Hydra: The Water Snake/Symbol of the Goddess and Transformation
Pronunciations: Hydra (HIGH-druh); Hydrae (HIGH-dry)
Visible Latitudes: 54° North to 83° South
Constellation Abbreviation: Hya
Bordering Constellations: Cancer, Canis Minor, Centaurus, Corvus, Crater, Leo, Libra, Monoceros, Virgo
Description: Hydra winds its way down from the Northern into the Southern Hemisphere. Resembling a long, twisting snake, Hydra has three distinctive parts: the head, the back where Crater the Cup is located, and the tail where Corvus the Crow is located.
To Find: From the two stars in the bowl of the Big Dipper near the handle, draw an imaginary line southwest to the bright star Regulus at the bottom of the sickle shape in Leo. Continue that line to the next bright star, which is Alphard in Hydra. The compact group of stars to the northwest of Alphard marks the head of Hydra. The body of Hydra winds to the east and south under Crater and Corvus.
Hydra is the longest and largest constellation and is actually in the Southern Hemisphere. The name Hydra is Latin and means “water snake.” In Greek mythology, Hydra appears in the story about Apollo’s crow, which is represented by Corvus. The details of this story are included in the entry for the Corvus constellation.
Hydra is also associated with the serpent of Lake Lerna, the famed water snake with multiple heads. In different versions of the story, Hydra had anywhere from seven to one hundred heads and when one was cut off, two would grow in its place if the wound had not been seared by fire. In classic mythology, killing Hydra was one of the twelve labors, or feats, to be performed by Hercules. In addition to being the offspring of Echidna (the mother of all monsters), Hydra was the foster child of Hera, goddess of the sky and the heavens. Lake Lerna was believed to be a portal to the underworld, and Hydra served as its gatekeeper. Several of Hercules’s tasks involved killing animals sacred to Hera, which we see today as attempts to destroy all symbols and traces of Goddess worship.
To the ancient Arabs and Hebrews, the snake represented all that was evil. This is reflected in their names for the constellation, which generally meant “the abhorred.” Quite the opposite for the Egyptians to whom Hydra represented the life-giving River Nile. In medieval magic, Hydra was considered a bringer of wisdom and riches. Ptolemy equated Hydra with Saturn and Venus.
Notable Star in Hydra
Official Designation: Alpha Hydrae
Traditional Name: Alphard
Pronunciation: AL-fard
Alphard is a red star located on the forward part of the snake’s body. Its name is Arabic and means “the solitary one.” Alphard was also known as the Backbone of the Serpent, however, astronomer Tycho Brahe called it Cor Hydrae, “the Heart of Hydra.” This star has been associated with untamed emotions and darker passions.
Magical Interpretations and Uses for Hydra
The Great Mother Goddess represents the principle of life, reproduction, and power. The snake and bird are two of the oldest and most important creatures associated with the Goddess. For our purposes here, we will only discuss the snake. The obvious cycles of shedding its skin linked the snake with the moon and fertility. Further, being associated with water connected snakes with the life-giving, primordial energy of the Goddess. Ironically, Hydra is best seen during the month of March when St. Patrick is honored for driving the snakes (Goddess worship) out of Ireland. Because of this, I like to represent the ancient power of the Goddess on my altar with a small plastic snake or two on March 17.
Figure 4.8. Hydra the snake represents one of the ancient and most powerful
symbols of the Great Goddess.
The snake was also a symbol of healing, and it has been suggested that the name of the healer god Asclepius was derived from a Greek word for serpent. Hygeia, the goddess of health and the daughter or companion of Asclepius, was often depicted with a serpent drinking from a cup that she held for it. In addition, both of these deities were depicted with serpents winding around their staffs. A good way to draw the energy of Hydra into a healing circle is with a spiral dance. The coiling motion of this dance is reminiscent of a snake’s movement. Begin by standing in a circle with everyone holding hands. The lead person will drop the hand of the person to her or his left and begin to walk to the left inside the circle, leading the others in a chain. The leader continues to spiral inward making the circles smaller and smaller. When the center is reached, the leader turns to the left, leading the chain outward between rows of other dancers who are still spiraling inward. When the dance is finished, have everyone join hands in a circle again to focus their minds and energy toward the person who needs healing.
Because snakes are symbolic of change, this constellation can help bring change into your life and help initiate transformation. Position a small plastic snake in a shallow bowl or saucer of water, which is an element symbolic of change. Place it outside or on a windowsill on a clear night as you ask for Hydra’s help in raising energy for your intention. Repeat the following three times: “May the flow of Hydra’s energy and the radiance of the Great Mother bring the changes I seek.” In the morning, pour the water on the ground or in a potted plant if you live in an apartment. Put the snake on your altar or another place where you will see it frequently and be reminded of your purpose.
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Leo: The Lion/Solar Power and Protection
Pronunciations: Leo (LEE-oh); Leonis (lee-OH-niss)
Visible Latitudes: 90° North to 65° South
Constellation Abbreviation: Leo
Bordering Constellations: Cancer, Crater, Hydra, Ursa Major, Virgo
Description: Six stars form a backward question mark pattern also known as the Sickle of Leo. This pattern forms the lion’s head and mane. Regulus, the brightest star in the constellation, appears as the period in the question mark. To the east of the question mark is a triangle that forms Leo’s back leg and tuft of fur at the end of his tail.
To Find: Draw an imaginary line from the North Star at the end of the handle of the Little Dipper toward the two stars in the bowl of the Big Dipper, opposite the handle. Continue that line to the southwest to the bright star of Regulus located at the bottom of the question mark/sickle. The bright star to the east of Regulus is Denebola, which marks the end of Leo’s tail.
Leo is one of the oldest recognized constellations. From approximately 6000 to 3000 BCE, it was prominent during the summer solstice, giving it, and lions in general, a connection with the sun. The solstice also coincided with the flooding of the Nile, which gave Leo the status as a protective deity of sacred water as well as fertility of the land. The lion-head motif often seen on fountains carries this symbolism of protecting water.
Figure 4.9. Leo is the harbinger of spring and summer.
The ancient Persians and Mesopotamians regarded this constellation as a lion, and in mythology Leo represented the lion that Hercules killed as one of his twelve tasks. As the story goes, this lion lived near the town of Nemea southwest of Corinth in Greece. Weapons could not pierce its skin, but Hercules was able to strangle the animal. After skinning it, he wore the pelt as a protective cloak. Because the lion was the king of beasts, his spirit was placed among the stars.
According to Nicholas Culpeper, Leo influences the heart, back, spine, and thymus gland. Ptolemy equated the energy of most of the stars in Leo with Saturn and Mars, Venus, or Mercury, depending on their location. According to modern astrology, Leo is equated with the energy of the sun.
Notable Stars in Leo
Official Designation: Alpha Leonis
Traditional Name: Regulus
Pronunciation: REG-you-luss
Regulus is the brightest star in Leo and marks the lion’s heart. It is actually a triple star. Alpha-1 is blue-white, Alpha-2 is orange, and Alpha-3 is red. In Latin, Regulus means “little king” or “little prince.” This star’s Arabic name means “the heart of the lion.” Regulus was one of the royal stars of Persia and was called the Guardian of the North. In times past, navigators used it to determine longitude. Regulus was also one of the fifteen important fixed stars in medieval magic and associated with power and success.
Official Designation: Beta Leonis
Traditional Name: Denebola
Pronunciation: deh-NEB-oh-lah
With a name from Arabic meaning “the lion’s tail,” Denebola marks the tuft of fur on Leo’s tail. This blue star is the western anchor point for the Spring Triangle and Great Diamond asterisms. Denebola is associated with nonconformity that stimulates creativity and ingenuity.
Official Designation: Gamma Leonis
Traditional Name: Algieba
Pronunciation: al-JEE-bah
Algieba is a double star located on the lion’s neck, despite its name meaning “the forehead.” In Latin it was called Juba, which has a more appropriate meaning of “mane.” Gamma-1 is orange and Gamma-2 is yellow. It is associated with promoting love and providing protection against enemies.
Official Designation: Delta Leonis
Traditional Names: Zosma; Duhr
Pronunciations: ZOSS-mah; door
Zosma is a blue-white star that marks the lion’s hindquarters. Its traditional name is Greek and means “the girdle.” Its other name, Duhr, comes from an Arabic phrase that means “the lion’s back.”
Magical Interpretations and Uses for Leo
Leo is a harbinger of spring, the increasing light, and the promise of warmer days to come. If you have a fountain or water feature in your home or garden, ask Leo to be its guardian and place an image or figurine of a lion nearby. The star pattern of Leo drawn on a fence or other fixture in a vegetable garden invites fertility and abundance. As a Babylonian royal star and Guardian of the North, call on Regulus when evoking that direction in spring rituals.
Although most often equated with sun gods such as Amun and Mithras, the lion is also symbolic of feminine powers—lionesses are the primary hunters. Some historians believe that the Babylonians may have regarded this constellation as a lioness. In addition, lions were depicted at the feet of Inanna and Ishtar. Call down the energy of Leo to help you connect with both male and female deities.
More than anything, Leo represents power, protection, and courage—attributes that Hercules wanted to tap into after slaying the lion of Nemea by wearing its pelt as a cloak. Call on Leo for help in building energy for spells of protection and to foster courage. To do this, you will need a piece of paper, a cotton swab, a bowl, a sharp knife or athame, and a lemon. The color and shape of the lemon is symbolic of the sun. Cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice into a bowl. Dip the swab into the juice and use it to write what you seek on the paper. When the juice dries, the writing will become invisible. Fold the paper and place it on your altar until the next starry night. For the second part of this you will need a candle and a cauldron or a safe place to burn the paper. Go outside or sit by a window where you can see the stars. Hold the paper between your palms and say: “Powerful Leo, King of all; Know my wish, hear my call. As you stride across the heavens in regal glory; Your blessings I ask, to fulfill this story.”
Repeat this two more times as you drawn down the energy of Leo. Continue to hold the paper in your hands as you visualize what you seek. When it is clear in your mind, go to your altar and light a candle. Hold the paper close enough to warm it, but not burn it. The writing will become visible again. Once it is, allow the paper to catch fire and then drop it into your cauldron.
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Libra: The Scales/Balance and Justice
Pronunciations: Libra (LEE-brah); Librae (LEE-bray)
Visible Latitudes: 65° North to 90° South
Constellation Abbreviation: Lib
Bordering Constellations: Hydra, Lupus, Ophiuchus, Scorpius, Serpens, Virgo
Description: The most notable shape in Libra is a large trapezoid of four stars.
To Find: Locate Spica in Virgo at the bottom of the Great Diamond asterism and draw an imaginary line to the east. Libra is a relatively faint constellation east and slightly south of Virgo.
Libra is a constellation of the Southern Hemisphere that can be seen throughout most of the north. Originally the Greeks considered Libra part of Virgo and associated the whole constellation with Themis, the goddess of justice. Later they considered Libra part of Scorpio and named it Chelae Scorpionis, “the claws of the Scorpion.” The Romans regarded Libra as a separate constellation that represented the scales of justice. The name Libra is Latin and means “the weighing scales.”
To the Egyptians, the constellation represented the scales on which one’s heart was weighed after death. A heart weighing more than a feather indicated that the deceased had done some bad deeds and would be destined to wander in oblivion rather than enjoy a good afterlife. Libra also represented the balance of the sun in the upper- and under-worlds. In China and India, the constellation represented balance, and the Sumerians called it the Balance of Heaven.
According to Culpeper, Libra influences the kidneys, lumbar region, skin, adrenal glands, and back of the body. According to modern astrology, Libra is equated with Venus.
Figure 4.10. Libra is the symbol of balance and justice.
Notable Stars in Libra
Official Designation: Alpha Librae
Traditional Name: Zubenelgenubi
Pronunciation: zoo-BEN-el-jeh-NEW-bee
Zubenelgenubi is a double star in which Alpha-1 is yellow and Alpha-2 is blue. Its name means “the southern claw” in Arabic, which is a holdover from the time when it was considered part of Scorpius. Now it usually marks a point on the balance arm in depictions of Libra. In the past, this star was believed to have negative influences.
Official Designation: Beta Librae
Traditional Name: Zubeneschamali
Pronunciation: zoo-BEN-esh-ah-MAHL-ee
Zubeneschamali is the most visible star in the constellation. It is a blue star that usually appears somewhat greenish in color. Its name means “the northern claw” in Arabic. It usually marks the top of the scales in depictions of Libra. Zubeneschamali is associated with honor and ambition.
Together these two stars represent light and dark, the quintessential yin and yang of balance.
Magical Interpretations and Uses for Libra
Although the spring equinox may occur before Libra is visible to those of us in the Northern Hemisphere, the constellation is a reminder that this is a time to bring our lives into balance. I like the Egyptian idea of weighing one’s heart. Not to determine if we should walk in oblivion, but as an introspective exercise to bring our thoughts and emotions into balance. Draw the configuration of the Libra constellation at the top of a sheet of paper. On one side list your negative thoughts or emotions, and on the other side list things for which you are grateful. Do this quickly without giving it a lot of thought. Which side has more entries? More in the gratitude column is okay, but if you have listed more negative things take time to figure out what is going on in your life and how you might make things better. Call on this constellation for help in coming into balance. For Ostara, create the Libra star pattern with glitter/confetti or candles on your ritual altar to symbolize balance.
For aid in bringing your health into balance, draw the constellation on the outside of a mug that you use for herbal tea or other healthy drink. As you pour the beverage into the mug, say: “Stars of balance, I call on thee; Bring strength and good health to me.”
To balance the energy of your living space, lay out four pieces of amethyst, citrine, clear quartz, or turquoise (or one of each) in the trapezoid pattern of the constellation. These gemstones are associated with balance. You can also use smoky quartz, jade, aquamarine, or blue tourmaline, as these are associated with Libra.
Just as ancient people equated Libra with goddesses of justice, call on the power of this constellation for support in legal matters or whenever you need to right a wrong. Light a green, pink, or white candle that was prepared with chamomile, geranium, patchouli, or spikenard oil. Sit in front of your altar and as you light the candle, whisper: “Libra, Libra, shining in the night.” As you gaze into the flame, review your situation and then visualize the outcome you want to occur. When you are finished, put out the candle as you say: “Libra, Libra, shining in the night; Stars of justice, help make things right.”
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Ursa Major and Ursa Minor: The Great Bear and the Little Bear/
Turning the Wheel of the Year
Pronunciations: Ursa Major (ER-suh MAY-jor); Ursae Majoris (ER-sigh mah-JOR-iss)
Visible Latitudes: 90° North to 30°South
Constellation Abbreviation: UMa
Bordering Constellations: Boötes, Canes Venatici, Draco, Leo
Pronunciations: Ursa Minor (ER-suh MY-nor); Ursae Minoris (ER-sigh my-NOR-iss)
Visible Latitudes: 90° North to 10° South
Constellation Abbreviation: UMi
Bordering Constellations: Cepheus, Draco
Descriptions: The stars of the Big Dipper are a noticeable pattern within Ursa Major and form the hindquarters and tail of the Great Bear. A triangle of stars represents his head and snout. The four stars or bowl of the Little Dipper represent the body of the Little Bear, and the three stars in the handle its overly long tail.
To Find: The dipper asterisms are the most familiar shapes in the northern sky. Even though their positions change with the seasons, they are easy to find.
Around the world and throughout time, Ursa Major was most often regarded as a bear. The ancient Phoenicians and Persians regarded Ursa Major as a bear, while the Egyptians related it to what they knew and called it the Hippopotamus as well as the Dog of Set. The Algonquian people of North America called the constellation the Bear and the Hunters. However, because bears do not have long tails they considered the three stars of the Big Dipper’s handle as hunters following the bear. In Zuni lore, this constellation was called the Great White Bear of the Seven Stars.
Since ancient times, both constellations have been used for navigation to determine the direction north. Greek author Homer wrote that the hero Odysseus had to keep the bear on his left in order to sail east. The Celts also used the celestial bears for navigation.15
The Big Dipper is the name most widely used in the United States for the asterism in the tail and hindquarters of the Great Bear. During and after the Civil War, it was known as the Drinking Gourd and used by slaves to find their way to safety in the north. In Europe, the Big Dipper is known as the Plough, “plow.” In Old English, it was called Carles’s Waen or Charles’s Wain, “wagon.” The Welsh refer to it as Cerbyd Arthur, “Arthur’s Wain.” The four stars that form the bowl of the dipper are considered as the wheels of the wagon and the three stars of the handle the horses or oxen pulling it. Instead of a plow, in Latin it was called Septentriones, “the seven oxen.” To the Babylonians, the Big Dipper was the Wagon of Heaven. In addition, because the constellation did not rise or set it was associated with eternity and the afterlife.
To the Greeks and Romans, Ursa Major represented Callisto, the handmaiden of Artemis (Greek myth), and a member of the Dianic cult of women (Roman myth). In one version of the Roman legend, Jupiter’s affection for Callisto made his wife Juno jealous. To save her from Juno’s wrath, he turned Callisto into a bear to disguise her. Hearing about this, Juno tricked Diana into hunting the bear. Once more Jupiter intervened and placed Callisto in the heavens. Callisto’s son, Arcas, became the Little Bear of Ursa Minor. Of course, in the Greek legend Jupiter and Juno are Zeus and Hera. Another version of the Roman legend says that Diana turned Callisto into a bear and banished her because she broke the vow of chastity.
Figure 4.11. Circling the pole, the bears turn the Wheel of the Year.
The ancient Hindus associated the brightest stars of Ursa Major with the Seven Rishis and called the constellation Saptarshi, “the great sages.”
Ursa Minor was regarded as a bear only after it was considered a constellation in its own right during the sixth century BCE. Prior to that it was regarded as a wing on the back of Draco the Dragon. It is thought by some historians that at one time Ursa Minor may have been called the Hesperides in honor of the nymphs who tended the garden of paradise and Hera’s tree that bore golden apples. This name fits with legends of Hercules that play out amongst the stars because one of his tasks was to slay the dragon and steal the apples.
According to Ptolemy, the energy of Ursa Major is equated with Mars, while Ursa Minor is equated with Saturn and to some degree Venus.
Notable Stars in Ursa Major
Official Designation: Alpha Ursae Majoris
Traditional Name: Dubhe
Pronunciation: DOOB-huh
Official Designation: Beta Ursae Majoris
Traditional Name: Merak
Pronunciation: MER-ak
Dubhe, an orange star, and Merak, a blue-white star, are known together as the Pointers. They are located opposite the handle and mark the outer end of the bowl of the Big Dipper. They are called the Pointers because they point toward Polaris in Ursa Minor in one direction and toward Regulus in Leo in the other. Located on the back of the Great Bear, the name Dubhe is Arabic and means “bear.” Although it is not the brightest star, its position as the first of the seven stars in the Big Dipper made it worthy of the alpha designation. The name Merak also comes from Arabic and means “the loin.” It is located on the bear’s flank. The Pointers have also been known as the Keepers.
Notable Star in Ursa Minor
Official Designation: Alpha Ursae Minoris
Traditional Name: Polaris
Pronunciation: poe-LAHR-iss
Commonly known as the North Star and the Pole Star, Polaris is at the tip of the Little Bear’s tail. It is actually a double star, with one bright, yellow-white star and a smaller, dimmer companion of the same color. This is the nearest star to the celestial pole and has been used for navigation for centuries. Polaris has been known by many names including: Lodestar, the Steering Star, Stella Maris (sea star), and the Gate of Heaven.16 It was one of the fifteen fixed stars of medieval magic and used for protection against spells.
Magical Interpretations and Uses for Ursa Major and Ursa Minor
Circling the pole, the bears turn the Wheel of the Year. Across time and cultures bears have represented rebirth, renewal, power, and healing. Their hibernation was regarded as having power over life and death. Hibernation comes to an end as mother bears leave their dens with cubs that were born in the dark winter months. This young life emerging from under the ground is symbolic of reawakening and renewal. In the north, receding sea ice brings polar bears to land. It is no surprise that to indigenous people of Siberia and Alaska the bear was associated with elemental forces and the cycles of nature.
We can call on the celestial bears for energy to stir the elemental forces that hasten spring. Just as the she-bear represents a healing aspect of the Great Goddess, we can call on Ursa Major and Ursa Minor to bring healing to land that may have been damaged by the harshness of winter. We can also ask the she-bear to protect young animals, especially those born in the early spring when the weather is so unpredictable.
With the other interpretation of the stars representing a wagon or plow, we look to Ursa Major as a reminder of our task in making the fields and gardens ready for planting. Combined with the constellation Boötes, this plow and plowman stand as reminders of our ancestors whose livelihoods and survival were intimately connected with the earth. In addition, we can ask that their combined energies add blessings to the land and lead to a bountiful harvest in the autumn.
Now or at any time of year when travel is on your agenda, whisper a prayer to Polaris before departing. “North Star, Pole Star, shining bright; High above the world at night. ’Ere I travel by land, air, or sea; Stella Maris guide and protect me.”
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Virgo: The Virgin/Maiden and Mother Nurture the World
Pronunciations: Virgo (VER-go); Virginis (VER-jin-iss)
Visible Latitudes: 80° North to 80° South
Constellation Abbreviation: Vir
Bordering Constellations: Boötes, Corvus, Crater, Hydra, Leo, Libra, Serpens
Description: Positioned between Leo and Libra, this constellation forms a stick figure.
To Find: Follow the handle of the Big Dipper and according to the saying, “arc to Arcturus and then speed on to Spica.” Spica is the brightest star in Virgo and one of the brightest in the sky.
Although Virgo is usually called the Virgin, at one time the word also referred to “any virtuous matron.” 17 To the Greeks and Romans this constellation represented Demeter and Ceres, respectively. Just as Virgo was becoming visible, an annual festival in honor of Ceres was held in Rome during the second week of April. To the Greeks, Virgo represented Persephone as well as Demeter holding a sheaf of corn/grain. In Europe, the word corn is a general term for grain and not specifically maize as it is in the United States. The Greeks also associated Virgo with Aphrodite and Rhea.
Another interpretation of this constellation links it to Astraea, the Greek goddess of justice. In Egypt, the constellation was depicted on the temples of Dendera and Thebes holding what some scholars have interpreted as a distaff, a tool used in spinning, instead of a sheaf of grain. Additionally, Virgo was associated with Isis and Hathor.
In the region of the Euphrates River, Virgo represented Ishtar and Astarte, while to the people of India the constellation was known simply as the Maiden. Virgo was also associated with Atargatis the Syrian goddess of fertility. In Peru, Virgo was known as the Earth Mother.
Virgo carries out her role as a goddess of grain since she appears in the night sky during planting season. It becomes a background constellation for the sun in September and October during the time of the autumn harvest.
Ptolemy equated most of the energy of Virgo with Mercury and Mars, and with Venus influencing her mid-section. In modern astrology, Virgo is equated with Mercury. According to Culpeper, Virgo influences the intestines, abdomen, solar plexus, and parasympathetic nervous system.
Figure 4.12. Virgo represents the maiden and the mother, the fertile earth, and the cycles of nature.
Notable Stars in Virgo
Official Designation: Alpha Virginis
Traditional Name: Spica
Pronunciation: SPY-kah
Spica is a blue-white spectroscopic binary star. From Latin meaning “the head of grain,” Spica represents a sheaf of grain in Virgo’s left hand. Like Polaris, this star was used for navigation in ancient times. Ptolemy’s geographical reference on the earth for Spica was the Fortunate Islands, present-day Canary Islands, which may account for the star’s designation as the Fortunate One.18 Spica was one of the fifteen stars important in medieval magic, representing abundance and protection against danger. This star is the southern anchor point for the Spring Triangle and the Great Diamond, which is also called the Great Diamond of Virgo.
Official Designation: Gamma Virginis
Traditional Name: Porrima
Pronunciation: pour-EE-mah
Porrima is a double yellow-white star named for a Roman goddess of prophecy.
Official Designation: Epsilon Virginis
Traditional Name: Vindemiatrix
Pronunciation: vin-duh-mee-AH-tricks
Vindemiatrix is the Latin translation of an older name that meant “grape gatherer.” Astronomers believe that this star was named at a time when it may have risen with the sun during the grape harvest. It was also referred to as the Star of Bacchus. This yellow star is located on Virgo’s right hand or arm. Today, astronomers use Vindemiatrix as an aid in finding the Virgo Cluster, a group of several hundred galaxies many of which are spirals.
Magical Interpretations and Uses for Virgo
With the return of spring, the process of renewal begins under the watchful gaze of Virgo, who symbolizes the womb and bounty of the earth as well as the (re)birth of spirit. As Demeter, she personifies the mother aspect of the Great Goddess, who rules the cycle of seasons and brings the gift of grain.
Virgo’s association with Demeter and Persephone makes this constellation a natural fit for Ostara rituals when their story is told. Use the following to call in the energy of this constellation: “Virgo, we call on you to provide divine sheaves of wheat to feed the hungry departed souls in the underworld, and with your power guide Persephone forth. May the daughter of Demeter step into the sunlight and rejoice in its warmth. And may she enjoy the light from your stars at night.”
Also as Demeter/Ceres, Virgo is goddess of fertile soil and can be called upon to aid our gardens. Place an image of Virgo among your plants or hang a pendant of the zodiac symbol in a tree or bush. You may find it more effective to create your own. Find an attractive rock in your garden, clean it up, and paint the Virgo star pattern on it. Place it in your garden at night when the constellation is overhead as you say: “In my garden this token I place; I call on Virgo to bless this space. Help these plants flourish and grow; With your love, make it so.”
In Egypt, wheat was a symbol of Osiris. Coupled with the ancient connection with Isis, Virgo symbolizes the fundamental power of nature so that all that dies will be reborn. In addition to themes of regeneration and cycles, the story of Isis and Osiris is that of determination and love. Under the light of Virgo on Beltane night, call on the strength of their divine love to enrich your sabbat celebration.
If you use wine in your rituals, call on the Star of Bacchus, Vindemiatrix, to pour forth special blessings. Additionally, write this star’s name on a fence or a rock in your garden for blessings to help the plants grow. Likewise, write Spica or Alpha Virginis on a small piece of paper to keep in your wallet or purse to bring prosperity.
On the night of a new moon when the stars are bright, set your divination tools on a windowsill and ask for the light of Porrima to bless them.
11. Ridpath, Star Tales, 34.
12. Olcott, Star Lore, 74.
13. Gimbutas, Language of the Goddess, 233.
14. Brady, Brady’s Book of Fixed Stars, 120.
15. Green, The Celtic World, 273.
16. Gallant, The Constellations, 24.
17. Olcott, Star Lore, 381.
18. Evans, The History and Practice of Ancient Astronomy, 102.