koraki-grimoire

[koraki-grimoire]

Witchcraft in Hellenismos

Disclaimer: This post is non-exhaustive, and though I'll try to equally spread my focus, it will inevitably lean towards the kinds of magik I personally practice.

Often, in modern pagan circles, people are under the impression that Ancient Hellenismos either didn't have or despised witchcraft. This is largely from three causes. The first is simply misreading, or failing to come across witchcraft in the Hellenism they research. Second is only reading about or adhering to branches that didn't like witchcraft (usually due to it being perceived as hubristic) and therefore assuming that's the most popular opinion. Finally, sometimes people apply their assumptions based on Christian and Germanic culture to Hellenismos, and assume it carries the same attitudes.

In actuality, the view of witchcraft was historically more neutral. Witches weren't typically seen as hags, but maidens, respectable men, priests, and more. It should also be noted that, frankly, "witch" is a slightly tonally incorrect translation usually applied to the word "pharmakis."

For historical attitudes towards witches, we can read works surrounding mainly Medea and Kirke, as well as Hekate if we go past pharmakeia.

But pharmakeia and nekromankia (necromancy) are far from the only forms of witchcraft or magik--which in Ancient Greek would be "mageia" or "goeteia" depending on time and place, but will simply be called "magik" here.

So, with that very long introduction, let's get into types of magik.

Pharmakeia - Herbal Sorcery, Witchcraft

Pharmakeia is perhaps the most recognizable form of magik in historical Hellenismos. As mentioned, it was associated with the heroine Medea, as well as the goddess/nymph/hero (it's complicated) Kirke. This was magik performed using the aid of herbs, and both historically and now blends magik and science. It includes brewing poisons, casting curses, potionmaking, transmutation, and more. Kirke, famously, used pharmakeia to transform men into swine, whereas Medea tended towards poisoning, but both had variety in their craft.

Generally, when pharmakeia is translated, it's done very broadly compared to other kinds of magik. For example, pharmakeia is usually translated, especially in the Odyssey, to "witchcraft" or "sorcery." Pharmakis--the word for a practitioner of pharmakeia--is usually translated to "witch." This often leads to misconceptions of witchcraft in Hellenismos being specifically oriented around herbs and transmutation, when that's only a small piece of the picture.

Nekromankia/Nekromanteia - Necromancy

Nekromankia is far more famous now in its Anglicized pop-culture form, but it was most certainly present in Hellenismos. It's important to clarify that in Ancient Hellas, nekromankia was magik pertaining to the dead, not things such as zombies and raising the dead. In Hellenismos, the maintenance of good relationships between the dead and the living is of great importance. There were plenty of festivals devoted to placating and celebrating the dead--not to mention the monthly Attic holiday Hekate's Deipnon, devoted to honoring Hekate, goddess of nekromankia. So, unsurprisingly, there were witches who gravitated towards this as a craft.

Multiple Hellenic deities were associated with nekromankia, the most notable of which being Hekate, but also Persephone. Though, of course, any khthonic deity--especially khthonic theoi who also had non-khthonic aspects--were relevant, such as Haides or Hermes. A practitioner of nekromankia would be referred to as a nekromanteías.

Manteia - Divination, Oracles

It should be noted that manteia is heavily contested as being a form of witchcraft or even magik in Hellenismos, but it certainly meets the qualifications. The main reason this debate exists is controversy around magik in Hellenismos in general, since as most Hellenists know manteia is so central to so much of our religion, and those who dislike magik are insulted by it being considered that. Additionally, the definition of magik is constantly in flux--it's debated in modern magik circles, and it's even harder to apply a definition we can hardly agree on to an ancient culture with its own independent definitions.

Manteia is, most simply, the power to give prophecies, divination, and the use of oracles. It's the power of the Pythia (Delphic Oracle), it's in the Olympian Alphabet Oracle, it's every single seer and prophecy and divinatory method known to us.

Someone who practices manteia is called a mantis (usually translated as "soothsayer" or "diviner") or a khresmologos ("oracle"), depending on station.

Heliomanteia - Solar Magik

Heliomanteia is hard to find detailed historical information on, but most simply, it's magikal invocation of the sun. This is generally done by attempting to harness the power of the sun, or by requesting the aid of solar deities (namely, Helios).

Interestingly, Helios had many associations with witchcraft and warding off evil. It could be assumed that, due to the qualities attributed to Helios, heliomanteia would be best used to reveal truth, ward off evil, harness the power of fire, promote life, and similar.

Presumably, a practitioner of heliomanteia is a heliomantis.

Goeteia - Magik, Charms

Goeteia (in modern times "goetia") is a term for magik that fell out of style for general magik around the 5th century BC in favor of mageia. It, additionally, was shoehorned into a dichotomy of theurgy (divine, "professional," and virtuous magik) and goeteia (low, malicious, and fraudulent magik). This was largely due to political and social overhaul. The name became associated with fraudulent and harmful magik, and talk of goeteia in Ancient Hellas is a major source most anti-witch Hellenists use.

The goes (practitioner of goetia) was maligned, seen as hubristic and either trying to go against the power of the gods or intending to scam others. Plato famously portrayed them as malicious frauds, and he was not alone. Since the term "goes" is generally translated as "witch," it's not a leap to figure out why this lead to a lot of anti-witch Hellenists.

However, before this (and technically after), "goeteia" simply meant magic, charms, and similar. As a unique practice, and not simply an umbrella term for witchcraft, it can be considered channeling, a relative of nekromankia, or baneful magik, depending how much one leans into the later definition.

Theourgía - Deity Work, Divine Magik

Theourgia (in modern times "theurgy") quite literally translates to "deity work" or "god(s) working." It is ritual, sometimes magik, done with the intent of invoking one or more of the theoi. This was the ritual magik often performed by priests. In fact, it could be considered the mainstream magik of Ancient Hellas--assuming, of course, that one considers it magik.

It's not only historic magik that was central to the religion, but sets historical precedent for the controversial phrase "deity work." The existence of theurgy as the "higher form" of magik in Ancient Hellas is singlehandedly enough evidence to prove the phrase is not and would not be considered inherently hubristic. It should be noted that this form isn't inherently superior, but if you asked Plato, he would disagree.

There are certainly more forms of mageia in Ancient Hellas--For example, I skipped over amulets (periapta), which were almost incontestably the most common magik in a lot of Ancient Hellas, since they could technically fit under some other crafts and because they're the easiest to research on your own. It's a similar case with potions, too.

One important takeaway is the hard line between magik, religion, and science is a fairly recent invention. Pharmakeia could act as medicine, not just sorcery. Many potions were also medication. Frankly, the more women were involved, the more practical it tended to be, with 'spells' often being genuine aids to childbirth and/or birth control. This didn't make them any less magikal, and the magik doesn't make it less real.

And I hope I made it very, very clear, but witchcraft has always been in Hellenismos, and isn't inherently hubristic. That is a myth, and is rooted often in historical (and modern) classism, misogyny, xenophobia, or similar. Always consider your source's incentive to stigmatize before discounting all Hellenic witches.

#hellenismos #pharmakeia #pharmakia #nekromania #nekromanteia #manteia #mankeia #heliomanteia #heliomancy #goeteia #goetia #theourgia #theurgy #necromancy #divination #herbalism #ancient hellenismos #hellenic paganism #hellenic polytheism #kirke #hekate #magik #magik gods #theoi #ancient hellas

[koraki-grimoire]

Laws of Candle Care

Candles, while popular in religion and magik, are rarely properly cared for. Many who use them don't even know how to take care of them. And when you don't take care of your candles, especially candles used for divination, you use them up much quicker and get a lot of false responses.

This guide is important for anyone who burns or wants to burn candles, regardless of how much you think you know.

Vocabulary

There are many, many types of candles. This isn't anywhere near all, but the four kinds you should be aware of:

Tealights: (small, round candles, usually about an inch in diameter)

Pillars: (freestanding cylindrical candles of varying sizes)

Container candles: (candles poured directly in a container--includes prayer candles, which are tall glass pillars)

Tapers: (Tall, thin candles that stand in holders--includes chimes, which are miniature tapers)

Wick: The string, wood, etc. in the center of a candle that you light. Usually a cotton string coated with wax.

Hugging the edges: The process where the outer edges of a partly melted candles are pushed in to extend burn time.

Burn time: The amount of time it takes a candle to burn out when properly maintained and/or the amount of time a candle is being burned

Double boiler method: Heating wax in a pot inside another pot of water. This prevents it from catching fire or burning.

General

Location: Burn candles at least 1 foot from other flammable materials. Never burn a candle directly under anything--candles need at least a meter/yard of space above them to burn safely. Be careful when burning candles on a desk or near other candles. If burning a non-container candle, make sure it's on a heatproof surface like a plate to catch wax.

Wicks: Always trim your wick to 1/4 inch before burning, no exceptions. Wick trimmings should be removed from the candle, not left to accumulate in the pool.

Holders: Use a properly sized holder. This is a holder that the candle can sit in the bottom of, but will not shake or fall if lifted.

Burning: Not all candles can burn unattended. In fact, very few can. Always assume that you can't let a burning candle out of your sight. The main exceptions to this are container candles, but even so, not all container candles can burn alone. Prayer candles are designed to burn continuously, but still require clear, safe space, and should be checked on.

Melting: The first time you burn any candle, you must allow the wax to melt up to the edge of the candle before extinguishing it. Ideally, you'd allow this pool to reach the edge every single time. If you don't, the candle will tunnel, shortening its lifespan.

Extinguishing: Blow, pinch, or snuff a candle. Never use water to extinguish a candle--this makes it more likely to explode in future.

Troubleshooting

Candle wont light: Check if the wick is too short. If it is, hold a flame near the wick and pour out wax in increments until it can light.

Candle is tunneling: Burn it all the way out to the edge. You may need to manually melt the edges with a separate flame. You might also have forgotten to hug the edges.

Flame is smoking: There's a few possible reasons;

Wick is too tall: This one's easy, simply trim it.

Too long burn time: If a candle burns too long (usually 3+ hours at a time), the wick may curl or "mushroom." Extinguish and trim.

Insufficient air: Most smoking comes from a flame not having enough oxygen (which the above two can cause). This can also come if your space isn't well ventilated, or if there's wind, breezes, or other moving air.

Only one side is melting: The candle's wick is likely poorly centered, or you're burning it with one side in a hotter/colder place. You may be able to move it the wick to the middle when melted, or move the candle. Otherwise, it's usually fine to ignore on its own.

"Oh no, what do I do if my candle..."

Spills: Surround the pool with paper towels. Wait for it to cool, then pry off wax with a knife. Beeswax peels easiest. If there's still wax and it's on fabric, put paper to blot on both sides, and iron. Wash as normal.

Explodes/Cracks: If it didn't put itself out, extinguish it immediately. Clean spilled wax and, if present, glass. Do not try to re light the candle, even if the candle is still usable.

Has a curling wick: Extinguish, trim, and wait to fully solidify before burning again.

Catches something on fire: Immediately extinguish both. It's best to own and use a fire extinguisher for this, as water doesn't always work or cool it down well. Avoid blowing if at all possible, as this can feed the flame. Do not reuse the candle afterwards.

Candle FAQ

Q: How are candles made? A: It varies based on the candle! The most common method is by melting down wax in a double boiler and pouring it into a mold, or dipping string repeatedly in a vat of wax.

Q: How do you scent a candle? A: Typically, you would mix in fragrance or essential oils when the wax is melted before pouring it into a bowl.

Q: Can you put herbs in candles? A: Certainly! But please don't do this if you aren't experienced in candle care, it can be dangerous when they catch fire if you don't know what you're doing.

Q: How do you color a candle? A: You use specific wax coloring! It's very important to use colors designed for wax, because those are designed to burn safely. Things like food coloring can and will explode or ruin your candle.

Q: What kinds of candle wax are there? A: There's a few, but the three you're most likely to find are paraffin, soy, and beeswax. Paraffin is essentially plastic, making it the least ecofriendly option, but it's cheapest. Soy wax is from the soy plant, and generally fairly cheap. Beeswax burns the cleanest and longest, and is the best for the environment, but it's the most expensive. They can generally be told apart by texture if there's no label; paraffin is usually hard, flat, and bumpy, soy can be flaky and greasy, and beeswax is smooth and sometimes slightly rippled.

Candles in Magik & Divination

Chances are, if you're here, this is what you use candles for. While it's exciting to see candles doing weird things, remember you should always check for mundane reasons. Fire isn't a toy, and an oddly behaving candle can be a hazard, not just symbolic.

When doing a spell with candles, make sure anything on or around the candle(s) is safe to burn. For example, ensuring you used cotton thread or yarn to tie the candle, not adding dangerous herbs to inhale, and keeping an eye on the type of paper you're burning indoors. (Rolling paper is ideal for burning sigils.)

It's a bit disappointing to learn a "sign" was only a poorly cared for candle, but it's far worse to burn your house down over a false sign from an unsafe candle. So take care of them.

More questions? Send in a DM or ask! Feel free to add on in RBs or notes.

#candles #candle magick #candle magic #candle magik #candle witch #fire witch #magick #carromancy #ceromancy #carromankeia #fire safety #candle safety #witch tips #witchcraft #magik

[koraki-grimoire]

Salts

Salt of all kinds has been used in various religions and magik for as long as we've had it. In Ancient Greece, it was considered highly valuable, and used in religious ceremonies. Now, we have far easier and cheaper access to salts the Ancient Hellenes couldn't imagine, and so have more uses for it by type, both new and old.

All salt is generally associated with healing, protection, and/or cleansing.

With that, let's delve into our varieties.

Table Salt

The cheapest and most accessible kind of salt, this is what one would usually put on food. This is often used for protection, circles, and sprinkling on an offering space.

Sea Salt

Obviously, this salt is the best suited for things relating to the sea and its entities. Sea salt is also edible, and generally substitutes well for others. If you want to be very particular, this is the closest to Ancient Greek salt, and thus could be considered the most suitable to offer to the Hellenic theoi.

Epsom Salt

Epsom salts are fully man-made and often used in bath products. It's known for helping soothe soreness and inflammation, but is not at all edible nor particularly common or popular in spellwork.

Pink Salt/Himalayan Salt

Particularly popular now, pink salt is a nutrient-rich salt given its pink color through absorbing other minerals. This salt is considered more connected to the earth. Due to its color, it's often associated with love of all kinds. It's also associated with protection, purification, and health. It has a fair amount of proven and unproven health benefits over other salts.

Sel Gris/Grey Salt/Celtic Sea Salt

Collected in France, Sel Gris is another mineral rich salt. This salt has an especially oceanic taste, making it applicable, but not exclusive, to any form of sea magik.

Red Hawaiian Salt/Alea Salt

With a bright red color coming from its high iron content, this salt had been used by native Hawaiians for purification, cleansing, and blessings. Its red color combined with metal content also makes many associate it with strength and health.

Black Salt

Black salt comes in multiple kinds, with varying degrees of edibility, the main three being kala namak/Himalayan black salt, black lava salt/black Hawaiian salt, and ritual salt/witch's salt. All three are used for protection, strength, and banishing evil and negative energy. Kala namak and black lava salt are both edible and must be purchased. Witch's salt is inedible, and only to be used for ritual purposes. This is made with any salt (usually table or sea salt) combined with cast iron scrapings from a cauldron or pot, burnt herbs, charcoal, and/or black herbs like clove and pepper. These ingredients are then mixed, usually in a mortar and pestle, to make the witch's salt.

#magik #ingredients #magick #witchcraft #witchblr #witch things #hellenic paganism #hellenic polytheism #salt magic #salt #circle casting

[koraki-grimoire]

7 Laws of Foraging

[Disclaimer: These aren't actual legal rules, but important knowledge to avoid, you know, dying.]

Foraging herbs is an extremely good way to get both food and magik supplies on a budget, but mistakes can be dangerous and even deadly. These are some of the most important rules to follow if you want to be safe.

1. If you aren't entirely sure what a plant is, treat it like it's toxic. Even if you're mostly confident, you need to be absolutely certain before you put anything in your mouth, and ideally before you touch it. 2. Never assume plants away from home are the same as the ones where you usually forage. Generally speaking, once you change climate and/or time zones, at least some plants will change and lookalikes will appear. Also, some plants become more or less toxic with temperature and location changes--white clover is a good example of this. 3. Don't guess the safety of a plant you can't identify. Many extremely dangerous plants look unassuming and pleasant, and a lot of plants that look like murder in a leaf are totally harmless. Also, never consume a herb if you don't know its medicinal properties or if it'll interact with your medication or a health condition. If the name ends in -wort, it probably interacts with anti inflammatory meds, SSRIs, and/or heart medication, but other plants can, too. 4. When you learn a new plant's identification, learn its lookalikes, too. This is especially important for leafy plants, which are more likely to have dangerous lookalikes, but goes for all plants. This helps you know if it's safe to make a mistake (for example, wild blackberries have lookalikes, but they're all nearly identical edible berries), when you can't risk it, and what to compare. 5. Know what parts of a plant are safe, and know if its age affects its use or edibility. Some plants are edible when young, but extremely toxic when mature, or have edible roots but emetic flowers. 6. Know what assumptions you can make. Generally, if you can cook it or breathe it, you can burn it, if you can eat it, you can touch it, etc. 7. Remember that medicine is preferable to herbs for a reason. Herbs produce chemicals in different amounts, can be misidentified, and are generally unreliable. Pills are significantly less likely to accidentally give you an overdose. If you have access to working medication, that's always the first.

#pharmakeia #witch tip #green witch #pharmakis #magik #foraging #natural herbs #herbal magick #herbalism #herbal magik #budget witch #budget witch tips #baby witch #witchling

[koraki-grimoire]

Sapphomanteia (or ‘Sapphomancy’) is a divination system performed by casting dice to identify one of sixty-four possible number combinations, each referencing a fragment of Sappho’s lyrical poetry. This line of poetry can then be interpreted to answer the posed question, or as a guide to think over.

I have carefully selected sixty-four fragments from various translations of Sappho’s work – Diane Rayor, Anne Carson, Aaron Poochigan, and Mary Barnard. The end of each fragment is marked with its relevant reference number as per E. W. Voigt’s numbering system.

To perform Sapphomanteia:

Roll 3 four-sided dice (or roll one dice three times) and use the three digits rolled to reference the corresponding fragment in bold below.

(Online dice rollers here or here).

As with many forms of divination, you could say a prayer to Sappho or another god for guidance in your reading before you start.

~

111 - Yes, we did many things, then - all beautiful (24a)

112 - Golden-crowned Aphrodite, may I draw this lot (33)

113 - I hunger and I struggle (36)

114 - In the dripping of my pain may winds and anguish take him who condemns (37)

121 - You scorch us (38)

122 - To you I sacrifice on the altar a white goat and I will leave for you (40)

123 - My lovely friends, how could I change towards you who are so beautiful? (41)

124 - Their hearts grow cold and their wings fell slack (42)

131 - As long as you want (45)

132 - On a soft cushion I will lay my body down (46)

133 - Without warning as a whirlwind swoops on an oak, Love shakes my heart (47)

134 - You came and I was crazy for you, and you cooled my mind that burned with longing (48)

141 - The gorgeous man presents a gorgeous view; the good man will in time be gorgeous, too (50)

142 - I don’t know what to do - I am of two minds (51)

143 - I don’t expect to touch heaven (52)

144 - Having come from heaven wrapped in a purple cloak (54)

211 - Dead you will lie and never memory of you will there be (55 partial)

212 - I think no woman of such skill will ever again see the light of day (56)

213 - What country girl seduces your wits wearing a country dress not knowing how to pull the cloth to her ankles? (57)

214 - Yet I love the finer things … this and passion for the light of life have granted me brilliance and beauty (58)

221 - Because the blessed Graces grant gifts to the garlanded and snub the worshipper with no flowers on her head (81)

222 - I will love you … as long as breath is in me … will care (88a)

223 - Clothed her well in delicate linen (100)

224 - The evening star is the most beautiful of all stars (104b)

231 - The sweet apple reddens on a high branch, high upon highest, missed by the applepickers: No, they didn’t miss, so much as couldn’t touch (105a)

232 - Like a hyacinth in the mountains, trampled by shepherds until only a purple stain remains on the ground (105b)

233 - Superior as a singer from Lesbos to those of other lands (106)

234 - We shall give, says father (109)

241 - I can best compare you to a slender sapling (115)

242 - Come, divine lyre, speak to me and sing! (118)

243 - I have no spiteful temper but am calm in mind (120)

244 - A delicate young girl plucking flowers (122)

311 - I myself once wove garlands (125)

312 - May you sleep on the breast of a tender companion (126)

313 - Come close, you precious Graces and Muses with beautiful tresses (128)

314 - But you have forgotten me (129a)

321 - Once again Love, that loosener of limbs, bittersweet and inescapable, crawling thing, seizes me (130)

322 - I conversed with you in a dream Kyprogeneia (134)

323 - Messenger of spring, nightingale with enticing song (136)

324 - I want to tell you something but good taste restrains me (137)

331 - Stand before me as a friend and flaunt the charm in your eyes (138)

332 - Ambrosia mixed in a bowl that Hermes, flask in hand, poured for the gods (141)

333 - Golden chickpeas grew on the shores (143)

334 - Don’t move piles of pebbles (145)

341 - Neither the honey nor the bee for me (146)

342 - Someone will remember us, I say, even in another time (147)

343 - Wealth without virtue makes a dangerous neighbour, while their blend holds the pinnacle of happiness (148)

344 - When nightlong celebration closes their eyes (149)

411 - For it is not right in a house of the Muses that there be lament, this would not become us (150)

412 - As the full moon rose, women stood round the altar (154)

413 - Far sweeter in song than a lyre, more golden than gold (156)

414 - When anger spreads in the breast, guard against an idly barking tongue (158)

421 - Now I will sing this beautifully to delight my companions (160)

422 - With what eyes? (162)

423 - The Moon and Pleiades have set - half the night is gone. Time passes. I sleep alone (164b)

424 - Gaia, richly crowned, adorns herself in many hues (168c)

431 - I would lead (169)

432 - A vine that grows up trees (173)

433 - Easy passage (181)

434 - I might go (182)

441 – Danger (184)

442 – Honeyvoiced (185)

443 – Mythweaver (188)

444 – Manyskilled (190)

~

This has been a project of love and devotion, and I am very excited to share it with you all. Many, many, many thanks to @ofhoneyandflame​ and @thegrapeandthefig​ for all their help, guidance and input through this process <3

#sappho #divination #hellenismos

[koraki-grimoire]

Theoi Summary - Athena

Αθηνη (ah-thee-nee) - Athene AKA Athena, Pallas Goddess of wisdom, strategy, defense, weaving, pottery, handicrafts, war, and good counsel Ouranic Olympian with Einalic aspects

Symbols: Spear, Aegis, crested helm, a shield, Gorgoneion, flute Animals: Little owl, snake Colors: Gold, yellow, green, bronze, white Plants/Herbs: Olive tree Stones/Crystals: Quartz, marble, bronze, gold

Retinue: Nike Relations: Zeus (father), Metis (mother), Erikhthonios (adopted son), half sister to all children of Zeus Identified with: Minerva (Roman), Menrva (Estuscan), Neith (Kemetic), Sulis (Celtic), Nike (Hellenic)

Festivals: Panathenaia (23-30th Hek. every 4 years), Lesser Panathenaia (23-30th Hek.), Kallynteria (24 Thar.), Khalkeia (29 Pya.), Synoikia (15-16 Hek.), honored on the 3rd of every month

Epithets: Nike (Victory), Areia (Of War), Salpinx (War-Trumpet), Leïtis (Distributor of War Spoils), Sthenias (Strong), Hippia (Of the Horses), Polemodocus (War-Sustaining), Chalinitis (Bridler), Eryma (Defender), Soteira (Saviour), Alalcomeneis (Protectress), Hephaisteia (Of Hephaistos), Poliatis (Keeper of the City), Ergane (Worker), Paeonia (Healer), Hygeia (Of Good Health), Alea (Refuge), Ambulia (Counsellor), Pronoea (Foresight), Oxyderces (Sharp-Sighted), Coryphasia (Of the Head), Parthenos (Virgin), Coria (Maiden), Xenia (Of Hospitality), Apaturia (Deceiver)

#theoi #hellenic polytheism #hellenic paganism #hellenismos #olympian gods #grimoire #deity summary #theoi summary #witchblr #ouranic theoi #athena #athene #pallas #pallas athena #athena goddess #einalic theoi

[koraki-grimoire]

Ancient Hellenic Herbs, O-Y

[Introduction & Index]

Oak (Drys) Species: Quercus ilex Identification: A tree with brown bark, medium to large green leaves, and distinctive nuts (acorns) Associations/Uses: Zeus, oracle of Dodona, Dryades, Byblis, the Golden Fleece, Balanos, Arkadian tribes, strength

Olive Tree (Elaia/Moria) Species: Olea europaea Identification: A greyish green tree with green to brown fruit Associations/Uses: Athene, Athens, Zeus, Moria (maiden), victory, Olympian Games, cooking, lamplight, lotion

Opium Poppy (Mêkôn) Species: Papaver somniferum Identification: A bright red flower with a black center and small, round black seeds Associations/Uses: Demeter, Hypnos, sleep, opium, sedation, Mekon (youth)

Oregano (Agrioriganos) Species: Origanum vulgare Identification: A sprawling herbaceous green plant with pink or purple flowers Associations/Uses: Luck, joy, Aphrodite, healing snakebite, marriage

Parsley/Wild Celery (Selinon) Species: Petroselinum sativum & Apium graveolens respectively Identification: Parsley and celery were equated by the Ancient Greeks Associations/Uses: Death, victory, a victor’s wreath, Poseidon, Zeus, Isthmian Games, Nemean Games

Pomegranate (Rhoa) Species: Punica granatum Identification: A tree with glossy green leaves and distinctive red fruit Associations/Uses: Persephone, the underworld, women, fertility, childbirth, astringent, Aphrodite

Rock-Rose (Kisthos) Species: Cistus incanus Identification: Low growing shrub with large yellow or pink flowers Associations/Uses: Poseidon, Medousa, aphrodisiac, incense, treating menstrual problems

Rose (Rhodon/Rhodinon) Species: Rosa gallica Identification: A thorny shrub with red, white or pink flowers Associations/Uses: Aphrodite, Adonis, love, passion, beauty, abduction of Kore, Eros, happiness, astringent, treating headaches

Rosemary (Aposplēnos/Dendrolibanon) Species: Rosmarinus officinalis Identification: An aromatic shrub with needle-esque leaves and sometimes purple, white, pink, or blue flowers Associations/Uses: Funerary rites, studying, memory, protection, health

Rough Bindweed (Smilax) Species: Smilax aspera Identification: A spiky climbing vine with red berries and pale green flowers Associations/Uses: Smilax (nymph), Dionysos, Dionysian orgies

Strawberry Tree (Komaros/Andrakhnos) Species: Arbutus andrachne & Arbutus unedo Identification: An evergreen tree with edible, round red fruit, and bell shaped flowers Associations/Uses: Hermes

Walnut (Karya Basilika) Species: Juglans regia Identification: A tree with nuts that have a distinctive wrinkly shape Associations/Uses: Karya (maiden), Dionysos, treating poison, treating dislocations, anti inflammatory, Artemis, prophecy, Katyatides (nymphs)

Wheat (Pyros) Species: Triticum vulgare Identification: A tall food crop with green shoots topped with seeds, golden when ripe Associations/Uses: Eleusinian Mysteries, Demeter, agriculture

Wild Basil (Pyknokomon/Klinopodion) Species: Clinopodium vulgare Identification: An edible plant with pointed and toothed oval leaves, square stem, and purple flowers Associations/Uses: Treating convulsions, venom antidote, anti inflammatory, protection, death

Wych Elm (Ptelea) Species: Ulmus glabra Identification: A tall tree with oval leaves Associations/Uses: Dionysos, Haides, graves, dreams, Eetion, Hesperide Erytheia, Ptelea (nymph)

Yew (Smilos/Milos/Taxos) Species: Taxus baccata Identification: A reddish-barked conifer with needle-like leaves and bright red berries Associations/Uses: Erinyes, Hekate, nekromankia, purification, death

#pharmakeia #pharmakis #hellenic paganism #hellenic polytheism #hellenismos #green witch #hellenic herbs #greek mythology #ancient greek #magik #herb

[koraki-grimoire]

Ancient Hellenic Herbs, F-M

[Introduction & Index]

Fennel (Narthêx) Species: Ferula communis Identification: A tall, yellow-flowering plant with a slow-burning pith Associations/Uses: Transporting fire, Prometheus, Dionysos, thrysos, torches

Fig Tree (Sykea) Species: Ficus carica Identification: A tall shrub or small tree with edible fruit Associations/Uses: Demeter, Dionysos, Sykeus (titan), Syke (nymph), Phytalos, orchards, prosperity, abundance, agriculture, epilepsy

Frankincense Tree (Libanos) Species: Boswellia carterii Identification: A tree that secretes the resin-sap frankincense Associations/Uses: Helios, Leukothoe, religious ceremonies, the Theoi

Grapevine (Ampelos) Species: Vitis vinifera Identification: A vine with purple clusters of edible berries Associations/Uses: Dionysos, viticulture, winemaking, Ampelos (satyr), Ampelos (nymph)

Hellebore (Helleboros) Species: Helleborus genus Identification: A toxic perennial with dark, leathery leaves and yellowish flowers Associations/Uses: Treating madness, poison, Proitos, Dionysos, Melampos

Hemlock (Kôneion) Species: Conium maculatum Identification: A plant with hollow, hairless stems and tiny white flowers Associations/Uses: Execution of criminals (Athens), nekromankia, pharmakeia

Iris (Iris/Agallis) Species: Iris attica, I. germanica, I. pallida Identification: A large purple, blue, white, or lilac bent flower Associations/Uses: Iris, abduction of Kore, treating coughs, treating swelling, warm compacts

Juniper (Arkeothos) Species: Juniperus oxycedrus Identification: A small, needle-leaved tree with small berries that go from green to red, and yellow cones Associations/Uses: Treating viper bites, purification, healing poison, protection, Medea

Larkspur (Hyakinthos) Species: Delphinium ajacis Identification: A perennial with tall stems and toxic purplish blue flowers Associations/Uses: Hyakinthos (youth), Apollon, mourning, abduction of Kore

Lily of the Valley (Ephemeron) Species: Convallaria majalis Identification: A toxic shade-favoring plant with hanging, sweet smelling bell-shaped flowers Associations/Uses: Treating toothache, astringent, Medea

Lotus (Lotinos/Lotos) Species: Ziziphus lotus Identification: A small tree with dark yellow fruit Associations/Uses: Lotus-Eaters, forgetting, sleep, apathy, aiding menstruation

Manna Ash (Melia) Species: Fraxinus ornus Identification: A grey tree with creamy white blooms, secrets a sap known as manna or honey-sap Associations/Uses: Honey, bees, Meliae, Melissa(e), spear of Akhilleus, Kouretes, Zeus, Ares

Milk Thistle (Silybon) Species: Silybum marianum Identification: A large green plant with white marbled leaves, many sharp spines, and round purple spiky flowers Associations/Uses: Liver health, emetic, blood health, cleansing

Mint (Minthê) Species: Mentha spicata Identification: A herbaceous plant with hairless stems and aromatic leaves Associations/Uses: Minthe (nymph), funerary rites, the afterlife, death, drink of the Eleusinian Mysteries, treating headaches

Moly/Snowdrop (Môlu) Species: Galanthus (most likely) Identification: A poisonous plant with drooping white flowers Associations/Uses: Kirke, curing poisons, protection from pharmakeia, protection from poison, periapta

Monkshood/Wolfsbane (Akoniton/Lykoktonon) Species: Aconitum napellus Identification: Purplish-blue flowering plant, highly poisonous, up to a meter tall Associations/Uses: Medea’s poison, wolf hunting, Kerberos, death, nekromankia, pharmakeia

Mugwort/Wormwood (Apsinthion/Abrotonon/Seriphos) Species: Artemisia arborescens, A. absinthium, A. vulgaris Identification: A herbaceous green plant with a sweet herbal scent, leaves with silver undersides, and pale round flowers Associations/Uses: Artemis, protection, poison antidote, treating bruises, winemaking, post-birth baths, ending menstruation, anti inflammation, repelling venomous animals

Myrrh (Smyrna/Myrra) Species: Commiphora myrrha Identification: A spiny desert tree with aromatic resin gum Associations/Uses: Incense, Aphrodite, shrines, Smyrna (maiden), Myrrha (maiden), Adonis, funerary rites

Myrtle (Myrsina/Myrtos) Species: Myrtus Identification: A small shrub with edible aromatic leaves, white flowers, and edible black-blue berries Associations/Uses: Aphrodite, Demeter, love, weddings, aphrodisiac, anti fatigue, Eleusinian Mysteries, funerary rites, brides, astringent, preventing indulgence

#pharmakeia #pharmakis #hellenic paganism #hellenic polytheism #hellenismos #green witch #hellenic herbs #greek mythology #ancient greek #magik #herb

[koraki-grimoire]

Ancient Hellenic Herbs, A-D

[Introduction & Index]

Almond Tree (Amygdalea) Species: Prunus amygdalus Identification: A small tree with pinkish flowers and small, edible nuts Associations/Uses: Agdistis, marriage, fertility, love, hope, treating headaches, treating dog bites

Anemone/Windflower (Anemônê) Species: Anemone coronaria Identification: A toxic round flower with a black center in a range of colors Associations/Uses: Aphrodite, Adonis, Zephyros, the wind, spring, passing time

Anise (Anison) Species: Pimpinella anisum Identification: A flowering plant with licorice scent when crushed Associations/Uses: Ameinias, treating poison, aphrodisiac, sleep

Apple Tree (Mêlon) Species: Malus domestica Identification: Grey-barked tree with pink blossoms and medium edible fruit Associations/Uses: Love, marriage, Hera, Aphrodite, Eris, the Hesperides, romance

Asphodel (Asphodelos) Species: Asphodelus ramosus Identification: Small perennial with greyish-green leaves, white flowers with small brown streaks, toxic leaves in winter & edible tubers Associations/Uses: Haides, Persephone, Hekate, death, food of the dead, emetic

Barely (Krithê) Species: Hordeum vulgare Identification: A golden grain crop topped with seeds Associations/Uses: Drink of the Eleusinian Mysteries, Demeter, agriculture

Bay Laurel (Daphnê) Species: Laurus nobilis Identification: A small tree with edible, aromatic leaves and small black berries Associations/Uses: Apollon, Artemis, victory, Daphne (nymph), treating stings, purification, cleansing

Caraway (Karos) Species: Carum carvi Identification: A plant with feathery green leaves and small white clusters of flowers Associations/Uses: Stomach ailments, skin health, aphrodisiac, digestive health

Cedar (Kedros) Species: Cedrus libani Identification: A small, needle-leaved tree with round cones Associations/Uses: Artemis, preservation, ship building, strength, preserving dead bodies, sterility, stopping menstruation, repelling snakes

Chaste Tree (Lygos) Species: Vitex agnus castus Identification: A small tree or shrub with clusters of purple flowers Associations/Uses: Chastity, women’s medicine, Hera, Hestia, Artemis, Demeter, the Thesmophoria, calming sexual urges, disease of the uterus, basket making

Cherry Tree (Kraneia) Species: European cornel Identification: A small tree with yellow blossoms and bright red, edible fruit Associations/Uses: Swine-feed, Kraneia (nymph)

Cinnamon (Mosylon/Kinnamonon/Kasia) Species: Cinnamomum Identification: Reddish brown-barked tree with pointed oval-esque leaves Associations/Uses: Apollon, Dionysus, treating the blood, incense, treating sunburns, diuretic, wine flavoring, Phoinix

Cornflower (Kentaurion Makron) Species: Centaurea cyanus Identification: Bright blue star-like flower with some purple tint Associations/Uses: Kheiron, healing wounds, healing poison, anti inflammation, poultice for wounds

Cotton Thistle (Akantha Leuke) Species: Onopordium acanthum Identification: An extremely spiny herb with a round, spiked top and purple spiny flowers Associations/Uses: Protection from poisonous creatures, healing poison, protection, periapta

Crocus (Krokos) Species: Crocus sativus Identification: Purple flower with red stems and yellow stigmas, from which saffron is made Associations/Uses: Krokos (youth), Hermes, abduction of Kore, abduction of Europa, anti inflammation

Cumin (Kuminon) Species: Cuminum cyminum, C. odoratum Identification: A plant with many white or pink tiny flowers and small seeds with eight ridges Associations/Uses: Aphrodisiac, the Minoans, venom antidote, stopping menstruation and nosebleeds

Cypress (Kyparissos) Species: Cupressus sempervirens Identification: Evergreen cone-shaped tree with green needles and small, round cones Associations/Uses: Kyparissos (youth), grief, Apollon, Artemis, Asklepios, the underworld, insect repellant

Daffodil/Narcissus (Narkissos, Leirion) Species: Narcissus tazetta, N. poeticus, N. serotinus Identification: Yellow or cream flower with yellow trumpets Associations/Uses: Narkissos, abduction of Kore, numbing, hubris, Nemesis, emetic, joint pain, joint dislocation

Dandelion (Kondrille) Species: Taraxacum officinale Identification: A bright yellow flower with jagged green leaves, when seeding is round and white with seeds attached to feather-like stems Associations/Uses: Treating sunburn, healing viper bites, astringent, strength

Dill (Athinon) Species: Anethum graveolens Identification: A herb with many thin green branches and leaves and small yellow flowers Associations/Uses: Vitality, prosperity, mild diuretic, treating womb disorders, health of the vulva

#pharmakeia #pharmakis #hellenic paganism #hellenic polytheism #hellenismos #green witch #hellenic herbs #greek mythology #ancient greek #magik #herb

[koraki-grimoire]

Ancient Hellenic Herbs - Introduction & Index

A three part compilation of various herbs and their perceived medicinal and spiritual uses in Ancient Greece.

Major disclaimer, do not take this as medical advice. The Greeks were very wrong about many things in terms of health care. Very, VERY wrong. Some 'medicines' were toxic. This collection especially is meant to only reference what the Ancient Greeks thought--it doesn't adhere to modern understanding of herbs, let alone medicine. This also isn't every herb in Greece.

Posts: Part 1 - A-D Part 2 - F-M Part 3 - O-Y

Main Sources: De Materia Medica Theoi.com

#pharmakeia #pharmakis #hellenic paganism #hellenic polytheism #hellenismos #green witch #hellenic herbs #greek mythology #ancient greek #magik #herbalism #nekromankia

[koraki-grimoire]

Theoi Summary - Thanatos

Θανατος (tha-na-tos) - Thanatos God of non-violent death Chthonic Daimon

Symbols: Sword, inverted torch, theta (θ), wreath Animals: Butterfly Colors: Black Plants/Herbs: Poppy, cypress Stones/Crystals: Black stones

Retinue: N/A Relations: Nyx (mother), Erebos (sometimes father), Hypnos (twin brother), Keres (sisters) Identified with: Mors (Roman), Letum (Roman)

Festivals: N/A

Epithets: Paeon (Healer/Striker)

#theoi #hellenic polytheism #hellenic paganism #hellenismos #grimoire #deity summary #theoi summary #witchblr #chthonic theoi #thanatos #daimones #daimon #daemon

[koraki-grimoire]

Theoi Summary - Selene

Σεληνη (seh-LEE-nee) - Selene AKA Mene Goddess of the Moon, fertility, childbirth, and the months Ouranic Titaness

Symbols: Crescent, lunar disc, bull horns Animals: Bull, cattle Colors: White, silver Plants/Herbs: Selentropes Stones/Crystals: Selenite, moonstone, silver, quartz

Retinue: Hesperus, Astra Relations: Endymion (husband), Hyperion (father), Theia (mother), Helios (brother, sometimes father), Pandeia (daughter), Nemea (daughter), Herse (daughter), Horae (sometimes daughters), Menai (daughters), Narkissos (son) Identified with: Artemis-Hekate (Hellenic/Roman), Artemis (Hellenic), Hekate (Hellenic), Hera (Hellenic), Luna (Roman), Máni (Norse), Chandra (Hindu), Soma (Hindu), Tsukuyomi-no-Mikoto (Japanese)

Festivals: Pandia (14h Ela.), Noumenia (1st of every month)

Epithets: Phoebe (Bright), Aiglê (Radiance), Pasiphae (All-Shining), Ilithyia (Aid in Childbirth), Mene (Moon/Lunar), Pandia (All brightness)

#theoi #hellenic polytheism #hellenic paganism #hellenismos #grimoire #deity summary #theoi summary #witchblr #titans #titaness #titan #ouranic theoi #titan gods #selene #selene goddess #mene #celestial gods

[koraki-grimoire]

Theoi Summary - Dionysos

Διονυσος (dee-OH-nee-sohs) - Dionysos AKA Dionysus God of wine, chaos, reincarnation, rebirth, pleasure, madness, mental illness, fertility, the grape harvest, androgyny, and the transgender/nonbinary Ouranic Olympian with Chthonic aspects

Symbols: Thyrsus, grapevine, ivy, chalice, pine cone, wine Animals: Goat, panther, leopard, bull, serpent, tiger Colors: Red, green, black, purple Plants/Herbs: Grapevine, ivy, bindweed, white pine Stones/Crystals: Amethyst, purple crystals

Retinue: Maenads, Satyrs Relations: Ariadne (wife), Zeus (father), Semele (mother), Persephone (sometimes mother), Priapos (son), Methe (daughter), Thysa (daughter), Telete (daughter), Iakkhos (son), Pasithea (daughter), Kharites (sometimes daughters), half sibling to all children of Zeus Identified with: Liber (Roman), Bacchus (Roman), Osiris (Kemetic), Haides (Hellenic), Iakkhos (Hellenic)

Festivals: Rural Dionysia (10th Pos.), City Dionysia (10-17th Ela.), Anthesteria (11-13th Ant.), Dionysian Mysteries (??), Eleusinian Mysteries (14-23rd Boe.)

Epithets: Maenoles (Mad), Nyctelius (Of the Night), Lampterus (Of the Torches), Hestius (Of the Feast), Androgynos (Androgynous), Auxites (Giver of Increase), Staphylites (Of the Grape), Theoenus (God of Wine), Oenops (Wine-Dark), Dimetor (Twice-Born), Anthion (Of the Flowers), Kissios (Of the Ivy), Eleuthereus (Liberator), Lysios (Of Release), Soterius (Savior from Madness)

#theoi #hellenic polytheism #hellenic paganism #hellenismos #olympian gods #dionysos #dioynsus #bacchus #grimoire #deity summary #theoi summary #witchblr #ouranic theoi #nomioic theoi #chthonic theoi #nature theoi

[koraki-grimoire]

Theoi Summary - Hestia

Ἑστια (es-TEE-ah) - Hestia AKA Histia, Hestiê Goddess of the home, hearth, sacred fire, family, and cooking Ouranic Olympian

Symbols: Kettle, fire, veil, chaste-tree Animals: Pig, donkey Colors: Red Plants/Herbs: Chaste-tree, culinary herbs Stones/Crystals: Garnet, ruby, sulphur, tiger eye, fire agate

Retinue: N/A Relations: Kronos (father), Rhea (mother), Zeus (brother), Haides (brother), Poseidon (brother), Demeter (sister), Hera (sister) Identified with: Vesta (Roman), Tabiti (Scythian)

Festivals: Noumenia (1st of every month)

Epithets: Aidios (Eternal), Khloomorphos (Verdant), Polymorphos (Multi-Formed), Polyvolvos (Rich in Blessings), Potheinotati (Beloved), Vasileia (Queen), Boulaia (Of the Council)

#theoi #hellenic polytheism #hellenic paganism #hellenismos #olympian gods #grimoire #deity summary #theoi summary #witchblr #household theoi #hestia #histia #hestie #ouranic theoi

[koraki-grimoire]

Theoi Summary - Poseidon

Ποσειδων (poh-see-thOHN) - Poseidon God-king of the sea, earthquakes, floods, drought, and horses Ouranic, Chthonic and Einalic Olympian

Symbols: Trident, seashell, boulder, wreath of celery Animals: Bull, horse, dolphin, hippocamp, marine life Colors: Blue, green, black Plants/Herbs: Pine, celery Stones/Crystals: Pearl, sea glass

Retinue: Triton, Nereids, Okeanids, Naiads, Potomai, all ocean deities and spirits Relations: Kronos (father), Rhea (mother), Amphirite (wife), Halia (consort), Medousa (consort), Zeus (brother), Hestia (sister), Haides (brother), Demeter (sister), Hera (sister), Triton (son), Rhode (daughter), Pegasos (son), Athena (sometimes daughter), Areion (son), Polyphemos (son), Khrysomallos (son), Orion (sometimes son), Despoine (daughter), Kymopoleia (daughter), Proseous Daemones (sons) Identified with: Neptune (Roman)

Festivals: Poseidea (8 Pos.), Haloa (26 Pos.), Aeginetarum Feriae (~winter solstice), honored on the 8th of every month

Epithets: Basileus (King), Pelagaeus (Of the Sea), Prosclystius (Who Dashes Against), Asphalius (Secures Safe Voyage), Epoptes (Overseer), Ennosigaeus (Shaker of the Earth), Hippius (Of the Horses), Hippocurius (Horse Tender), Phytalmius (Plant Nurturer), Patrus (Father), Laoites (Of the People), Gaeochus (Holder of the Earth)

#theoi #hellenic polytheism #hellenic paganism #hellenismos #olympian gods #grimoire #deity summary #theoi summary #witchblr #ouranic theoi #einalic theoi #chthonic theoi #nature gods #poseidon #poseidon god

[koraki-grimoire]

Theoi Summary - Nike

Νικη (nee-keh) - Nike AKA Nicé Goddess of victory in both peaceful contests & war Ouranic Daemon & Resident of Olympos

Symbols: Wings, palm branch, wreath, gold sandals, lyre, incense burner, golden sandals, chariot, trophy Animals: N/A Colors: Gold, white Plants/Herbs: Palm, laurel Stones/Crystals: Gold

Retinue: N/A Relations: Pallas (father), Styx (mother), Ares (sometimes father), Zelos (brother), Kratos (brother), Bia (sister) Identified with: Athene (Hellenic), Victoria (Roman)

Festivals: Niketeria (2 Boe.)

Epithets: Apteros (Wingless/Never leaving, unique to Athens), ?? (Beautiful-Ankled)

#theoi #hellenic polytheism #hellenic paganism #hellenismos #grimoire #deity summary #theoi summary #witchblr #daimones #daimon #daemon #nike #nike goddess #ouranic theoi #olympian gods

[koraki-grimoire]

Theoi Summary - Ares

Αρης (AH-rees) - Ares God of war, battle lust, courage, civil order, military, spoils, soldiers, manliness, and strength Ouranic Olympian

Symbols: Helm, spear, shield Animals: Serpent, (bronze) bull, barn owl, vulture, woodpecker Colors: Red, black Plants/Herbs: N/A Stones/Crystals: Hematite, fire opal, bloodstone, bronze, steel

Retinue: Deimos, Phobos, Eris, Enyo, Kydoimos, Nike Relations: Zeus (father), Hera (mother), Aphrodite (consort, sometimes half sister), Eris (sometimes sister, consort), Deimos (son), Phobos (son), Harmonia (daughter), Eros (son), Anteros (son), Diomedes (son), half brother to all children of Zeus Identified with: Mars (Roman), Enyo (Hellenic), Tyr (Norse)

Festivals: N/A

Epithets: Theritas (Beastly), Hippius (Of the Horses), Aphneius (Abundant), Gynaecothoenas (Feasted by Women), Miaephonus (Bloody), Laossous (He Who Rallies Men), Brotoloegus (Slaughtering), Andreïphontes (Manslaying), Chalceus (Brazen), Teichesipletes (Stormer of Cities), Enchespalus (Spear-Brandishing), Rhinotorus (Flesh-Piercing), Oxys (Sharp), Thoos (Swift), Thurus (Violent), Obrimus (Strong), Dinus (Fearsome), Enyalius (Warlike)

#theoi #hellenic polytheism #hellenic paganism #hellenismos #olympian gods #grimoire #deity summary #theoi summary #witchblr #ouranic theoi #ares #ares god