Symbolism, Terminology and Practices
Feathers
Since ancient times feathers have been used in ritual ceremonies, for healing, and as symbols of status or beauty.
Feathers are the language of the wind, the mind, truth, and all creator Gods and Goddesses. Feathers act as signs and gifts which signal a direct connection to Divine Forces, a medicine or quality we can develop, a link to Nature – the Devic and Fairy Kingdom, alignment with natural forces and bird characteristics, and the ‘Initiation of Air’ (realising the power of intention and our thoughts). They act as a reflection or gauge to show that changes are about to unfold – a journey into new levels of consciousness, or a call to unfold the wings of enchantment in our lives. Ascension: The dove. Holding a feather can link us to the vibrations of ‘The Bird Tribes’ or ‘Winged Ones’ and the Natural Kingdom.
Ancient Egypt – The Feather ‘Shut’
A tall ostrich plume whose tip bends over under its own weight and symbol of Shu, God of the Air, wearing a feather in his hair. Occasionally Geb (Father of the Earth) was shown dressed in feathers, a representation of the air covering him. A symbol of the Goddess of Justice, Truth and Order, Maat (Ma'at) and the Law of Maat (as the heart is weighed against a feather). Thoth records proceedings with a feather. Isis is shown wearing a feather, and with wings that embrace the Universe.
Peacock Feathers
Peacocks have long been admired for their beauty and grace, and represent immortality and joy. The dance of the peacock reminds us to celebrate life, and is also said to predict rain. To find a feather brings ‘good luck, harmony, serenity and peace of mind’. Feathers are also used for psychic protection and safe-guarding the home. The feathers are covered in intricate two-dimensional crystal-like structures, causing different wavelengths of light to be filtered and reflected, creating the many iridescent hues. Peacocks thrive by eating plants that are poisonous to other animals.
The ‘eyes’ symbolise the ability to see into the past, present and future. Known as ‘creatures of a hundred eyes’ they signify eternal bliss and the vision of the soul. The peacock also reminds us to see the beauty in all aspects of life. ‘Pavo the Peacock’ is a constellation lying south of Sagittarius and the Southern Crown, showing the tail in full display. The word Pavo is derived from the Sanskrit Pavana, meaning purity. As an astrological influence Pavo gives the ‘love of display’ with a long life and possible fame.
Quetzalcoatl
The serpent (coatl), with the feathers of the brightly colored quetzal bird. These feathers also made up the insignias of Mexican kings – each feather in their headdresses signified an act of bravery of the wearer. The Feathered Serpent deity was important in art and religion in most of Mesoamerica for close to 2,000 years, from the Pre-Classic era until the Spanish conquest. The snake represents the Earth and vegetation, but it was in Teotihuacan (around 150 CE) that the snake was depicted with the precious feathers of the quetzal.
Sacred Symbols of Mu
Truth, Ancient Mu (Lemuria, Muror): The High Priest King of Mu, Ra Mu wore a crown of three feathers symbolising truth.
The Eagle
Connection to the creator. A symbol of truth, power and freedom, as it roams the sky. Its wings represent the balance needed between male and female, each one dependent upon strengths and abilities of the other. The eagle was given the honour of carrying the prayers of man between the world of Earth and the world of Spirit where our creator and the grandfathers reside. Therefore, when one holds the eagle feather, one must speak the truth in as positive a way as one can, for the ear of our creator is that much closer to the feather of the eagle. We honour the feather of the eagle with great care, showing it respect, honesty, and truth, at all times. To be given an eagle feather is the highest honour that can be awarded within aboriginal cultures.