Bowynn Gods: Mano

A Deeper Look into the God Aetenn

The symbolism surrounding Aetenn reveals profound layers of meaning, tightly entwined with esoteric principles and numerical significance. The ram, a recurring symbol in various mythologies, connects to themes of strength and assertiveness (often associated with the astrological sign Aries), but its horns can also symbolize stability and grounding—attributes that are essential for any protector or guardian. The duality of his nature as a guardian rather than a warrior suggests a transition from aggression (often represented by the warrior archetype) to stewardship, which can be explored through concepts like the Fibonacci sequence; just as this mathematical series illustrates growth and balance, Aetenn embodies the necessity of nurturing potential (the arms and armor of warriors) while safeguarding community.

Aetenn, as the guardian of arms, armor, and forest, embodies a unique synthesis of protection and communal harmony, reflecting deeper philosophical and psychological themes. His role as a protector rather than a warrior suggests an exploration of the concept of "strength through restraint"—the idea that true power lies not just in wielding weapons, but in guarding what is valuable and ensuring the readiness of warriors to engage ethically in their pursuits. This notion connects with the idea of inner peace before external action, highlighting the importance of mindfulness and preparedness.

The forest environment Aetenn inhabits symbolizes life’s complexities and the untamed aspects of nature, suggesting that protection extends beyond martial prowess to encompass nurturing the environment and community bonds. His drumming connection reinforces the theme of communication and rhythm in relationships—both human and nature, further emphasizing the interconnectedness of all beings. The rhythmic beat of drums can symbolize the heartbeat of the Earth itself, emphasizing the importance of maintaining harmony with one’s surroundings.

Additionally, the black berry wreath can be interpreted as a symbol of cycles—birth, death, and renewal—since berries signify nourishment but also decay. This cyclical nature could reflect the life of soldiers, who thrive under protection but also face the threats of mortality and transformation. Aetenn's guardianship over what is most prized underscores the significance of mindful intention in one's desires, serving as a reminder that safeguarding what one values often requires discernment and respect for the greater good.

The black berry leaves, adorned with thorns, contribute a rich layer of esoteric meaning associated with protection through hardship. This paradox reflects alchemical transformations, where something seemingly harmful can protect and empower—much like the journey through the "prima materia" to reach enlightenment. The act of guarding only what one values aligns with the principle of intention found in manifesting one's desires. This notion resonates with the Law of Correspondence in hermetic teachings, implying that one's inner state reflects their external reality.

Furthermore, the drumming aspect connects Aetenn with rhythm and vibration, fundamental elements of sacred geometry and sound healing, resonating with a numerical symbology in sacred chants or mantras that establish communion. The significance of drums as a communication tool echoes the mathematical concept of frequency and waves, where harmony can signify balance in both the physical and spiritual realms. Thus, Aetenn serves as a multifaceted archetype, embodying the necessity of protection, the complexity of nature's cycles, and the essential connection between intention and manifestation in the spiritual fabric of existence.

Exploring Aetenn through a deeper lens, one can uncover fascinating intersections between his symbolism and scientific principles, particularly in ecology, psychology, and the study of sound. As a forest god, Aetenn embodies the principles of ecosystems where interdependence is crucial; his guardianship can be likened to the role of keystone species in sustaining biodiversity. This speaks to the hidden meaning of protecting not just individual aspects of society (like warriors and their weapons) but the entire web of life, emphasizing the importance of ecological balance and resilience.

In psychological terms, Aetenn might represent archetypal concepts that resonate within the collective unconscious. As a protector and guardian, he aligns with the Jungian idea of the "Self" as a harmonious balance of different aspects of the psyche. The caring nature of his duties could suggest the psychological principle of empowerment, where true strength lies in fostering the potential of others rather than exerting control or dominance, reflecting a more nurturing approach to leadership.

Scientifically, the drums associated with Aetenn can be examined through the lens of acoustics and vibration. The rhythmic patterns of drumming are known to influence brainwaves, promoting sensation alteration, introspection, and communal bonding—facilitating group cohesion and shared identity among communities, which is essential in military contexts. This reinforces deep cultural bonds and emphasizes the interconnectivity among its members, paralleling the principles of quantum entanglement in physics—where everything is interconnected at a fundamental level.

Bowynn Gods: Adarro

Adarro  (Ah-dar-rho)  A god of friendly water and the sea. He is sometimes called “White Dolphin Spirit.” Adarro is the son of Sumon and Phoenix. Adarro is called the fisherman’s god, as he brings good fishing to men and protects them as well. He is a joyful god and when not swimming about the waves can be seen joyfully dancing about the beach, celebrating with mortals. In this way he can also be seen as a god of abundance, to those that depend on the sea for food. And some attribute the skill/sport of surfing to Adarro. He is often summoned before a beach gathering, to bless the celebration and asked to join in on the fun.

    There are little sacred tales of Adarro, as he seems to avoid trouble, instead enjoying his times in the water and beaches. During the Seven Sacred Days, Adarro spent his time with mortals, teaching them how to catch fish, build boats and weave nets and trap-baskets. He also showed mortals how to avoid the waters when they could be destructive.

    Adarro is seen as a most handsome youthful sea god; his hair is blond and curly, and his body is lean and tanned by the sun. Often, he is seen without clothing or just a wearing a long “stola.” Sacred offerings to the god come in the form of meals of fish, star-fish & dolphin votives, water lilies, seaweed and of course incense.

Bowynn Gods: Tya

Embroidery & Paint representing the Gods of creation: Tya, Paut and Phaenixx - Created by Sheree Tsarnek - 2017 - (With the gods Aetenn on the far left and Unthar on the far right)

Tya  (Ty-ah)  Goddess of the element of Spirit and one of the first gods to come out of Bia’s creation. She is the sister to Brea, Unthar and the others. She is the goddess of the element of spirit, faith, intuition, sixth sense, spirituality and the human psyche.

     During the creation of Mankind, it was Tya that placed a bit of herself into the first clay figures, giving them each a sense of feeling, hope and purpose. This she also did to all the first animals that were created. This was the only sacred story attributed to Tya and yet she, along with her siblings all holds the highest place of honor in the holy family in Alaway.

     Tya is seen as a rather young woman despite her time of reign. She is depicted and seen in visions with short hair, wearing a rather simple dress and hladd of blue or purple and a circlet on her head. Tya bears no totem animal but claims all are hers. All forms of offerings are sacred to Tya but ultimately candles and incense are the most divine gifts to Tya.

Bowynn Gods: Daeth

Daeth Coddling the Earth (2) Daeth with the defeated Bull of Night (3) Neo Classical Daeth (4) Daeth over-looking the Earth

Daeth (Dayth)  Daeth is the Bowynn God of darkness, shadows and the night. He is not a fearsome god by any means, just the god that attributes darkness to the universe and the night. He is a primordial god, one of the first gods to emerge from the will of Bia, along with his twin sister Tora and other brothers and sisters. He is the god one calls to during the dark of the moon, looking at one’s shadow self and looks at when practicing shadow magic. Again, Daeth is not an evil god by any extent nor has he any ill intentions. Even when there is light, Daeth is the creator and pinner of shadows. He is also a god of balance, where-in there is darkness, light exists as well.

     Daeth, like all gods when they are born, had no attributes or realms to tend to. And Darkness was an element that was guarded by a massive black bull in the heavens. When Daeth was old enough, Daeth had challenged the bull. Such a competition it was across the universe. Their tracks created the streaked sky called the "Milky Way" which in Bowynn is called "Ikarro." Eventually Daeth got on the bulls back and tamed the huge black bull till it was exhausted. Daeth then was able to unleash the darkness into the universe. Not as a feared element but as a separation of light, keeping the law of Bia "Balance" in check. For where there is Light, there must be darkness. As for the bull itself, Daeth kept the creature as his own steed and to give it honor, he arranged a constellation to match him, known as Taurus.

     Eventually Daeth and his twin sister Tora wed and bore and host of other gods. However, being actually created from Bia instead of born, the ill laws of incest never cursed Bia's children. Together Tora and Daeth rule the realm of night on earth. It is Daeth that gave Naraea, the goddess of sleep and dreams, a home high in the celestial heavens among the stars. And also, from Tora and Daeth was born the magnificent Goddess of the moon, Morrighynn. Unlike many of the gods of Alaway, Daeth does not often join the gods in the Great Hall at night for feasting and fun, as his realm needs to be tended to in those hours. Instead, he and Tora feast together and they tend to the night and darkness

     Despite his primordial appearance Daeth is not an old looking god. He is a well-developed young man, said to have curly hair and black as darkness. Some who have had divine contact with him say his eyes are just as black. Other say that his eyes are like a shining star. And his clothing of choice is also as black as his realm. Often, he is seen carrying the bridle of the great black bull or simply wearing a black cloak. Despite his dark attributes, Daeth is said to be rather handsome.

Q&A: Bowynn Magic

QUESTION: In the Bowynn Tradition, are there any special corrospondences with herbs, plants, flowers and such?

ANSWER: There is a special recognition of certain flora, that is commonly used in magic and incense blends. But they by no way match the lists one will find in a Wiccan book or match those listed by other culture. There are 7 sacred plants that are commonly used and considered the most sacred:

ROSE: Used for all fire magic, Love spells, Friendship, Family, Unity, Bonding, Oaths, Commitment, Beauty

CEDAR: Purification, Purging, Cleansing, Strength, Growth, Learning, Wisdom,

LAVENDAR: Calm, Sleep, Peace, Clear thinking, Clarity,

MINT: Excitement, Energy, Stimulation, Waking, Vitality, Wealth/Abundance,

BAY LAUREL: Magic, Shamanism, Divination, Wishes, Understanding, Divination, Scrying, Spiritualism, Psychism

PINE: Change, Immortality, Endurance, Altering, Taking Control,

APPLE: The most sacred plant. Home, Abundance, Stability, Health, Education, Protection,

The other most sacred of flora and other burnable materials of the earth are the following three:

AMBER: Sun Magic, Ancient Wisdom, Oracles, Warmth, Self, Soul, Intervention,

BLUE BELL: Rain, Water Magic, Springtime, Change, Growth, Renew, Warning, Fertility

DAISY: Moon Magic, Cleansing, Purity, Spirituality, Sleep, Dreams

Amber is listed as 'Flora', as it comes from the sap of ancient trees. These three combined make up the colors of the Bowynn Crest. These ten plants/trees/flowers are what is burned most during religious ceremonies and magical practices.

BOWYNN GODS: RHYA

Rhya  (Ry-ah)  Queen of the gods and goddess of women’s rituals and psychics in the Bowynn pantheon. She is the daughter of Phoenix and Sumon and the sister of Kalma and Kauldra. When it comes to all things of feminine arts and persuasion, Rhya is the goddess to look to. She is the goddess that initiates girls into the temples when they are of age.

      In many ways Rhya is much like her Mediterranean counterparts Juno and Minerva, in that she is the queen of the holy family. But that’s where the similarity ends. Rhya is a most loving and devoted wife but also a motherly goddess, not just to her own children but to all of the Akua. Thus, Rhya is a patron of not just queens but mothers.

     The most epic tale of Rhya is that of her being wooed by Anhur. The handsome young go fell in love almost instantly. As did Anhur’s brothers fall for Rhya’s sisters. But Rhya refused to be taken in by fancy talk and demanded that Anhur show how much he loved her. Anhur brought Rhya the most glorious gifts from all over the earth. But each one Rhya turned down. This continued for a long time till the god was exalted and there were no other gifts on earth to bring Rhya. Finally, Anhur simply pledged his love, truly and unconditionally. This what Rhya was waiting to hear the whole time, and she accepted his hand in marriage.

     Rhya is seen in her immortal form as a well-formed woman of a motherly look. She has raven black hair that is crowned and veiled, depicting his queenly statue. Her garments are of pure white and silver. Other times it is of a lavender color and accented in some manner with a votive image of a peacock. During times where her presence is seen at weddings ceremonies, she is accompanied by the god Dhonan. Together they sanctify the couple being wed. Being that her totem is a peacock, she will take this form when in the presence of mortals. Sacred to her is the crown, staff and votive image of a peacock or its feathers.

Bowynn Gods: Aleglea

Aleglea  (Al-leh-glee-ah) Aleglea is the patroness of the Bowynn people. Amongst all the goddesses she is often revered the most. She is the goddess of all the joys and beauties of the world, all the things that makes us happy. She is a goddess of flowers, dance, joy, happiness, adornment, glory and magnificence, mirth and good-cheer, festivities and banquets, dancing and song. Her very name means “Happiness.”      Aleglea is the daughter of Brand and Brenda and considered a goddess that is most pleasing. It is said that some mortals cannot look at her without bursting into tears of joy. And others cannot look at her because they feel less than worthy to do so.

Aleglea represents beauty in crafted objects and artistic adornment, of festival dance and song, glory and flowers. No matter where you go the gifts of the goddess is there. Aleglea presides over the pleasures of life, including play and amusement, parties, banquets, floral decorations, rest, happiness, and relaxation. She is the goddess of flowers. So flowery wreaths are worn at festivals and parties just to honor the lady.      Aleglea is seen as a woman of simple beauty. Crowned in a wreath of flowers on her honey-colored hair and she has beautiful green eyes, wearing a saffron and ruby colored dress. It is said her hladd is decorated with flowers, birds, butterflies and images of dancing people though many people have said they have seen Aleglea without wearing a hladd. She wears no shoes, instead walking barefoot.

Sacred to Aleglea is the butterfly, a creature which she sometimes takes form in. The most sacred gifts of and to this goddess is in the form of all flowers. During festivals garlands and wreathes of flowers are hung everywhere in her name. Other offerings to her are pots of honey, votive butterfly images and of course incense.

Blessed Winter Solstice

QUESTION AND ANSWER: GODS AND MAGIC

QUESTION: When casting spells in the Bowynn Tradition, what gods are invoked, if any?

ANSWER: A practicing Myst [witch] will invoke the goddess Mystara prior to beginning any spell. She is offered incense and whatever else a Myst can offer. Then the spell is started. Depending on the spell, will depend what other gods will be invoked during the casting of the spell itself: Owen and his daughters for health, Anhur for justice, Daeth for wealth. Istra for vengeance, Bryanthenaea for protection...and so forth. Even if you are not sure which gods are invoked for your need, that's okay. So long as Mystara is invoked prior to the spell. She is the patroness of witches and makes sure the spell is being done for just case, to see it is done correctly and its manifestation.

Bowynn Gods: Ikarro

Ikarro  (Ih-kar-ro) The Milky Way. The bridge that lead the gods to earth at the beginning of time. The bridge was removed after the creatrix goddess Brea descended to earth and became trapped there. The Ikarro is a divine symbol of where there was chaos and sadness, balance and happiness will come.