Page 39 - September 2022 Magazine - Bumper Edition

The Holly (Tinne)
8th July - 4th August Star Sign:
The Horse
Governing Planet: The Sun
Ruling Element: Fire
The Holly was, in Celtic mythology, the evergreen twin of the mighty Oak.
Holly controlled the cold dark winter months, whilst the Oak was the controller of the light, warmer half of the year. They also shared the ability to withstand and survive a lightning strike. This led to their association with both the Celtic God of thunder Taranis and his Nordic counterpart Thor.
No surprise, therefore, that Holly was frequently planted next to barns, livestock pens, and dwellings to protect them from lightning strikes. More than that, its prickly leaves were believed to be a barrier to mischievous spirits and yet also a place where the faerie often chose to reside.
The all-powerful Druids would have advised that a branch of Holly be taken into the home during winter in order to provide comfort, shelter, and warmth for the faerie and other good spirits.
Whilst the taking of cuttings would have been actively encouraged, as it was recognised that this would enhance re-growth, the cutting down of a whole tree would have been absolutely unacceptable and would have brought great misfortune on whoever did so. Unless, of course, homage was first paid to the Gods.
Holly, being an evergreen, must have fascinated our ancestors. To flourish all year round would have been seen as an incredibly powerful symbol. When a village elder or chieftain died and a new one was appointed, a crown would be made for the new leader from the Holly as a sign of good fortune and continuity.
Early Pagan Celts would boil Holly leaves and when cooled, bathe infants in the water to bless them with good fortune and protect them from evil spirits.
The Flickering Cauldron® Magazine - Ogham Holly | 39