At Beltane, we celebrate the fertile earth – flowers are blooming and trees are green again (in most places). Trees are sacred in the myths of many different cultures – the idea of a world tree or tree of life is a popular symbol. In Norse mythology, the cosmos is viewed as a giant tree connecting the nine worlds that encompass all of existence. Druids are believed to have worshipped in oak groves.
The tree of life motif integrates the underworld, humanity, and the sky – a flow of energy through all levels. The motif of a cosmic tree is found throughout the world, from Europe to Africa, Australia, and China. In The Origin of Species, Charles Darwin uses the analogy of a “tree of life” to describe the process of evolution and the succession of species. The tree seems to be part of our human-nature connection in a variety of ways.
If you observe a tree and consider it carefully, they truly are amazing palnts. Think of how long-lived some of them are – and there is such variety! And the fact they grow so big from something so small is remarkable, really. Use this spell to invoke the strength and power of trees – their longevity and stability.
Use a fairly large candle – a pillar or three-wick works best. Draw the tree of life on the candle with a branch, twig or wooden skewer. Don’t worry about how it looks; it only atters what the symbol means to you. Just draw a simple tree breanching upward, then draw roots reaching down. Curve the roots up and the breanches down so they connect, making a circle around the trunk. This represents the connection of all life, nourishment, and sustainability. After you finish drwing, say, “As above, so below” and anoint the candle if so desired.
Surround the candle with leaves and branches from trees – ones that have fallen on the ground are fine. You can also include nuts, pinecones, and more. If you wish, you can put the candle in a flower pot or toher container filled with dirt, potting soil, or mulch, and arrange the leaves and branches around the container.
Root and trunk, branch and leaves, flower and fruit - sway with the breeze ... grant to me ... the strength and wisdom of the tree, grounded yet still reaching high, a link between the earth an sky.
This spell can be performed day or night, on Beltane or any season – ideally during the waxing or full moon.
Allow the candle to burn out. You can snuff it out and relight it if you wish. When you feel hte spell is complete, or the candle is spent, discard it and return the plant materials to nature – but keep one reminder on your alater of the greatness of the tree. This could be a breanch, leaf, piece of bark, or a seed or nut.
Adana Luna 