Pagan Witch - Blog Posts

Bowynn Gods: Lomaun

Lomaun  (Lo-maun)  Lomaun is the son of Hern and Morrighynn. But he seems to have been born a mortal for reasons unknown who later became a god after his quests and adventures were over. This assention is not common in Bowynn faithn, as much as it is in Greek, Roman, Nordic and other faiths. As a god, he presides over forests, wildlife, protecting travelers, discovery, and guardianship of bears.

     Lomaun is worshipped as a bear god, a protector of travelers in general. Often prayed to before taking a trip for a safe journey and then again when the journey is complete. He is the guardian of the wild wood and all its creatures. He is the protector of hunters and their prey. Lomaun is also the god that helps those discover lost and new items but more importantly discover we all are deep inside.  

     Born a mortal child, Lomaun was raised by a bear till he was found and raised by a loving mortal family. However, he knew he was not the same as them, seeing he could do small feats that others simply could not do. In one instance he took on and defeated a giant boar that was terrifying travelers. The quest to slay the beast, lead Lomaun on a quest to find out who he really was and who his parents were, taking his bear mother with him. Along the way he encountered a series of tests of strength, skill, love, devotion, wisdom, cunning and learning the 7 virtues through trial. In the greatest of these tests, he ran into a tribe that was starving and on the brink of death. With bow in hand Lomaun trudged into the woods and there he spied a great elk. Lomaun was all ready to slay the beast when he was suddenly overcome with divine energy and realized he could not kill the animal. Lomaun realized that the elk in question was his father Herne's great steed. Lomaun slew the immortal elk and for this crime His immortal spirit, souls and body was turned mortal.

His last great feat was to take on a huge mountain of a man that was challenging men to a battle and killing them. In the battle Lomaun's bear companion was mortally wounded. Lomaun slew the warrior and raced to the bear’s side to find her transformed into a mortal. She was so beautiful and her dying breath she revealed that her name was Teega and that she did not love him as a mother would but as a lover. Lomaun wept so much that Herne and Morrighynn took pity and gave Lomaun and Teega immortality and allowed into Alaway to sit with the other gods. Their mortal lesson was etched into the night sky by Unthar, lord of the skies, as the Great Bear and Little Bear constellations.

     Lomuan is seen with wild brown hair and sporting a short beard and moustache. On his hip is a sword, on his back a quiver of arrows and in his hand a staff. He is seen in normal hunting cloths or a traveler’s wayfarer robe but over these he always have a bear skin for a cloak or large mantle. Despite his Heraklian-like mortal tasks, he is not depicted powerfully strong. Most of his mortal deeds being accomplished with brains over brawn. And at his side is either depicted his love in either bear or mortal form. Sometimes he will be seen as a bear himself, as the bear is his totem animal. Sacred offerings best suited to Lomaun are votive fetishes of bears, spear and arrowheads, tree saplings, fish, berry cakes (and berries in general) and of course incense.

Bowynn Gods: Kyrra

Kyrra (Keer-Rah)  Kyrra (sometimes Jyrra) are bird-like Kii and Tii that resemble the Greek Harpies. Unlike Harpies, they can be good as well. Said to have a humanoid head and torso but from the hips down the lower half of a bird. Originally, the Kyrra were all good natured and were messengers of Brand and the other gods but the god Mano corrupted some and turned them to be as malicious as himself. Bad Kyrra are often responsible for missing items and malfunctions in the home and life.  Good or bad, they are seen in small bird size. Someone who is having a bad swing of misfortune us referred to as "Being scratched by a Kyrra." Waking up with a scratch is an ill omen that one has been scratched by a Kyrra and bad times are coming. At the same time finding a random feather in your home is a sign of great fortune. "Kyrra Blessed."

Bowynn Gods: Kord

Brand and Kord: Gods of Brotherhood

Kord  (Khord)  Kord is the Bowynn god of bravery, freedom, justice, law, peace, virtue and brotherhood. He is the patron of heroes and is a guardian of the Bowynn people. He is the witness of brotherhood and adoption ceremonies. Kord’s parentage is Anhur and Rhya. He is the twin brother of the God Brand and brother to Brenda, the goddess of love and beauty. His position is often to the side of his father Anhur, king of the Bowynn pantheon.      In many ways Kord, along with his brother Brand, their union mimics the aspects of the Greek twin heroes Castor and Polydeukes, the gods Thanatos and Hypnos and the heroes Damon and Pythias. It was Kord and Brand that created the Ki'i (good spirits) to ward away any and all Mano and the Tii (evil spirits) from mortals and gods. This he did when his cousin Mano declared war on him and his brother Brand. When Brand was slain, Kord and Brend traveled to Daunnat to retrieve his brother. They did so but in turn had to build a great banquet hall for Chumash and Kalma and Brenda had to fill it with an endless amount of food.      Kord is seen as a most handsome god in armor most of the time, standing tall and strong. His long hair teams down his back onto his cloak and his eyes are said to be of deep forest green. And though Kord is muscular, he is gentle as well. If not seen with his brother Kord is followed by his faithful and immortal hounds. It is said and written that Kord also has a paid of immortal horses, which he and his brother will ride. These immortal steads are named "Hern kae Taulk" [Sun and Shield.]

Amongst Mortals Kord will often take the form of a dog, often being specifically a grey hound, Dane or Irish Wolf Hound. Sacred objects to Kord are primarily eggs. Other common offerings worthy to Kord are votive images of the Kii, horses and dogs, weapons and of course incense. However, it is not out of Kord’s nature to accept gifts such as flowers. Like all the gods, ne never turns down any sort of offering.

The Horses of Kord: Hern and Taulk

Bowynn Gods: Kora

Kora  (Kor-rah)  Kora is the Bowynn goddess of Autumn and in some ways, the Goddess of the Beginning of the year, since her epiphany ushers in the first day of Autumn, which is the Bowynn New Year. She is the daughter of Morrighynn and Herne and her sisters are the other 4 seasons.      Kora is the Goddess that appears in the west on the first day of autumn, astride her magnificent horse. Where she treads, everything starts to turn from its summer colors to the colors of autumn. She is normally accompanied with her beloved consort Ryan, god of the western wind. It is said that when Ryan and Kora wed, the ceremony and feast was one of the grandest the immortals even seen; even outshining the ceremony of Anhur and Rhya, king and queen of the gods. The Kii (spirits) of the autumn, the Jakk and the Maukol, do not even awake till Kora makes her appearance in the west.      A most awe-inspiring goddess to behold, Kora is a deep red headed goddess with lips just as red. Her gown is said to be that of saffron, mixed with other autumn colors and designs as well. And on her head is crowned a magnificent wreathe of autumn leaves and flowers. 

When not astride her horse, she can be seen walking through forests and meadows with either a golden staff in hand or a basket from which autumn leaves blow out. When not in her divine mortal form, Kora often takes form of her totem animal the crow. Divine offerings to the goddess are not normally given till autumn; autumn leaves and earthly scented incenses, gourds, harvested fruits, vegetables and flowers. On the first day of the Bowynn New Year, the first of autumn, a candle is blessed and lit in the goddess’ name and burns all through the season.

Bowynn Gods: The Kobattii

Kobattii  (Kho-bha-ty)  TheKobattii are a form of Kii (Spirit/Faery) that guard sacred spaces, most of the time being Temples and Shrines. Bowynn temples will have images of Kobbattii above the archway of temple doors and small votive images etched or places next to small shrines.

     The Kobbattii, like most of the world's Kii were created by the Gods Brand, Kord and Brenda to ward off the ills of the God Mano and his malicious spirits, the Tii. It was the Kobbattii that took up residence in temples and shrines to guard and protect them and the bodies there-in . Being numerous but having no sacred text about them (outside of their creation) names of the Kobbattii do not exist.

     The Kobbattii are one of the very few of the Kii that bear armor and weapons. They are depicted clad in armor and bearing shields with the image of a turtle on it. It is their shields that are said to be the apex for protecting sacred sanctuaries.  Their shields are often seen raised high. Sometimes they are helmed and or times not. The Kobbattii are seen as both young men and women without wings. When not depicted or seen in their immortal form they will take the images of turtles, which is their totem animal. Seeing a turtle or tortoise in a cemetery assures the place is well guarded. A temple will often have a small garden out front, housing a couple of turtles.  Sacred gifts offered to the Kobbattii are normally incense or small votive images. But during the holiday of Kykora, the offering level can encompass any of the 7 sacred forms of offerings including full meals or huge baskets of flowers.

Bowynn Gods: The Kii

Kii  (Ky)  Kii are protective spirits of nature, home, work, the arts and various places. There are many types of Kii, large and minuscule and they all preside over different areas of nature. But all Kii are of good persuasion. And their appearance varies greatly. The three common type of Kii often seen and talked about are the small ones, which are described as no bigger than someone’s hands and have bird wings. There is a second type of small Kii that do not have wings. The third type are human size and have no wings.  And then there is the large type, which can be as big as trees and mountains. Some are humanoid in shape, some monstrous. The Bolquinn/Solquinn are big hair forest dwelling beasts.

The Kii were the creation of Brand and his siblings Kord and Brenda. They were created to guard and protect people and places during the destruction and seductive reign of Mano, who was starting to play nasty tricks on the gods. After Mano was destroyed, his minions the Tii were still causing havock, so Kord dictated the Kii were to remain, watching over the earth and its people.

Kii, like the gods, try not to interfere in human lives. Some try to avoid mortals at all cost. While some may protect the home or other such places, they do not get involved in mortal activity. One does not summon a Kii, as it is considered rude and can lead to mishaps. But if asked politely, a Kii may help. The Kii are not immortal but they do have a long lifespan. Some have been said to like about 200-300 years. No sacred story exists that mentions an individual Kii's name.

     Here is a list of some of the different types of Kii, some of which include:  Golderay (lightning, electricity and storms) Morrqua (stars, sleep, dreams and night) Sanna (waters) Chappa (mountain) Suni (wind and clouds) Maukol (harvest, wheat and grain) Gorto (forge) Jakk (domestic fire and flame) Heather (flowers and gardens) Aetin (cemeteries) Hii (magickal arts) Laukel (trees and woodlands) Tayo (houses, hearth, children) Solquinn (Forests)

     The Hii, Abonna and Kobbatti are often considered not Kii but instead as gods, even if they do not have individual names. Some folk do not consider the divisions of the Kii and just speak of them just as “The Kii.”

Bowynn Gods: Khammii

Khammii  (Kham-My)  Khammii are the Kii (spirits) of freshwater bodies, such as ponds, streams, lakes, rivers and so forth. They are said to be of human size, very beautiful and live either in the waters they protect or on its shores. Unlike Mermaids, the Khammii do not have fish bodies. But they can turn into westland animals like fisf, herons, egrets, bitterns and otters. The beauty of the Khammii is depicted in many of the sacred tales. The sadness comes when one learns how protective the Khammii are of their waters. So much so, that mortals that abuse their waters fall to a dramatic ending. Other times sacred stories speak of a mortal and a Khammii that have fallen in love and either one or the other dies, in an attempt to live with the other. Clearly a warning as to how dangerous bodies of water can become.

     The Khammi can be compared to mermaids or water nymphs, but the gender of the Khammii is mixed; some are male and some female. 

Bowynn Gods: Kauldra

Kauldra (Kol-drah)  Queen of the sea and goddess of all fresh waters. Her name in English translates to the world "Cauldron." Be it raging ocean or trickling brook, she is in charge of it. And though she is queen of the sea, her watery aspect seems to be more confined to fresh waters, while her husband Tane, is more opt to salt water. She is the daughter of Sumon and Phoenix.      Sacred stories of Kauldra are not too many. She was to wed Tane, the king of the seas but like her two sisters, she challenged Tane to prove he was a worthy husband first. Tane built Kauldra a grand sea-bound castle of beauty and grace. But she did not accept. Kauldra's postponement of the wedding went on and on till at last Tane had nothing more to offer the goddess but his everlasting love. And it was that which Kauldra accepted and agreed to marry the sea king.

Another tale says when Kauldra was born, the god Gondor fashioned a cauldron as a gift, which she could look in and see the world at her wish. the cauldron is said to hold a drop of water from every river, stream, pond, ocean, sea, fountain and waterway in the world. Kauldra was also said to have given all the animals of the sea color. Before that, they were colorless.      Kauldra is said to resemble a lady of dignified grace, tall and slender. Her robes and garments are long and flowing and the colors of blues and greens. Kauldra’s skin is said to be a bit pale, bares raven colored hair and azure eyes. Her crown is designed of silver with sea horses and shells. Sacred gifts to Kauldra are cooked fish, water, coral, shells, sachets of sand and any plants of the sea or plants like water reeds or water lilies. And of course incense.

Aelles Briathenaet

Today (July 15th) is the first day of the holiday Briathenaet, the celebration of the first tribes to have migrated across the Bosphorus into Europe proper. Briathenaet is THE holiday for the month. The Migration was lead by the goddess Briathenaea and God Mask, and ended with blessed by the goddess Aleglea. It is a celebration of deliverance, freedom, survival, liberty and the escape from starvation. It is the time renewal, change, taking new paths, release and the formations of the first 7 tribes. And its is a time to honor and remember our ancestors, those that made the Migration, eons ago.

Day one of the holiday is spent fasting, in honor of those ancestors that had little to no food, many starving to death along the route. It is a time of thanks and remembering our ancestors. There is a silent candlelit ceremony led by two torch bearers, representing Brianthenaea, Mask and the ceremony is led by a priestess, representing Aleglea. Homes are cleaned and cleans on the first day. Then decorated in colors of red, white and yellow. Symbols of apples, Lilies, yellow flowers, butterflies and masks abound.

The second day is dedicated to ceremony with a great procession of people carrying either images of their ancestors or statuettes, representing those original people that made the migration. What follows is a feast and folly. And also great games are held, where the winners are given crowns made of apple wreaths and flowers, entwined with ribbons of holiday colors. These games last till the end of the 3rd day of the holiday.

Despite all the frivolity, it is a very serious and blessed holiday. A time to reflect on our freedoms, our liberties and those that sacrificed themselves to allow is to live as we do now. A time to give thanks to Briathenaea how shielded our ancestors along the way from the elements and gave us the apple orchards to feast on and gave us shelter. A time to thank Mask, the god of travels, who gave our ancestors safety and strength to carry on. And to Aleglea who awaited on the western back, embracing and blessing every ancestor that made the journey, blanketing the landscape with fertile fields, orchards, forests, fields and shelter.

Needless to say, the food of the holiday have a very apple theme to them: Pies, Cakes, stuffed and glazed meats and poultry.

Bowynn Gods: Kalma

Kalma (right) sitting in Daunnat with her beloved Chumash

Kalma  (Kal-mah)  Queen of the Daunnat, divination and oracles. She is the consort of Chumash, the king of the dead. Unlike many faiths of the ancients, Daunnat is not a place of damnation or fear. It is a most blessed place. And it was Kalma who made it as such. By her will she let the great fields grow green and orchards filled with eternal and ever plentiful foods and valleys carpeted with wildflowers. Kalma is the daughter of Phoenix and Sumon and the sister to Rhya and Kauldra.

     Amongst Kalma's duties as queen of the land beyond is that of calming the soul and spirit, showing there is no need for fear death nor the beyond. Her very name means 'Calm'.

     Kalma and sisters were charmed by the three kings of the immortals and in particular it was Chumash that wished Kalma to marry her. But Kalma refused his hand unless Chumash proved his love. Of all the gifts Chumash bestowed on her, its was acrown of nettles that Kalma loved the most. She finally accepted his hand only after Chumash promised her equality as Queen of Duannat.

     Kalma is seen as a mother-like goddess in appearance; she is elegantly dress and wears a crown of nettles made of gold on her head. Other times, it is a plain crown, like that if her sisters. Being a queen, she is seen most wise, bearing a small scepter in her hand. Kalma very rarely leaves the comforts of Daunnat. Yet when she does, she will often appear as a cat, her totem animal. Sacred gifts offered to Kalma are that of flowers, incense and votive images of cats.

Bowynn Gods: Kalen

Kalen  (Kah-len)  Kalen is the god of woodworking, architecture and protector of homes. He is the patron god of architects, craftsmen, construction workers and anyone whose profession has to deal with woodwork. At the same time, he is a protector of trees.

     Kalen is the son of Phoenix and Sumon and the brother of Gondor, the smithy god and consort to the goddess Panu, the gemologist. Along with Gondor's consort, the four are the master craftsmen of the gods. However instead of feasting and resting at night in Alaway, the four have a sacred home elsewhere in the world, in a most sylvan forest. The home itself was constructed but Kalen himself but in no way out-shines the Daunnat, Alaway or Tennaet. Infact, at one point Kalen as a child dared to try to improve the great immortal's home of Alaway that Anhur had built. Ahnur was so enraged he had taken away Kalen's tools and skills for a year. It was Kalen that spent 7 days with the first tribes of people, showing them the arts of woodcraft, took making and architecture. And it was even Kalen that provided the first structure in Europe when the first tribes of people arrived, so they had a place to stay.

     Despite his constant work, Kalen is a most happy and free giving god, who loves and takes pride in his skills. When not laboring hard, Kalen is whittling away and wood burning, making toys and small gifts for gods and men. He is said to be a most handsome and strong man, equal in handsomeness with his brother Gondor with long hair, a file and hammer in hand and a craftsman apron on his body. When about mortal folk Kalen will appear as a craftsman or a chimney swift, which is his totem animal; the chimney swift being the guardians of homes in Bowynn culture. Sacred to him are all architectural tools; hammer, saw, nails, file, level and these are the best gifts to offer Kalen, if not real ones, votive images of the tools. Most often given is a bundle of long nails, cold water and votive images of chimney swifts.

Bowynn Gods: Jayleen Jarra

Jayleen Jarra  (Jay-leen Jar-rah)  Goddess of the healing arts and medicinal herbalism. She is one of the daughters of the god Owenn and sometimes her sisters and her are said to be female Kii; referred as The Sisters Jarra. Primarily Jayleen is indeed the goddess that rules or the healing properties of herbs and the making of medicines. She is also a patron of pharmacists and medical scientists.   

      There are no sacred tales of Jayleen or her sisters outside of their constant vigil over mortals. Jayleen is said to be seen at her father’s side or out in the wild, always looking for new medicinal herbs. Jayleen’s own chamber in Alaway is a massive chamber of every herb, flower, root and wood known to mankind, filled with ground herbs, oils, salves and balms.

      Jayleen is described as a young goddess with dark hair and a dress of green. Her Hlad is also green, detailed with images of herbs and medicinal flowers. While some have seen her with a staff in hand, most of the time she has been seen with an herbal basket or medicinal bowl in hand. When not seen in this form, Jayleen will take the form of a bird. Offerings to Jayleen are herbs, flowers and incense.

Bowynn Gods: Jakk

Jakk    (Ja-k)   In of the many types of Kii. Jakk are diminutive kii of autumn. It is said they make their homes in gourds and in their vines. They are said to have deep red hair and wear black clothing. Jakk are most prominent during the Kykora or Samhain holiday.  During this time, they take pleasure in jumping over candles that are lit in pumpkins. The role of Jakk is that of ripening of gourds and late harvested food. They are drawn to decorated gourds, and if hung in the house and pleasing to the Jakk, they will bless the home.

Bowynn Gods: Istra

Istra  (Is-tra)  Istra is the Goddess of the 3 fold law, respect, retribution and lawful vengeance. She sits on the left hand of her mother Rhya; her father being Anhur. Istra is the sister of Ion and together they guard over the sacred laws of Bia and the laws of their father, given to mankind. She is not a vengeful nor destructive goddess. In fact, she is rarely seen, only stepping forward to people who call to her help who have suffered great injustice by the acts of others. If the mortal asks her to help them, they must be completely innocent and have been wronged by others. Istra will then seek out those that have hurt said person unjustly and bring balance to the damage that was done. However, if the person who calls to her is lying, Istra will see through the person and purge him with ill times.

      Istra is something of a huntress. But instead of animals, she hunts wrong doers. It is said her sword and arrows do not kill. They have been blessed by Bia and so, when her sword or arrows strike her target, the arrows bring about the justice so fitting the person's crime. Tales of Istra’s justifiable powers are endless. Yet none ever talk about bringing about death. To Istra, death is a coward’s way out of receiving the 3-fold law. Even those that commit murder. If death does come to a person that Istra is asked to hunt, it is not by her doing. Some question if the goddess every does what others pray to her for, when it seems people get away with so much bad things. To this the goddess Istra said that justice will always come in time.

      Despite her attributes, Istra is not a fearsome goddess. In fact, those that have been graced by her divine presence, describe her as most beautiful, long jet black hair and emerald green eyes. Her garment, bow, arrows and circlet are golden. When not seen in her immortal form, she takes the form of a butterfly, her totem. All truly offered gifts are welcomed by Istra: food, flora, flame, votive and more. It is also highly suggested that receive Istra's help, that it be followed up with a plethora of offerings and a card or script of thanks.

Bowynn Gods: Issen

The giant Issen with farmers and animals working the land

Issen (Eye-sen)  Ancient giant god of the old age created by Brea and her siblings. Issen was the older god who ruled over the warmth of summer. One of the older gods, he traveled the world, with his family. His home was in the south and he would appear in the summer as a mammoth of golden fur, bringing with him the summer weather.

      Even though Issen’s attributes were diminished but the coming of the Akua, He is still a most respected god. He is said to now work with the goddess Tarna, the summer goddess, following before her in mammoth form, clearing a path for the goddess to travel. Bowynn folk will often lay blame on Issen if the summer becomes too hot. Issen’s home is the summer-lands of the south. There he has is own lodge that he built himself. Later the lodge was given to Tarna and the god Saphon. It is said that the lodge is massive in size, made of brown wood and logs, sitting on a green hill, overlooking the forested lands. Despite his diminished attributes, Issen is still widely prayed too, in hopes that the summer season is not harsh, and he will ward off forest fires.

      In his immortal form, Issen is seen as an older god, fully bearded and long hair flowing down his back. His hair itself is brownish tainted with white. Issenn is known to always be wearing a heavy brown hide on his back and his clothing is of brown and golden leathers. In his hands are seen a staff and horn. It is with this horn that he blows on, issuing in the summer season. When not in this form, he is a magnificent golden mammoth. Sacred gifts to Issen are incense and votive mammoth images. Like all of the old giants, his totem was the mammoth.

Bowynn Gods: Ion

Ion  (Eye-on)  Ion is the God patron of knights and god of knighthood virtues. The son of Anhur and Rhya, Ion is the right hand of Anhur, the god king’s eyes, ears and messenger. But foremost, Ion is the god that keeps the sacred virtues in check and sees that people are adhering to the virtues set down by Bia and Anhur. While these days Ion can also be seen as a god patron of all soldiers, he would he would be more leaning towards those that whom serve high and special ranks. Especial those like the Guard of Unknown Soldiers, Guards of Kings, Queens and Presidents and other prestigious positions.

      Many sacred tales of Ion and his exploits are told. The most famous being the days when Ion spent his seven days with the first mortals to teach them might and right and to honor the virtues set done by his father. Another tale speaks of a troop of 10 soldiers that fought for ten days straight without food, water or rest against invaders. After the long battle was at-last won, their deeds were caught by Ion. In turn he knighted them with special titles and blessed them. This was mortal man’s first knighthood. Another tale speaks of a time many years later; a knight that was blessed by Ion had grown to see over 100 years. And in all those years, he had ever held vigil over the god’s temple and fought to protect his hometown. On his death bed Ion came to the old man. He asked who would watch over his town. Ion gave the knight his greatest blessing, that of immortal sight, turning the old man into a star and naming him Arnmor, The North Star. That way, even though dead, he could always watch the good people, year round.

     Ion is often seen and depicted as a young man, a warrior. And he is dressed as such, partially armored with a long sur-coat over his armor. In one hand Ion bears a shield, in the other a sword. But he is not to be feared and is not a god to wage war. In Alaway his position is next to his father Anhur. When not in his godly form, Ion takes the form of a greyhound. Sacred offerings to Ion is incense and votive images of dogs

Bowynn Gods: Io

Io  (Eye-oh)  Goddess of the hearth, domesticated fire, cooking and kitchens, the home, warmth and family. She is the daughter of Phoenix but her father is unknown.  She is an all-around domestic goddess but mostly dealing with areas around the kitchen. And Io is one of the most revered of the Bowynn Gods. She is the goddess that blesses all food as it’s cooked. She cleanses and cleans cooking supplies and wards pests from the kitchen and home. When she is rarely not in the home, Io often wanders markets to see that picked produce and food is fresh and healthy. Back in the home, when not cooking, Io labors to keep the home clean. Io’s name means “Soot” and she is sometimes called Soot Girl or Soot Woman. As her fire attribute, Io makes sure all home fires (lamps, hearths and candles) burn safe and without mishaps., She also tends to the family needs, to make sure beds are made and clean, tables are clear and floors are swept, laundry is clean and purified.

      There are not too many sacred stories of the goddess Io, as she is often contained to the homes of Bowynn folk. The most important stories tell of her spending the seven sacred days with the first tribes of people and taught the fine arts of cooking. This included baking till the god Hyu took over that attribute. At first Io was apprehensible about handing over such a duty to Hyu, being a man. But Hyu proved himself most worthy. What’s more, Hyu charmed Io and eventually wed her. For their wedding feast Hyu made Io the most tremendous beautiful cake ever.

      The goddess Io is almost seen as a mother figure; your hair pulled back and wrapped in a ribbon. Her clothing is most plain and grey in color. Not too many times is she seen wearing a Bowynn Hlad, instead an apron. Unlike other gods, she has no totem animal, so if Io is seen outside a home, often in the market square, she is wrapped with a grey stola, so not to draw her immortality to others. Instead of a staff, Io bears a broom to clean out hearths. Sacred offerings to Io consist of food, incense and votive candles.

Bowynn Gods: Intarro

Intarro (In-tar-rho)  The Intarro are also known as the “steals light people.” These are a type of Tii created by Mano to create disorder, chaos and darkness in the world so his cousins Brand and Kord could not see when he attacked them. After the battle the Intarro disappeared into the sky where they normally dwell. Now they engage themselves in creating eclipses to trick people. The Intarro sometimes come back to earth where they take the form of humans and cause pranks. They are best known for their vampire-like looks and tendencies; pale skin, red/yellow glowing eyes and skin filled with tattoos. Happiness, laughter, joy, music and light are their enemies. Like Mano, the Intarro are never called to or invoked. Even calling on them to curse someone is shunned, as they will never leave and even plague that caster of the spell.

Bowynn Gods: Innapa

Innapa (In-nah-pah)  “The Seen World”. Innapa is the physical 'seen' world where mortals dwell. Often the gods will dwell here as well, making sure all is in balance and the laws of the gods are being maintained and followed. Innapa is the world that’s allocated to mortals, be they men, animal or flora.  Innapa is often mistakenly  called “Middle World” and “Middle earth’ by some, comparing it to Norse faith. Only the gods and spirits can travel between Innapa and Alaway, the home of the gods.

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. 

Bowynn Gods: Hyu

Hyu  (Hi-you)  Hyu is the God of baking, ovens and bread. He is the “Baker of the Gods.” He is also the god of bread making, mills, harvesting wheat, the grinding of flour, acorn gathering and the patron of bakers. He is the son of Amaetheon and Deanna. His man means “Flour.” Hyu is a master bread maker. He has his own room and kitchen at Alaway, where he makes all the feasts for the divine Akua family each morning and night, particularly the daily first loaf, which is divided up among the gods. He taught the first mortal tribes how to harvest and prepare acorns for bread making. The bread he makes for the holy family is the most sacred. Hyu is also the guardian of mills. His image was always depicted on mill doors and all mills had a small shrine to Hyu. Hand mills are blessed in Hyu’s name.

     The 7 days Hyu spent with the first tribes to teach them the arts of bread making. This was one of the key elements that brought on man’s survival. So grateful were the tribes, that they build a special temple to Hyu in the shape a mill, instead of the typical shape. The altar as well was designed in the shape of a millstone.

     Hyu is depicted as a man of full age, His hair longish and brown, often seen in workman’s clothes of earth tones and a bakers tan tunic. He carries a broom-staff to which is bound his bread-board with red fillets, a color sacred to him. Offerings to Hyu are in the realm of bread, wheat, flour, acorns, and other grains that are made into flour. Special gifts also consist of elaborated carved spoons, brooms, bread-boards, honey and herb cakes. Hyu’s totem is the mouse, the symbol of abundant wealth.

Bowynn Gods: Hyseer

Hyseer  (Hy-Seer)  These kii are the spirits of the season of Winter and the followers of the Gods Myliea and Arn. They are diminutive in size and the Kii of the frost, snow and winter chills. They are no bigger than the size of snowflakes. Some have wings insect like wings, some have wings like snowflakes and some are wingless. Despite that some people depict the Hyseer as sweet innocent kii, they can be extremely vicious and creating frostbite and other serious skin and health issues that snow can cause. Some will project themselves as ice and damage farmland and homes. During winter, bowls of milk are offered to them most generously to make sure winter is gentle.

Bowynn Gods: Huru

Huru  (Hu-Ru)  The Huruu are a Kii species that live in and guard holy and sylvanian places on earth, where the Akua will often visit. They are much like the Greek and Roman nymphs, in that they are mostly women. Most claim to have seen then as being human size, very lean and very fast. They shy away from humans entirely and want nothing to do with them. Any human found in such a Sylvanian place the Huru will chase away or punish, depending on the nature of the intrusion. 

Bowynn Gods: The Hlenn

Hlenn  (Hlen)  The Hlenn are one of the most popular of the Kii. They are much like their American/European Elven cousins and Nymphs. They are human in size and look most like mortal folk in all respects, but they are thin in nature and have long-ish ears and doe-like facial features, particularly the eyes. These Hlenn are said to be the champions and guardians of all woodlands. The know instantly when a leaf falls and withers and when a fern stalk breaks through the ground. They are very untrusting and cautious of mortal man. But there are tales of some Hlenn, male and female, that have fallen for mortals as well. However, it must be remembered that while the Hlenn looks like mortals in many ways and live like them, they are spirits and need to be respected as so. Bowynn folk will not enter a woodland nor leave it without leaving a respectable gift to the Hlenn,

Bowynn Gods: The Hyndd

Hyndd (Hynd)  These people are in some aspect related to the Greek and Roman Kentaurs. But instead of the lower torso of a horse, it is a deer or elk with dark eyes, antlers and ears. The female Hyndd so not have horns. They are the guardians of deep forests where most men will dare to dwell and they hunt down those the try to destroy the woodlands. The Hyndd are the cousins of the Thurdro.

The Hyndd are not mortal by any stretch but forest Kii (spirits), They can appear and disappear as needed. Stories tell how people will encounter a Hyndd and in a flash the Hyndd with whisk away like a flurry of butterflies.

Bowynn Gods: The Hii

Hii  (hy)  Kii type spiritual beings that help preside over the magical and shamanic arts. Hii are benign beings and do not harm. Most of the time they are found with Mystara and Ehrlick, helping them. Hii are often invoked by witches, druids and shamans to help in their arts and guard their stocks and items.

Bowynn Gods: Heron

Heron  (He-rhon)  Heron is the god that is the deliverer of the dead to Daunnat, the afterworld. He is also the guardian of tombs and cemeteries. He is the son of Chumash and Kalma.

     As his name bears, Heron is a bird god. He bears little to no sacred stories, as his life is too busy, removing the soul and spirit within, from the dead body of the deceased and escorting them to Daunnat. Heron is the god that allows the soul and spirit 7 days grace to visit those they loved in life before they depart to the next world. From the grave turned into his bird form and guides then to the ship of souls and guides it to the shores of Duannat.

     One rare sacred story tells as how a group of hunters accidentally netted Heron in his bird form. When they realized it was the god, they held him trapped to avoid death themselves. But to their horror, the outcome was that no one ever died and instead continued to suffer with their pains and illnesses. The howls of pain of the people plagued the hunters into madness till they finally let Heron go. During the great 7 days, Heron stayed with the first tribes and taught them how to tend to the dead and care of tombs. At the same time, he also taught that death was not final and to not let grief stop the living from moving on.

     On the headstones and tombs of the death the image of Heron is always depicted, either as immortal form or as the heron bird. In his long legged foot (or sometimes in his mouth, he is seen holding a brighten sphere, a soul. In his immortal form, Heron is depicted as a young tall man with long black hair, donned in long blue, white and grey robes and great majestic wings. Sacred gifts to Heron are foods and libations of all sorts, flowers and bundles of incense sticks. Not to mention votive images of Herons.

Aelles Tsa'Tarna and Merry Solstice

Her lord and ladyship have arrived and Summer is walked through the door.. May your Solstice be bright, merry and a blessed one.

Today starts the 3 day Holiday of Tsa'Tarna for those of the Bowynn faith. The celebration of the first day of Summer. Tsa'Tarna literally translates to "1st of Summer." At the break of dawn on this day horns resound everywhere ushering in the epiphany of the Goddess of Summer, Tarna and her beloved Saphon, the god of the south and southern wind. Their rise and migration across the northern half of the earth begins, bringing all the joys of summer. At the same time it is the holiday celebrating the union of the God Hern (sun) to the Goddess Morrighynn (moon)

Boughs, garlands, bouquets and wreaths of Daisies Morning Glories, Sunflowers and Daffodils and displayed everywhere. White, Yellow and green flags and sheets blow in the wind, feasts are on full scale, A parade in which a veiled icon statue of Morrighynn is carried to a central temple or location and placed next to the icon statue of Hern. Bouquets of the flowers of the holiday are offered in abundance along with endless amounts of incense. Fruits, veggies, salads and fish are the main focus of feast meals.

the first day of Tsa'Tarna is devoted to the cleaning of homes and sacred spaces, cooking holiday foods and decorating. After which a bath or a swim in a lake or ocean is common. a cleansing. the evening is usually devoted to prayers and vigils at scared spots, temples and shrines. First offerings in all sorts of gifts of offered to the 4 primary gods: Tarna, Saphon, Hern and Morrighynn.

The second day is devoted strictly to the gods. In the morning the Epiphany is started with the blowing of horns and flutes, signaling that Tarna and Saphon have arisen and Summer is at hand. The parade/Procession of Morrighynn is held about noon followed by great rites and ceremonies all day and night.

the 3 day is devoted to celebration and feasting, with carnivals, sporting events, parades, picnics and fun times in general.

However you celebrate the holiday of the summer solstice, may you have a most blessed one. May the Epiphany of Summer and the southern wind bless and keep you cool and safe. May you find love, and joy in the days ahead and may you all celebrate in peace and harmony. Syember and Aelles.

Bowynn Gods: Hern

Hern  (Hurn)  Hern is the Bowynn god of the sun and the hunt. He is the protector of woodland, the creatures that live there and Hunters. Despite his name and spelling, the Bowynn god Hern bares little to no semblance to the English ghost spirit Herne. Hern is the son of the earth goddess Brea and the sky god Unthar. 

     As a god of the hunt, Hern makes sure the hunt is justified, that hunters do not take more than what they need and at the same time protect them from vicious attacks and other woodland dangers. At the same time Hern protects the wildlife. He is also the one that blesses tools and implements used for hunting and initiates professional hunters. Contrary-wise, Hern will punish those that abuse the hunt and who treat animals maliciously.

As a sun god, Herne tamed the great sun mares once belonged to the deities Saul and Shayla, steadying their course across the heavens. Taming them to allow the sun to rise and set just once in a 24 hour period.

     Hern is one of the great epic gods that is most prominent in the Bowynn tradition. It is his birth, life and death that is worshipped throughout the year. The great sacred story explains that he was conceived in the dead of winter by the sky and earth on the holiday Kymyliea (Imbolc) and was born on the spring Equinox, Tsaquilla. It was when Hern was a young teen that he met the moon goddess Morrighynn and pledge his love to her on the day of Kyquilla. (Beltane) Their love we sanctified and united on Tsatarna. (Summer Solstice) Their honeymoon lasted all summer long, climaxing on Kytarna (Lammas). By Tsakora (the Autumn Equinox) Hern had noticed that humanity had become so lazy over the summer that they did not harvest enough food and wood to survive the winter. He journeyed to the great western mountains and spoke to Bia, the great creator force and realized what he had to do to help man survive. On the holiday of Kykora (Samhain), Hern proclaimed one finally great hunt to the mortal hunters. During the hunt, Hern turned himself into a mighty stag and gave himself to humanity so they may survive. Morrighynn grieved endlessly for the loss of her love Hern till at last, on Tsameliea (Yule) word came to Morrighynn that Hern will be born again and return to her. In turn Hern is reborn to the earth again each year.

Hern and his loved Morrighynn. With wolf cub and elk fawn at their feet.

As the god of the sun, his gloriousness and strength waxes stronger from Winter to Summer and then wanes weaker after the Summer Solstice into winter. It not shocking to find Bowynn praying to Hern throughout summer in force to ensure a gentle winter.

There are endless other legends of Hern but the Great Circle Saga is the grandest and also marks out the 8 celestial holidays of the year.  It is said that when Hern was first born to Brea, there was no cradle to hold the babe, so the Goddess Briathenaea made a swing-like hammock cradle made of elf antler and hide for the Mother Goddess to hold the babe.

     Hern is one of the horned gods of the Bowynn Pantheon. His head is crowned with elk/deer antlers, as his very totem is the elk. Some time he is seen also with elk or deer ears, giving him a softened and my friendlier appearance. other depictions have him without antlers. All cervidae animals are sacred to Herne and he often appeared to mortals as a might buck elk. Hern is also the creator of the Sunflower, a divine symbol of his love to Morrighynn on their wedding day, as well as a source of food. Wheat and corn is also a symbol of Hern, as a symbol of his devotion to Morrighynn, turning it from green to gold in color. during summer wheat and corn husks are woven and firmed into sun images to Hern and hung everywhere. Especially on and over doors and windows. The sword and the bow and arrow are also symbols of the god.

Bowynn Gods: Hemwey

Hemwey  (Hem-way)  Hemwey is the Bowynn goddess of Compassion and care for those that are often down-trodden. Most particular, Hemwey tends to the poor, the ill and those that are suffering through life. She is the lifter of heads and hope. Her parents are Rhya and Anhur and she is the sister of Daekk and Tymora.

     Hemwey is a caring and nurturing goddess, spending little time in Alaway but preferring to walk the night streets to bring help to those that need to sleep there. She is sister to the goddess of fortune, Tymora. Together they help the destitute. Even as a child, before taking her position in the great pantheon she loved to walk the villages where mortals live and play with the children of the poor; Bringing a smile to their face and bringing food and medicine to families in need. often such gifts were left in a small bundle by their feet. These offerings and gifts of hope please Hemwey so much that the goddess eventually chose to fore-go marriage and the pleasantries of Alaway and live among peasants. However, Hemwey is not a goddess that tends to those that do not try to better themselves or the lazy. One story speaks of her running into a man that was barely wearing a cloth to cover home and covered in filth. The goddess took him to her simple home, bathed, clothed and fed him. The next day the man appeared again the same way. This happened 7 times in total. Finally, the goddess discovered the man was merely using her and other people’s generosity. It was from this that the goddess learned for the first time that some people can be cruel and lazy. However instead of ignoring him, Hemwey gave the man the richest of garments and a huge cash pile. She did this every day and everyday people saw him. Thinking the man was a rich merchant, the poor started to beg him constantly for assistance. By the end of each day, he had no money left.

     Hemwey is a motherly looking goddess with very simple garments. Her hair free of make-up, her hair long and her feet bear. If she does not appear as a peasant woman herself to others she comes in the form of a cat or a cool autumn breeze. Seen in her true form she bears a basket or bag in her arm with bundles of gifts: food, drink, shoes and coins.

     Sacred gifts and offering to Hemwey are food of any type but bread is her choice. Libation is milk or water. And of course, incense. Coins of generosity are also a prized offering to the goddess.