Each
of the ogam characters has a specific place on the left
hand, the consonants are positioned on the fingers themselves
whereas the vowels are at the base of the fingers. The
consonants are representative of the different lunar
months whilst the vowels represent the solar cycles.
Five has always been seen as a sacred number traditionally
associated with the goddesses and the changing cycles.
It is seen as the number which represents the variety
and colour of our three dimensional space representing
our senses and the five elements: earth, air, fire,water
and the soul, these in turn correspond with the seasons.
The five tree vowels are known as the "Sweet Cauldron
of the Five Trees" which are represented in Robert
Graves' poem.
Finger
Ogam was used as a form of divination, the left hand
was held over either an object or a person and meditated
upon. Where ever a vibration or tingle is felt this
signifies the answers and circumstances regarding the
question.
To wear a ring upon this finger was
seen as expressing hope of ressurection just as the fool
is beheaded and reborn unharmed.
In ancient religions initiates would receive a needle
prick between the upper and middle sections because it
was considered the balancing point between black/white
magic.
Finger
Part
Tree
Meanings
Alder
The
Alder represents the need for protection in a personal conflict.
One must free themselves from binding views or circumstances
to fully grow and develop.
Holly
With
Holly comes strength and power, thought of as male it speaks
of being fair when judging situations.
Reed
The
Reed signifying flexibility represents being flexible and
having the ability to adapt without destroying or compromising
ones integrity.
Heather
Used
as a lucky charm, white heather is used to protect against danger,
purple heather is seen as beauty in solitude and admiration.
Heather is used to bring luck and freshness to ventures and
situations.
