QUESTION AND ANSWER: GODS AND MAGIC

Question & Answer: Winter Solstice

Question: Are there any traditional Bowynn foods served on Tsa'Myliea?

Answer: Fish is the main traditional meal. Salmon or trout. Prawns are also common. Pecan Pie and Orange spice cake is also most common. But by in large there is no ONE staple traditional meal.

My Prayer to Daekk, Lord of Fortune

O Daekk, Glorious Child of Wealth and Fortune, I stand before you, seeking the embrace of your bountiful gifts. You, who dwell in the splendid chambers of Alaway, amidst treasures adorned with lapis and gold, I beckon your innocent spirit to grace my path. With your golden locks and amber eyes, you embody joy and prosperity, guiding us through the currents of abundance. O Divine Infant, transformed by the wisdom of Anhur, grant me the clarity to see beyond mere appearances and superficial riches. Let your laughter ring out amidst the clinking coins and flowing grains as you dispense blessings to all, untainted by bias or pride. May the warmth of your spirit fill the hearts of those in need, that they may also know the sweet taste of fortune's favor.

In humble reverence, I lay before you offerings of coins, fragrant incense, and the sweet milk of the sacred herd. As the mice serve as symbols of fortune, I send forth votive gifts in their likeness, invoking your protection over my endeavors. With these offerings, I present play money inscribed with my deepest prayers, to be buried within the earth alongside a seed, so that as the plant sprouts, so too may my fortunes flourish. O Daekk, from your heavenly cradle, nurture my ambitions and aspirations like the rich soil of Alaway that bears fruit in due season. May I not only seek abundance for myself but take inspiration from your benevolence to share with others in need. Let my hands be open to receive and my heart expansive enough to give freely. As I summon your playful spirit, I pledge to judge not by wealth nor appearance but to celebrate the diverse paths of prosperity in my life. O Daekk, Eternal Child of Alaway, may your blessings flow unceasingly into my heart, guiding my actions and illuminating the lives of those around me. So shall it be, in reverence and love for Daekk, the generous spirit of wealth and sustenance, forever illuminating our lives with abundance.

Syember!

Bowynn Gods: Kara Jarra

The Sister's Jarra

Kara Jarra  (Khar-rha Jar-rha)  Karra Jarra, or just Kara is the Bowynn goddess of health. In particular, she is the goddess that précised over the arts of physical healing, such as Massage, Reiki, Gateway healing and reflexology. She is the daughter of the god Owenn and one triplet daughters, often called 'The Sisters Jarra," meaning the sister healers. He is the patroness of nurses, physical therapists and those that practice such healing arts that are attributed to her.

     Karra and her sisters have no real sacred stories of their past deeds, save for the 7 sacred days they spent with the first tribes of mankind, sharing with them, their knowledge. Karra in particular showed the tribes how to heal damages to the body by massages and reiki, how to turn use pressure points to relieve pain and how to treat the body while it is healing When not at her father's side, Karra is seen in temples, houses of healing, and sweat lodges helping as she can the injured. Karra is often seen with the goddess Nyalla Bua in sauna and sweat lodge shrines.

     As with all three Sisters Jarra, Kara is a young goddess in appearance, with white-ish blond hair braided back with ribbons. Simple clothing and a fillet wrapped about her brow. She is often seen with a small slender board in her hands called a "Peer" which is used as a massage implement. Infact a traditional offering to Karra by those healing by such means will offer an elaborate Jeer that is wrapped with fillets and ribbons. Naturally incense is a most honored offering and votive birds also make the best gifts.

The Sister's Jarra The Sister's Jarra and father Owen

Bowynn Gods: Bryathenaea

Bryathenaea (Bry-a-then-naya)  Brianthenaea is the great Bowynn patroness goddess. She is the great protector of all things and all Bowynn people. Though armored with shield, she is not a war goddess nor wager of trouble in any way, shape nor form. She is the type of woman that will protect her children and lead them on the righht course. She is the goddess of wisdom as well. Briathenaea is the daughter of Anhur and Rhya.

     It was Briathenaea that is said to have shielded the first tribes of mortals on the Great Migration from the south into Europe, shielding them also from the burning sun with a shield that was gifted to her by the god Gondor. Upon reaching Europe across the Bosphorus, Brianthenaea brought the people into a valley that had a bounty of apple trees to eat, drink, build and craft from. When the tribes settled in Europe, Briathenaea stayed with them for 7 days. In that time, she showed them the art of growing orchards and how to make things from its leaves, roots, flowers and wood. In that same wood she also created the first Bowynn alphabet, showing them how to write and read, make paper, books and scrolls. To date, a Bowynn Coden is only made of paper made from apple trees and its coover made from the wood. Only ink from its leaves can be used. For the people she created the hoe, spade/shovel, fork, rope and axe. On the last night Briathenaea told the tribes of mortals that she had to leave but if ever they were in need of her to look into the eyes of an owl and they would know she is there. For the owl is her most scared animal and the form she takes the form of most.

      When war loomed over the first tribes Briathenaea brought forth a great herd of horses for them to use in battle against the Southern Nation armies. The goddess quickly came and protected the women, children and homes with her shield. Today every Bowynn home has a shrine or even an altar to Bryathenaea. She is the very core and symbol of the Bowynn.

     Though Briathenaea is a goddess that neither wed nor gave birth, many swear that her stature is of a full mature woman. The people are her family. Briathenaea is said to have crow-black hair that is wavy and pulled back. Her eyes or that of forest green and her skin tanned. Her garment is said to be the color of sage-green and/or green in general. Over her dress she wears a long leather hladd that is well decorated. Some images have her holding an apple seed in her hand or cutting of an apple tree.  Often seen with Briathenaea is a barn owl, one of the rare owls that lives closest with people and yet still at a distance. Other times Briathenaea presents herself directly. Farms and orchards are blessed in her name yearly, along with the god Amaetheon and Deanna,

Sacred to the goddess are the gifts of Votive Owls, Apples, Apple wood, Books and Scrolls and Runes. Farm implements are sometimes also offered to her.

Embroidered bookmark of Briathenaea with Io and Kalma - Created by Rose Everett 1999

QUESTION & ANSWER: Money

QUESTION: Is there any sort of fees Bowynn practitioners pay out for services

ANSWER: This is a general question that can cover several practices. I will do the best to cover what I can.

A Bowynn Myst [Witch] ethically and morally should never, ever, ask for any sort of fee for services rendered. We believe that the inherent gifts a Myst has, is a greater gift bestowed by the gods. As such charging a fee is unethical, immoral and sacrilegious.

The same holds true to doing divinatory help for others.

The same holds true for any religious services granted to others; like births, naming, marriage, death, 7th hour and blessings. If one feels obliged, gifts / offerings of a meal or baked goods is best. But a Bowynn priest/ess will never accept money for services rendered. Again, on the grounds of ethics.

When it comes to practitioner's gatherings, money can be offered to help find gatherings (for buying supplies that may be needed, like feast food, chairs, tables, incense and so on) But no should never feel obliged to do so. Gifts of foods, supplies and general help is much better.. In short, no, we do not collect "dues".

Often, I personally have been told that not taking money makes people question your skills and abilities. To this I say the following: Then how much do you pay your God/s when they bestow a gift to you??? What are their hourly rates??? Taking or not taking money does not demean our abilities. We do not condone other people from other faiths if they feel they must pay a tithe, but it's not our way.

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."

My Personal Prayer to Aleglea

O Aleglea, radiant patroness of the Bowynn, I raise my voice in reverence before your divine essence, the embodiment of happiness that dances upon the breath of life. Your name is a melody that fills the air with light, and in your presence, joy blooms like the flowers of spring, casting away shadows of sorrow. O Aleglea, goddess of beauty and mirth, I honor you, adorned in saffron and ruby, your hair crowned with a bounty of blossoms. Your green eyes gleam with the laughter of the stars, and I bask in the warmth of your glorious light. Let my heart awaken to the pure joy you inspire, showering my spirit with the gifts of song, dance, and festivity. In heartfelt gratitude, I gather fragrant blossoms to weave a garland for your divine presence. Let the sweet aroma of honey offer my love, as I lay before you butterfly images, symbols of transformation, and resilience. The incense of my devotion rises like an invocation, calling forth the benevolence of your sacred spirit.

O dear Aleglea, guide my steps as I walk upon this earth, barefoot like you, feeling the heartbeat of life through the ground. Bestow upon me the lightness of being, a spirit filled with laughter and connection to the beauty that envelops us. I seek your blessing in every festive gathering, every celebration of life, and every shared moment of happiness. As garlands of flowers adorn the paths we tread, I join the chorus of your devoted followers, dancing in rhythmic unison to celebrate the joys of existence. Under your watchful gaze, may we foster community, laughter, and shared delight, reveling in the magnificence of your gifts. O Aleglea, though I am but a humble mortal, let my life reflect the spark of joy you ignite. As I take each step in your honor, may I carry forth the spirit of abundance and cheer, spreading happiness wherever I go. For in the glory of your name and the beauty of your creations, the world becomes a tapestry of pure delight. So shall it be, in the embrace of the goddess of happiness.

My Prayer to the Chappa Kii

O Great Chappa Kii, Behemoths of Stone and Guardian of Peaks, I lift my voice to thee—mighty spirits dwelling from the shimmering foothills to the towering heights. Your monumental presence watches over the realm of earth, as steadfast as the mountains themselves, lending strength to those who tread upon your sacred ground. O Chappa, titans forged of rock and resilience, grant me your protection as I journey through the hills and valleys. When lost amidst the wild, let your guiding spirit illuminate my path, leading me towards safety and clarity. With your immense power, may I find courage in the face of adversity, standing tall like the mountains that cradle your essence. In reverence, I recognize the balance you hold between creation and retribution. O Mountain Guardians, may I embrace the harmony of the earth, honoring your realm with care and respect. Let my hands build, not destroy; let my presence nurture, not diminish. As you watch over the land, may I learn to walk gently upon it.

Grant me the blessings of your wisdom, O Chappa, for you know the ancient secrets woven into the fabric of your stone. Bestow upon me your strength, fortitude, and understanding, that I may navigate life’s challenges with the grace of the mountains. With a humble heart, I offer tribute to you: stones gathered from the rivers, flowers that bloom at your feet, and simple songs sung in your honor. May these offerings please the Chappa, whispering my dedication to your guardianship. In return, I seek your watchful gaze upon my journey. So shall it be, with reverence and gratitude, sung within the sacred echoes of the mountains, in the name of the Chappa Kii, eternal guardians of the earth.

Syember

Blessed Tsa'Kora to one and all

Blessings of abundance, love and health to you all.

Aelles Tsa'Myliea

Blessings and good fortune come to you this Tsa'Myliea.

Indeed today is the first day of the Bowynn holiday of Tsa'Myliea, the celebration of the Winter Solstice. It is the epiphany of the goddess Myliea, the goddess of Winter and her consort Arn, the god of the north and north wind. The first day, like with all holidays is the cleaning and cleansing of homes and temples. It is a day of fasting and purging of all ills and artifacts left over from Autumn. In place of rich and sweet foods, rice bowls and soups are traditionally served. At night a candlelight procession is held with icons of the two deities carried to the temple, symbolizing their rise.

On the second day, The Calling Horn is blown at the crack of dawn, indicating that Myliea and Arn have emerged from they northern relm and come to bless the land, allowing Winter to begin. Bringing with them cold winds, snow, frost, joy, harmony and all the fun and frolic of the winter season. While some will start late night feasting this day, its more common to wait till the 3rd day of the holiday. The day is however filling with glorious ceremonies and small feasting. A time to take account of the strength of the home to stand up to winter winds, the abundance of foods stocked away and the amount of wood gathered year long, to last till the warm days of spring. During the evening, tradition has that the officiating priest/priestess will come to the homes and bless it with song and a sacred incense blend. Some would rather spend the evening in quiet vigil at home or temple. A time to be deep in prayer, thanks and gratitude. Sacred storied hold that Arn and Myliea come at night and go door by door, to inspect one's home is well. They will knock on the door with their staves if it will well stocked and safe. In turn a basic of goods will be left at the door. The basket is said to be filled with fruits, 7 candles, a cut of wood, books, tools, recipes and warm cloths. Sometimes sweets, cakes and wine as well. Though these last three are normally reserved to be given from friends and loves ones.

Day three of Tsa'Myliea starts with an early morning ceremony. After which colorful parades are held, foods galore, contests and games and fun all around. The cord of wood and candle are lit just before dusk with a Bowynn hymn to Arn and Myliea. While it is often hard to find the sacredness and divine reason for the holiday on the 3rd day, it is still a holy day and there are ceremonies held in temple and in the home, giving thanks. One should remember it is still a time of sacredness. A time that allows snows and rain to decompose autumn leaves and all left to wither in gardens, turning them into composite, to feed the ground. A time to remind us all to take stock in whatever bounty and abundance we have in the home, cleaning the home and making it strong, safe and warm. People often will take walks on this day to explore and remind themselves of the beauty, holiness and necessity of the holiday