life

Ostara / Equinox Hails!

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The Spring Equinox marks the traditional Easter celebration, the moment when the Sun crosses the equator from south to north. This is when animals like rabbits, deer, chipmunks, and other creatures of the forest begin to have their offspring. Various flora also emerge around this time, dotting the landscape with hints of color. During the Spring Equinox we pay special attention to the great Goddess in her youthful form of Ostara, Goddess of the Dawn. Ostara is associated with the rising Sun in the East, fertility, and light; a beacon of joy and good fortune. To many ancient Germanic Pagans, Ostara was credited with Springs deliverance. From her name we derive the modern word Easter, nodding to the Pagan origins of this holiday. To Ostara we make offerings and pray for a good year, thanking her for the return of the light. In one particular myth, Ostara transforms a bird into a rabbit who would then lay colorful eggs for her, showing us where the core symbolism of our modern holiday came from.

Hailaz Austra!

#ostara #spring #equinox #paganism

Shirts and Logo Analysis

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Our first batch of shirts have arrived and look awesome.   

These will be given out to members, donors, volunteers and collaborators in order to spread not only the sign, but the culture of the Ansuz Society.   

Our hope is that these will be worn with modesty, positivity, and respect.   

For those who would like to purchase a shirt directly, they can be ordered for $20 with free shipping in the USA. Please use the contact form to order. Sizes available are small, medium, and large. Very limited quantity available. 

While we invite everyone to interpret these symbols as they see fit, we would like to offer a brief overview of the design:  

-3 Ansuz runes representing the gods Odin (soul), Vili (will), and Ve (body); the 3 components necessary for human life.   

-the related Sanskrit word ásu, meaning “breath, spirit, life force, life.”  

In regards to the triangular shape, we have a strong emphasis on the fire element, hence one interpretation of the triangle as fire. This fire is being propagated by the breath or wind represented by the Ansuz runes. The upward triangle also has associations with the air element, and therefore, is another representation of the breath, wind, and soul of which Odin is said to have given to mankind. With these connections in mind, this sign can be viewed as an internal flame driven by the winds of inspiration, or, Odin.  

We also believe that all matter is a form of the Great Mother who strives for union with the Great Father (source of consciousness). That said, another interpretation of the upward triangle is to represent the male aspect of primordial awareness; the unmovable, foundational consciousness which exists in all sentient life.  Because of this connection, the upward triangle can also be perceived of as representing Shiva, as his half of the Shatkona is the △ shape, while Shakti is symbolized by the ▽ shape. This primordial awareness, associated with male energy, is called by many names across the world and seen in deities such as Odin, Shiva, and Vajradhara.  

May all beings benefit from these signs. 

Hailaz / Namaste  

-Ansuz Society