Written by: Honeycoyote
Feathers have had symbolic meaning in folklore, cultures, and magic for a very long time. There are many different types of feathers and a whole bunch of different meanings and associations attached to them based off of their color and what bird they have come from. For example, Native Americans believed that symbolically feathers represented the spiritual ascension to a different plane, wearing feathers as a sign of their ability to communicate with spirit and their wisdom. In other cultures, it is believed that a black feather landing on your doorstep is an ill omen that signifies the death of someone close or bad luck. You can find over 100 different interpretations of them.
Feathers are magically ruled by the element of air, which is the realm of thought and intellect, which is the first step toward creation. this makes feathers good helpers in communication. But each feather can also hold other specific correspondences, relating to factors such as the bird it came from, its color, the place, and how it was discovered.
Bird feathers are symbols of the wind, the divine, Flight, the mind and new opportunities, travel, speed or swiftness, wisdom, communication, spirituality, and spiritual powers. Also, finding a feather can be a sign of a connection to Gods or Goddesses. Finding bird feathers can be seen as a reflection of reaching new levels of consciousness or Change. It is always good magic to collect feathers. (I personally have tons of feathers that I have collected, however, some feathers are illegal to own, so make sure you know what you are picking up)
Colors are also considered to be an important component in the use of feathers or effective of feathers in magic, I have personally found that Naturally colored feathers are far more powerful than chemically dyed or altered ones. some examples of colors and their meanings are how white feathers are commonly associated with peace, purity, the moon, spirituality, and good luck. whereas green feathers can symbolize harmony, unity, prosperity, good health, nature, plants and animals, fertility, and so forth.
in magic feathers can be used in spells and rituals to promote change, or are used as catalysts. Sometimes particular feathers which has meaning to their owner are added to wands, bags, sachets, witches ladders, necklaces, and many other ritual tools to help gain power, draw good luck, or keep away negativity.
However, the knowledge of what kind of feather is best used for its intent can only be discovered much like many magic things by trial and error. A single feather's usefulness in magic is primarily decided by the energy, intent, and associations put into the feather by its user. In addition to this energy, the feathers will hold onto their specific associated natural abilities.
Overall feathers have a wide range of uses, meanings, and correspondences associated with them.
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