7 Planets and Metals: Moon/Silver
The moon was reigning over their world, glowing its full splendor to all those willing to look up. - Irina Serban
Since the dawn of civilization, the Moon/Silver has stood as a symbol of mystery, occult power, immortality, intuition, resurrection, and illumination. To the priesthoods of antiquity, the Moon/Silver was the doorway through which the initiate could view their sub-conscious mind and emotions. Even in those early days of human life, the power the Moon/Silver had over the ebb and flow of the tides and the temperament of the plants and animals was well known. The alchemists believed that the morning dew came from the Moon/Silver and held the essence of the luminary.
The ancient practioners of alchemy connected the Moon/Silver with the digestive system, stomach, breasts, the ovaries, and the menstruation cycle. The alchemists also used silver’s antibacterial properties to heal wounds and contagions, and fight against infections and inflammation. They sometimes used silver to increase circulation, balance hormones, and to slow the progress of degenerative brain diseases.
Moon/Silver was seen as pure metal since the time of the ancient Romans and was used in many magical practices throughout the ages. It is believed that silver can be used to repel and kill demons, and keep away evil spirits and creations. In the middle ages holy water was also stored in silver vessels for this reason.
In ancient Egypt the Moon/Silver deity was Khonsu. Khonsu was known to the ancient Egyptians as the traveler, the embracer, and the defender. Khonsu was believed to work alongside Thoth in the marking of the passage of time. Because of this he was viewed as an important force in the creation of new life. Khonsu stood as a symbol for male vitality and aided in healing as well. It was believed that Khonsu caused the Moon to shine in the night sky, cattle to become fertile, women to conceive, and allowed people to breathe fresh air.
The Mayans also worshipped a Moon goddess. This deity was associated with sexuality, procreation, and the growth of all living things. The Moon goddess of the Mayans ruled over all water; she was always depicted framed by a crescent waxing moon.
In ancient Rome, the Moon/Silver was personified through the goddess Diana. Diana was the virgin goddess, the protector of childbirth, and the goddess of the hunt and of the wilderness. In Rome’s more ancient history, Diana served as goddess of the underworld. In those days the moon’s cycle were symbolic of one’s journey through the underworld.
In Vedic tradition, Soma, the drink of the gods, was connected with the Moon/Silver. Soma was a sacred intoxicating drink used in ritualistic sacrifice and was sometimes called the divine necture. Soma is also named after one of the Hindu gods connected with the power of the Moon/Silver.
To the alchemist of today, the Moon/Silver is a symbol for inner wisdom, contemplation, and transition. To the alchemist, the Moon/Silver’s energy is used as a tool to understand one’s own intuition and to better adapt to the new life they have created for themselves. It is through the light of the Moon reflected from the Sun, that the alchemist is able to find the answers of the deep mysteries of life and becomes one with his or her immortal soul. The Moon/Silver reminds us all that growth is subtle, and our true power is revealed when we learn to appreciate the mysteries and beauty of life.
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