Chapter Eleven of the Red Witch Tradition
Symbolism
The Universal Language
Silverstar Red Crow © 1998/2007

As human beings, we communicate on all levels in symbols. Symbolism spans the gamut across time, space, race, gender, and spiritual belief.
The Primal Human has always found ways to communicate, and symbolism has provided the basis for not only verbal and visual communication, but written communication as well. It is common knowledge now that our written alphabets were derived from symbols and pictures. The Egyptian hieroglyphs are a prime example of the move from picture-writing (petroglyphs) to syllabic-writing (used in ancient Babylon and, of course, in China), which was followed by consonantal, or alphabetical writing. In fact, archaeologists have yet to discover a society with no written language whatsoever. Even the earliest discoveries of humanity have revealed our earliest discoveries of paintings of symbols on cave walls. Although scholars have now recognized the complexity of communication in ancient societies, the media, most recently public broadcasting, National Geographic and the Discovery Channel, persist in using such derogatory terms as “primitive” or “savage” to describe these ancient civilizations and their communication. It is worth noting for our interests that many of these communication symbols are shared globally. For example, identical cave paintings of hands have been found in Australia and in France. And, the Sacred Medicine Wheel of the North American Indian of the Great Plains is also a sacred symbol of the 5-Directions of the Celts. We would be remiss if we overlooked these interwoven symbols of shared history.
Early in Carl Jung’s research career, he recognized startling revelations of human interconnectedness on a primal, subconscious level. He began to see a pattern of spiritual record-keeping that unfolded on a universal basis, from the Mandalas of Tibet to the Aztec Calendar. Through his work with modern dream therapy, Jung began to see the same symbols appear over and over in many diverse peoples. Additionally, many of these symbols had common meanings, even when the personalities experiencing the dream-symbols were from differing societies. Jung concluded that, in our collective unconsciousness, we as human beings possess an archetypal language.
During Jung’s same era, across the ocean, a man by the name of Edgar Cayce uncovered the same information. Though their conclusions were reached in dramatically different ways, Cayce through psychic trance-work and Jung through academic research, the information is wonderfully similar. This, of course, was no surprise to the Vedas, Theosophists and Metaphysicians at large. We, as humans, are blessed with a powerful interconnectedness with each other and, most importantly, with our Higher Minds!
The following identifications are found in such diverse sources as Jung, Cayce, the Vedas, the ancient Celts, the Egyptians, the Greeks and Kabbalists. A consistent flow of symbolic meanings allows for the compilation across cultures as described below.

1. The Circle, representing the ALL
The Super Conscious Mind

2. The Straight Horizontal Line, representing the ONE
The Conscious Feminine Principle or Mind

3. The Straight Vertical Line, representing the ONE
The Conscious Male Principle or Mind

4. The Crescent, representing the MANY
The Unconscious Mind

Through the ages, the universal practice of combining these basic components formed these symbols depicting the 4-Elements of ancient magickal/scientific thought:

1. The Circle, representing FIRE. The circle is listed first because, according to Barbara Walker , it is the lightest element. FIRE represents the catalyst energy, which sparks life in its most basic form. It is the power of vital energy, of purification and life renewal. Its color is RED and its direction is South.



2. The Circle with a dot in it’s center, representing AIR. It is the next densest element. AIR represents inspiration and communication. Its color is YELLOW and its direction is East.
3. The Circle with a horizontal line dividing North from South, representing WATER. WATER is the third heaviest element. It represents truth, both universal and individual. Its color is BLUE and its direction is West.



4. An Equal Cross within a circle, representing EARTH. EARTH is the densest of the four elements, representing the power of manifestation. It represents wisdom and tradition. Its color is GREEN and its direction is North.



Electrically, the human mind works in “common” reality on the Beta Level (or frequency). As we calm our minds and begin mentally travelling in a meditative state, most commonly facilitated by controlled breathing and concentrating on a singular point, the Alpha Level is entered. The deeper one travels in the meditative state, depending on how adept one is in the practice of meditation, the ability of moving into altered states of awareness is had in the Theta Level. The Theta Level is generally considered the state of deep trance or ecstasy and is the world where Shamans travel.
When we close our eyes and slowly begin to center our energies, the field of vision is usually black with a solid colored line (in my personal experience, usually red) running through the center of the field, horizontally. As we slow our minds further into the meditative state, this horizontal line will begin to undulate, similar to a lie detector or seismograph. This is marking the change of electrical frequency. I was taught that ancient humans divided the 4-Elements into four border patterns…

1. Representing Fire:
2. Representing Air:
3. Representing Water:
4. Representing Earth:

Interestingly, these border patterns, which are universally found and understood, correspond remarkably to the changing electrical frequency bands of the human brain. I have experienced all four ancient border patterns in my own meditative journeys, many of which shared their elemental color changes. Hank Wesselman, an anthropologist and shamanic journeyer wrote about border patterns of altered mental states in his book Spiritwalker. When he was entering a deep trance state that he seemingly lost control in, his field of vision was filled with swiggly lines, dots and dashes and undulating horizontal lines. Could these lines indicate a particular kind of message corresponding to the attributes of an element?
Shamanism has been a largely ignored practice until scientists and researchers like Michael Harner dedicated themselves to the protection and practice of indigenous religions. Added to the accepted vocabulary of Spirit Animals and Spirit Teachers is the symbolic language of shape, color and sound. These are universal components, elaborating the meanings of archetypes, which provide the seeker with well-defined paths of investigation.

COMMON UNIVERSAL SYMBOLS


1. THE CIRCLE ITSELF =
THE SLEEPING EYE OF THE DIVINE
It also represents the Father Principle and the God.


2. CENTERED POINT WITHIN THE CIRCLE =
THE OPENED EYE OF THE DIVINE
It represents the beginning idea of the world, light and energy.
The Sun, boundless energy—the point in the center represents the seed, or germ of a lesser light contained within the larger,
which is human life and spirit given by the Divine.


3. DIVIDED CIRCLE WITH A HORIZONTAL LINE =
THE RECEPTIVE FEMALE PRINCIPLE



4. DIVIDED CIRCLE WITH VERTICAL LINE =
THE ASSERTIVE MALE PRINCIPLE


5. EQUAL CROSS WITHIN A CIRCLE (Equal Armed Cross) =
THE DIVINE AND EARTH COMBINED IN HARMONY
Also it represents the 4-Elements in action, creating the 5th Element. And it represents the joining of the female and male elements, creating the spark of life on Earth. It is one of the oldest symbols depicting Earth, itself.



6. THE CRESCENT =
THE DIVINE FEMININE
The Goddess, The Moon, all that is receptive in human nature, instinct, emotions, dreams and memory.


7. THE SPIRAL =
THE GREAT GODDESS
The Life-Cycle from conception to the grave, to the Spirit World to conception again. The eternity of Life—the cycle of reincarnation.


8. YIN-YANG =
The two elements of female and male joined for the purpose of creation. Also duality: good-evil, positive-negative, black-white.


9. THE TRIANGLE =
FORM—THE FIRST MANIFESTATION OF CREATION
Also represents the triad of Maiden, Mother and Crone, and the Son Principle, manifestation of power and communication.


10. THE SQUARE =
EARTH—STABILITY
Also represents the Daughter Principle, solidity through form.


11.THE PENTAGRAM =
THE HUMAN
The 5-Senses, the 5-Directions.



12.THE PENTACLE =
MAGICK
Humanity in action, creating the 6th Sense and the manifestation
of power.

13.THE SIX POINTED STAR =
HUMAN AND DIVINE UNITED
The Divine is represented by the triangle turned to the sky and
Human is the triangle turned to the Earth—balance, trust and
Cosmic Law.


14.THE SEVEN POINTED STAR =
HUMAN ASPIRING TO BE DIVINE
Wisdom, mystery and High Magick (healing-altruistic magick)

15.THE EIGHT POINTED STAR =
DIVINE INSPIRATION AND COMMUNICATION WITH
THE SPIRIT REALMS


16.THE FIGURE EIGHT =
INFINITY AND THE LIFE-CYCLE


17.THE YONI =
THE MOTHER GODDESS
The source and vehicle of all life.


18.THE TRIAGLE WITHIN A CIRCLE =
ACTIVATED MANIFESTATION
This ancient symbol has been adopted by the modern movement
of the 12-Step Program, representing the state of being clean
and sober.

SYMBOLIC MEANINGS OF THE PLANETS
MERCURY represents both solar and lunar qualities. It dominates the elements. The Unconscious is above the Superconscious, on the Cross of Matter. The Unconscious has received its impact from the physical world, playing on the instincts of humankind. In astrology, it is the planet of the mind. It rules the workings of communication. It sets the human apart from the animal.

VENUS is solar. It dominates the elements. The circle over the cross represents the descent of spirit into the material world, which is triumphant over matter, unlimited by emotion and instinct. Venus speaks the principle of love on Earth, attraction, beauty and joy. It is the sign for Copper.

MARS is the creative spirit that is limited by matter. It represents choice by denoting power and dynamic energy that can be angry and demonstrative, or transmuted into courage, honor and strength of character. It is the sign for Iron.

JUPITER is lunar. It dominates the elements. In the cross and the crescent is the symbol of the soul liberating itself from matter. The emotions can become beautiful under Jupiter. There is a largesse; a universality of outlook implied here. It stands for soul growth and expansion. It is the sign for Tin.

SATURN is lunar in nature. Dominated by the elements, Saturn has the same cross and crescent as Jupiter, but in a different placement. The cross of matter is over the crescent; representing humankind putting hard reason over intuition. It is the sign for Lead.

URANUS represents raised consciousness. The cross of matter is raised above the circle and is broadened. Although several symbols represent Uranus, they each represent the transmutation of the soul and insight into the laws of Nature.

NEPTUNE is symbolized by the crescent of the unconscious mind above which is pierced by the cross of matter, representing the hard-earned joining of Spirit and Matter. This alliance creates the mystic and seer of prophecy.
PLUTO has the crescent of the unconscious mind united with the cross of matter, similar to Neptune, but with the circle of the superconscious mind (Higher Mind) suspended above it. This represents the mystic transformed by mass consciousness, the Messiah Mind-Set. Transformation is the KEY here.
Use these basic shapes identified above as a formulae to understand the universal meanings of numbers, alphabets, or in creating symbols of your own. Creating your own magickal alphabet can be a very powerful tool in spell-work or in use as talismans. Look at the signs of the Zodiac with a keen insight. Immerse yourself in old and new pieces of art; you may recognize similarities that you did not perceive before. Seen through the lens of symbolism, traditional art and Modernism often blur together. You may discover that Goya and Dali were both influenced by crescent symbols in their work. Or, perhaps that Rembrant and Warhol share the symbol of the square. The comparisons go on and on, some more subtle than others, but symbols often communicate on a deeper level than verbal language allows. By using symbolism as a tool to understand oracles, an immense world of problem solving and insight is opened!
There are countless other examples of simple shared archetypal symbols. But many cultures have developed their own meanings to more complicated symbols. Through the process of assimilation and cultural evolution, one basic symbol can represent literally hundreds of meanings. For example let us explore the Pentacle.


1. HINDU 2. CHINESE 3. SOME NEO-PAGANS

SPIRIT FIRE SPIRIT


WATER AIR WOOD EARTH AIR WATER



FIRE EARTH WATER METAL EARTH FIRE

Who’s right and who is wrong? Those questions are not easily answered and like many other spiritual questions there is only one solution, what feels right to the individual. I use the pentacle a lot in my own magickal work and find it frustrating when assigning elemental correspondences to its points. Consequently, I avoid labeling the points of the star with an elemental equivalent. I defer to the Equal Armed Cross and its corresponding compass points for elemental power attributes.

NORTH
EARTH
GREEN



WEST CENTER EAST
WATER ETHER AIR
BLUE PURPLE YELLOW





SOUTH
FIRE
RED


I don’t detail these differences to confuse the reader or to make my point that symbols are a universal language mute. I suggest that we need to stay as flexible as possible to alternatives, without becoming indecisive or careless. There is a fine line between learning a new system and creating one’s own because of dissatisfaction with the accepted version. Use the recognized version until schooling in the proper alternatives is had.

SYMBOLIC MEANINGS OF NUMBERS
ONE (1):
• Ruled by The Sun and Leo. Its element is fire. It is masculine and assertive.
• Colors: the warm hues of gold, yellow, orange and red. 1
• Metal: Gold
Stones: Diamond, Ruby
Tone: Key of C
• Occult Symbols: Tarot - The Magician, The man Adam, Osiris, Apollo.
Hebrew Character: Aleph.
• Father of Numbers: number of harmony, initiation, activity, self-mastery, subjugation of lesser forces, mental power, austerity
• Fortunate and Prosperous
• Creative Principle: the idea, 1st in anything, generating first movement of Life
• Yearning: the movement of humankind towards higher things
• Ego: self-conscious mind
• Leadership and Determination: courage and independence
• Originality: the pioneer, inventor
• Organizing Power: executive ability, acting upon decision
• Stands Alone: avoids complexities and diversity, moves ahead

TWO (2):
• Ruled by The Moon. Its element is Water. It is feminine and receptive.
• Colors: bright white, silver and cool pastels. 2
• Metal: Silver
Stones: Moonstone, Onyx
Tone: Key of D
• Occult Symbols: Tarot - High Priestess, Eve, Isis, Juno
Hebrew Character: Beth
• Mother of All Numbers: marriage
• Symbol of Duality: 1 becoming 2, spirit and matter
• Number of the Intellect: fountainhead of mental conception
• Wisdom Through Memory
• Echo: reflection
• Action and Reaction: blending of opposing views into common interests, the ability to see two sides of any story
• Idea of Procreation: combination, relativity and change
• Love: service, gentleness, adaptability, consideration of others, good judgment
• Balance: diplomacy, avoids the extremes, honest

THREE (3):
• Ruled by Mercury. It is Air and Fire. It is masculine and assertive.
• Colors: yellow, purple and azure 3
• Metal: Tin
Stones: Turquoise, Carbuncle
Tone: Key of E
• Occult Symbols: Tarot - Empress, Diana, Isis Urania, Venus Urania, Horus
Hebrew Character: Ghimel.
• Holy Number: the number of manifestation of thought, light, spirit entering matter
• Mind: imagination, development, ability to communicate at all cost!
• The Trinity: father/mother/child, physical/mental/spiritual, conscious/subconscious/
superconscious
• Spiritual Synthesis: the solution of conflict posed by 2
• 1st of 3 Numbers of Completion: 3,6,9
• Intellect: intuition, understanding, quick thinking
• Danger of Impatience: dissipation of energy
• Joy of Living: lucky
• Wisdom: self-worth, perfect love, tenderness, soul-force
• Plenty: fruitfulness, exertion

FOUR (4):
• Ruled by Venus. Its element is Earth. It is feminine and assertive.
• Colors: yellow, green, purple and pink. 4
• Metal: Gold
Stones: Diamond, Ruby, Emerald
Tone: Key of F
• Occult Symbols: Tarot - The Emperor, Thet, Alla, Sire, Orsi, Deus
Hebrew Character: Dalet
• Sacred Number: Humankind is upright and is carrying Divine Principles of regularity, reason and achievement. Represents the 4-Elements: Earth, Air, Fire and Water.
• Order: understanding
• Critic of Measure: steadiness, endurance
• Test of Strength: solid way of thinking
• Enthusiasm: intellectual curiosity
• Immortality: discovery of reincarnation, solidity of purpose, realization of hopes, power and will
FIVE (5):
• Ruled by Mars. Its element is Spirit. It is masculine and assertive. 5
• Colors: red, purple, teal
• Metal: Quicksilver
Stones: Hyacinth, Turquoise, Amber, Sodalite
Tone: Key of G
• Occult Symbols: Tarot - Hierophant, Zeus, Nemesis
Hebrew Character: He
• Magical Number: molding of the mortal body to the discipline of the spiritual realms. Very intense! Number of protection.
• Number of Rebirth: represents the Life-Cycle. Human reaching out for experience through the 5 senses. Transition, adventure, speculation
• Enthusiasm: freedom, intellectual curiosity, travel, theatrical, discovery through sex and children
• Power: understanding, faith, authority, will
• Testing Number: symbol of imperfection and incompletion. Danger of being scattered, restless, superficial, hasty, competitive, angry. Irritation and struggle

SIX (6):
• Ruled by Venus (ideal love) and Jupiter (Higher Mind, philosophy, law, religion).
• Its elements are Water and Fire. It is both female and male (balance of receptivity and assertion.
• Colors: green, light blue, pink, crimson 6
• Metal: Copper
Stones: Opal, Emerald, Pearl, Sapphire, Rose Quartz
Tone: Key of A
• Occult Symbols: Tarot - The Lovers, Cupid, Venus. It represents 2 paths: human between virtue and vice.
• Perfection of Numbers: The union of the God of Fire and the Goddess of Water, or the blending of human and The Divine
• Harmony: love, intuition, beauty, compassion
• Accomplishment of Growth
• Dependability: home, stability, protection
• Sincerity: trust, union
• Music: allowing the soul to be heard
• Troubles: ill health, entanglements, binding, possessiveness
• Cosmic Parenthood

SEVEN (7):
• Its ruler is Saturn. Its element is Earth. It is feminine, yet both receptive and assertive.
• Colors: black, rich browns, forest green, crimson and purple
• Metal: Silver
Stones: Aquamarine, Moonstones, Onyx
Tone: Key of B
• Occult Symbols: Tarot - The Chariot, The Victor, Cherubs, Fiery Sword 7
• Ceremonial Magick: ritual, initiation, fate, mystery
• Self-Perfection: activities of the Higher Mind, study, philosophy, knowledge
• Quiet Planning and Deep Meditation
• Sacred Number: HONOR
• Victory: triumph, fame, authority, recognition, withdrawal
• The Last Word!
• Guard Against: negativity, melancholy, fault-finding, coldness, sarcasm, intolerance, aloofness, martyrdom

EIGHT (8):
• Its ruler is Uranus. Its element is Air. It is masculine and assertive. 8
• Colors: deep browns, electric blue, cobalt blue, indigo, white
• Metal: Lead
Stone: Lapis Lazuli
Tone: C octave
• Occult Symbols: Tarot - Strength, 8-Pointed Star, Ceremonial Robes, Moving Snakes
• Number of Splendor: achievement of balance, infinity, molding the currents of the Life-Force
• The Magi: Path of Perfection, success of the intellect, scientist
• Great Power: authority, material wealth, ambition
• Fear of both Success and Failure
• Death and Rebirth: Using the Life-Cycle as teacher, reincarnation, affairs of the dead
• Guard Against: ruthlessness, over-ambition, bullying, oppression



NINE (9):
• Its ruler is Neptune. Its elements are Fire and Water: the marriage of masculine and feminine, bringing power to sensitivity; the thinker becomes a mystic and psychic.
• Colors: gold, scarlet, teal and purple 9
• Metal: Iron
Stones: Amethyst, Topaz
Tone: Db Major
• Occult Symbols: Tarot - Hermit, The lighted torch, The lighted crown, The Cross, Sacred Fire of the Vestals
• Transmutation of Power: service, humanity, love of the teacher for the student
• 3 Times 3: manifesting the spiritual into the physical through Magick
• Morality: fruits of merit
• Symbol of Matter that Cannot be Destroyed
• Magnetism
• Love: generosity, fairness, readiness to help others
• Wisdom: the scholar becomes teacher, teaches virtue through example
• Guard Against: pomposity, arrogance, rashness, bitterness

ELEVEN (11):
• Its rulers are Uranus and Neptune. It is ruled by all 5 Elements: AIR, FIRE, WATER, EARTH and SPIRIT. It is both feminine and masculine, receptive and assertive.
• Colors: cobalt blue, purple, silver and gold 11
• Metal: Platinum
Stone: Star Sapphire
Tone: D Minor
• Occult Symbols: Tarot - The High Priestess, Justice and The Star, The Marion’s, Jesus, Lightning Bolts, The Columns of the Temple
• First Master Number: when 1 becomes 11, the individual interests are merged into the universal. The illumined 11 is highly mutable and transformative, with little need for a home; only the hearts, minds and souls of the creatures that have been touched.
• Divine Communication: direct channel of communication with the Higher Mind and the Divine, rules Oracles
• Develops Soul Power Through Selfless Service
• Represents Cosmic Law and Order
• Messages Through Dreams: sound advice to honor and act upon

THIRTEEN (13):
• Divine Number of Action: the Twelve Apostles join Jesus, the twelve houses of the Zodiac revolve around the Hub, the Center, 13 becomes the Coven.
• It transcends the elements because it uses all of them. It is ruled by all the planets, achieving eternal balance. It is female and male, receptive and assertive.
• Colors: black, white, silver and gold. 13
• Occult Symbols: Tarot - Death, The Zodiac, Wheel of the Natural Year, The 13 Moons
• Practical Path of Unity
• The Teacher Becomes Master

FIFTEEN (15):
• For rulerships see number 5 (3 x 5 = 15) above, and number 6. 15
• Colors: see the colors of 3, 5 and 6 identified above
• Occult Symbols: Tarot - The Lovers, Temperance and The Devil, The Trinity, Triple Goddesses, Hecate, The Horned God, The Star of David (Solomon’s Seal)
• Duality: represents the 2 paths of humankind, the choice between good and bane
• Dark and Magickal: mysterious, night, warm, nurturing
• Patience is Virtue
• Guard Against: negativity, possessiveness, greed, envy, sex addiction

TWENTY-TWO (22):
• It is ruled by Pluto and the Earth, and by all 5-Elements. It is feminine and masculine.
• Colors: emerald green, purple and white 22
• Metals: All
Stone: Diamond
Tone: F Minor
• Occult Symbols: Tarot - The World and the Ace of Pentacles, Castles, Eagles, The Medicine Wheel
• 2nd master Number: The Divine Builder
• Material Mastery: practical realities out of ideals, forces inert matter into productive matter, masters treasures of the Earth and uses them to their full potential without harming anything.
• Rules Mass Consciousness: directs world affairs for international expansion and for the benefit of all.
• The True Executive
• Loves: power, progress, culture, art, beauty
• Guard Against: Messiah Complex, fanaticism, perversity

THIRTY-THREE (33):
• It is ruled by Vulcan, and by all 5-Elements. It is feminine and masculine.
• Colors: the vibrant rainbow, emerald green, white, silver and gold
• Metals: Gold
Stones: All 7 Tourmalines, together
Tone: Middle C and all melodious sound
• Occult Symbols: Tarot - The Hanged Man and The Ace of Cups, The Vibrant Rainbow, The Kundalini, The Opened Lotus, The Sunflower
• 3rd Master Number: The Divine Healer 33
• Represents the physician transformed into the healer. The ultimate mastery of the intellect through faith and integration of body, mind and soul. Spiritual surrender, knowing when to quit fighting, allowing the Life-Cycle to heal itself through death.
• Guard Against: substance abuse, multiple personality disorders, bi-polar maladies, stagnation of the will.

FORTY-FOUR (44):
• It is ruled by Pluto. Its element is Fire. It is both genders, and is assertive.
• Colors: scarlet, purple, black and white 44
• Metal: Silver, Gold and Platinum
Stones: Bloodstone, Amber, Moonstone, Garnet, Ruby, Amethyst
Tone: OM
• Occult Symbols: Tarot - The Magician, The Tower, Death, The Ace of Wands; The Phoenix, Saint Joan, Merlin, The Marion’s, The Resurrection, Siva, Hecate
• The 4th Master Number: The Realization of the Life-Cycle, The Death Number, The Divine Transmuter
• Divine Destiny: reincarnation, realization of personal destiny, life through choice, death through choice
• The Phoenix Rises: healing through purging, purification through fire
• 2 x 22 = 44: The True Executive is transformed into The Ruler; taking responsibility for their charges, instilling hope and working for complete prosperity in the Now; in preparation for the Future.
• Guard Against: suicide, fatalism, depression
FIFTY-FIVE (55): 55
• The 5th Master Number.
• Occult Symbols: Tarot - The Hermit of The Tarot
The Hermit is androgynous, wandering through situations in which most people would be terrified, but The Hermit is seemingly at ease and in deep thought.
• This is The Sage, needing only Prana to stay alive. This person straddles both worlds, listening to all sides, yet not questioning the answers received. The Sage knows that faith and trust in the Divine will overcome any obstacle. In Perfect Love, In Perfect Trust is the creed. The Sage represents the entity ready to return to the All. It is meant to be used only as a clarifying tool and then taken back to its root number: 1, starting the whole Life-Cycle again!

As a student of symbolism you are privy to a mysteriously rich world filled with tools which can be used to help understand self, family and society. Symbolism is the basis of numerology, the Tarot, Runes and helps decipher astrology and even dreams.


DREAMS

From infancy, discomforting reoccurring dreams, some with very specific names, dates and places, obviously from the World War II period; plagued me. Fortunately, my parents were well versed with the problems faced when rapid incarnation takes place. Through the years, some of these very violent and painful dreams stopped, but many continued into my early twenties. Feeling traumatized by the constant onslaught of terrible images, I decided to take my problem to a therapist. I enlisted the talents of a Jungian practitioner and began the arduous yearlong dream therapy regimen that he had developed. He began the therapy relationship by stating that the most important component in interpreting dreams is not the particular symbol in the dream, but the feeling it produced. He said that immediately upon waking, it is essential to take a complete emotional inventory; how did the dream make you feel? Did you feel like lashing out to release tension? Was vengeful thinking a part of your dynamic? Etc.
I internalized his suggestions immediately and found that my dreams began to take on a clearer perspective. The calmer I became, the easier the inventory process became and the clearer my dreams were; instead of convoluted confusing images, distinct stories unfolded, complete with definable time-lines. The subjects of my dreams were still violent and tragic, but they were clear enough for me to relate to them on a very real everyday basis. I started to actually “deal” with the tribulation of my former life and was, eventually, able to let go of the pain that had been paralyzing me emotionally for years. After a year, I was able to move on and miraculously, my reoccurring war dreams stopped. I am oversimplifying the intricacies of my therapy experiences. But I assure you once I made the commitment to let my emotions work for me; I was able to flow with my own healing abilities.
The first time a client comes to me with problems connected with the dreamstate, I ask the person to start a dream journal that fully explains the emotions that one’s dreams produce. At first, this gets a quizzical look. The client expects me to analyze the dream. For someone to “tell” what another person’s dream means can be as damaging as the dream itself; talk about implanting or polluting memory. The mind contains all the pieces of the great puzzle that, when pieced together forms the individual. We, from time to time, need the guidance of a teacher, therapist, Witch or Shaman. But the professional, if real healing is a desired outcome, will make the client work for it! And sometimes the reaching for help is the work.
The first thing to do is to purchase a notebook especially dedicated to the recording of dreams and place it next to the bed. Try an indigo blue notebook and matching ballpoint pen, symbolizing dreamwork and hidden mysteries. When awakened by a disturbing, complicated or exciting dream, remember that waking up is the subconscious mind’s way to alert the dreamer to remember what has just transpired. Upon waking, switch on a light and write as much as can be remembered, paying close attention to the details. A substitute for a dream journal that I recommend highly is a small hand held tape recorder. Talking into a tape recorder can be much less disruptive to the sleep pattern; no need to turn on lights and fumble for the pen. Also there is the tendency to give more information when talking, rather than writing, especially when half asleep.
What do emotions have to do with Symbolism? Emotions serve as triggers to alert the conscious mind of dangerous or exhilarating territory. By listening to one’s emotions, common individual symbols are not dismissed as coincidence or taken lightly.
Not only do we vibrate to symbols individually, but universally through genetic and past-life memory. The mind contains all the specific information from all our lifetimes, like a specialized movie camera capturing all the action observed from an individual point of view. This endless stream of information is stored deep in the subconscious and through the practice of meditation and personal inventory; we have the capability to access this huge database.

Dream One

If a person is repeatedly killed with knives through many lifetimes and retains no conscious memory of the incidents, subconsciously, knives can become the symbols of destruction and pain. This hidden knowledge sits and festers in the subconscious and when the dreamer is confronted by stress or is threatened on some level in common reality, dreams about knives begin.
If the dreamer has experienced damage at the point of a knife blade in the past and equates knives with pain, why does the person dream of a favorite teacher carrying a large dangerous sword? Surprisingly, the dream does not produce fear, but does yield anxiousness. On a universal level, knives can symbolize the facilitating of spiritual growth by “cutting through to the meat of the matter”. In the Tarot, knives (or swords) symbolize AIR, inspiration and the ability to communicate. Could her higher mind be telling her that education does not have to be painful? Add to the equation the color of the blade; it was a light blue-green. We know from earlier studies that light blue means mental calm and light green means physical calm. Blend the two colors together; a new meaning for the blade becomes clear. It is not a stretch to come to the conclusion that the person having the dream has reconciled to calmly pursue a new field of study that will enhance her life both physically and mentally.
Seeing the sword alerted the dreamer to pay close attention to the lessons being conveyed. If the favorite teacher was holding an obvious symbol like an opened book, the dreamer might not be alerted to pay close attention to the dream. Consequently, the dreamer would not be privy to the insight of her own Higher Mind.

Dream Two

The subject is a 45 year old married woman who is a professional with a highly stressful job. At the age of 13, she lost her youngest sibling to a terminal disease, causing great divisions in the family structure that remain unhealed. Since her loss, a reoccurring theme of loss of control pervades her dreamstate.
In this particular dream, the subject is driving a car that is unfamiliar and has an unwanted passenger who is trying to manipulate an individual agenda and route. The dreamer is faced with a choice of direction at a crossroad and realizes that taking either direction has a familiar but undesirable destination. To the subject’s surprise a hard turn to the right is made, confronting a tortuously steep mountain. She awakes startled, confident that she was headed directly for the terrifying reality of driving up an almost vertical mountainside. She is shaken but oddly defiant realizing that it was by her own hand that the car had turned, afraid but brave.
The steep mountain became a symbol of painful loss and the inability to deal with life with a sense of control. Despite the unwanted passenger, the dreamer was able to make a difficult decision at an important juncture in her life. She was still afraid, but she was finally willing to face her demons in common reality.

SYMBOL MEANINGS FOR INTERPRETATIONS IN
COMMON & NONORDINARY REALITY

It is important to realize that there are no exact meanings for symbols, especially when dealing with nonordinary reality. Symbols are triggers to the subconscious mind as was examined in the first example of dream interpretation. What follows are examples of popularly dreamed symbols, which have common threads in most societies.

ANIMALS
For the best explanation for animals as symbols in vision, dreamstate or in the waking state look to the nature of the specific animal. For instance, if a common breed of dog appears and offers a gift of attention or affection, think about dogs as domestic creatures bred for the protection, companionship and ease of labor for humans. There are many books about the behavior patterns of animals that can help decipher the dreams, visions, attractions and loves of the animal world.
My partner and I live in a small agricultural community surrounded by endless acres of wheat fields and vineyards. Our area is a wildlife treasure trove, complete with skunks and the occasional red fox bounding down Main Street. It is not unusual to have rodent problems because of the overabundance of stored grain in and around the boundaries of town. This presents discomfort to me, since I am not fond of our little grayish brown relatives. Consequently, my partner and I go to great lengths to discourage unwanted visitors of this type…
During a recent harvest season, I felt uneasy and my dreams began to echo my discomfort. When I discovered a mouse nest in my bedroom, after the customary scream and clean up, I ran to the animal books. I discovered that mice are incredibly resourceful creatures, with amazing powers of concentration and attention to detail. I took a personal inventory of my habits, routines and specific duties of the season. My most pressing job was the writing of a new series of ritual prayers for the Three Harvest Feasts. I was not satisfied with them and did not know why. It felt as if they were missing something. Did this relate to the mice making their new home in my bedroom? The next step was to examine the prayer series more closely. Upon doing so I noticed an irregularity in all of the prayers that had become my subconscious stumbling block. Immediately I made the necessary changes to the prayers and the rest of the text flowed unhampered. My relative, the mouse, became an ally that season.
Keep your senses alert to the changing patterns of the Natural World around you. It is amazing what we can learn by paying attention to the habits of creatures in the animal kingdom.
Birds
Most birds have the ability to fly. Consequently they are ruled by the element of Air. Air symbolizes inspiration, the ability to communicate and the powers of active protection. This is the underlying current when deciphering the presence of birds in your environment, regardless of what reality you are dealing with.
Instead of taking this list of birds alphabetically, I am going to take them in order of importance in my life.
Eagle
To American Indians, Eagles are called Father, giving them great respect and acknowledging their powers of communication with the Creator. It is said that prayers reach the Creator atop the wings of Eagles. They symbolize the catalytic spark of life, the ability to protect the weak, the power of fame and the endurance to reach lofty goals.
Hawk
Hawks represent courage, strength and endurance. It is said that Hawks will not run from danger and represent the warrior spirit.
Owl
Owls have three faces: The Watcher, The Guardian and The Oracle. If you have the good fortune of living or visiting on a large piece of rural property, you will soon discover, most probably, that a large dominant owl will post itself atop the tallest tree and simply watch over the land. It seems to have the knowledge of the working soul of the land that falls into its territory; this is The Watcher.
Historically, Owls have been the protectors of Witches. Hecate, Cerridwen, Merlin and many other Goddesses, Gods and famous Witches have been depicted with Owls. They alert all that live in their jurisdiction to the presence of danger, they help in hunting and tracking and serve as wise companions; this is The Guardian.
Owls have powerful night vision and because of this talent they are associated with the ability to see into the other worlds of Spirit and hold the knowledge of both past and future. For many American Indian Tribes, when an Owl “calls your name” it portends your death; this is The Oracle.
Raven
To American Indians of the Northwest, Raven symbolizes the creation of life on this planet. Ravens are considered to be mysterious because of their rich blue black feathers, curious nature and large size. To the Celts, Raven represented strength in battle and the ability to outwit the enemy.
Crow
The Crow shares the meaning of the Raven, but adds to its nature the ability to transform its curiosity into magickal power. The Crow represents ceremony and ritual form.
Vulture
Vulture represents the strength, ability and art of transformation. It brings life from death. The Egyptians used the Vulture as a powerful talisman of the Life-Cycle and used its head for the Nile Goddess because the Nile brought life to dying soil through its yearly flooding.
Sparrow
Sparrow represents tenaciousness and victory. Just watch Sparrows fight larger fierce birds to protect their territory; they are unforgiving and relentless. In the Middle Ages, peasants used the Sparrow to symbolize strength through adversity under the yoke of the feudal system.
Hummingbird
Hummingbird symbolizes unrestrained joy. Look at the frenzy of Hummingbirds as they feed on the delicacy of sugar water and tell me that it does not bring a smile to your face!
Dove
Doves represent peace and the love gained through order. The Dove has been a favorite symbol of the Christian Church, representing Jesus as the Risen God. Because of this representation, the Dove has been used as the symbol of freedom.
Wild Turkey
Wild Turkeys are said by many to be one of the most intelligent of all birds. Because of this trait, southern tribes of American Indians call this bird the Southern Eagle. Ben Franklin preferred the Turkey to the Eagle, as the symbol of the United States because of its intelligence and ability to avoid capture.
Mammals
Bear
The Bear symbolizes courage and the ability to look within. Because of its powers of introspection, telepathic communication is represented. It is also a powerful totem for healing. Some American Indian tribes look at the Black Bear as the symbol for the West.
Boar
Boars are fierce, tenacious and seemingly fearless in the face of battle. Boars have sweet pink meat, similar to human meat. Modern science has used the pig family extensively for medical research, finding many similarities to human tissue. It is a sacred food of the Norse and the Celts and is depicted with many Goddesses and Gods in those societies, from Freya to Cerridwen.
Buffalo
To American Indians the Buffalo is sacred and represents survival and wisdom, mainly because it was the main source of food, clothing, tools and shelter for many tribes of the Great Plains. The White Buffalo Cow symbolizes wisdom and the direction North and it represents the tradition held by Great Grand Mother Wisdom Keepers.
Cat (Wild)
Cats symbolize independence, grace and stealth. Many warrior societies use Cats to depict the loan hunter who is the master of camouflage and offensive technique.
Cattle
Through millennia, Cattle (whether cow or bull) have represented The Moon because its horns are crescent shaped. It is an unusual horned beast because both female and male have horns. It is sacred to the Hindu and is not eaten by them.
Coyote
Coyote symbolizes the Shape-Shifter, receiving the reputation of being the “Trickster” by many. In common reality, they have the remarkable ability to appear great in number, being able to throw their voices in strange patterns so one might seem like a half a dozen. To some American Indian tribes, Coyote represents the direction of South.
Deer
Deer represent innocence and gentleness of body, mind and spirit. Always prized for its flavorful meat and soft hide, Deer has been a fine friend to humankind. Taking the last breath of a Deer by the hunter takes the life giving qualities of the animal into the human and transforms both their spirits into one. Deer is also used as a depiction for the direction of South.
Dolphin
Dolphins are sea creatures, so naturally represent gifts of truth and the workings of the subconscious mind, as do whale and fish. Dolphins are gregarious, social creatures of high intelligence and in many cases embrace humans in friendly interaction.
Elk
Elk are incredibly majestic creatures that live in mountainous areas rich in meadow grasses. They are gentle herd animals, but have the weight and stature of great beasts and use it when cornered or in the rut. They represent physical endurance and protection.
Fox
The Fox is greatly prized for its warm and luxurious fur. It symbolizes cunning and stealth. The Fox represents the Celtic Goddess Brigid because of its red color, “Brigid’s Flame”.
Goat
Goats symbolize ambition and the ability to finish difficult tasks. It represents the astrological sign of Capricorn, the sign of career, mental agility and the success-failure polarity. Goats have been favorite domestic creatures of Witches, providing milk, meat, hair for weaving and a wonderful model of independence and character. Goats, regardless of sex, have horns, as do cattle.
Horse
Horses have always symbolized power through movement, freedom and open sensuality because of their grace and speed of motion. The Horse is a symbol for both the Goddess and the God. To the Celts, the White Horse represents the Goddess Epona of the West and as the embodiment of the God of Life Renewal and Purification , white-hot flames of the direction of South. The American Indian quickly adopted this essential symbol of pride and freedom after its introduction to North America by the Conquistadors in the 16th century.
Lion
The Lion symbolizes strength, physical vitality and creativity. It represents the astrological sign of Leo, the sign of royalty. Historically, it has been a symbol depicting royalty from Africa to Europe. In the Tarot, the Lion is on the Strength Card, with an infinity symbol over its head, representing the everlasting soul.
Ram
The Ram is the symbol of the astrological sign of Aries, which is the first sign of the Zodiac, The Pioneer Principle. The Ram is assertive, frighteningly fearless and highly territorial. Nepal Shamans, to extract miasma from their clients, use the Ram’s horn.
Squirrel
Squirrels symbolize industriousness and the ability to plan. While humans still enjoy the heat of late summer, Squirrels are frantically preparing their larders for the long Winter ahead. They have the amazing ability to establish a mode of one-centeredness, facilitating success in all their endeavors.
Turtle
The Turtle symbolizes balance in all things. According to some American Indian creation myths, Turtle was asked to support the huge weight of Mother Earth upon its hard rounded back. Turtle agreed to help Great Mother and, from that moment forward, represented equilibrium. When you hear the phrase “tipping the turtle” this infers that there is an imbalance somewhere that needs to be rectified. This reminds us that nothing is ever “free”. There is a price to be paid for everything. This is another explanation why it is customary for American Indians to give Honor Bundles of Tobacco in exchange for spiritual information, as well as a sign of respect.
Whale
Whales are the largest and perhaps the most intelligent creatures on Earth. They are from two elements Water and Earth, both ruled by the Goddess. They share the attributes of the Dolphin being that they are sea dwellers, but individually they are the symbol of reincarnation and the process of being born again through ritual initiation. There are legends from the Middle East to Polynesia about humans being swallowed by Whales, living for a time within them and finally being born again from them. The humans are invigorated with a sense of new purpose and are able to take on new and more difficult pursuits, usually improving life in their communities.
Wolf
Wolves are both solitaries and community oriented beasts; not a difficult question why Witches have always been fascinated by these creatures. Like Coyotes, they have the power of shape-shifting and are cunning and ruthless hunters. They are nocturnal and have keen senses. And like the Horse, represent both the Goddess and the God.

Cold Blooded Creatures

Lizard
Lizard represents innocence and sweetness of personality. Watch gentle green geckos climb walls with great abandon, or scurry across arms or legs trying to incite interaction. This activity can bring a smile to any face. To some American Indian tribes, particularly in the Southwest where small lizards abound, Lizard symbolizes the direction South.
Snake
Snakes have always had a place of respect for all peoples. They are an archetypal symbol for wisdom and healing. Though modern medicine is overly influenced by linear thought, snakes continue to be the sign of the healer. For Southern Woodland tribes of the United States, the Plumed Rainbow Serpent represents the Shaman. In the Bible, the Snake was an obvious symbol for temptation and the male sex organ, luring Eve to indulge on forbidden fruit. Snakes have always been found coiled around the body, hands, or at the base of Goddesses feet, offering them wisdom and direction. Consequently, I feel it is safe to use Snakes as symbols for both female and male. It is interesting to note that my mother taught me that the symbol for the sign of Aquarius, ruler of science, intellectual thought and communication with the Spirit World, is not two parallel lightning bolts, but two moving snakes.
Insects
There are more insects on the planet than any other life form. Few insects are respected enough to have symbolic meanings given to them. Instead, for many cultures around the world, they have become representations of disease and disharmony. Many Shamans and Witches view “bugs” as creatures to be permanently removed from one’s body and environment to facilitate healing. There are some exceptions to this rule, though, and are covered below.
Bee
The Bee is one of the most ancient symbols of the Great Mother Goddess, reaching great acclaim in Crete , where Priestesses of the Goddess Artemis where called “Melissas”, meaning Bee. Bees are matriarchal and are responsible for the survival of crops, through pollination, and the production of honey.
Butterfly
Butterflies symbolize transformation and rebirth, because of their 3-Fold Life-Cycle of larva, caterpillar and butterfly. They are incredibly graceful, delicate creatures that are revered the world over for their intrinsic beauty. In American Indian astrology, they represent the birth clan for Air signs.
Arachnids
Scorpion
Scorpions represent death and reincarnation and are one of three symbols for the astrological sign of Scorpio. Scorpio rules death, rebirth, transformation, other people’s money and the surgeon. Scorpions can be deadly creatures, posing great risk to humans.
Spider
Great Grandmother Spider weaves Her intricate web of life storing all the history of The People in it. She is the protector of tradition and never forgets the roots of Her mortal children. Spider can be a meddler in people’s affairs, catching people in Her web of manipulation; be ever mindful of Her whereabouts. To European Witches, Spiders make great familiars and gatherers of information. Witches have always been spinners, obviously inspired by the handiwork of Spiders.

THE NATURAL WORLD

Humankind has always lived a love-hate relationship with the Natural World; let us call it a healthy respect. We live according to the whim of Nature, surviving great calamity and reaping the benefits of beautiful weather. Nothing impacts us more. Though human technological development increases, science will not succeed in obliterating the natural flow of the ever-changing seasons. We all live in a world of unpredictability, such is life!

Air
Mental ability, communication in all realities, active protection.
Earth
Stability, tradition, wisdom.
Earthquakes
Instability, tension, coming apart.
Crystals
Thought amplification, spiritual journey.
Fire
Life renewal, purification, vital energy, passion.
Flowers
New life, spiritual unfolding, fertility. Scent is used by the Spirit World to alert humankind to its presence.
Lightning
Communication with the Spirit World, inspiration, new mental abilities formed through sudden calamity, possible danger.
Meadows
Can indicate the journeying to altered states of consciousness,“Working Between the Worlds”. Also, level headedness and calm.
Mountains
Lofty goals, growth of the Higher Mind.
People
Dreaming of other people often indicates facets of one’s own personality. Dreaming of pregnant women can indicate new forms of thought, new business opportunities or renewed relationships.
Rain (gentle)
Indicates the possibility of receiving messages of truth through the air.
Stones
Stability, strength, wisdom.
Storms
Turbulence, tumult, upheaval.
Thunder
Alerts the dreamer to listen more carefully.
Trees
Trees are remarkable life forms. Our tall relatives symbolize the ability to travel between the worlds of reality at will. The three worlds are: 1. The Lower World, ruled by the Goddess, nurturing, protective and the realm of Spirit Animals and Guardians. 2. The Middle World, often the world of human logical thought and feeling, but where time can become irrelevant and active spiritual journeys can take place. 3. The Upper World, ruled by the God, realm of “Listening Spirits” and spiritual teachers and guides.
Valleys
Productivity, peace.
Water (flowing)
Changing thought patterns, new forms of learning, shift in emotional and spiritual consciousness.
Water (still)
Sense of knowing, eternal truth, faith.

OBJECTS

Objects are created as tools or art by skilled craftspeople with emotion, good or bane. The energy of the creator is transferred to the fabricated article. It absorbs the intention of the maker. The intention of the object is then transferred to the recipient. The intention always remains, but can be transmuted, cleansed or held at bay, depending on the desire of the recipient. Simple tools become magickal links with other worlds and in nonordinary reality, can trigger specific responses and can lead to the discovery of hidden mysteries.
Broom
Brooms represent cleanliness on all levels. In the magickal world, it is a tool to maintain purification of sacred space. When the bristles are pointed up, this represents receptive energy. When the handle is up, this represents assertive energy.
Candle
Unlit candles represent the ability to start over, but the capacity for change is not activated until the candle is lit. When lit, it can represent insight.
Car
The automobile represents the ability to move and change. If it is broken, vital energy is stalled. If it is going too fast, lack of control is suggested.
Cauldron
Cauldrons represent the Divine Feminine, the vessel of the Life-Cycle, reincarnation, and transformation.
Door
Doors indicate choice.
House
When a dreamer sees or is in a house, it usually indicates how the dreamer sees the self.
Locks and Keys
Locks represent limits. Keys represent freedom. Together they suggest the ability to solve a problem or find something hidden.
Money
Money represents prosperity, its abundance or lack. It suggests choice and the ability to transform one’s present situation.
Musical Instruments
Musical instruments symbolize hidden talents, desire for harmony and alert the seeker to listen carefully to environmental changes.
Numbers
Numbers usually indicate value, time and location (see number equivalents).
Shells
Shells symbolize female maturity and fertility, gifts of truth, gentle and quiet courage.
The Tarot
Swords
Represent Air, protection, mental agility, “Working Between the Worlds”,
communication.
Wands
Represent Fire, vital energy, renewal, purification, new opportunities.
Cups
Represent Water, truth, joy, dreams, the workings of the subconscious mind.
Pentacles
Represent Earth, stability, prosperity, growth, transmutation of energy, magick.
Wheel
Wheels indicate movement and change, the seasons, time, personal cycles.
Window
“Windows of opportunity”. Can represent new viewpoints or possible journeys.

CREATING INDIVIDUAL MANDALAS

Mandalas are centering tools used for meditation and consciousness raising. They are used throughout the world, but commonly thought to originate in Tibet. Mandalas are symbolic renderings within a circle. There is usually a center point to bring the seeker “inside”, with the eyes and the heart. Earlier in this chapter we discussed the meaning of the point within the circle, illustrating the Open Eye of the Divine. Using a particular mandala as a consciousness-raising tool, the seeker is given the opportunity to enter inner space and connect to one’s Divine Center, allowing for great spiritual growth to ensue.
The opened lotus blossom is a reoccurring theme for mandalas in Tibet and India. In Japan, a simple dot in the center of a circle is a favorite with practitioners of Zen. The Aztec Calendar is a wonderful example of a mandala found in Mexico. In the United States, from the Chippewa to the Lakota, Dream Catchers are common. To the Southern Papago of Arizona, The Man in the Maze is often seen. The Equal Armed Cross of the Celts and Asiatic Shamans are still widespread.
The use of mandalas as centering tools is universal and delivers to the seeker the ability to contact nonordinary reality. Mandalas are proven tools to promote concentration, thus decreasing pain in childbirth. They are often recommended by modern midwifes.
The most common individual mandala is one’s own astrological chart. It is drawn in a circle with twelve lines, like spokes of a wheel radiating from its center, creating the twelve houses of the Zodiac. The planets travel through the houses in a circular fashion, connected to one another through a series of connecting lines, representing geometric aspects. This is a mandala that is constantly moving and changing throughout a lifetime and is a magnificent tool for self-discovery.
Mandalas are excellent tools to hang over Altars or to adorn walls of the space you use to meditate in front of. They can be used to hang over computers, worktables and oracle areas to help you stay centered and free from stress, allowing for more productive work time. Mandalas are powerful tools in the assisting of personal affirmations. Try hanging them over bathroom mirrors. While brushing teeth, combing hair or applying make-up glance at the mandala and repeat quietly over and over the desired goals of the day. If disturbing dreams are a problem, draw a mandala suggesting peace and hang it over the bed. It is the last image seen at night, the first image seen in the morning. It reminds the subconscious mind to stay clear and unafraid, while communicating with the conscious mind in an orderly fashion.
To create an individual mandala that is beautiful and totally personal, gather these supplies:
1. 1 sheet of heavy weight white drawing paper.
2. 1 drawing compass with attached pencil or 3 different sized traceable circles, like container lids.
3. An array of colored crayons, pencils or marking pens.
4. Knowledge of your Birth Goddess from Chapter Nine.
Write what Moon Phase you were born in on a separate piece of paper. Make a note of the symbol depicting that particular Moon Phase; this will eventually become the center of your personal mandala.
Next, trace a seven-inch circle onto the heavy weight paper, making sure that the circle is centered on the page. Then, trace an inner circle 2 ½” to 3” in diameter; finally, from the outside of the circle, measure towards the center about 2/3” and trace another circle. When completed, you will have three concentric circles.
In the center circle, draw the appropriate Moon Phase symbol corresponding to your birthday. Color the rest of the inner circle with the corresponding color of the Moon Phase.
In the next circle, divide the circle into eight equal parts, similar to the Wheel of the Natural World. If you are female, make the eight spokes horizontal to the center of the circle. If you are male, make the eight spokes vertical to the center of the circle. Color the open space with your favorite color.
In the outer circle, chose a border pattern consistent with your birth element.
Air Signs: Gemini, Libra and Aquarius = YELLOW
Fire Signs: Aries, Leo and Sagittarius = RED
Water Signs: Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces = BLUE
Earth Sign: Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn = GREEN
Then carefully draw it in, forming a border for the mandala. Color it in with the appropriate elemental color.
When the mandala is completed, either back it with poster board, matte it or frame it. Place it where it will produce a positive reaction, over an Altar, bed or mirror. Keep the placement as personal as the mandala itself; remember it is your symbol, unique and special!

Reading List
FICTION:
Stranger in a Strange Land by Robert A. Heinlein. Ace Books, 1991.
NON-FICTION:
Man and his Symbols by Carl G. Jung. Dell Publishing, 1968.

Mandala Symbolism by Carl G. Jung. Princeton University Press, First Princeton/Bolligen Paperback Edition, 1973.