Ogham: Not out of the Woods Yet

The Ogham (oh-am) is an alphabet that was created and used by the Celts. Each letter represents a tree or plant. The meaning of those trees in Druidic or Celtic lore is where we get the divinatory meaning of each of the letters.

The Ogham was originally 20 feda (fey-duh). Feda means trees or wood. These feda were divided into four groups called aicme (ack-meh), or family. These families are based on the direction of the symbol's strokes. The strokes are known as flesc (Flay-shk).

There are five additional letters that were added later and are call forfeda (meaning supplementary letters). These were added later to add in sounds that were missing from the original alphabet to better align with Latin.

Ogham are often carved in to staves or wooden sticks with the symbol carved or painted onto them. Some are so detailed where each stave is made of the corresponding wood, but they can also be as simple as popsicle sticks or printed cards.

Just as with Runes you will select the number of staves you will cast for a reading. Usually 3,6, or 9.

The First Aicme

Beith - b - Birch (beh)

Mostly associated with joyful new beginnings. A fresh start. Change, cleansing, purification. Childbirth, new relationships, new job, new phase of life. Creativity. Although change can at times be challenging and uncomfortable, nothing stays the same. Now is an excellent time to start preparing for the changes and transformations that are coming. Get rid of negative and out worn influences in preparation for the changes to come.

Birch trees are often used for love magic. They were often used for maypoles because they symbolize renewal and fertility. They are also often used in the making of besoms. In Ireland and Scotland, it was traditional to make cribs from birch to protect the newborn.

Luis or Lus - L - Rowan (Lwee or loo-s)

It represents insight & blessings. Protection from dangers of every kind (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, magical). Defense, sanctuary, precautions. Control of the senses. Knowledge and insight into what is happening around you. Keep a heightened sense of awareness to what is going on around you and trust your intuition. Stay grounded, especially in times of doubt.

It can be worn as an amulet of protection and safety. It could also be added to a wreath on your front door or drawn under your welcome mat. Due to rowan's symbolism of defense and protection, it was often planted in sacred places. It was believed to be protected by dragons and snakes.

Fearn or Fern - F - Alder (Fair-n)

The alder tree is representative of the evolving spirit. It is linked to the spring equinox. Represents prophecy, inspiration, and the protection which come from following good advice. Remember that just like everyone else you are an individual. So take note of what makes each person special and allow others to see what is special about you. It can also represent the laying a good foundation for the achievement of goals. Help build a bridge in conflicts or disagreements. Be open to advice, especially from an elder or someone who's opinion you value deeply.

Alder is associated with Bran the Blessed in Celtic Mythology. Bran laid himself across a river as a bridge so that others might cross. Alder bridges are seen as a magical space between earth and the heavens. It is also associated with oracular powers; as Bran's head was an oracle in myths.

Saille or Sail - S - Willow (Sahl-yuh)

The willow is often found near water which helps nourish it. When a willow has all it needs to thrive it grows quite quickly. As such willow is a representative of knowledge and spiritual growth, but also remember you need to allow yourself rest spiritually as well. It is closely associated with the cycles of the moon. They aliso are tied to women's' cycles and mysteries. Willows offer protection and healing. Willow is connected to the month of April. Willow has long been connected with healing. Its bark is the natural derivative of aspirin. It reminds us to remain flexible.

Willow was often used in witching or divining rods to find water.

Nion or Nin – N – Ash (Nee-uhn)

Ash was one of the sacred trees of the Druids. It connects the inner self to the outer worlds, making is a symbol of connections, creativity, and transitions between the worlds. Transitions, renewal, the strength of women, peace, and fate. Ash teaches us to remember that every action there is a reaction or consequence. These effect not only ourselves but those arounds us as well. The ripples we create in our lives will carry into the future. Everything we do or say has an impact. We must find harmony between the spiritual realm and the physical. Endeavoring to take in the needs of all the creatures around us in the natural word. In this way finding a balance between the spiritual and mundane life. It represents the coming together for a positive purpose.

In Norse traditions the World Tree, Yggdrasil, was an ash tree Ash trees also feature prominently in the Irish myth cycles. They are often depicted growing beside a well or pool of wisdom. In Celtic magic ash was the traditional wood to make a magical staff or wand.

The Second Aicme

Huath – H – Hawthorn (Hoo-ah)

Hawthorn is the prickly-thorned tree associated with cleansing, protection, deference. Barriers, despair, loneliness, strife. You must not try to avoid the issues in your life. Face them head on, but also be patient. This too shall pass. Hawthorn offers patience, wisdom, and empathy your spirituality. It is strongly associated with fertility, masculine energy and fire because it blooms at Beltane. Clean up your act. Act with discipline and restraint.

Tie a red ribbon around a hawthorn thorn and use it as a protective amulet in your home. Hawthorn is often associated with the land of the fae. It is considered unlucky to bring it into your home any other time than Beltane.

Duir – D – Oak (Doo-r)

Oak as seen as strong, powerful, enduring, and resilient and that is what Duir represents. It is self-confidence, wisdom, leadership and kindness. It can be dominating over its neighbors. Watch for opportunities that pop up unexpectedly. When a door opens, go through it. No matter what unpredictability come across your path stay strong and steady like the Oak. You are in a good situation and this period will last a while (it could be work, family, relationship, financial, etc.) Oak can also represent the intense energy and power of storms and wind.

The Oak King rules over the light half of the year, from Yule till Mid-Summer. Oak was one of the sacred trees to the Druid. Oak was often associated with leader gods such as Zeus, Thor, Jupiter, etc. To bring good luck for a business meeting or interview carry an acorn in your pocket. Oak trees are also seen as sacred guardians, they are excellent to meditate with when seeking strength and confidence.

Tinne – T – Holly (Chin-yuh)

The evergreen holly is connected with immortality, unity, and the stability of home and hearth. Holly wood was often used in the construction of weapons, making holly a plant of warriors and protectors. Develop the ability to act quickly and wisely to your intuition. Learn to adapt and overcome. Trust your instincts, but don't let your heart overrule your head. Expertise, analysis, transformation, talent and skill.

Planting a hedge of holly around your home was done to keep malevolent spirits out. The Holly King rules over the dark half of the year from Mid-Summer till Yule. Hang a sprig of holly in your home to protect your family in your absence.

Coll - C (K)- Hazel (Cull)

Coll translates to "the life force inside you". August is associated with haze because that is when the hazelnuts appear, it is often called the Hazel Moon. Hazel is associated with wisdom, enlightenment, creativity, and knowledge. Take advantage of your own creativity. Share your knowledge with others and let the divine guide your creative journey. This is an ogham of great wisdom and luck.

Helpful to use in meditation when seeking your creative muse or inspiration. The hazel tree was seen as being so sacred you could receive the death penalty for chopping it down.

Quert or Ceirt - Q- Apple (Kwairt)

Apple has long been the symbol of love, faithfulness and rebirth. It is also often associated with magic. Apple reminds us of the eternal cycles of life. We all must make choices and sometimes must choose what is needed versus what is wanted. Physical and mental wellness, rest, wholeness. Positive outcomes typically come after some pain, suffering or sadness. A profound connection to the universe.

If you cut an apple in half sideways the seeds form a perfect pentacle. Apple and apple blossoms feature in many myths related to love, prosperity and fertility. Young ladies would use divination with apples to learn about their true love. This ogham is great ta to use when doing healing for a loved one. Linked to Avalon.

The Third Aicme

Muin – M – Vine (M-win or Moon)

Muin is associated with vine, grapevine in particular. Because grapes give us wine and wine breaks down our inhibitions Muin is associated with prophetic speech and truth. It is also associated with persuasion, celebration, relaxing, harvesting, and play. Just like when imbibing too much wine it can represent confusion of fallacies for truth. Proceed with caution before acting on any advice you have received.

Vine is connected with the Green Man and Bacchus, who is often depicted with a grapevine crown.

Gort – G – Ivy (Go-ert)

Ivy seems to be able to grow almost anywhere always reaching skyward, like the soul searching for its higher self. It is associated with growth and wildness. Take responsibility for your own healing, growth and evolution. Banish negative from your life. It is connected to the month of October and Samhain. Tenacity. Remain persistent.

In the British Isles Ivy is believed to be a bringer of good fortune, especially to women. Having it on the walls of your home would protect you from curses. Often connected with Dionysus and sacred to Osiris.

nGeatal --Ng – Broom (Knee-eh-tl)

Broom was often used to create besoms, which cleaned and removed unwanted or negative energy. It is symbolic of prioritizing your wellness by living in balance. Health, vitality, wounding, healers, and herbal remedies.

Broom is used to cleanse a sacred space.

Straif or Straith – St – Blackthorn (Str-ef)

Blackthorn is a symbol of authority and control. Triumph over adversity. Its time is winter. Expect the unexpected. The influence of external forces. Omens, secrecy. Sword, arrow, & spear. Focus on the root of the problem. Keep your own council and information to yourself. Change is headed your way. (This is very much like the death card in Tarot)

English legend refers to a devastating winter as a "Blackthorn Winter". It has been used to represent the dark side of witchcraft. It is associated with the Crone aspect of the Goddess, because it thrives when all else around it is dying. There is a connection with the Morrighan. Sometimes called the tree of the dead because of its connection with the underworld.

Ruis – R- Elder (Wriss)

Elder represents endings, maturity, the awareness the comes with maturity. The ending of one cycle and the beginning of another. It indicates a time to look inside and do some serious shadow work. It may be time to rethink and change the path you are on. Shame, jealousy, obsession, remorse, vengeance, and karma. It is now time to grow and mature. Let go of anger and develop some self-control. Its time is that of the Winter Solstice. It is often associated with the color red.

Elder is strongly connected with the Goddess and the Fae. It is a good feda to use when seeing wisdom and knowledge or for doing shadow work.

Fourth Aicme

Ailim or Ailm - Elm or (Silver) Fir or Pine (Ahlm)

Because elm trees grow so tall this feda is symbolic of perspective and rising above. The elm has clear vision. Start to look at the big picture. Take a look at your long-term goals We award of your perceptions of things. Prepare for what may be coming. Spiritual awakenings. Connection with the universe. Useful to use when attracting a positive mindset. Also, for connecting with ancestors.

They were often used to mark property boundaries. They were used in making boats and bows. Pine was often burned around the Winter Solstice to entice the sun to return. It as also burned during childbirth to protect mother and child.

Onn - O – Gorse or Furze (Uhn)

This is a yellow, flowery shrub that grows on the moors all year long. It represents long-term thinking and planning. That sometimes we must sacrifice in the short term to gain in the future. It is connected to perseverance and hope. Whatever you have been looking for is coming soon. Keep working towards your goals. It is time to set goals and figure out what direction to take towards them. It can also represent lust, arousal and the health and vitality of sexuality and intimacy. All acts of love and pleasure are ritual to her.

Gorse was used as a protective barrier to keep the Sidhe away. It can also be made into a broom to sweep away negativity,

Uhr – U (W) --Heather (Oor)

Heather symbolizes passion, generosity, and healing. It is also associated with contact with the Otherworld. Heather has been seen as bringing good fortune. It can indicate a time to destress. Take time to heal, not only the physical body; but the mental, emotional, and spiritual bodies as well. Heather indicates a deep relationship between partners. Respect and partnership. Can also be used in the cord cutting of a deep relationship that has gone bad.

The Picts used the flowers of the Heather to sweeten their fermented ale. Many a Scotsman would tuck heather into their bonnet for good luck before going in to battle. Heather is often associated with the Fae.

Eadhadh or Edad – E – Aspen (Eh-yuh, Edath. pr eh-dad)

The aspen is a symbol of endurance and courage. The aspen are durable, hardy trees so when it appears it is a sign of strong will and success. You will eventually conquer your challenges, obstacles and adversaries. Like the aspen you can be flexible without breaking to matter what the obstacle. You will end up stronger. Overcome your fears and reservations.

In folklore Aspen is associated with heroes. It was popular for making shields that were often imbued with magical protected properties.

Idad, Idho, or Iodhadh – I – Yew (Ee-dad or Ee-yoh)

The Yew is much like the Death card in Tarot. It is known as a mark of death and endings. It heavily associated with the cycles of life. Major transformations are coming. Get rid of the things that no longer serve you to prepare for new beginnings. Ancestry, history, aging. Wisdom that comes from elders. Aging is not to be feared but celebrated. Use this feda to connect with ancestors.

The Yew was popular for making long bows. The yew was very favored by the Druids. They built their temples near these trees. The Christians that followed continued the custom. It is still associated with places of worship.

Forfeda

Since these were added later you can choose whether or not you want to work with them. The meanings of these may differ greatly depending on where you look. I will not go into as much detail with them.

Koad – Ea – Grove (Co-ahd)

Representative of the sacred grove...or any sacred place... a retreat, gathering of knowledge or collected wisdom. Thus, it could mean school, college, university, library, bookshop, coven. It could be indicating that you should seek knowledge in one of these paces.

Oir or Or – Oi or Th – Spindle tree (Oor)

The spindle tree was used to make bobbins and pegs, as well as spindles. It looks delicate, but it is very strong. It represents home and hearth, as well as the bonds of kin and clan. Focus on family honor. Remember family can be more than blood family; it can also be family of choice. Fulfill the obligations you have to the people you love. Don't be afraid to ask questions but do what is best for your family. Build your spiritual community. Maybe you need to be the mediator.

Uillean or Uillend – Ui – Honeysuckle (Oo-lun)

Uillsean means elbow. It is representative of Manifestation of will. Often used for money spells and matters of friendship and love. It is also used for dealing with feelings of sadness. It indicates a need to be fully present in the here and now. It also represents secrets or hidden things. Seeking truth. Be cautious of someone creating a scene they could be creating a distraction. Allow yourself the freedom to pursue your dreams.

Amhanholl or Emancholl – Ae – Twin-of-hazel

It is representative of the witch elm of Brittan, which they call witch hazel. It is sometimes also called Mor. Elm is associated with the underworld, It is linked to cleansing and purification. Get rid of emotional clutter and baggage. Purify your body, mind, and surroundings. Look below the surface of things. Things are not as they appear. Draw on your inner resources.

Ifin or Iphin – IO – Gooseberry (if - in)

Enjoy everyday life. Release any guilt or shame. Stop beating yourself up over things you cannot change. If you can mend and issue, now is the time to do so.

On final resource I would like to share is link to Forestry Services LTD. They have a video for each tree of the Ogham I found then wonderful " The Ogham Trees"" The Ogham Trees"