Also known as Hekate's
Wheel, this symbol of mystery might be seen as a connection to arcane knowledge or the soul's journey through life represented by a serpentine maze; with three main flanges whose fiery center appears to be rotating drawing the psyche forward, it is hard to ignore.
The three main arms of the wheel correspond to Hekate's triple form which resides at the
axis of the three ways. Here she holds dominion
over earth, sea, and sky while waiting patiently in her guise as the Light Bearer
known as Hekate Phosphoros.
The Strophalos is considered by many as the center of
manifestation and according to Isaac Preston Cory's 1836 translation of the Chaldean
Oracles; "The life-producing bosom of Hekate,
that Living Flame which clothes itself in Matter to manifest Existence." The disc, when rotated and concentrated
upon, can alter one's consciousness allowing visual entry into the liminal state where Hekate dwells.
Used as a focal point in trance-work or ritual and illuminated by the flicker of candlelight I have, over time, found myself drawn deeper into a connection with the powerful 'Keeper of the Keys'.
"I invoke you, beloved Hekate of the Crossroads and the Three Ways
Saffron-cloaked Goddess of the Heavens, the Underworld and the Sea
Tomb-frequenter, mystery-raving with the souls of the dead
Daughter of Perses, Lover of the Wilderness who exults among the deer
Nightgoing One, Protectress of dogs, Unconquerable Queen
Beast-roarer, Dishevelled One of compelling countenance
Tauropolos, Keyholding Mistress of the whole world
Ruler, Nymph, Mountain-wandering Nurturer of youth.
Maiden, I beg you to be present at these sacred rites
Ever with a gladsome heart and ever gracious to the Oxherd."
The Orphic Hymns (1st-3rd c. AD?)
Hymn I: To Hekate
(text: w. Quant Orphei hymni Berlin
1 comment:
Thank you very much for this article. I recently got the Strophalos as a tattoo. :)
N Nomine Hekate!
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