Fairn/Alder (First Aicme)
Fairn/Alder
᚛ᚄ᚜
With shield we stand,
with unseen eyes we see.
To protect and guide
that is the call we heed.
Pronunciation: FAIR-n
Sound Value: V
Tree(s): Alder
Keywords:
Oracle, guidance, bridge, mentorship, connections, whisperings, accurate advice
Kennings:
Morann mac Main: “Defense of warrior bands”
“Protection of the heart, that is, a shield”
Elemental attribution: Water and Air
Calendar attribution:/ March 18th- April 14th
Secrets of the Fid:
The Alder is a water loving tree often found on banks of streams and rivers pro iding shade for the beings of the waters ecosystem. Alder is a hardwood that was routinely used in making shields. In fact the Welsh poem Cad Goddeu is where the kennings above orginated. Its also the primary reason when in divination it is intrpeted as being a shield and a sign of protection and safety.
Fearn is a Fid of communication and guidance. Its at this juncture we must be keen to listen to accurate advice and be receptive to the sage advice of our own subconscious, (that does not mean to not use discernment; brains are not always braining). Fearn is also a Fid of Faerie, most notably the gifts of prophetic abilities, music, poetry and other sources of inspiration; all things which were/are vital to the Celtic cultures.
Divinatory meanings upright:
Protection and guidance, a bridge over deep waters; steadfastness; good advice received from others or your own inner depths; spiritual guidance and insight, the presence of the gods; an unexpected way past a difficulty
Divinatory meanings reversed:
Willful blindness, refusal to listen to advice; arrogance and lack of insight; you are out of your depth.