Of Owls and Orchids: Exploring the Nature's Wisdom Oracle Deck

In addition to my 75 Tarot decks, I own a great many oracle decks. I love these decks, but don't use them as often as I would like. Every now and then, I am going to share a card from one of these oracle decks here on the blog. I hope people will enjoy seeing cards from various decks and will gain something from the interpretations of the cards!

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Exploring the Nature's Wisdom Oracle Deck

For this oracle card exploration I am using my brand new Nature's Wisdom Oracle cards by Mindy Lighthipe (Schiffer Publishing Ltd.).

Each card in this deck depicts either fauna or flora, so I'm going to show you one of each in this post.

OWL (Wisdom)

The owl is a common symbol for wisdom. In the booklet that accompanies this deck, Mindy Lighthipe gives us information about the role of owls in nature and in mythology. About their role in nature we learn that they:

• are birds of prey, at the top of the food chain
• belong to the order Strigiformes
• are predominantly nocturnal
• can pivot their heads about 270 degrees
• hunt and eat rodents, insects, frogs, and birds
• are typically solitary but can live in groups called parliaments

Lighthipe tells us that Athene, the Goddess of Wisdom in Greek mythology, honored the owl by making it her favorite bird. Athene believed that the owl was able to see so well at night because of a magical "inner light."

The owl was not viewed this way in all cultures. My research reveals a long-standing association with death (ancient Egypt, India, Central and North America, China and Japan) and occult powers, particularly prophecy. The Plains Indians in North America also considered the owl to be a guardian of the night or guide to the afterlife. Christianity linked the owl with the devil or witchcraft.

Our special message from the owl (via Nature's Wisdom Oracle):

"Look to the owl to find the truth about what is happening around you. Use keen, silent observation to aid you in your situation."

ORCHID (OBSESSION)

Facts provided by Lighthipe:

• Orchidaceae is the largest family of flowering plants
• Orchids live on every continent except Antarctica
• Orchids can imitate the appearance of insects with the patterns on their petals
• The orchid lures a pollinator to the edge of of its pouch and the insect falls in; as the insect makes its exit, it pollinates the plant

In addition to obsession, the orchid is known as a symbol of love, luxury, and beauty. This exotic, evocative flower is highly prized and coveted by collectors.

My research reveals that orchids were used to drive off evil influences (particularly barrenness) during Spring festivals in ancient China. This association with fertility and procreation is further illustrated in the flower's name: the Greek word orkhis means "testicle." The Chinese also believed that cutting an orchid would result in the death of a child.

Our special message from the orchid (via Nature's Wisdom Oracle):

"The orchid represents a possible obsession. Look at your present circumstance and decide whether you have become infatuated with something. It could get out of control."

I'm looking forward to working more with this deck!