Vine: Lion
Each of the Celtic trees correlates with an animal symbol. The Celtic month of Vine, July 11 - August 7, is associated with:
Animal: Lion
This Celtic Tree month is associated with the Strength card in the tarot deck, which traditionally depicts a person holding the jaw of a Lion. It is often interpreted as someone who is gently and compassionately persuasive in a situation involving strong wills, or a situation that calls for calm, clear communication. The Ancient Egyptian goddess Sekhmet was depicted with a lion head or lion's face. She was the goddess of war who destroyed the enemies of the sun god Ra and was associated with healing and medicine that wiped out disease. She can be a powerful healing totem if you're going through a significant health journey. It might be helpful to put her image somewhere near your mirror, as a reminder that you're a badass lioness and you'll get through whatever you're transitioning through. It's also interesting that this tree month correlates with the zodiac period of Leo, symbolized by the lion.
According to The Wild Unknown Animal Spirit deck, the lion is a master of the fire element and the living mascot of self-transformation. A lion is patient and regal, dedicated to personal and spiritual growth. Their dedication their own growth can inspire some, and intimidate others, therefore the lion is respected by all but known intimately by few. Lions can be mistaken as aloof, but they are actually observant, stealth, and precise in their words and actions. They do not waste energy or resources. Lion reminds us that self-mastery is available to all, no matter where our quest begins. When a Lion's energy is out of balance, they feel withdrawn and too serious. Daily meditation and connection with trusted friends can bring their energy into balance.
In the Ted Andrews' Animal Wise tarot, lion correlates to the Strength card, which tells us of the need for gentle strength and patience in order to achieve our goals. The lion is unusual among most members of the cat family in that it lives in groups called prides. This is a reminder that patience, cooperation, and gentleness are your greatest tools right now, especially in group and community activities. Lions work together as cooperative hunters, reinforcing the need to work with others to achieve a common goal. Lions have few enemies in the wild, so they do not fight for the sake of fighting. They avoid confrontation, but do not hesitate to defend themselves with ferocity. When pursuing new endeavors, follow the lion's example of strong will, observation, stealth, and cooperation. Don't force anything, rather, use intuition, creative imagination, and cooperation with your support system.
The theme of the month of vine is most certainly growth and support!
Do what lights you up,
Sadie
Please note: Some people start the tree calendar with Birch in January, which follows the solar calendar. However, I learned them in an older tradition, which aligns with the 13-month lunar calendar. It's up to you to discern what feels right for you, of course.
Author of The Recollection of Trees book series. Fifth generation intuitive. Kitchen witch. she/her.