Oak is a mighty tree, a symbol of enormous vitality and longevity.
Oak is a symbol of enormous vitality and longevity, revered by all northern Europeans as the sacred tree of the thunder god (Thor, Perun). The Celts, on the contrary, tend to revere the oak as the tree of the supreme deity, the tree of wisdom and spiritual strength. By the way, the term “druid” itself comes from the Celtic stem, which has two meanings - “oak” and “wisdom” (the same stem dru/drw sounds in the Russian word “tree”).
Throughout the North-West, the oak tree (as well as the thunderbird) is associated with a certain day of the week - Thursday, which in northern languages is called Thursday, "Thor's Day". Esoteric teaching connects as many as six runes of the Elder Futhark with oak - Thurisaz, Evaz, Raido, Tiwaz, Dzhera and Dagaz.
Due to the physical properties of oak, such as the reliability and strength of its wood, the size and longevity of the trunk, as well as its connection with the supreme deities in the magical practice of the North, oak was generally used in spells aimed at protection, increasing physical strength, and achieving stable success.
Oak is an energy donor. With direct contact with it, a person receives the maximum possible amount of vital energy. However, we should not forget that this is a strong but harsh tree. His aura is very powerful; it only responds well to healthy people. It is better for a person who is seriously ill or suffering from chronic diseases not to communicate with this tree.
Communication with oak charges a person with activating energy and calms the soul. It has long been noted that walking through an oak forest normalizes blood pressure and has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the heart and nervous system.
Oak always gives preference to warriors, fighters, strong and healthy people. He heals wounds received in battle, heals the souls of warriors, and shares a piece of his longevity. Veterans, former soldiers, and elderly people benefit greatly from contact with him.
Oak bark contains a large amount of tannins (hence the name), up to 20% of them, as well as proteins, organic acids, and quercetin. Acorns contain tannins and proteins, starch, sugar, and fatty oil.
Oak has a truly wide range of uses: shipbuilding, furniture production, wine containers (barrels), construction boards, veneer, parquet, tannins and extractives. Coffee is made from acorns, acorn flour is used in England and France, and oak leaves are a useful and necessary additive to pickles, marinades, and smoked meats.
We especially need to talk about the use of oak in folk medicine. Most often, bark from the lateral annual oak branches is used (collected in late spring and summer) and leaves (in summer). Acorns (collected in autumn), growths on leaves - galls (at the end of summer), and roots of young oak trees (in autumn) are also of medicinal value.
Preparations made from oak (especially bark and leaves) have good astringent, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and hemostatic properties.
A decoction of young oak bark is prescribed for diarrhea, dysentery, gastrointestinal bleeding, and heavy menstruation. For stomach diseases and rickets, drink acorn coffee; for urinary incontinence and severe bleeding - a decoction of dried leaves, flowers and oak roots.
Oak bark baths are recommended for general weakening of the body. An undiluted decoction is suitable for rinsing with stomatitis, gingivitis, and for strengthening gums. In the form of baths, washing and compresses, a decoction of the bark is used (and not without success) for burns, frostbite, various types of suppuration, hemorrhoids, etc. Fresh crushed leaves can be used for the same purpose.
Oak bark and leaves are often used to prepare decoctions, infusions, and ointments, which also contain other medicinal plants, such as chamomile, sage, rose, currant, St. John's wort, etc.
Oak is a clear night owl. He wakes up in the morning, slowly, by noon he unfurls leaves and branches to recharge himself with energy, and clearly does not want to part with it. Having had lunch and breakfast at the same time, he falls asleep, probably remembering that “after a hearty lunch you are supposed to sleep.” And sleeps from about 15 to 17 hours. In the evening, having had enough and rest, he begins to become interested in the world around him.
Oak is a symbol of enormous vitality and longevity
Oak willingly communicates with those who listen to him from 18 o'clock, fueling the energy of creativity and giving inspiration to those around him. But a real surge of strength comes to him after nine in the evening, when he willingly heals and helps people change their fate. Having generously distributed his strength to the world, after 3 am he falls asleep soundly, only to wake up again around noon.
Oak is one of the most energetically powerful trees in central Russia. Oak in Rus' has always been considered a holy tree, a tree associated with masculine energy and power. No wonder the man was compared to an oak tree.
We have a huge number of traditions and legends associated with this tree, from the parable of the death of Koshcheeva, kept in a casket on the treasured oak tree, to the legend about the horses of the king of the underworld, hidden under the roots of a three-trunked oak tree.
Indeed, oak is a very complex tree. It conducts the energy of the planet Jupiter into our world and is directly related to the zodiac sign of Sagittarius. These energies determine world processes, the destinies of people and nations, and allow people who have fully mastered them to control their own destinies and the destinies of others. Therefore, oaks are considered sacred trees not only in Russia, but also in all countries where they grow.
Temples and sanctuaries always stood in oak groves, and people were treated there. The energy of this tree has the power to “raise the dead,” as our ancestors said. Oak is a conductor tree that connects a person with the world and the Universe. Therefore, if a person managed to establish contact with him, the tree can give him such powers that will not only prolong his life, but also have a beneficial effect on the fate of his children and grandchildren - sometimes up to the fifth generation.
Remember the somewhat rude expression about the dead, so common among us: “He gave oak.” Do you know where it came from? From an old legend that the souls of the dead climb upward along the trunk of an oak tree, like a heavenly staircase, to the bright kingdom of the immortals. In Rus' there have always been many magical practices that made it possible, using the energy of this tree, to turn to the dead for help and gain additional strength and good luck.
But even without using any special magical or extrasensory methods, anyone can receive a piece of its strength and health from an oak tree. For this:
a) you need to take walks in oak groves more often;
b) if possible, use objects made of oak in your everyday life (especially great power is transmitted to a person through oak floors or through the walls of a house built from oak logs);
c) you should never break or chop oak for fun.
Oak is one of the few trees capable of transmitting information over vast distances. And if you cripple an oak tree in Moscow and decide to feed on the power of a tree growing, for example, in Novgorod, you will not get anything good. For he already knows about what happened and looks at you as a barbarian who must be punished for his outrage. Unlike most trees, which are closely related to other trees in the area where they grow, oaks are single growers. They have energetic connections only with trees of their own species, regardless of the distance between them. This allows them, like pine, to grow calmly in solitude, without losing any of their strength.
Oak is a strong and powerful tree. Loves ambitious and energetic people. Can't stand people who whine all the time. His masculine energy is strong and tough, domineering and hot. It is not very suitable for women, since with constant communication it can give them fullness and excessive self-sufficiency, which will interfere with meetings with the opposite sex. It is useful for women born under the sign of Sagittarius to stand under an oak tree at least once a year - before their birthday or on this day itself - and mentally communicate with it, discussing their life plans. Such a meeting can help you quickly realize what you want in life.
Oak loves men more than women. It helps those born or living in an oak grove to find happiness in work, achieve fame and public recognition, provided that the person does not change his place of residence. Oak increases a person's strength and energy. Contributes to the growth of his authority, provides protection during magical and religious ceremonies, helps to understand the deep meaning of current events, develops the innate ability for synthesis, and often fuels inspiration in creative individuals.
An ordinary oak board, processed on Thursday at sunrise, on which the motto is carved: “God bless you!”, nailed to the home altar, can protect the family from many troubles.
Oak stabilizes the energies of the human body, opens and cleanses the subtle bodies and upper chakras, fills us with powerful and even fiery force. These properties are used in medicine.
In practical magic, more is used of its ability to open a person’s path to Space and information from near-Earth space. Therefore, in Rus', where there is little sun and a strong lack of energy, they loved to use oak wood for buildings, thus compensating for the lack of warm fiery energy for the human body. Moreover, bog oak has always been the most popular. Bog oak wood is slightly reddish, not greyish; like natural oak. This enhances the warmth of the wood and slightly lifts the mood. Ordinary oak undoubtedly calms the nervous system and fills the body with strength, but it does not contribute to fun. In a completely oak, unpainted house you feel like you are in a church - pleasant, good, light in your soul, but the stormy fun seems somehow indecent.
Usually in the old days the walls of a wooden house were made of oak, and the floors and flooring were oak. This arrangement of wood contributed to the best protection of a person from the influence of negative energy from the outside and made it possible to restore wasted strength in the shortest possible time, since oak easily transfers its energy to a person through direct contact, and its strength allows us to balance the work of our entire body. No wonder people said: “Strong as an oak!”
And in a modern city house it would not be out of place to have oak floors and oak chairs, which would allow you to quickly restore the energy spent during the day!
It was a pleasure to plant oak trees in Rus' near the house - they helped to maintain health and strength for many years.
Oak wood is little susceptible to rotting, as it stores huge reserves of light energy, which it gives off for centuries. Buildings and furniture made of oak can warm the soul and raise the strength and health of more than one generation.
If you want to have this living tree as a constant companion in your life, use bonsai! Of course, oak is a very demanding tree and it is very difficult to grow and care for it.
It is better to place the bonsai oak in a study or in a place for meditation, near the altar - there its energy will bring maximum benefit!
Oak takes a long time to get used to people. Sometimes six months or a year pass before he really begins to consider you his. But if he accepts you into his heart, he will not let you go and will never forget you! A piece of its power will be with you wherever you are, because we have already said that oak has the ability to transmit its energy over vast distances. If he has accepted you, his leaves will imperceptibly reach out to you when you come, and his young branches will cling to your clothes, not wanting to let you go. If a double acorn falls into your hand from your favorite tree, save it! In itself, it is a talisman of good luck in business, but in this case its power will be greater, since it is supported by the wishes of the oak itself. A simple fallen acorn speaks of changes awaiting you in your career, which may be somewhat unexpected and confusing, but which will always lead to the better. A fallen dry branch speaks of this. that it's time for you to change jobs. A fallen dry leaf means unpleasant news awaits you. Fallen green leaf - interesting business conversations and news. A fallen green branch with green foliage - moving and perhaps business trips.
- Aren’t you ever scared? - asked Alice.
- You are completely herealone, and no one is protecting you...
- How do you mean “alone”? - said Rose. - What about oak?
L. Carroll
“And the oak tree was once a crumb, a small acorn served as its cradle... There was no larger, more magnificent tree in the whole forest. Its top rose high above all the trees and was visible from the sea from afar, serving as a sign for sailors... Wood pigeons nested in the branches of the oak tree, the cuckoo crowed, and in the fall, when its leaves seemed forged from copper, other migratory birds perched on the branches..." - This is how Hans Christian Andersen describes this tree in his fairy tale “The Last Dream of the Old Oak.”
And this is a very revealing passage, because it presents almost the entire gamut of symbolic meanings and meanings that this forest giant acquired during the history of its existence on earth, namely longevity, the origin of the great from the small, splendor and power, a sacred significant place, protection and refuge , glory and even sacrifice. Let's take a closer look at them and consider them in detail.
Origin and etymology of the name
The Indo-European root of the word "oak" is identical to the root of the word "tree".
Holiness of the Oak
Many nations dedicated oak to the gods: Zeus among the Greeks, Jupiter among the Romans, Thor among the Germans, Perkunas among the Lithuanians, Oak God among the Japanese, Prove among the Baltic Slavs. And in Romov, the ancient Prussians sprinkled the sacred oak tree with the blood of sacrificial animals and worshiped three gods in its image.
Among the Lithuanians and Germans, the oak tree sometimes replaced the temple, because up to a hundred people could hide in its hollows.
The people of Palestine bury their prophets and saints under oak trees. Sufis do the same, who also decorate their branches with scraps of clothing.
In England, for a very long time it was believed that cutting down an oak tree was a fatal sin, although all other trees could be harvested without restrictions. It was used only for sacred fires. The oak was considered a tree that could heal and predict.
With the introduction of Christianity, the widespread destruction of oak trees began as the main object of pagan cults.
And only in the Renaissance did emblems associated with oak come into use again. Although sometimes oak leaves can be seen in Gothic ornaments.
And the legend is still alive according to which a skeptic who doubted the sanctity of an oak tree and cut off its branch lost his hand.
Oak is a symbol of longevity and power
Everywhere, oak is considered a symbol of longevity and power. And this is not surprising. After all, oaks have been known since ancient geological eras. These trees are contemporary with mammoths and other extinct animals. They can live up to 2.5 thousand years, and oak maturity occurs only at 150 years. Oak trees grow up to 30 meters in height and up to 25 meters in circumference. Until the 18th century, oak trees several hundred years old were common in Northern and Eastern Europe.
The symbolism of oak in Ancient Egypt
According to the Book of the Dead, the oak tree corresponds to the fifth hour of the night journey of the solar bark Ra.
The symbolism of the oak tree among the Celts
The Celts, like the Germans, revered oak trees on which mistletoe grew. They made human sacrifices under the oak tree.
The symbolism of the oak tree among the Druids
The name Druids itself probably comes from the word “dru” - oak.
In the Druid horoscope, March 21, the day of the vernal equinox, is dedicated to oak. In addition, the Druids ate acorns on the eve of predictions. They performed their services in oak groves.
The most sacred of the Druid rituals was the ritual of cutting mistletoe branches from an oak tree, which was considered a panacea for all diseases and misfortunes. It was made on a full moon. A druid in white robes sacrificed two white bulls to an oak tree, slaughtering them in the shade of the tree. Then a mistletoe branch was cut from the oak tree with a special golden sickle.
The symbolism of oak among the Slavs
The word oak itself in Slavic languages means “hollow tree” and for a long time the words oak and tree were considered synonymous. Moreover, oak was recognized as the main, real tree.
Oak in Rus' was also considered a symbol of protection and defense, and it was from oak that the walls of the Moscow Kremlin were built under Ivan Kalita.
The symbolism of oak in antiquity
In Ancient Greece, the oak tree was dedicated to Zeus the Thunderer. Perhaps this was because, according to observations, the oak tree was most often struck by lightning (this even became a proverb).
The Greeks believed that Zeus conveyed his will through the rustling of the leaves of the Dodona oak tree. His temples were decorated with oak branches and, perhaps, this is where the use of oak as a symbol of courage, valor, strength and power originates.
The famous club of Hercules was made of oak.
The Romans dedicated the oak tree to Jupiter. On the island of Nemi they revered an oak grove ruled by the forest king.
In addition, in antiquity, oak was considered the habitat of special nymphs - dryads (from the Greek drys - oak).
An oak wreath was considered a symbol of dignitary dignity among ancient Italian rulers.
Oak in Christian symbolism
In the Old Testament, under the shade of the Mamvrian oak tree, the Lord appeared to Abraham (under Emperor Costantine, a basilica was built on this site). Perhaps that is why, in the mysteries, God the Father often appeared under the name or in the form of an oak tree. Sacred oak trees surround Abel's tomb on the cliff of the Awale River in the Lebanese Mountains. Jacob buried all the idols of Sekhem under the oak tree. Joshua erected an oath stone under the oak tree. At Ophrah, the angel of the Lord appeared under the oak tree to Gideon. Rebecca's nurse was buried under an oak tree, later called the "weeping oak." Abimilech was made king at the oak tree. Saul was buried under the oak tree.
Later, oak, or more precisely holly (Ham oak), began to be considered one of those trees from which, according to legend, the cross of the Lord was made. The prickly holly is also a symbol of the crown of thorns. According to legend, when the trees heard that Christ was to be crucified, they agreed among themselves that they would not allow their wood to be used for this purpose and, when the woodcutter’s ax touched them, they fell into a thousand pieces. And only the holly remained intact. So this tree entered culture as a symbol of veneration of Christ, as well as a symbol of the passion of the Lord. In this meaning it can be seen in the images of St. Jerome (meditating on the passion of the Lord) and St. John (who proclaimed Christ the lamb of God and thus predicted his sacrifice). The fallen oak trunk, trampled under the foot of St. Boniface, is an allegory of the conversion of the pagans.
The symbolism of oak in astrology
In astrology, the oak tree corresponds to the zodiac sign of Leo.
Oak as an alchemical symbol
In alchemy, oak is teria, a hollow oak inside, meaning a barrel, a special vessel for fermentation and purification of elements. According to the Figures of Abraham the Jew, this is the sign of the smelting furnace.
Oak in military symbolism
The oak branch, oak wreath or garlands are used in military uniforms as emblems of valor and strength.
During the Nazi era, oak leaves were used as awards, honors and decorations.
Oak in heraldry
In Russian heraldry, the oak branch has been used since the end of the 19th century. On July 24, 1882, it was included in the large state emblem as the left side of the wreath, while the right branch was a laurel branch.
In Soviet heraldry, an oak branch and leaf were used as emblematic images on medals, orders, badges, monuments of military valor and coins issued in 1922-1991.
Oak leaves are included in the united emblem of the military organization of the Warsaw Pact countries.
In Germany, the oak leaf was used as an emblem from the Middle Ages until modern times. It was interpreted classically - as an emblem of valor, not only military, but also labor.
Color scheme in heraldic images of oak
The color of acorns is green, gold, brown, red or purple.
Leaf color is green, silver or gold.
(For more information about the meanings of specific colors, see the section “Color Symbolism”)
Signs and fortune telling related to oak
If oak leaves curl, it means drought (Wales).
Finding a worm in the acorn means poverty, and a spider means illness (England).
Take two acorns, name them after the lovers and place them in a bowl of water. If they get together while swimming, it’s a wedding (England).
To relieve a headache, drive a nail into an oak tree branch (Cornwall).
On the day of the summer solstice, you should silently rub a piece of oak with your hand and it will heal all your illnesses.
In Russia, oak was used to charm toothache, childhood illnesses, and throat problems.
Oak leaves were credited with the ability to bewitch and pacify lions.
Oak ash was considered to protect against bread rust.
Greek spellcasters believed that rain could be caused by using an oak branch.
An oak post in a dung heap was used to repel snakes.
Complex negative values
The more oak trees in the army, the stronger our defense.
If a boss constantly spreads his thoughts across a tree, then he is probably an oak tree.
He got his cerebral cortex from an oak tree.
The tables are oak, the oak trees are healthy.
Whatever the boss is an oak tree, whatever the subordinate is a stump, whatever the paper is a linden tree.
You don’t often see people climbing an oak tree, but you often see people falling from the oak tree.
What kind of oak do you have to be to allow yourself to be skinned like a stick?
Life is like an acorn: you hang, sway, you don’t know when you’ll fall, you don’t know which pig will eat you, and all around you are oaks, oaks.
Each pig must build a barn, raise a pig and plant an oak...
Where does such a rich complex of negative meanings, symbols and associations come from for such a noble tree?
As Ivetta Krasnogorskaya rightly notes in her article, perhaps in such situations people are repelled by the same inherently positive meanings that have grown into metaphors, such as “impenetrable” and “inflexible.”
Other meanings
An oak with acorns is an emblem of maturity, full of strength.
An oak tree without acorns is the emblem of young valor.
In German card games, the acorn is used as a suit symbol.
The acorn is a symbol of the male genital organ and is used in this meaning as an amulet.
For Walter Scott, the torn oak on Ivanhoe's shield meant loss of inheritance.
I would like to note that the oak leaf emblem is a truly timeless, classless and truly international symbol, closely associated with the concepts of courage, valor and honor.
However, even he did not escape the fate of “perverse” interpretation and inappropriate use.
This is how William Pokhlebkin describes in his book an amazing case when in 1986, during the restoration of the Yermolova House-Museum on Tversokoy Boulevard in Moscow, a portrait of the actress was placed in a wreath of oak leaves instead of laurel leaves. This was justified by the fact that since Yermolova is a Russian actress, the wreath could be from any Russian tree...
As the author rightly noted, if such an approach had established itself in the field of exact sciences, then chaos would await us, but “in the field of humanities we often find ourselves insensitive to manifestations of illiteracy” (V.V. Pokhlebkin. Dictionary of International Symbols and Emblems).
Concluding the conversation about one of the most magnificent symbols in human culture, I will again turn to Andersen’s fairy tale:
“The top of the oak tree swayed in a fit of melancholy, looking down... And then the green tops of the forest peeped through the clouds! The oak saw other trees below it... bushes and grass too. “No, how good it is, I just can’t believe it! - the old oak tree rejoiced. - They are all here with me, both small and large! Not one is forgotten! Is such bliss possible? “In heaven everything is possible!” - came in response” (G.H. Andersen. Fairy tales and stories).
So this tree becomes a symbol of the center of the world, its sacred axis, to which all other living beings in the universe are tied and followed, a prototype of a father who protects, leads and elevates a guide to a new level of cosmic perfection.
Unique healing and magical properties of Oak.
Look at him: he is important and calm
Among its lifeless plains.
Who says that in the field he is not a warrior?
He is a warrior in the field, even alone.
Nikolay Zabolotsky
Oak is one of the most energetically powerful trees in central Russia. Oak in Rus' has always been considered a holy tree associated with masculine energy and power. No wonder the man was compared to an oak tree. Oak conducts the energy of the planet Jupiter into our world and is directly related to the zodiac sign of Sagittarius. The energy of this tree has the power to “raise the dead.” These energies also determine world processes, the destinies of people and nations, and allow people who have fully mastered them to control their own destinies and the destinies of others. Therefore, oaks are considered sacred trees not only in Russia, but also in all countries where they grow. If a person manages to establish contact with an oak tree, this tree will be able to give him such powers that will not only prolong his life, but will also have a beneficial effect on the fate of his children and grandchildren, up to the fifth generation.
Oak is a clear night owl. He wakes up in the morning, slowly, by noon he unfurls leaves and branches to recharge himself with energy, and clearly does not want to part with it. Having had lunch and breakfast at the same time, he falls asleep, probably remembering that “after a hearty lunch you are supposed to sleep.” And sleeps from about 15 to 17 hours. In the evening, having had enough and rest, he begins to become interested in the world around him. Oak willingly communicates with those who listen to him from 18 o'clock, fueling the energy of creativity and giving inspiration to those around him. But a real surge of strength comes to him after nine in the evening, when he willingly heals and helps people change their fate. Having generously distributed his strength to the world, after 3 am he falls asleep soundly, only to wake up again around noon.
We have a huge number of traditions and legends associated with this tree, from the parable of the death of Koshcheeva, kept in a casket on the treasured oak tree, to the legend about the horses of the king of the underworld, hidden under the roots of a three-trunked oak tree.
Temples and sanctuaries always stood in oak groves, and people were treated there.
Remember the somewhat rude expression about the dead, so common among us: “He gave oak.” Do you know where it came from? From an old legend that the souls of the dead climb upward along the trunk of an oak tree, like a heavenly staircase, to the bright kingdom of the immortals. In Rus' there have always been many magical practices that made it possible, using the energy of this tree, to turn to the dead for help and gain additional strength and good luck.
But even without using any special magical or extrasensory methods, anyone can receive a piece of its strength and health from an oak tree. For this:
a) you need to take walks in oak groves more often;
b) if possible, use objects made of oak in your everyday life (especially great power is transmitted to a person through oak floors or through the walls of a house built from oak logs);
You should never break or chop oak for fun!!!
Oak is one of the few trees capable of transmitting information over vast distances. And if you cripple an oak tree in Moscow and decide to feed on the power of a tree growing, for example, in Novgorod, you will not get anything good. For he already knows about what happened and looks at you as a barbarian who must be punished for his outrage.Unlike most trees, which are closely related to other trees in the area where they grow, oaks are single growers. They have energetic connections only with trees of their own species, regardless of the distance between them. This allows them, like pine, to grow calmly in solitude, without losing any of their strength.
Oak is a strong and powerful tree. Loves ambitious and energetic people. Can't stand people who whine all the time. His masculine energy is strong and tough, domineering and hot. It is not very suitable for women, since with constant communication it can give them fullness and excessive self-sufficiency, which will interfere with meetings with the opposite sex. It is useful for women born under the sign of Sagittarius to stand under an oak tree at least once a year - before their birthday or on this day itself - and mentally communicate with it, discussing their life plans. Such a meeting can help you quickly realize what you want in life.
Oak loves men more than women. It helps those born or living in an oak grove to find happiness in work, achieve fame and public recognition, provided that the person does not change his place of residence. Oak increases a person's strength and energy. Contributes to the growth of his authority, provides protection during magical and religious ceremonies, helps to understand the deep meaning of current events, develops the innate ability for synthesis, and often fuels inspiration in creative individuals.
An ordinary oak board, processed on Thursday at sunrise, on which the motto is carved: “God bless you!”, nailed to the home altar, can protect the family from many troubles.
Oak stabilizes the energies of the human body, opens and cleanses the subtle bodies and upper chakras, fills us with powerful and even fiery force. These properties are used in medicine.
In practical magic, more is used of its ability to open a person’s path to Space and information from near-Earth space. Therefore, in Rus', where there is little sun and a strong lack of energy, they loved to use oak wood for buildings, thus compensating for the lack of warm fiery energy for the human body. Moreover, bog oak has always been the most popular. Bog oak wood is slightly reddish, not greyish; like natural oak. This enhances the warmth of the wood and slightly lifts the mood. Ordinary oak undoubtedly calms the nervous system and fills the body with strength, but it does not contribute to fun. In a completely oak, unpainted house you feel like you are in a church - pleasant, good, light in your soul, but the stormy fun seems somehow indecent.
Usually in the old days the walls of a wooden house were made of oak, and the floors and flooring were oak. This arrangement of wood contributed to the best protection of a person from the influence of negative energy from the outside and made it possible to restore wasted strength in the shortest possible time, since oak easily transfers its energy to a person through direct contact, and its strength allows us to balance the work of our entire body. No wonder people said: “Strong as an oak!”
And in a modern city house it would not be out of place to have oak floors and oak chairs, which would allow you to quickly restore the energy spent during the day!
It was a pleasure to plant oak trees in Rus' near the house - they helped to maintain health and strength for many years.
Oak wood is little susceptible to rotting, as it stores huge reserves of light energy, which it gives off for centuries. Buildings and furniture made of oak can warm the soul and raise the strength and health of more than one generation.
If you want to have this living tree as a constant companion in your life, use bonsai! Of course, oak is a very demanding tree and it is very difficult to grow and care for it.
It is better to place the bonsai oak in a study or in a place for meditation, near the altar - there its energy will bring maximum benefit!
Oak takes a long time to get used to people. Sometimes six months or a year pass before he really begins to consider you his. But if he accepts you into his heart, he will not let you go and will never forget you! A piece of its power will be with you wherever you are, because we have already said that oak has the ability to transmit its energy over vast distances. If he has accepted you, his leaves will imperceptibly reach out to you when you come, and his young branches will cling to your clothes, not wanting to let you go. If a double acorn falls into your hand from your favorite tree, save it! In itself, it is a talisman of good luck in business, but in this case its power will be greater, since it is supported by the wishes of the oak itself. A simple fallen acorn speaks of changes awaiting you in your career, which may be somewhat unexpected and confusing, but which will always lead to the better. A fallen dry branch speaks of this. that it's time for you to change jobs. A fallen dry leaf means unpleasant news awaits you. Fallen green leaf - interesting business conversations and news. A fallen green branch with green foliage - moving and perhaps business trips.
Oak is one of the few trees capable of transmitting information over vast distances. And if you cripple an oak tree in Moscow, you will not receive support from other oak trees anywhere. Oaks are single growers; they have energetic connections only with trees of their own species, regardless of the distance between them. This allows them to grow quietly in solitude without losing their strength. Oak loves energetic people. His masculine energy is not very useful for women, as it can give him fullness and excessive self-sufficiency, which will interfere with meeting the opposite sex. For women born in the sign of Sagittarius, it is useful to stand under an oak tree on their birthday and mentally discuss their life plans with it. Such a meeting can help quickly implement the plan.
Period of activity of the oak: in the morning it is little active, mainly serves its own needs, sleeps from 15 to 17 hours, willingly begins to communicate from 18 hours, but the real surge of strength comes after 21 hours. He falls asleep at 3 am and sleeps until noon. Oak stabilizes the energies of the human body, cleanses the biofield (especially the upper chakras), and fills it with powerful, even, fiery power. The power of oak is akin to the energy of the liver. It helps increase activity and eliminates congestion. The energy of oak has a particularly beneficial effect on the liver itself, on the cardiovascular system and urinary tract, and increases the activity of germ cells (sperm and eggs). Promotes the birth of healthy and strong children. Oak energy treatment on a living tree is carried out in nature and involves staying under the tree for 20-30 minutes, the first 5 minutes. Face the tree to establish contact, the remaining time - back to the oak.
Usually in the old days the walls of a wooden house were made of oak, and the floors and flooring were oak. This contributed to the best protection of a person from the influences of negative energy from the outside and made it possible to restore wasted energy in the shortest possible time, since oak easily transfers energy to a person upon contact with it. Oak wood is less susceptible to rotting, because... stores huge reserves of light energy, which it releases for centuries.
Bark
Oak bark and young branches (contain 10-20% tannins, 1.6% gallic and ellagic acids, 14% pentosans, 6% pectins, flavone compounds; starch, mucus, protein substances, sugars, phlobaphene and other substances), harvested them in the spring, during the period of sap flow. Dried under a canopy, the shelf life of the product is 5 years. Used as a strong astringent and strengthens blood vessels. As the age of the tree increases, the content of tannins in its bark decreases. Decoctions of oak bark (pour 1 tablespoon of raw material into 1 glass of water, boil for 1 minute, strain) are used for excessive sweating (can be used instead of an antiperspirant, a weaker decoction of oak bark is used for wiping under the arms: at the rate of 10 g of bark per 200 ml of water ), for the treatment of burns, for the treatment of purulent wounds, for frostbite, for washing bleeding hemorrhoids, for strengthening gums and eliminating bad breath, helps with inflammatory processes on the oral mucosa, strengthens loose bleeding gums.
Lotions made from a decoction of oak bark, St. John's wort and mint (take the components in equal proportions, pour 2 tablespoons of the mixture with half a glass of boiling water, heat in a water bath for 30 minutes, cool, strain) soothe itching and relieve swelling caused by insect bites.
Baths made of oak bark (1 kg per bath) have an antipyretic effect, promote healing of wounds, they treat skin damaged by frost, varicose veins and infantile scrofula.
When used internally (dilute the decoction 1:10), it helps with poisoning with mushrooms and heavy metal salts (as an antidote), with rickets, diarrhea, scurvy, and internal bleeding.
Decoction and infusion of oak bark in large quantities causes vomiting. Do not administer internally to children!!!
Oak leaves.
Quercetin, tannins and pentosans were found in the leaves. Leaves collected before May 15 are used for medicinal purposes. Young branches with leaves are dried under a canopy, suspended in small bundles. Leaves are stored for about 1 year. When used externally, they promote rapid scarring of ulcers, wounds, and cuts. An infusion of leaves (1 teaspoon of raw material, pour 2 tablespoons of boiling water, leave for 2 hours in a warm place, take no more than a glass at a time) is drunk for bedwetting.
Fruit.
Acorns contain 40% starch, 5-8% tannins, 5% fatty oil, sugar and protein substances. Acorns are the favorite food of many forest inhabitants: wild boars, deer, bears. Pigeons and pheasants carry acorns over long distances. They are especially loved by jays and field mice.
Acorns ripen in the year of flowering or the following year. They are collected while ripening under the tree. Dry in attics or under a canopy with good ventilation, spreading it in one layer on paper and stirring occasionally. They are usually dried in ovens. Then the shell and seed coat are removed. Archaeologists believe that the first bread was baked from oak acorns, and not from cereals. Acorns are considered the most nutritious of all seeds, so they could easily be compared with cereals. They contain quercetin, a toxic substance that is completely harmless to animals. When soaked or fried, the quercetin is washed out or destroyed, and the acorns become edible for humans. The acorns are fried until slightly reddened (do not burn until they turn black!!!), pounded, brewed like coffee, and milk and sugar (preferably honey) are added if desired. To this day, confectionery products are made from acorn flour.
It is interesting that for some tribes of the Indians of North America, the common acorn served as a staple food. To get rid of the 7% tannin that makes acorns bitter, they boiled the acorns in boiling water. From dried acorns they prepared flour, from which they baked their main food throughout the year - acorn cakes. The indigenous inhabitants of California were called the “acorn Indians.”
Medicinal properties of acorns.
- have astringent, enveloping, bactericidal, antitumor properties
- Helps with gum disease and toothache
- stop bleeding, including stopping heavy periods
- help with hemoptysis and ulcers of the lungs and chest
- strengthens and cleanses the stomach
- eliminate weakness of the bladder, as well as leakage of urine drop by drop
- enhance sexual potency
- useful for various poisonings
- used as a cosmetic product for hair coloring
Digest slowly. Raw acorns are harmful to the bladder. !!!
Oak leaf galls.
At the end of summer, spherical growths called galls sometimes appear on oak leaves caused by insects (gnarworms). Nutworms lay eggs in leaf tissue, and their larvae develop in pathologically overgrown leaf tissue, forming a gall (“nut”) specific to each species. Oak leaves usually have rounded green galls attached to the underside of the leaf, resembling hazelnuts (“ink nuts”). They are collected, brewed and drunk as tea as a snack with lump sugar or honey. Externally used as a decoction lotion (brew 1 cup of raw material per 1 liter of water with boiling water, boil for 5 minutes, leave, strain). The most useful are green and unripe galls.
Medicinal properties of oak leaf galls:
- have astringent properties - when mixed with vinegar they help with toothache and ear pain
- promote hair growth (drinking and bathing)
- help with cracked lips (drinking and bathing)
- good remedy against pulmonary tuberculosis
- promote the healing of scalded and burned areas of the body
- heal eye ulcers (drinking and bathing)
- strengthens abdominal organs, stops diarrhea and bleeding
- dry the discharge from the uterus
- treat various skin diseases: lichen, erysipelas (infusion in vinegar), eczema, cracks in the hands and feet, wet ulcers (decoction)
- help with various bleeding: from the uterus, stomach, wounds
- treat prolapse of the anus (drinking a decoction)
Galls are harmful to the bladder, a single dose - no more than 3 g!!!
Oak broom for a bath:
Oak, in turn, is famous for its anti-inflammatory and tanning effect, cleanses pores and is suitable for people with oily skin. It makes the skin matte and elastic, and has a strong anti-inflammatory effect. The aroma of oak prevents excessive increases in blood pressure in the steam room. Therefore, this broom is recommended for athletes and people prone to hypertension. In addition, it calms the nervous system and relieves stress. Oak leaves contain a large amount of tannins. Oak decoction is used as a remedy for some skin diseases, as well as for sweaty feet.
The most revered human qualities are: courage, strength, ingenuity, the ability to stand up for oneself and others, courage. Not many people know that each of these qualities completely coincides with the symbolism of plants such as oak and laurel.
Symbols and Notations
The Slavs also believed in the great power of the oak tree. According to pagan beliefs, it was believed that the souls of deceased ancestors lived in the oak crown, contemplating what their descendants were doing.
The ancient Greeks, and later the Romans, identified oak with the gods of fertility, thunder and lightning. This was due to the fact that the tree itself could easily withstand a lightning strike, survive and not burn during a thunderstorm.
During the Olympic Games, laurel and wreaths were awarded to the winners. The oak wreath became a reward for courageous and strong athletes, and the laurel wreath was intended for poets and playwrights.
This division was due to the fact that laurel is a symbol of the eternal, unforgettable. personified peace and victory. Laurel groves grew in large quantities near the temples of Dionysus and Apollo.
Roman commanders and commanders loved to decorate their heads with wreaths of leaves of these plants when returning from campaigns with victory. Later, living branches were replaced by wreaths cast from inexpensive metal or gold, which later became the prototype and main attribute of any monarch).
Strength and courage
The oak wreath and the wood of this tree were very valuable in ancient times. Researchers believe that the staff of Hercules was carved from an oak branch. In addition, the symbolism of the oak tree appears in many legends and myths of various countries.
In Greek myths, an oak tree appears every now and then. Jason removed the golden fleece from an ancient oak tree, and the ship's mast was also made from its wood. The club of Hercules became the prototype of the staff of kings, as well as power, valor and honor.
The oak tree represents masculinity, and its fruits (acorns) represent fertility and wealth. In ancient times, a wreath made of oak leaves was used as a talisman against evil spirits, to strengthen the body and fortitude of a warrior.
Heraldry
The symbolism of the oak tree has allowed the oak wreath to be used for many years as a distinctive sign of military personnel from various countries. It can be seen on the uniforms of the military of the USA, Germany, and Russia.
In America there is a special award in the form of an oak leaf of several degrees. It is awarded to particularly distinguished soldiers for saving civilians. Depending on the number of awards received, the degrees, as well as the metal from which the patch is smelted, vary. The largest number of additional characters received is eleven.
During World War II, Wehrmacht soldiers from special units wore an insignia - an oak wreath. It came as an addition to the oak leaf reward.
The most original insignia can rightfully be considered the special stripes of Luftwaffe soldiers. Their emblem depicted a laurel and oak wreath with an eagle in the middle, where they meant valor, and laurel - glory.
Beliefs and magical rituals
In the past, in Great Britain there was a belief that headaches could be removed with a nail and a hammer. With these things it was necessary to come to the oak tree and hammer a nail into its trunk.
In connection with the solstice, fortune telling was performed. To do this, they took acorns and split them to see their middle. If it was damaged, it promised financial losses.
They made a wreath of oak leaves with their own hands as a talisman for the home. With its help they tried to protect and clean the home. During the main church and folk festivals in the Middle Ages, houses and streets were decorated with garlands and wreaths made of oak, spruce, and holly so that wealth, stability and health would visit them.
In Christianity, an oak wreath, as well as a laurel branch, symbolize eternal life, resurrection and joy. And the very shape of the wreath (a closed circle) means the eternal process of rebirth and cycle in nature, the path from birth to death.
In the countries of the former CIS, as well as Asia, wood, leaves, and even the tree itself were considered a panacea for many diseases. A decoction of oak bark was used to treat toothache, headaches, muscle weakness, and childhood ailments. In addition, parts of the tree were used on the farm to repel snakes.
Aura: warm
Planet: Sun
Element: fire
Deities: Dionysus, Jupiter, Zeus, Thor, Hercules, Janus, Rhea, Cybele
Magic properties: fertility, protection from evil forces, longevity
Magical uses:
Oak is perhaps the most majestic tree with magical powers.
Magic rituals are usually performed in oak groves. Under the oak tree grows white mistletoe, which has the strongest properties.
Burn oak leaves to purify the air.
Oak wood can be used to make an excellent magic wand for a wide variety of magical rituals.
The acorn increases the ability to bear children, is very good for infertility, helps to conceive a child if you carry it with you, and also helps to establish intimate relationships.
The acorn is also worn on one’s person or with oneself to preserve youth and prevent diseases.
Hang an acorn in the window and you will protect your home from evil forces.
Several centuries ago, witches wore necklaces made of acorns, which symbolized the awakening of the forces of nature. This was especially popular during the winter months, when this confirmation of the arrival of spring brought calm amid the winter snowdrifts.
Men wear acorn to enhance their sex appeal and prowess or to cure impotence.
If you collect leaves, acorns or oak branches, be sure to pour wine over the roots of the tree. Acorns are usually collected during the day, leaves and wood at night. Cut oak only when the moon is waning.
Oak is a symbol of power and stability. Things made of oak strengthen the position of their owner. The oak-trimmed interior is in some mysterious way connected with the growing authority of the institution located in it.
Jewelry made from oak wood adds weight to the words of the woman wearing it. Oak protects the house as such from various financial and business shocks and crises, and promotes professional growth. If you want to properly receive a significant person, it is good to decorate the room with oak branches.
Acorns chosen “for good luck” help you get support from your superiors and stimulate career advancement. Especially good for Sagittarius and Pisces.
Bestows wealth (abundance), fertility, protection, awakens psychic abilities.
Oak is completely incompatible with spruce. Never place a Christmas tree on an oak table, and do not mix these two plants in one composition. Even oak and spruce boards in the same house will have a bad effect on the moral atmosphere, stimulating intrigue and conspiracies.
Oak is a mighty tree, a symbol of enormous vitality, longevity, revered by all northern Europeans as the sacred tree of the thunder god (Thor, Perun).
The Celts, on the contrary, tend to revere the oak as the tree of the supreme deity, the tree of wisdom and spiritual strength. By the way, the term “druid” itself comes from the Celtic stem, which has two meanings - “oak” and “wisdom” (the same stem dru/drw sounds in the Russian word “tree”). Throughout the North-West, the oak tree (as well as the thunderbird) is associated with a certain day of the week - Thursday, which in northern languages is called Thursday, "Thor's Day". Esoteric teaching connects as many as six runes of the Elder Futhark with oak - Thurisaz, Evaz, Raido, Teyvaz, Yaro and Dagaz. Due to the physical properties of oak, such as the reliability and strength of its wood, the size and longevity of the trunk, as well as its connection with the supreme deities in the magical practice of the North, oak was generally used in spells aimed at protection, increasing physical strength, and achieving stable success.
Oak is an energy donor. With direct contact with it, a person receives the maximum possible amount of vital energy.
However, we should not forget that this is a strong but harsh tree. His aura is very powerful; it only responds well to healthy people. It is better for a person who is seriously ill or suffering from chronic diseases not to communicate with this tree.
Communication with oak charges a person with activating energy and calms the soul. It has long been noted that walking through an oak forest normalizes blood pressure and has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the heart and nervous system.
Oak always gives preference to warriors, fighters, strong and healthy people. He heals wounds received in battle, heals the souls of warriors, and shares a piece of his longevity. Veterans, former soldiers, and elderly people benefit greatly from contact with him.
Means strength, protection, durability, courage, loyalty, man, human body. The oak tree is often associated with the thunder gods and thunder and is considered an emblem of the gods of Heaven and fertility, so it can also symbolize lightning and fire.
Among the American Indians it is dedicated to Mother Earth.
In China, it is masculine strength, as well as the “weakness of strength” that resists and is therefore broken by the hurricane, as opposed to the “strength of weakness” of the willow, which bows to the storm and therefore survives.
In Christianity, it is a symbol of Christ as strength, manifested in trouble, firmness in faith and virtue. According to various sources, the cross was made of oak, holly and aspen.
Among the Druids, the oak is a sacred tree and symbolizes the masculine principle, while the feminine is symbolized by mistletoe.
In the Greco-Roman tradition it is dedicated to Zeus (Jupiter). Every year the wedding of Jupiter and Juno was celebrated in the oak grove, and the participants in the ceremony wore wreaths of oak leaves. A wreath of oak leaves was awarded for saving a human life and for winning the Pythian Games.
The oak is the emblem of Cybele and Silvanus, and in Greece - Philemon, as a symbol of commitment to marriage and marital happiness. Dryads were oak nymphs.
In Jewish tradition, oak is the tree of the Covenant and divine presence.
The Scandinavians and ancient Germans considered the oak tree to be the Trade Tree of Life and dedicated it to Donar. Oak groves were a place for rituals.
Acorn: Scandinavian and Celtic symbol of life, fertility and immortality. Dedicated to Thor. Androgynene
oak moss
Moss growing on the bark of some trees. Particularly interesting for magical purposes is the moss growing on oak bark. Clairvoyance, predictions, magic. Money growth, abundance, peace of mind, starting new things.
