|
While this might not be accurate, another area to consider may be aspects
of witchcraft found in the VMS. Poisonous plants, naked women, a salmander,
astrology, baths, secret text, etc., might somehow be references to
this ancient craft.
For example, could the two mysterious glyphs when combined relate
to Baphomat?
I have come across an interesting book on Witchcraft Medicine by Claudia
Muller-Ebeling, Christian Ratsch, and Wolf-Dieter Storl, translated by Annabel
Lee (Inner Traditions, Rochester, Vermont, 1998) which contains a number of
references to plants used in witchcraft. The following quotes are
taken from captions in this book.
A reference to one of the plants states that "One berry (Paris
quadrifolia L.) was considered one of the poisonous aconites in the early
modern era. However, its legendary poisonous effects have not been confirmed by
toxicology. It seems more likely that one berry has psychoactive effects;
perhaps it was also an aphrodisiac. In any event, it is called "herbe true love"
in England. In Germany one berry was demonized and called
Teufelsauge (devil's eye)." (p.99).
It seems that eyes are important in the VMS.
Paris quadrifolia: (f05r)
Another example is "The unusual moonwort (Botrychium lunaria L.)
Sw., Botchrychiaceae/Ophioglossaceae) is one of the classic witches' plants. It
is said to be an ingredient in witches' salves. In the Middle Ages moonwort was
used as a remedy for abscesses and wounds. A common name for the plant, which
grows on mountain meadows, is Walpurgis herb. It is said to assist in finding
hidden treasure." (p.135)
Botrychium vulgare, lunaria: (f94r)
"The salamander, symbol of alchemy, is one of the typical ingredients of
the magic potions brewing in the witches' cauldron. The poison in the
salamander's skin contains psychoactive compounds." (p.159)
A reference to baths states that "Aromatic healing herbs and sometimes whey
were added to the 'May bath.' Men and women bathed together in order to chase
off the melancholy of the cold seasons. Somewhat unusual was the 'love bath for
two.'"(p.64)
It appears that there is quite a lot more in this book that can be found in
the VMS. I am particularly interested in the plants.
Witch's Wand:
Rainbow:
Regards,
Dana Scott
|
