What it's All About:
In this episode of Music from the Goddess' Vault, I focus on the traditions of Appalachian Paganism. Rooted in a blend of indigenous beliefs and European folk practices, this spiritual path reflects a deep connection to nature and community. I’ll share insights into the historical influences that shaped these practices and how they continue to thrive today, offering a glimpse into the rituals and celebrations that mark the changing seasons.
I’ll also explore the cultural significance of Appalachian Paganism, highlighting its resilience and the ways it fosters a sense of belonging among practitioners. Join me as I celebrate the vibrant spiritual landscape of Appalachia and the diverse ways its traditions are honored and passed down through generations.
Songs Featured:
Spirit Guide Background Music by Vlad Krotov from Pixabay
Links Mentioned:
Get in Touch Through Social Media:
Spirit Guide of the Week:
Coyote
Dream Symbol:
Sacrifice
Saliva
Shave
Transcript:
(02:50)
Welcome to another episode of the Music from the Goddess’ Vault Podcast. You just heard Hecate’s Wheel with Faery Song.
Today’s topic is all about Appalachian Paganism.
Before I jump back in, I’m curious to know which classic episode you’d like me to revisit this February. You can participate in the Choose an Old Imbolc Episode poll linked in the show notes.
I would love it if you could take a moment to fill out a short questionnaire about the topics you’d like to hear on the show. I enjoy hearing your suggestions for future Show Topics, Spirit Guides and dream symbols. You can share your thoughts through the link in the show notes or connect with me on social media—Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, Blue Sky, or Mastodon. And don’t forget to check out my blog at goddessvault1.wixsite.com!
To keep up with the latest episodes, make sure to subscribe for FREE at musicgoddessvault.substack.com. If you want to support the show even more, consider a paid subscription for just $7 a month or $70 a year. Your support really helps me continue providing great content!
Now for the topic: Appalachian Paganism. I learned about this about a year ago, and I don’t know much yet. I do know it’s a North American tradition. I’ll share more details after you listen to Firebird’s Child by S.J. Tucker.
(08:37)
Appalachian paganism, as you might expect, spans from West Virginia to Mississippi. It goes by various names, including root work, granny magic, kitchen witchery, granny witchcraft, braucherei, and just witchcraft.
This tradition brings together a variety of cultural influences. The Cherokee and Choctaw were the pioneers in integrating nature and spirituality in this area. They established their own healing practices, drawing from the gifts of the Appalachian mountains.
European settlers brought their Protestant beliefs and views on what they called devil worship. However, settlers from Scotland, Ireland, and England contributed to their folk healing traditions. They combined their tradition with the native american knowledge of plants—berries, flowers, roots, and leaves—with that of the Cherokee and Choctaw.
Settlers of German and African descent added their own folk healing traditions to the mix.
The aspect of granny magic or witchcraft began with women serving as midwives and healers in the 1800s. These women were the keepers of ancestral knowledge. They knew the healing properties of plants and cared for those in remote areas who couldn't or didn't want to see a doctor.
Appalachian paganism continues to thrive today.
Now, I invite you to listen to Soul of the Mountains by Willow Wynd. This song resonates with the essence of the traditions I've discussed.
(12:40)
Time for another Spirit Guide of the Week.
I'm going back to the animal kingdom to talk about the Coyote.
Coyote reminds you to lighten up and not take things too seriously. Life is unpredictable, and unexpected events can happen. Instead of running from challenges, you should learn to adjust to it.
From every turmoil, there’s a lesson to be discovered. So, take a moment to reflect on what you've learned and forgive yourself for any mistakes you made along the way.
If you feel overwhelmed, call on Coyote. This clever guide simplifies the complex and helps you stay calm amidst chaos. If you're depressed, Coyote can restore your sense of humor and bring joy back into your life.
Stuck in a boring routine? Coyote is here to liven things up! Need creative solutions? Just ask Coyote to help you brainstorm.
If Coyote is your power animal, you're always on the lookout for hidden lessons in difficult situations. You embody the spirit of a joker, a survivor, and you’re incredibly resourceful. No matter what life throws at you, you adapt and thrive.
Plus, you have a natural gift for teaching those valuable lessons to others.
That is it for now. Stay tuned for another spirit guide of the week.
(17:14)
That was Spirit Flight by Sharon Knight.
Appalachian Paganism continues to thrive mainly due to the numerous rural communities in the area. Some of the people living there are frequently taught to honor the land and recognize the healing qualities of native plants. Many practitioners believe this spirituality is part of their heritage, with a lineage of parents and grandparents who also embraced these practices.
They have their own deities, though information about them is limited. Some of these include the Ones of the Mountain, the Green Lady, River Warden, and the Hearth Keeper.
Like other modern pagans, they celebrate the Wheel of the Year and perform rituals.
While details on Appalachian deities may be scarce, you can find more information about Appalachian paganism online.
Now, let’s enjoy some music: A Forest by SKALD.
(23:02)
Here's another dream symbol to interpret.
Here are three more: Sacrifice, Saliva, and Shave.
If you dream about being sacrificed, it might mean that you have a tendency to be hard on yourself.
Dreaming of an animal sacrifice indicates your readiness to abandon basic instincts for spiritual growth.
Dreaming of self-sacrifice suggests you need to remove things from your life for more fulfilling experiences.
In dreams, saliva represents sexual and sensual desires.
Dreaming of spitting out saliva suggests that you may be feeling anxious about losing control, whether it be physically or emotionally.
Seeing animal saliva in your dream indicates strong feelings of anger and rage.
Dreaming about shaving suggests that you are considering a minor yet important decision in your life.
If you dream of shaving your head, it signifies a wish to expose more of your true self.
However, if you dream of shaving your head while leaving some hair, it implies that you are not entirely ready to reveal your true self to others.
If you dream of someone shaving your leg, it represents a feeling of losing your independence.
And if you dream of seeing someone shave, it may indicate that you have some concerns about your self-image.
If you want a dream symbol to interpret and maybe have a dream symbol featured, I will mention the contact information at the end of this show. So keep dreaming.
(29:18)
You just heard The Water is Wide by Ginger Ackley..
This brings us to the end of this show. I'm your host, Midnight Starr, and I have some thrilling news to share with you!
I'm excited to find out which classic episode you want to see come back this February! Don't forget to join my 'Choose an Old Episode for Imbolc Poll'! You can check it out in the show notes, on my blog, or on my Substack page.
I'm eager to hear what topics you want me to cover on Music from the Goddess Vault! Whether it's Spirit Guides, dream symbols, or something else entirely, I'm all ears. Don't hesitate to connect with me on social media (Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, Blue Sky, Mastodon) or check out my blog at goddessvault1.wixsite.com/home.
And Subscribe to my newsletter at musicgoddessvault.substack.com for exclusive episode updates. Get the inside scoop on the latest shows—sign up today!
I’m going to end this show by playing a song from Moon and the Nightspirit that translates to “Green Ember” . Blessed Be!
Comments