G  GORT �?IVY 

The spiral of the self, search for self.

     The Ivy crown, spreads and flourishes in many conditions �?cultivated land and wasteland, in light or in darkness, in fertile soil or an rubble and stone. It will push its way through tiny cracks and crevices to reach the light and it is strong and difficult to destroy. If the vine through intoxication, releases prophetic powers, the Ivy, in contrast, puts you in touch with your inner resources, giving you the ability to see through the eyes of the soul beyond the everyday world. The color associated with the Ogham Ivy is gorm, sky-blue. Retain a vision of the clear blue sky to which you aspire in your minds eye.

     If selected this card represents the spiral of the self and the search for self. The maze of the labyrinth is also linked to the Ivy, since it, too, symbolizes the wandering of the soul, circling inward and outward seeking nourishment and experience from the outside and from within itself, to achieve finally its goal of enlightenment.

     The spirit turns inward, rather as Theseus’s, following his head into the labyrinth. Theseus’s act may have symbolized his exploration for the secret center of his own being, lying hidden as it does most of the time. This exploring, or soul searching, is necessary, revealing spiritual strength and depth that you may never previously have tapped or known about. Your spiraling dance through life also turns you outward, linking you with others through the group soul or collective unconscious that pervades and encompasses all life. You have a part to play �?to assist in the spiritual journey of others, as they also do in yours.

     If the card is chosen reversed, remember that the Ivy can also bind and damage those among which it grows. Check that your intentions are directed only towards spiritual growth that will not enmesh others around you. Are you acting simply out of selfishness? Forget the everyday world for a moment and look at yourself afresh; spiral anew, inward and outward, dancing freely through the maze of life.

Reference The Celtic Tree Oracle

By Liz and Colin Murray