Part of the Sky Above Earth Below Oracle Deck I created in 2014. Mixed Media

Hawk (Messenger, Nobility)
Hawk soars above the clouds. Hawk is widely distributed, and different subgroups vary in size. The specialized eyes of a hawk allow it to perceive not only the visible range of the spectrum but also into the ultraviolet range. Hawk's unique vision also allows for the detection of polarized light or magnetic fields. The diet of hawk is carnivorous. Large hawks will eat things like rabbits and squirrels while smaller hawks will eat grasshoppers and crickets. The ability of hawk to fly so high above may have given rise to the idea that hawk could see a broad view of the world and bring back information. This made hawk symbolic of being a messenger. It is believed that once a hawk finds a mate they will remain together for life. Some hawks, however, are not monogamous for life but will be faithful during mating season and in rearing their young. The larger female will lay eggs but both parents will guard over the nest. The use of hawk in the sport of falconry, especially among nobles made the hawk an emblem of nobility.

In Greek mythology King Nisos became an osprey hawk to attack his daughter after she fell in love with the King of Crete. Ancient Romans believed that parent hawks made their offspring fly up to the sun as a test, and dispatched any that failed the task. In certain Polynesian cultures the hawk is a prophetic bird with the great power of healing. The Druids believed that hawks brought nobility, stature, dignity, and pride. In Welsh legends Gawain, of King Arthur myth, was the 'Hawk of May'; while Galahad was the 'Hawk of Summer'. Hawks were seen as solar animals in many cultures. In Greek myth hawks were akin to the god Mercury and were messengers of the Greek sun god Apollo. Thunderbird myths of Native Americans often used depictions of hawks to represent that deity (though some tribes may have used falcon). To say someone has 'hawk eyes' is to imbue them with the ability to notice everything.

If hawk has soared into your reading it may be time to pay attention to your surroundings. Has your power of observation shut down? Are you able to hone in on the signals that life is sending you? What is your capacity to perceive, receive, and use what you have? Hawk is most associated with the sun; a study of this card may give further insight.

Astrology- (Celtic Nov 25- Dec 23) This Celtic sign is incredibly focused. Linked with the Elder tree this sign is known as The Seeker. Those born under this sign care deeply for wisdom; they will seek it out and share it with others whenever possible. Hawk needs to be careful about becoming overly opinionated. They will easily stray from projects if they can't find something about the idea they are passionate about. Philanthropic Hawk is generous, but balanced. Hawk will go after what they want with remarkable force, but always retain their keen sense of integrity.

Stars and Constellations
Vision, Integrity, Embrace your Inner Fire, Screech, Primal Power