Air
Bennu
The bennu, known as a
phoenix in
Greek mythology, is a vibrant red and gold bird. This sacred bird of Heliopolis
resembles a heron. The bennu lives on an obelisk outside of the sanctuary in
Heliopolis where it is worshiped alongside the gods Ra and Osiris. Sometimes
considered a manifestation of Osiris himself (sprang from Osiris' heart), this
bird is said to have created itself in the fire at the top of the Persea tree.
The bennu symbolizes rebirth with its rise from the ashes.
Only one of these magnificent birds lives at a time. The Phoenix is a beautiful
bird resembling an eagle. The phoenix has rainbow-hued wings and scarlet feet.
In Greek mythology it was believed that the phoenix was in Arabia, living near a
cool well. The phoenix is said to sing a song so beautiful that it stops the
sun-god in his chariot. When the feeling of death approaches (500 years, some
people say up to 1461 years), the phoenix makes a nest and sets it on fire. In
three days, out of the ashes, rises another phoenix. In Egyptian mythology the
phoenix is known as the
Bennu.
Chi in Chinese means "energy" which is what the Chi Spirits are all about. They
are house spirits similar to
brownie however no one has ever seen a Chi Spirit. According to the book
A Witch's Guide to Faery Folk, the Chinese will go to great lengths to make
sure that the energies of Chi Spirits are not obstruct in any way. Furniture
will even be moved to allow the free movement of their energies. If the energy
of a Chi Spirit is blocked there is generally no harm to humans. However if
there is extreme blockage, hauntings, illness, and disturbances may occur.
The griffin has the head, fore legs, and wings of an eagle. The body and tail is
that of a lion. Sometimes depicted with horns and huge ears, the griffin is a
symbol of vigilance and strength. In Greek mythology griffins belonged to Zeus,
king of the gods. The griffin is also known by the names Gryphon, Gitto, and
Griffith.