Ma'at
Ma'at is the ancient Egyptian goddess of truth, justice, balance, and cosmic order. Often depicted as a woman with an ostrich feather on her head or holding a scale, she embodies the principles of harmony, ethical conduct, and the laws that govern the universe.
Originating from Egyptian mythology, Ma'at is the daughter of the sun god Ra and is closely associated with the concept of cosmic order and morality. She plays a crucial role in the afterlife, where the hearts of the deceased are weighed against her feather of truth to determine their fate in the afterlife. Ma'at's presence was essential in maintaining the balance of the universe and ensuring the proper functioning of society and the cosmos.
Ma'at embodies properties of truth, justice, balance, and harmony. She represents the ethical and moral principles that uphold the universe, the importance of living a balanced life, and the pursuit of truth and justice. Invoking her energy can bring about clarity, fairness, and alignment with universal principles.
Herbs and plants associated with Ma'at include myrrh, frankincense, sage, and lotus. These plants symbolize purification, clarity, and spiritual balance. They are often used in rituals to invoke her blessings for justice, truth, and harmony in one's life.
Crystals connected to Ma'at include lapis lazuli, amethyst, and clear quartz. These stones resonate with her energies of clarity, truth, and balance, promoting spiritual insight, mental clarity, and alignment with higher principles. They are used in rituals to enhance ethical conduct, provide protection, and support the pursuit of truth.
Ma'at’s elemental correspondences are Air and Earth, reflecting her connection to the intellectual and moral principles that govern life, as well as the grounding and stabilizing forces of nature. The Air element emphasizes clarity, intellect, and communication, while the Earth element symbolizes stability, grounding, and the structure of the natural order.
Ma'at is linked to the celestial body the Sun, symbolizing her role in maintaining cosmic order and the illumination of truth. Her energy is particularly potent during times of seeking justice, clarity, and balance in one's life.
Her zodiac associations include Libra and Virgo. Libra represents qualities of balance, fairness, and justice, while Virgo embodies meticulous care, ethical conduct, and the pursuit of purity. Working with her energy during these astrological seasons can enhance clarity, balance, and ethical decision-making.
The times most auspicious for invoking Ma'at include the equinoxes, times of legal matters or ethical dilemmas, and during rituals seeking balance and harmony. These periods align with her domain over truth, justice, and cosmic order, making them ideal for connecting with her energy.
In rituals, tools such as scales, feathers, and symbols of balance are used to invoke Ma'at’s presence. Offerings of bread, wine, and incense, particularly myrrh and frankincense, are traditional ways to honor her. Rituals often involve creating a balanced environment, using herbs and crystals associated with clarity and justice, and reciting prayers or invocations to seek her blessings for truth and harmony. Meditating on themes of balance, ethical conduct, and the pursuit of truth, or engaging in acts of fairness and justice, can also deepen the connection to her principles and energies.