Few beings are as difficult to pin down and/or label as Lilith. Some claim she is the Demon Queen of the Qliphoth, ruling the Sitra Achra (Tree of Impurity) together with Samael or Lucifer. Others see her as a Dark Goddess of feminine empowerment. She is also seen by some as a succubus and/or a vampire. Was she the first wife of Adam? Did she, together with Samael, tempt Eve in the garden? Is she none other than the consort of Yahweh himself and was she responsible for rescuing humanity during the great flood?
What we do know is that the myth about Lilith starts in ancient Mesopotamia where she was known as Lilitu, a female demon linked to the wind and wind spirits. She eventually makes her way into Semitic mythology where she become Lilith.
Lilith: The First Wife of Adam
According to the Jewish mystical texts Midrash and the Zohar, Lilith was created as the first wife of Adam. Formed from the same earth as Adam, she was his equal in every way. However, conflict arose when Adam demanded to lie on top of her during intercourse. Lilith refused, asserting her equality and arguing that she should lie on top or they should be side by side.
When Adam tried to dominate her, Lilith uttered the ineffable name of God and flew away from the Garden of Eden. Subsequently, Adam complained to God, who sent three angels—Senoy, Sansenoy, and Semangelof—to fetch her back. The angels found Lilith by the Red Sea, a place frequented by demons, and asked her to return. She refused, stating that she could not live in subservience.
The angels warned her that if she didn’t return, one hundred of her children would have to die each day. Despite this dreadful ultimatum, Lilith did not relent. Instead, she vowed to harm human babies—specifically newborn boys up to eight days old and girls up to twenty days old.
To protect infants from Lilith’s wrath, parents would place an amulet adorned with the names of the angels—Senoy, Sansenoy, and Semangelof—over the child’s crib. This sigil effectively warded off Lilith, preventing her from causing harm. The power of this protective charm has made it a significant element in Jewish folk traditions concerning childbirth and early child care and is still in use.
Lilith Vilified
Lilith’s story, as portrayed in ancient texts, is one of resistance against subjugation. In modern times, the understanding is that she was vilified as a demoness, largely as a product of patriarchal narratives. Society, over centuries, has painted Lilith as the quintessential rebel, a woman who dared to assert her equality and, for that audacity, was cast as a figure of darkness and evil.
The Patriarchal Vilification
Lilith’s refusal to conform to Adam’s demands embodies her resistance to the patriarchal order. The narrative turned her into a cautionary tale against female empowerment and assertiveness. Instead of being celebrated as a symbol of equality and autonomy, Lilith was demonised in the following ways:
- Demon Queen: Often depicted as the Demon Queen of the Qliphoth, ruling alongside figures like Samael or Lucifer.
- Succubus: Seen as a seductress who preys on men, a portrayal often used to discipline and control female sexuality.
- Child-Harm: Linked with harming infants, reinforcing her image as a dangerous and malevolent being.
Relating to Lilith
In contemporary discourse, individuals, women in particular, often turn to Lilith for one or more of the following reasons:
- Feminine Empowerment: Lilith stands as a symbol of feminine power and independence. Those who seek to embrace their inner strength and reject oppressive norms find inspiration in her story.
- Sexual Autonomy: As an emblem of sexual freedom, Lilith encourages individuals to take control of their own bodies and desires, free from societal judgments.
- Dark Feminine Archetype: Lilith embodies the dark feminine, embracing both light and shadow aspects of womanhood, acknowledging that wholeness comes from accepting all parts of oneself.
Books about Lilith
For those who wish to dive deeper into Lilith’s significance and connect with her archetype, the following books are invaluable resources:
Lilith’s multifaceted persona allows individuals to relate to her in diverse and empowering ways, ultimately reclaiming her narrative from the grips of patriarchal vilification.
Lilith Correspondences
Lilith has various correspondences in mythology, symbolism, and ritual practice. These correspondences can help us connect with her energy and embody her attributes.
Dates and Times
- Samhain
- Saturday/Tuesday
- Midnight
- Dark/New Moon
- Liminal times such as dusk and dawn
- Eclipses
Please note that you can work with Lilith any time of the day or the year. However, the times listed above can be extra powerful for rituals.
Symbols
- Owls: Often associated with wisdom and the night, symbolising Lilith’s connection to darkness and knowledge.
- Snakes: Representing rebirth, transformation, and forbidden knowledge.
- Bats, Ravens and Crows: Dark-winged creatures of the night, known for their ability to cross the veil and retrieve information from the void.
- The Crescent Moon: Highlighting her link to the cycles of the moon, femininity, and mystery.
- Red and Black Roses: Symbolising love, passion, and the dark aspects of femininity.
Colours
- Black: Signifying mystery, power, and the unknown.
- Red: Representing passion, vitality, and empowerment.
- Dark Purple: Symbolising spirituality, mystery, and transformation.
Herbs and Botanicals
- Mugwort: For protection and enhancing psychic abilities.
- Belladonna: Associated with the darker aspects of transformation and magic.
- Rosemary: For remembrance and warding off evil.
- Red Poppies: Symbolising sleep, dreams, and death.
Crystals and Stones
- Onyx: For protection and grounding.
- Obsidian: To deflect negative energy and for shadow work.
- Garnet: Linked with passion, regeneration, and creative power.
- Amethyst: Enhancing spiritual connection and intuition.
Starting Devotion to Lilith
Devotion to Lilith can take on many forms, from ritual practices to daily affirmations. I highly recommend watching this video lecture by Mark H. Williams if you are feeling a strong calling to connect with Lilith. Below are some simple tips on how to get started:
Setting Up an Altar
Create a dedicated space to honor Lilith. This can include:
- Statues or Images: Representations of Lilith to focus your energy.
- Candles: Black, red, and purple to represent her colors.
- Offerings: Items like wine, dark chocolate, and red fruits.
- Symbols: Incorporate owls, snakes, and lunar symbols.
- Crystals and Herbs: Place relevant crystals and herbs on your altar.
Daily Practices
- Meditation: Connect with Lilith’s energy through meditation, focusing on her attributes and stories.
- Affirmations: Recite affirmations that embody Lilith’s qualities, such as independence, strength, and empowerment.
- Journaling: Document experiences, dreams, and thoughts related to Lilith.
Rituals
- Moon Rituals: Honour Lilith during the dark/new moon phase.
- Shadow Work: Engage in practices that explore the unconscious mind and unresolved emotions, drawing on Lilith’s transformative energy.
- Invocation: Invite Lilith’s presence in rituals by chanting her names and invoking her aspects.
Reading and Study
- Mythological Texts: Study the ancient texts that contain stories about Lilith.
- Modern Books: Read contemporary analyses and interpretations to gain a deeper understanding of her archetype.
- Videos: Videos by Dr Justin Sledge of Esoterica, such as this one, and any videos on Lilith by Mark H. Williams in particular as they are very well researched.
Community
- Join Groups: Engage with online forums and local groups devoted to Lilith.
- Discussion and Sharing: Share experiences and learn from others who are also devoted to Lilith.
By integrating these correspondences and practices, individuals can cultivate a meaningful and empowering devotion to Lilith.
The Lilith Tarot Spread
Card Positions
- The Essence of Lilith
- Question: What aspect of Lilith’s essence should I embrace to empower myself?
- Empowerment
- Question: How can I step into my personal power and assert my independence?
- Sexual Liberation
- Question: What actions should I take to embrace my sexuality freely and authentically?
- Alchemical Transformation
- Question: What transformational process do I need to undergo to achieve true change?
- Facing Shadow Aspects
- Question: What shadow aspect do I need to face and accept to achieve wholeness?
- Reclaiming Narrative
- Question: How can I reclaim my story and align it with my true self?
- External Influences
- Question: What external influences should I be aware of on my path to empowerment and transformation?
- Supportive Energies
- Question: What resources or energies will support me on this journey?
How to Use This Spread
- Prepare Your Mind and Space:
- Find a quiet, comfortable place where you won’t be disturbed.
- Shuffle the Deck:
- While shuffling, focus on the intention to connect with Lilith’s empowering and transformative energies.
- Lay Out the Cards:
- Place the cards according to the diagram above.
- Interpret Each Card:
- Read each card in relation to its position. Reflect on how the card’s message relates to your current life circumstances.
- Journal Your Insights:
- Write down your thoughts, feelings, and any insights that come up during the reading. This will help you track your progress and revisit your intentions.
- Thank Lilith:
- Close your reading by expressing gratitude to Lilith for her guidance and support.
Lilith Sample Tarot Reading
1. The Essence of Lilith – 10 of Pentacles
The 10 of Pentacles suggests that the essence of Lilith in this reading revolves around legacy and long-lasting influence. Lilith represents the force that challenges and transforms long-held traditions and societal foundations. Embracing this aspect of Lilith means acknowledging the importance of creating enduring impacts that can stand the test of time.
2. Empowerment – 8 of Pentacles
The 8 of Pentacles signifies dedication and mastery in one’s craft. For empowerment, this card suggests that meticulous effort and a commitment to honing your skills and abilities are essential. Embrace continuous learning and consistent practice to develop your independence and personal power.
3. Sexual Liberation – 5 of Cups
The 5 of Cups highlights themes of loss and emotional turmoil. In the context of sexual liberation, this card indicates that past disappointments and regrets may be hindering your ability to embrace your sexuality fully. Healing from past traumas and shifting focus from what has been lost to what can still be gained is crucial for reclaiming your sexual autonomy.
4. Alchemical Transformation – Temperance
The Temperance card embodies balance, harmony, and the blending of opposites. In terms of alchemical transformation, it suggests that achieving true change requires patience, moderation, and the integration of different aspects of yourself. By finding equilibrium and synthesising diverse elements of your life, profound transformation can occur.
5. Facing Shadow Aspects – Page of Swords
The Page of Swords represents curiosity, mental agility, and vigilance. When it comes to facing shadow aspects, this card indicates a need to confront your truths head-on with intellectual honesty. Embrace a clear and open mind to understand and accept your darker facets, allowing for growth and self-awareness.
6. Reclaiming Narrative – 2 of Swords
The 2 of Swords is about decision-making and inner conflict. Reclaiming your narrative requires you to make difficult choices and confront significant decisions you’ve been avoiding. By finding clarity and making those tough decisions, you regain control over your story and align your life with your true self.
7. External Influences – 3 of Pentacles
The 3 of Pentacles emphasises collaboration and teamwork. External influences in your journey may come from constructive partnerships and cooperative efforts. Seek alliances with those who support your goals and provide valuable insights, as working together will help you navigate challenges and reinforce your path.
8. Supportive Energies – 6 of Cups
The 6 of Cups is associated with nostalgia, generosity, and the innocence of the past. As supportive energies, this card encourages you to draw strength from happy memories, past successes, and soul mate connections that bring joy and comfort. Reconnect with your roots and past experiences to find encouragement and emotional support on your journey.
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