WUW?: Weaving a New Perspective

8/28/2013

I was flipping through Facebook when I saw a funny picture that basically read, "be glad spiders don't fly".

As someone who used to be a lot more afraid of spiders I had to chuckle a little even while I shuddered a little at the thought.

Before I really started getting into fiber work (many years before really) I used to be afraid of spiders. I will admit at times to still jumping a little when I see them now, but the intense dislike I used to have for has dissipated quite a bit.

It really all came about when I was considering the myth of one of the goddesses I've had a working connection with. And I say working because I would call upon Her energy for very specific things, like wisdom & problem solving, but not much otherwise. None other than Athena.

Athena, like so many other goddesses, has many stories associated with Her vengeance on those committing hubris and various other crimes. The one in question today is the story of Arachne. Now as with all myths there is more than one version, I have always been familiar with a certain version which I will paraphrase here:

Arachne boasted that she was a better weaver than even the goddess of weaving Athena herself. Angry at the arrogance of the girl Athena proposed a contest between the two. Despite being very skilled Arachne lost the contest and out of shame hung herself. Upon finding her body the goddess took pity on her and turned her into a spider.

What else comes to mind is the lore connected with Spider in Native American traditions among others. The number eight is often integral which represents balance, particularly of work and life as well as success through dedicated work. (You can see this in particular with the 8 of Pentacles which shows someone working hard at their craft.)

8 of Pentacles ~ Rider Waite Deck

They bely magic, mystery, and strength. We've all heard that proportionally spider silk is one of the strongest fibers on the planet.

Spider works tirelessly and does not lament when there is more work. They weave magic, mystery, and all of life into their webs which serve so many purposes for their survival.

Taking all of these things into account I could feel myself connecting better with the energy of Spider. It reminded me a lot of some lessons and energies I had in my own life. As a fiber worker I can feel the energy of Athena, who also rules over handicrafts and wisdom. Now I can look at Spider's presence in my life not as some icky inconvenience, but a subtle reminder to return to balance, be diligent with my work, and embrace the magick of creation!

Share with me in the comments below: How do you feel about spiders? Were you familiar with the story of Arachne & Athena? Do you feel differently about spiders now like I do?

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