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The Sacred World Oracle

The Sacred World Oracle
The Sacred World Oracle

XXXVII-Dragon

While our modern image of the fire-breathing dragon has roots in Nordic and Celtic myths, Greek legend was also rich in dragon stories. In it, the dragon Draco guarded the idyllic garden of the Hesperides, several beautiful nymphs. Though dragons traditionally guarded treasure for themselves, they were also cast keepers of golden hoards throughout Europe.

German legend tells of the dragon Fafnir whose lair on the banks of the Rhine included an enchanted helmet that could make the wearer disappear. In the British Isles, the dragon is mainly remembered as the legendary foe of Saint George, a warrior who lived in Asia Minor. The poet Edmund Spenser transformed the saint into the Red Cross Knight, a noble English youth sent by the fairy queen to slay a menacing dragon.

What does this card suggest for us? Just as George faced his fearsome opponent, it is time for us to confront our own enemies whether they be out in the world or just in our psyche. We must have the courage to do so. Whatever darkness you may be facing, you will have the strength to slay those metaphorical dragons. You just have to believe you can and rise above the fear.