hitmanjonesy

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MORTCATUS’S DEITY SERIES: THANATOS

Thanatos is a chthonic Hellenic deity – meaning he dwells beneath the earth, in the realm of the dead, or the Underworld. Thanatos was specifically viewed by the ancient Greeks as the god of peaceful death, or the personification of Death itself. He also acted as a psychopomp, touching the living who were to die to bring death to them, and then bring them back to the realm of the dead. His touch is gentle, likened to that of his twin brother Hypnos, the god of sleep. Violent death was the domain of Thanatos’ sisters, the Keres, spirits of slaughter and disease.

He does not have many worshipers in modern day, similarly to back then. He was feared more than he was honored, even today, most people are weary of or completely closed off to dealing with any entity that has such a direct connection to death. With this being said, it is common to hear that Thanatos does not care for offerings, I don’t find this to be true, and I don’t think that it is impossible or ill-advised to interact with Him, or that it is inappropriate to allot Him traditional offerings and bond with Him as you would any other deity. – However, Thanatos does not care to receive offerings with expectation of some sort of reciprocating action on His part. Thanatos does not respond well to those who try to bend his will, to silver tongues. Though giving Him offerings for the sake of thanks, honor, love, or respect are welcome. Building a shrine to share with Him as a gesture to show that you are open to His presence and willing to learn is welcome. Thanatos is not inaccessible at all. He has His own lessons to teach and stories to tell, if only you are willing to listen.

Below is a list of symbolism / offerings / devotional acts that I feel to be well-received, this is not an exhaustive list and is UPG. It is also worth noting that because Thanatos is a chthonic entity, there is a certain etiquette you should follow when you give Him your offerings. With chthonic deities, offerings are poured downwards rather than sent upwards, therefore incense is a less common offering, as you want to offer things that are poured down into the earth, where they reside. Pour the remains of your offering into the earth after you feel they’re done – just be sure that you are not harming any nature when you’re doing this. For edible offerings, it is unwise to take a sip / bite of your offering before you offer it, it is traditional to offer the entire food / drink to chthonic deities, and failing to do this may upset them. @death-witch-envy has a more inclusive post on tips for worshiping chthonic deities here.

SYMBOLISM

+ Snakes + Bones + Scythes + Poppies + Gravestones + Wreaths

OFFERINGS

+ Obsidian + Lapis lazuli + Bones / teeth / furs and other “leftovers” of once living things so long as they’re clean + Carved bone + Skulls + Lavender + Poppy seeds / flowers + Breads + Snake skins + Dead moths / butterflies, moth / butterfly wings + Dark wines + Oils + Tobacco + Dark chocolate + Myrrh, patchouli, frankincense, opium, and musk scents + Black, grey, and purple candles

DEVOTIONAL ACTS

+ Collect and honor dead moths / butterflies + Build a wreath + Ancestor veneration + Place flowers / offerings on unmarked graves + Spend time in graveyards, keep the spirits company + Eat foods or baked goods with poppy seeds – use more poppy seed dressing + Decorate using poppies + Plant poppies + Harvest and dry flowers or plants + Spend time enjoying a river or creek + Adopt an older animal, or be particularly kind and gentle to your older animal + Volunteer at a nursing home + Spent time outdoors at dawn or dusk + Burn a myrrh, patchouli, frankincense, opium, or musk scented candle before bed + Hunt for bones or fossils + Clean / dye / articulate bones. As a practicing member of the VC community I feel very connected to Him personally when I am working to give honor and beauty to the remains of a being forgotten, abandoned, or disgraced in death. + Wear dark, soothing colors + Go swimming in natural bodies of water + Have spaces where you can avoid time + Say thank you.

Compiled from my personal grimoire.

Itafushi movie night

It's an older one, but it's HIS day, so Happy Birthday Goro!! 🎊🎉

Happy Birthday to the boy!!

Loki Deity Guide

Loki’s mythology is not as chaotic as you may think…

It’s even more chaotic than that!

Who is Loki?

Often referred to as the Trickster God of the Aesir, Loki is actually the son of Fárbauti a giant, or a Jötunn, and Laufey, who was said to be a goddess. Though Loki is often referred to using he/him pronouns, can change his shape and gender at will.

While many of the old stories involving Loki paint him in a negative light, the same cannot be said for Loki’s modern followers.

Parents and Siblings

Fárbauti (Father)

Laufey (Mother), sometimes referred to as Nál.

Býleistr (Brother)

Helblindi (Brother)

Lovers or Partners

Sigyn (Wife)

Angrboda (Lover)

Children

Nari or Narfi (from Sigyn)

Hel (From Angrboda)

Jörmungandr (From Angrboda)

Fenrir (From Angrboda)

Sleipnir (From Svadilfari)

Epithets

Loptr (Old Norse meaning “Air”)

Hveðrungr (Roarer)

Contriver of all fraud

Shape-Changer

Sly-One

Wizard of Lies

Thief of Giants

Evil Companion

Kinsman of Sleipnir

Foe of the Gods

Forger of Evil

Contriver of Baldr’s death

Wrangling Foe of Heimdallr

Notes

Loki was known to be mischievous and at times malicious, but he was also rather helpful in many stories.

At some point Loki’s name became conflated with Logi, meaning “fire”, however, Logi is a separate being and is the Nordic personification or god of fire. Many blame Richard Wagner for this mix-up.

It is also possible that Loki’s name means “knot” or “tangle”.

It has been debated whether or not the Finnish "Lukki" (the name for a spider with thing, long legs) came from the same root as "Loki" ("luka" the proto-germanic word for "lock") but this is not a very popular belief and there is very little evidence to back it up.

Though Loki is part Jötunn, he is seen as part of the Aesir.

My personal favorite story of Loki is Þrymskviða, in which Loki and Thor disguise themselves as women in order to get Thor’s hammer back.

Sleipnir, Loki’s son, is an eight-legged horse that came to be when Loki had to transform into a mare in order to drive away the great stallion, Svadilfari. While Loki was in the form of a mare, the two came together to create Sleipnir who was said to be the fastest and best horse in all of the nine realms. Odin eventually chose Sleipnir as his steed.

One of the most popular tales involving Loki gets its namesake from the god, the Lokkasenna.

Loki ends up punished by the Aesir for either killing Baldr or for the events that take place in Lokkasenna. He is bound in a cave by the intestines of one of his offspring, his son Nari is turned into a wolf, and a venomous snake is placed above his head and drips venom into his eyes. Sigyn holds a shell above his head to protect him from the venom but every so often needs to empty the shell and the venom drips into his eyes once more.

In myth, it is said that Ragnarök will begin when Loki breaks free from his bondage.

Loki has been conflated with Lugh, the Irish deity due to their similar prankster and chaotic nature as well as the slight similarity of their names.

Modern Deity Work

There is no evidence that Loki had a cult or large following until modern times, so many of these correspondences, offerings, etc are going to be based on Loki’s mythology and current Lokeans’ posts.

Correspondences

Rocks/Stone/Crystals

Bloodstone

Opal

Opalite

Pyrite

Herbs/Plants

Cinnamon

Birch (Loki is mentioned in the Norwegian Rune poem for Berkano/a, or Birch)

Dragon’s Blood

Mistletoe

Bentgrass “Loke’s Grass”

Dandelion “Loke’s Bloom”

Haircap Moss “Loke’s Oats”

Animals

Snake

Horse

Wolf

Spider

Salmon

Fly

Symbols

Snake

Air

Feathers

Kuanaz (Rune)

Berkano (Rune)

Offerings

Sweet foods

Sour foods

Cinnamon

Chocolate

Alcohol

Meat charred to ash

Mead

Acts of Devotion

Offering your time to Loki

Trying to understand the misunderstood

Don’t be afraid to go against the grain

Keep in mind that these are only some ideas for offerings and correspondences! Items and activities that connect you to her in a more personal way are just as good, and often better, than those you find on the internet. As with any relationship, feel it out, ask questions, and be attentive and receptive!

References and Further Reading

Loki - Britannica

Loki - Wikipedia

Loki - Norsemythology.com

Loki - Mythopedia

The Poetic Edda - translated by Henry Adams Bellows (Via Sacred Texts)

Loki in Norse Mythology - World History Edu

Symbols for Loki - Lokeanwelcomingcomittee

Loki Devotees and Followers to check out:

@lokeanwelcomingcommittee

@skaldish

@the-fox-jawed-witch

@jasper-pagan-witch

@broomsick

@grumpylokeanelder

@elizatungusnakur

as suggested by the community <;3

#Thinking of getting into Diety work and have much respect for Thanatos

Thanatos Deity Guide

Who is Thanatos?

Thanatos is the personification or the spirit of death. In this way, Thanatos is considered a daimon in the original meaning, a spirit.

Thanatos was often depicted as a young male with wings, but occasionally he was depicted as an older man with a beard. He as well as his twin brother, Hypnos, are seen in ancient art holding torches turned upside down.

His role in mythology is a psychopomp—a being who carries the souls of the dead to the underworld. Though he was often referred to in myths, he rarely appeared physically.

Parents and Siblings

Nyx (mother)

Erebos (father in some myths)

with his being mother, Nyx, has many siblings. Most notibly:

Hypnos (twin brother)

The Keres (sisters)

Geras (brother)

Eris (sister)

Nemesis (sister)

The Moirai (sisters)

Apate (sister)

Charon (brother)

Lovers or Partners

Makaria according to some

Children

None

Epithets

Mors (Roman)

Letum (Roman)

Paian (Healer or Striker)

Acherontis (Woeful)

Leukokhrotos (White-Skin)

Notes

Though there are no ancient cults known to be dedicated to Thanatos, there have been traces of sacrifices left to him as well as a temple in Sparta.

In one myth, Zeus commands Hypnos and Thanatos to carry the dead body of the warrior Sarpedon off of the battlefield and to the country of Lykia so that he could be given a proper burial.

Other popular stories involving Thanatos are the story of Sisyphus and the story of Hercules wrestling Thanatos.

Thanatos has been depicted in art as a youth holding a butterfly or an inverted torch. The former represents a soul (the greek word for butterfly can also mean life or soul), and the ladder represents a life having been extinguished. He is also seen with a wreath of poppies or a sword.

In art and literature, Thanatos is also depicted as a cloud or mist that hangs above a person’s head who is soon to die.

He lives in the Underworld with his twin brother.

In some myths he is considered cruel, in others, he is considered sweet, as he is peaceful death. The descriptors chosen would likely depend on the writer’s outlook on death.

Modern Deity Work

Since there is very little record of historical record, this list has been compiled based on Thanatos' myths as well as what is known about him historically. In this list I have also compiled items from modern witches' posts about Thanatos, these posts will be in the References and Further Reading section.

Rocks/Stone/Crystals

Porphyry

Onyx

Obsidian

Iron

Bronze

Herbs/Plants

Poppy

Cypress

Animals

Butterfly

Snakes

Vultures

Crows

Symbols

Upside down torch

Sword

Butterfly

Wreath of poppies

Offerings

Any of the items or depictions of the items listed above.

Dead things that died naturally or peacefully. Or dead things that were ethically sourced.

It was common for Greeks to offer honey, olive oil, freshwater, and milk to their deities.

An altar or corner of your personal altar dedicated to him.

Jewelry dedicated to him.

Bones

Acts of Devotion

Learn about him, his brother, and his mother.

Learn about thanatology (study of death and dying)

Take care of those in hospice.

Show respect and appreciation for hospice workers.

References and Further Reading

Britannica

Theoi Project

Greek Mythology

World History

Mythus

The Underworld Oracle

Amino - Thana

Devotee of Thanatos - Tumblr

If you or anyone you know works with Thanatos and you welcome questions about him please feel free to reach out to me so that I can add you to this post!

#considering diety work #ofc Hermes got my eye

Deity of the Week- Hermes

Deity of the Week- Hermes

“I sing of Hermes Kyllenios (of Mt Kyllene), Argeiphontes (the Slayer of Argus), lord of Kyllene (Cyllene) and Arkadia rich in flocks, luck-bringing (eriones) messenger of the deathless gods (angelos athanaton). He was born of Maia, the daughter of Atlas, when she had made with Zeus,–a shy goddess she. Ever she avoided the throng of the blessed gods and lived in a shadowy cave, and there Kronion [Zeus] used to lie with the rich-tressed Nymphe at dead of night, while white-armed Hera lay bound in sweet sleep: and neither deathless god nor mortal man knew it. And so hail to you, Son of Zeus and Maia; with you I have begun: now I will turn to another song! Hail, Hermes, giver of grace (kharidotes), guide (diaktoros), and giver of good things (dotor eaon)!”- Homeric Hymn to Hermes

Hermes is the son of Zeus and his nymph mother, Maia, born from their love. He is the personal messenger to his father, and also to Hades. Classically, he is depicted as a young man both attractive and athletic, or as an older man with a beard. His most famous myth is the one where upon his birth, he creeps from his cradle and travels to where his brother Apollon holds his oxen and makes off with them. He typically shown wearing winged boots or sandles while holding a caduceus.

God of:

Hermes is a god of many attributes. His most common association is him as a trickster god, or a messenger god. While both are accurate and true, his associates are far more encompassing than that:

Animal husbandry

Roads and travel

Hospitality

Diplomacy

Trade

coins

Thievery

Language

Writing

luck

Athletic contests

Astronomy and astrology

Boundries

Guide of the dead

Magic

And so much more. No God has only one facet, and to limit them in such a way is to deign them what they truly are.

Correspondences:

Plants-

Crocus- a beautiful purple flowering plant

Strawberry trees

I would also argue any plant that can be associated with death or being laid to rest can also be associated with him, as he is a guide to the underworld and is one of the only beings able to freely pass between the land of the dead and the living.

Animals-

Cattle/oxen

Turtles/tortoise

Hawks

Any bird of omens

Rooster/cock

Rams

Hares

Snakes

Guard dogs

Occupations-

Some gods are the patrons of specific jobs, job fields and hobbies. A few for Hermes are

Bike messenger

Mail person/postal worker

Diviners

Mediums

Magicians/illusionists

Merchant

Hospitality workers

Hotel and inn keepers

Travel guides

Veterinarians and Vet Techs

Animal breeders

Herdsmen/cowboys/etc

Funeral directors

Diplomats

Bankers/bank tellers

Donation center workers

and so many more. And while I wouldn’t technically consider thievery an occupation, some might. In which cause he is also the god of professional thieves.

Colors-

Red

Purple

Silver

Gold

Copper

Most colors you would associated with trade, merchants, coin, plushness, etc.(SPG)

Black(UPG)

Grey(UPG)

White(UPG)

Most colors that can be associated with death or passing can be associated with him

Scents-

Lavender

Strawberries

Frankincense( A general all around good choice for all the Theoi)

The smell of ink and parchment/paper(SPG)

Stones-

Marble or Alabaster(UPG)

It’s not stones, but metals like copper, silver, gold- anything that is or was used to make currency

Offerings:

Incense

Honey

Olives or olive oil

Wine

Milk

Turtle shells or turtle shaped objects

Coins/currency/money

Written messages(SPG)

 Strawberries

Feathers(legal to own-let’s not get in trouble now)

dice

Devotional Activities:

There’s so many choices of devotional activities when it comes to Hermes.

Writing letters

Donating to homeless shelters or food pantries

Study animal husbandry

Become a magician/illusionist

Travel to another town/state/country

Try something that requires luck- cards, dice games, etc.

Learn about astronomy

Honor the dead

Learn about your ancestors

Study astrology

Pick up a sport

Workout/become athletic

Give a few coins to a homeless person

Learn other languages

Practice speaking

Learn to be diplomatic

A more modern twist to a devotional act would be to pick up merchant skills in a game, like mmorpgs. Or, avoid being a real life thief and become one in a game! There’s so many options, just let your imagination go wild.

~That’s all for deity of the week! If you have any questions, feel free to ask!~

-Artistic

Aint nobody goan see this, but ayyy, its my art-sona

Spooky Ivysaur

Lord Satan Ryo Asuka

fanart of my friend's oc, Uranus

is this too scandalous for tumblr? I have an uncensored version too e//w//e

My sona redesign ★

I made these into Keychains!

He's just a silly goofy dude

Juno & Nova

From my original comic "Penumbra"

Power Commission for a friend ^-^

You can reblog, but pls dont repost to other socials or interfere with the watermark!

Objects of affection via a lil pancake keychain. Goro is not impressed.

There was the sudden rush of shuffled feet as Leblanc’s only other current inhabitant rushed back down the steps. Akechi, having not moved from his spot ( which was already right near the base as is ) competitively stood his ground; as if bracing for impact. Whether that be another jaw-clenched argument, or a brawl. And right when Amamiya got right up in his face, Akechi did not back down. He held his full few centimeters that he had over the other, and competitively glared back. His mind went into an instant fight or flight response, and it was choosing fight. Stand your guard, and don’t back down.

“Thank you for everything.” He murmured.

That fiery gaze he received emanated an intensity that demanded recognition. And Goro didn’t dare back down. But the soft voice that practically brushed sweet breath against his lips whispered softened gratitude. Goro’s frazzled mind wasn’t quite sure what was happening. He had all but been assuming some sort of challenge, picking up from the tensions he, himself had created. And yet, this turn ( despite giving the same exact energy back ) was something entirely earnest and sincere.

The exact instant Ren tilted his own head, there was a sudden surprised sharp intake of breath; caught and held within the same confines of his chest, where that fluttery thing resided. But that was all the moment would allow for him to do, before their lips were meeting. Goro’s feet remained where they had been firmly planted. His eyes naturally had closed upon impact, perhaps a bit tightly, as if bracing for something with more of a kick to it. But the kiss was gentle, and genuine. The brief lapse between the corner of both of their mouths where it was allowed, he took in another hitched breath, but he gave in. Allowed that foreign tongue into his mouth. That overwhelming flavored scent that, somehow, tasted better than any food ever would. Satiated the tongue better than any other thirst ever could.

---------

excerpts from a fanfic my partner and I are writing together, called "Pillow Talk."

I know a lot of people were interested in these, they are NOW available as stickers! Click the "ko-fi" button on my home page > go to COMMISSIONS, and they should be there as an option!

Devilman Crybaby, anyone? I plan to make these stickers!

Vaporwave Kitty | Acrylic painting

Team Verity | Original characters