Sacred CircleA symbol of unity and wholeness in many Indigenous cultures, representing the interconnectedness of all life. The sacred circle is often used in rituals and ceremonies, signifying the cyclical nature of existence.
Sacred FireAn important element in many Native American rituals, representing life, community, and connection with the spirit world.
Sacred TextsWritings considered holy and authoritative within a particular religious or mythological tradition, such as the Vedas in Hinduism or the Iliad in Greek mythology
SacrificeThe ritual offering of food, objects, or lives to a deity or supernatural being to gain favor or appease them, commonly practiced in ancient cultures and mythological stories.
SagaA long, detailed narrative of historical or legendary events, often involving heroes and cultural heritage.
Samhuinn (Samhain)An important Celtic festival marking the end of the harvest and the beginning of winter, usually celebrated on October 31st. It was believed to be a time when the veil between the physical world and the Otherworld was thinnest, allowing spirits to cross over. This festival later influenced Halloween traditions.
SeidrA form of pre-Christian Norse magic associated with prophecy and altering fate. Practiced primarily by women, seidr involves rituals and trance states to communicate with the spirit world, embodying themes of wisdom, transformation, and the unknown.
ShabonoA communal hut or village structure used by the Yanomami people of the Amazon rainforest for cultural and spiritual gatherings.
ShaktiThe divine feminine power or energy in Hinduism, often personified as the goddess Parvati, Durga, or Kali. Shakti represents the active, dynamic principles of the universe..
ShapeshifterA mythical being or deity capable of changing its form or appearance, often to disguise or deceive others. Examples include Loki in Norse mythology and Proteus in Greek mythology.
SídheThe fairy mounds or hills in Celtic mythology, believed to be portals to the Otherworld. The term is also used to refer to the fairy folk themselves, such as the Aos Sí or Tuatha Dé Danann, who are said to live in these mounds.
Sky WomanA central figure in some Native American creation myths, representing the earth and fertility. Sky Woman often embodies the nurturing aspects of nature and plays a vital role in the creation of the world and its inhabitants.
Sweat LodgeA ceremonial structure used by Native American tribes for purification rituals through heat and steam.
SymbolAn object or element that represents a deeper meaning, commonly used in mythological narratives to convey complex ideas.
SymbolismThe use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities, commonly found in mythological narratives.
SyncretismThe merging of different religious, cultural, or philosophical beliefs into a cohesive system.
