Indeed the magpie is a very magickal bird. It is a corvid, like a raven or a crow, and many of the folklore associated with these originated with the Magpie including the traditional “counting crows” children’s rhyme.
Magpie’s Folklore
There are several versions including the following:
One for sorrow,
Two for joy,
Three for a girl,
Four for a boy,
Five for silver,
Six for gold,
Seven for a secret,
Never to be told
And
One for sorrow,
Two for mirth,
Three for a wedding,
And four for death
And
One for sorrow,
Two for luck; (or mirth)
Three for a wedding,
Four for death; (or birth)
Five for silver,
Six for gold;
Seven for a secret,
Not to be told;
Eight for heaven,
Nine for [hell]
And ten for the d[evi]l’s own sell!
And check out this hopscotch board! (I am going to need one of these for my garden)
Magpies are gregarious creatures. To see a single magpie is significant. One foraging alone in the springtime foretells bad weather and one resting on a house, particularly near a window, foretells a death in the household.
| Culture/Folklore | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| European Folklore | In European folklore, magpies are often associated with both good and bad luck. They are believed to bring messages from the spirit realm and can symbolize either good fortune or misfortune. |
| Chinese Folklore | In Chinese folklore, magpies are considered highly auspicious birds associated with joy and happiness. They are believed to bring good luck, symbolize successful relationships, and represent opportunities for growth and prosperity. |
| Native American Lore | In Native American traditions, magpies are regarded as clever and resourceful creatures. They are seen as messengers between humans and the spirit world and are often associated with intelligence and adaptability. |
Symbolism and Associations
| Symbol/Association | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Intelligence | Magpies are often associated with intelligence and cunning due to their problem-solving abilities and complex vocalizations. They are seen as keen observers and are believed to possess wisdom and knowledge. |
| Communication | Magpies are seen as messengers or communicators, often delivering important spiritual or symbolic messages to humans. They are believed to bridge the gap between the physical and spiritual realms. |
| Dual Nature | Magpies represent duality and balance. They are associated with both light and dark aspects, symbolizing the coexistence of positive and negative forces and the need to find harmony between them. |
| Adaptability | Magpies are known for their adaptability and survival skills. They can thrive in various environments and are seen as symbols of resilience, flexibility, and the ability to navigate life’s challenges. |
Associations and Magick
Magpies are also associated with the Hulder, beautiful Scandinavian & Norwegian nymph-like spirits of the forest.
Here are some links to some good articles on the subject for your further exploration
Regarding feathers specifically: Generally, when animal spirits leave physical parts of themselves around for us to find, they are trying to send us a message to connect with the animal that they come from. For growth, or to learn a lesson.
| Magickal Purpose | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Divination | Magpies can be utilized in divination practices, such as observing their behavior, calls, or patterns, to gain insights into the future or receive guidance from the spirit realm. |
| Communication | Magpies are believed to enhance communication with spirit guides, ancestors, or deities. They can be incorporated into rituals or meditation to establish a stronger connection. |
| Protection | Magpies can be used in protective spells or charms to ward off negative energies or to provide spiritual defense. |
| Manifestation | Magpies can be invoked or represented in manifestation rituals to attract opportunities, abundance, and positive changes in various areas of life. |
Also, magpie feathers can be used in spells designed to attract the sort of energy magpies exemplify, curiosity, trickery, thievery, gregariousness, creativity, and communication. They’re kind of Gemini.
(Note: This article originated as a response to a specific question. It will need to be cleaned up and made more general.)
