The Spiral The spiral is an ancient symbol found at megalithic sites across Europe. In some places, such as New Grange, in Ireland, there are double spirals, like two eyes. In other places, there can be found a triad of spirals. In some areas, the spiral seems to represent a serpent but in other places it has been associated with the idea of death and rebirth. At New Grange [see above drawing], the river there is full of triple spirals and the life then would have been dependant on the river. The double spiral is sometimes seen as the breasts of the Mother Goddess. In Wicca, there is a spiral dance in which a line of people, one behind the other, dance into the center and then turn and trace their path outward. One name for this is the Lufu (from the Anglo-Saxon word for "love"). As dancers turn to come out from the center, they lean across to kiss those going in. This is performed at the start of the Sabbat meeting, especially when a large number of covens come together. Depending upon the Wiccan tradition, such objects as cauldrons, besoms (broomsticks) and even candles maybe represented in the Book of Shadows with a spiral-like symbol. See Also: Spirit in Stone   Sources Buckland, R. Signs, Symbols & Omens. Llewellyn Publications, St. Paul, MN, 2003 Personal knowledge/traditions, and Special thanks to Hallie. You go girl! Page updated 10 Sep 2006 Celtic Animals Background and Ireland's OWN Logo by Míchealín Daugherty Copyright © 2006 Ireland's OWN All Rights Reserved.