Introduction

For centuries, selenite has been revered, across many cultures, for its glow and energy. Ancient cultures did not just value selenite for its beauty, selenite held metaphysical and symbolic meanins. In this article we will take a look at the history and symbolism that the selenite has in the ancient cultures, how it was used in rituals as well as architecture and day to day life.

What is Selenite?

The translucent variation of gypsum that is named after the Greek goddess of the moon, Selene, is selenite. It’s symbol of purity, clarity and spiritual connection are testified on throughout history.

Selenite in Ancient Cultures

1. Ancient Greece

• Moon Symbolism: Because of this, the Greeks associated selenite with Selene the moon goddess who personified women’s intuitive part, their dreams and emotional balance.
• Rituals and Practices: Moon rituals were done with Selenite, to connect with Spirit and Clarity.
• Architecture: Selenite was used for building window panes made from thin sheets, between which would be placed, so that moonlight could filter through, in temples and other sacred spaces.

2. Ancient Egypt

• Sacred Light: Egyptians would reflect selenite to symbolize eternal light and life, to be cast sunlight into tombs and temples.
• Spiritual Protection: Selenite was used to keep evil away and put in tombs to protect the spirits of the dead.
• Healing Practices: These crystals were mixed with ground powders, which were then applied to ointments, in order to access the crystal’s cleansing energy.

3. Mesopotamia

• Connection to the Divine: Ziggurats and sacred altars were used by Selenite as a medium to communicate with the gods.
• Symbol of Purity: It was a symbol through its glow for the purity and protection from humanity by the gods.

4. Native American Traditions

• Energy Cleansing: In purification rituals, selenite was used to cleanse a place, thing or person of negative energy.
• Ceremonial Use: To help see in the spiritual realm and talk to ancestors.

5. Medieval Europe

• Healing and Protection: As a ‘light bringer’ the selenite was a talisman for protection and to drive away evil spirits.
• Alchemy: Selenite was of value to alchemists because it is associated with light and transformation.

Selenite Symbolism

1. Purity and Clarity

• Though Selenite has little to no reported metaphysical history as a talisman or tool, its glow has been linked to purity of the thought or intention behind it.
• They were used for rituals to clear the mind and to focus.

2. Moon Connection

• Connected to lunar energy, cycles of renewal, femininity and intuition, its name and glow reference these too.
• A lot of cultures used selenite in moon rituals to harness the power of this crystal.

3. Spiritual Protection

• Placed in sacred spaces for the purpose of creating energetic barrier that protects from negative energy.

4. Healing Energy

• They believed selenite could channel divine energy and cleanse and balance both the mind, body and spirit.

Architecture and Art of Selenite

1. Temple Windows

• In ancient Greece and Rome selenite was used as a window glass substitute, especially in sacred spaces. The glow of it surrounded the area in a divine aura.

2. Decorative Carvings

• Selenite was carved by the Egyptians into amulets, statues, etc., frequently dedicated to gods or used in ritual.

3. Tomb Adornments

• Tombs were placed with selenite slabs to reflect light, and represent the soul’s eternal journey.

Metaphysical Practices in Olden Times

1. Rituals of Purification and Renewal

• Selenite was used to clear energy fields, to remove blockages and to prepare for spiritual ceremonies.

2. Intuition

• Selenite was used by shamans and spiritual leaders to access higher realms, and to pick up on their intuition.

3. Dream Work

• Selenite put near sleeping areas was used to ward off nightmares, or to induce prophetic dreams.

Selenite in History

1. Greek Mythology

• Selene, the moon goddess, wore a selenite crown which shines upon her trail across the night sky.

2. Egyptian Texts

• Selenite was used by Ra the sun god, and in rituals in honour of him, he was called the ‘stone of eternal light.’

3. Medieval Manuscripts

• According to Medieval European writings, selenite was a ‘holy stone’ that would ward off the darkness and help purify the soul.

Selenite in Modern Times

Although the old practices with selenite have changed, the symbolism is still used in modern metaphysical and spiritual circles:

• Energy Healing: Chakra balancing and aura clearing.
• Meditation: Both focus and spiritual connection.
• Home Décor: To maintain balance, placed in living spaces.

Selenite FAQs About History and Symbolism

1. Why does Selenite speak about the Moon?

The name comes from Selene the Greek goddess of the moon, and selenite glows like moonlight.

2. How did people use Selenite in ancient times?

Ritually, artists, and in health practices selenite was used for ritual, architecture, art and healing practices, signifying purity, light and spiritual connection.

3. Do we continue to employ Selenite in sacred practice today?

Selenite is, yes, still used in energy work, as well as in meditation and spiritual ceremony for cleansing and protection.

Conclusion

This is actually the two fold nature of the magic of Selenite geological, as both a natural wonder and a spiritual tool. It was considered for all ages as a symbol of purity, clarity and divine connection. Today its modern legacy lives on in today’s metaphysical practices: its timeless beauty and energy connects past with present. Knowing the history and culture that selenite comes with is even more special to appreciate this crystal.