Cherries in Magick: Symbolism, Health, and Culinary Uses

Cherries, a small but mighty fruit, have been valued for their magickal characteristics, medicinal properties, and culinary uses for centuries. While not discussed often in Wiccan circles, they have a long and rich history of being associated with magick and folklore, which some modern witches may not be aware of. So let’s discover everything we can unearth about this small, unassuming, yet magickal fruit.

In ancient Greece, the cherry tree was believed to be sacred to the goddess of love, Aphrodite. The tree was said to bloom with white and pink flowers in the spring, symbolizing the pure and passionate love of the goddess. It was also believed that eating cherries would bestow the gift of prophecy and that the tree's wood could be used to make divining rods.

In many cultures, the cherry is also seen as a symbol of rebirth and renewal. The cherry tree is one of the first to bloom in the spring, and its fruit ripens in the summer, making it a symbol of the cycle of life and death. The tree's beautiful blossoms, followed by its ripe fruits, represent the passage of time and the cyclical nature of existence.

In Japanese folklore, the cherry tree is closely associated with the concept of mono no aware, which means "the pathos of things." The brief life of the cherry blossom is seen as a metaphor for the transience of life, and the tree is believed to be a reminder to cherish every moment. In Japan, the cherry blossom is a symbol of the warrior spirit and is also said to be magickal in its beauty—it is a reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the need to cherish it.

Cherries were also seen as a symbol of virginity and purity. They were often associated with the Virgin Mary and believed to possess the power to ward off evil spirits.

In European folklore, the cherry tree was also believed to have protective powers. It was said that planting a cherry tree near one's home would protect against thunderstorms and other natural disasters and that carrying a cherry stone in one's pocket would bring good luck.

Furthermore, in medieval times, it was believed that cherries had the power to ward off witches and evil spirits. They were also said to have aphrodisiac properties and to be able to stimulate love and passion.

In many cultures, the cherry tree is also associated with the concept of the "otherworld" or the afterlife. Its deep roots are said to reach into the underworld, and its fruit was thought to be a gift from the gods. In many myths and legends, eating cherries was said to give one a glimpse of the afterlife or to provide a way to communicate with the dead.

In modern times, the magickal properties of cherries have been largely forgotten, and the fruit is mostly valued for its culinary and medicinal properties. However, the ancient belief in the mystical powers of cherries has not disappeared entirely and will serve the astute witch just fine if she decides to begin working with the magick of the cherry.