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1 posted on 09/09/2006 10:04:03 PM PDT by rightgrafix
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To: rightgrafix
Introduction to Baltic Folklore

The Sign of Thunder - Fire Cross

The sign of thunder, known to western culture as the swastika, is one of the most ancient symbols in the world and has been used by all nations. The Latvian sign of thunder symbolizes light, fire, life, health and prosperity. No other nation has used the swastika so widely, nor developed so many variations of it as the Latvians

In folklore, the god of thunder, the heavenly blacksmith, is one of the most important deities. He ripens grain, and banishes demons with lightning. The dainas mention crossed lightning bolts, which are the most dangerous, since they set fire immediately to whatever they touch. Crossed bolts were depicted on a very old brooch. The fire cross can easily be developed from this pattern.

2 posted on 09/09/2006 10:09:31 PM PDT by Slings and Arrows ("I've never seen so many testicles in my life.")
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To: blam; SunkenCiv

Ping


9 posted on 09/10/2006 11:52:47 AM PDT by Fiddlstix (Warning! This Is A Subliminal Tagline! Read it at your own risk!(Presented by TagLines R US))
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To: Fiddlstix
a folklore symbol used as a charm against evil for Latvians
And considering that the Soviet empire and the Nazis conquered Latvia (one of them twice) during the 20th century, it must work like a champ. ;')
11 posted on 09/10/2006 9:54:40 PM PDT by SunkenCiv (updated my FR profile on Saturday, September 2, 2006. https://secure.freerepublic.com/donate/)
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