Earth, Air, Fire and Water

Each of the elements is necessary for human life. All have positive and negative aspects, and each acts as a check for the other. The Earth without Water to moisten it, without Fire to warm it, and without Air to surround it would be a lifeless planet. The elements are present in physical form (such as a hand of soil) and in an un-manifested, non-physical form.

In modern day Wicca and Paganism, there is a good deal of focus on the four elements - Earth, Air, Fire, and Water. Some traditions of Wicca also include a fifth element, which is Spirit or Self. Each of the elements is associated with traits and meanings, as well as with directions of the compass.

Earth

Earth is associated to North. Earth is considered the ultimate feminine element, and is our Mother. It is fertile and stable, associated with the Goddess. As the wheel turns we can watch all the aspects of life take place in the Earth: birth, life, death, and finally rebirth. “by the Earth which is Her body”

Color - Green
Gender - Female
Direction - North
Tarot Suit - Pentacles

Air

Air is the element of the East and is connected to the soul and breath of life. It is the power of movement, of freshening and of intelligence. Air is the power of the mind and the force of intellect. Air promotes gradual change. “by the air that is Her breath”

Color - Yellow
Gender - Male
Direction - East
Tarot Suit - Swords

Fire

Fire is the element of the South. It is a purifying, masculine energy connected to strong will and energy. Fire both creates and destroys and symbolizes the fertility of the God. It promotes swift and sometimes catastrophic change and should be treated with the utmost respect when utilizing it’s energy. “by the fire that is Her Spirit”

Color - Red
Gender - Male
Direction - South
Tarot Suit - Wands

Water

Water is the element of the West. Water is feminine energy and associated with aspects of the Goddess. Used for healing, cleansing, and purification. It is associated with passion and emotion. It is also associated with intuition and transformation. Water brings about change, but it is a slow process. “by the water that is Her blood.”

Color - Blue
Gender - Female
Direction - West
Tarot Suit - Cups