UPRIGHT
REVERSED
~ GYFU (gift) ~ g ~
Gifts played an important part in German culture. A chief would support
the young warriors who followed him with gifts of horses, weapons and
lavish feasts. Relations between tribes were always conducted with the
exchange of costly presents. Tacitus writes in his Germania:
It is usual to give the departing guest whatever he may ask for,
and a present in return is asked with as little hesitation. They
are greatly charmed with gifts, but they expect no return for what
they give, nor feel any obligation for what they receive.
The giving to, and receiving of gifts from, the gods would have
been looked upon as a natural extension of these customs. Accordingly,
Gyfu has been regarded as a magical symbol connected with sacrifice.
It seems probable that it refers more to sacrifices made to the gods
than gifts of the gods to men because of the nature of Teutonic
deities-the pagan gods such as Thor and Odin could be expected
to gift a man only with strength and cunning. Even this might be
capriciously withdrawn on a whim. On the other hand, men were
obligated to sacrifice to the gods lest the gods become angry and
visit them with misfortunes.
Even before the advent of Christianity, it would be reasonable to link
Gyfu with charity, Generosity was the virtue of great chiefs. The
covetous were despised and believed to suffer an ill fate. Gyfu would
generally mean something of personal value, freely and willingly given
away, It might be a lie sacrifice-forsaking present happiness for future
joy. It is good to sacrifice the lower for the higher; evil to sacrifice the
higher for the lower. The cross is an ancient symbol for suffering.
MEANINGS:
UPRIGHT:
A present, love offering, inheritance, legacy, bequest, donation, endowment,
raise in salary, unexpected improvement in fortune or condition, offer of
help, restoration of health, profitable business trip, charity, social service.
REVERSED:
Necessary sacrifice, obligation, duty, toll, responsibility, consequences
of a charitable act, privation, required observances, dependents, financial
burdens, debts, poverty, need to accept welfare payment.
KEY: GIFT
