The Great Mother (Earth) Māra cross Tote Bag

"Earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust." Our ancestors respected Mother Earth throughout time, and Baltic folklore is rich with mentions and traditions. Baltic Goddesses - Māra and Žemyna, were honored and loved by our ancestors; their presence was felt in everyday life. Between the Balts, one of her most prominent symbols is a cross of crosses. There are two variations of it in Latvian ethnographic designs - dynamic (diagonal) and passive (straight). In Latvia, when the cross stands straight, it speaks of death, and in that instance, she is called "Veļu māte" - Mother of Souls, the afterworld sign symbolizes the border between this world and the afterlife, dead matter. Māra/Žemyna cross branches are crossed over, ending its continuation. It indicates material world limitations in contrast to an eternity in the spiritual realm. Human life is limited on this earth because it entails birth and death. Such crosses were carved on sacrifice stones and used in funeral mittens. Ancient Balts viewed life and death through the eyes of transformation - reincarnation, which is significantly showcased in their burial traditions and "time of the dead ." Everywhere you make a cross of crosses sign, symbolically is offered to Mother Earth, in return receiving blessings and Earthy power to achieve your goals. Perfect gift for Latvian, Lithuanian, pagan, and folklore enthusiast :) Love symbolism and folk art? Check out more in the store.