Luck is defined as that which happens to a person...an event, good or ill...which affects an individual's interests or happiness and which is deemed causal. It is a series of such events which are regarded as occurring by chance, fate or fortune...often, a person's habitual or characteristic fortune. It has been said that luck is better than skill.

In Greek Mythology, the Goddess of Luck is Tyche, known to the Romans as Fortuna. She is often portrayed holding a double-sided rudder that could steer mankind to good or bad luck. She also frequently holds a cornucopia (horn of plenty) to symbolize prosperity and is sometimes blindfolded to indicate that luck is a matter of "blind chance." In addition, Tyche occasionally sports wings to symbolize how good fortune might be fleeting. A ball, representative of the manner in which luck "rolls according to chance" is often associated with this Goddess. Tyche is said to teach the paradoxical message that life is essentially a game of dice, determined by chance, and that nothing is ever set in stone. No matter how certain an individual might be that something will happen, there is always an underlying element of chance, and it would be wise to expect the unexpected. Instead of submission to Fate, Tyche provides the encouragment for individuals to take things into their own hands, thus making their own destiny. In was in Tyche's temple that the first set of dice were dedicated by Palamedes, perhaps indicating the capriciousness of life and luck...and the fickle manner in which the fortunes of mortals are often decided.

"Luck affects everything;
Let your hook always be cast;
In the stream where you least expect it,
There will be a fish."
-- Ovid --

The lucky number for Aries is nine (also known as the Novena). It is a number which Aries shares with those individuals born under the Sign of Scorpio. Nine is one of the three mystical numbers (the others being three and five), representing society and completion as well as symbolizing mankind, philanthropy, charity, social issues and government. Nine is representative of universal love, giving and the brotherhood of man, as well as neighborhood, clubs, organizations, institutions and the common good. It is the completion of a cycle, symbolic of change and reform...the end prior to a new beginning. Nine is a number which is unbounded...the most Holy number, being the ultimate number which contains the forces of all other numbers. It lends itself to creative living and intuition. Being eternal within itself, nine leads back to the solitary root forces...the number one. It is the highest single digit and most interesting figure in numerology. It is the number of the circumference, represented by the two triangles which are a symbol of male-fire-mountain and female-water-cave principles. In geometry, this number represents the circle and, like the square, is 360 degrees, composed of four 90 degree angles (i.e., the completed cycle). Nine is also known in mathematics as the Third Three, being composed of the all-powerful 3x3. As such, it is the Triple Triad, a number which is incorruptible, symbolic of the immaculate expression of perfection, representative of completed creation and expansion of the family of manking. If nine is multiplied by itself or by any other digit, the two figures of the sum added equal nine. For example: 9x2=18 =1+8=9...or 9x9=81 =8+1=9. The Hebrews referred to the number nine as representing immutable truth and the Ennead (or nine-pointed star) is an ancient and sacred symbol, comprising three trinities. Nine is also the number of the mythic Lords of Time and represented the original Mayan galactic masters, thus being the magic number of the Maya civilization. In Buddhist tradition, nine is the supreme spiritual power...a celestial number. According to Greek mythology, Demeter walked the world for nine days in search of her daughter, Leto suffered the pangs of childbirth for nine days and nine nights, and the Nine Muses were the fruits of nine nights of Zeus' lovemaking. Thus, nine is associated with gestation and the fulfillment of creation. In Scandinavian lore, Odin hung for nine days and nights on the Yggdrasil in order to win the secrets of wisdom for humankind. There are also Nine Orders of Angels, Nine Rivers of Hell, Nine Gifts of the Spirit and Nine Points of the Law, as well as being the number of known astronomical planets. In the "I Ching," nine is the number of Yang. This number represents all things earthly and nocturnal.

In biblical numerology, nine is the Number of Judgment. There are nine Greek words derived from the root word dikay, meaning "judgment." The following words each occur nine times in the Bible: abussos (bottomless pit); asebee (ungodly); aselgeia (lasciviousness); and astrapee (lightning). The gifts of the spirit are nine in number: the words of wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles and prophecy; the discerning of spirits; tongues; and the interpretation of tongues.

Nine is masculine in nature and, when associated with Aries, resides in the First House of Self, governing outward behavior and self-interests. In numerous folktales, the number nine is repeated many times over to indicate infinity. In biblical associations, Abram was "ninety and nine years old" (symbolically reduced to a nine) when he received his covenant from God, together with his new name...Abraham. Nine is selflessness and compassion, encompassing a love for all. Jesus is said to have died at the ninth hour. Nine has connections with Mars, the ruling planet of Aries and former ruling planet of Scorpio (which is now governed by Pluto). The colors associated with the number nine are those in the rose, crimson and red families...any hue from the lightest to the darkest. Its peak tends to be the nighttime hours, with its natural element being fire and its associated gems being garnets, rubies and bloodstones.

The lucky color for Aries is crimson or deep red. Red is the color associated with Mars. It has a stimulating effect, but should be used with caution, otherwise it is irritating to the eye. If a person ever feels "off color," then he or she will find that they cannot bear to wear red. It also should not be worn when trying to patch up a quarrel or at any time when tact or compromise is required. However, if an individual is faced with a situation that demands courage and energy, the color red can act like a charm. By tradition, red symbolizes fire, blood, love and infatuation. Basically, it denotes strong emotions or things of strong emotions rather than intellectual ideas...excitement, speed, strength, danger, passion and aggression, for example. Red also represents life and vitality and is regarded as a sensual color, associated with humankind's most profound urges and impulses. During the daylight hours, red is the brightest of the colors, but it becomes less distinct in the twilight...its power does not spread to the quiet and soft nocturnal world. Red corresponds to the active triangular form and anything with a red surface appears sharp and dynamic.

Being the longest wavelength, red is a powerful color. Although not technically the most visible, it has the property of appearing to be nearer than it is and therefore, grabs the attention of an individual first. Hence, its effectiveness in traffic lights the world over. The effect of red tends to be physical (as opposed to blue, which is mental in nature). It stimulates and raises the pulse rate, giving the impression that time is passing faster than it actually is. Red relates to the masculine principle and can activate the "fight or flight" instinct. It is strong and very basic. Pure red is the simplest color, with no subtlety. It is lively and very friendly while at the same time, can be perceived as demanding and aggressive. In medicine, the effect upon patients of red-colored electric lamps is to stimulate, warm, excite and cheer. It also increases the activity of the arterial blood and provides energy. Red glass windows have much the same effect, as do red walls and wall decorations to a lesser degree. Red is the chief color in any herbs or medicines...such as cayenne, cloves or musk...possessing a heating and stimulating effect. In Christian worship, art, architecture and design, red signifies action, fire, charity and spiritual awakening. It also glorifies the sun and the joy of life and love. In Christian symbolism, red denotes the Holy Spirit and is the color of Pentecost. In heraldry, red is symbolic of bravery and courage. It is interesting to note that red cats are portents of bad luck...even for the Aries native.

Positive Qualities Of Red: Physical Courage - Strength - Warmth - Energy - Basic Survival - Stimulation - Masculinity - Excitement
Negative Qualities Of Red: Defiance - Aggression - Visual Impact - Strain

Aries individuals tend to prefer bold and bright colors which have assertive undertones. In addition to red, black is a particular favorite with its influence of power. The patterns of choice here are usually large and vivid blocks of color. Some Aries natives, however, may also be drawn to geometric designs. Those born under this Zodiac Sign tend to respond well to the cooling color of indigo, which aids in quelling their exuberant fires.

Other Favorable Colors: Pink - Orange - White - Yellow - Royal Blue - Navy Blue - Bright Brown - Variegated Colors
Unvavorable Colors: Green - Grey - Faded Colors

The lucky flower for Aries is the geranium, the common name for some members of the Geraniaceae, a family of herbs and small shrubs native to temperate and subtropical regions. Wild geraniums are often referred to as crane's-bill or heron's-bill, due to the shape of their fruit. Indoor geraniums and those found in florist shops are varieties of another group usually called stork's-bill. Geraniums are cultivated not only as an ornamental flower but alos for the aromatic oils extracted from their foliage and blossoms which are put to use in flavorings and perfumes. Its fragrance is similar to the scent of a rose, but less subtle. The name of this flower is derived from the Greek geranos, which means "crane."

The mystical powers of the geranium are said to be useful in matters of health, love and protection, as well as being a useful tool in banishing negativity and lifting the spirits. Regarded as a flower of remembrance, the upright blossoms of the geranium are said to indicate an upcoming reunion. This flower serves as a reminder to humankind that the past should be held in high regard, for all the personal missteps and failures, successes and triumphs, are part and parcel of the current individual make-up. Red geraniums in particular are considered to be especially protective, adding much strength to an individual's health. When residing in a pot near the cottage of a witch, these red blooms are believed to warn of approaching strangers by their very movements...the flowers becoming magically charged and pointing in the direction of the strangers. Pink geraniums have traditionally been used in love spells, while the white variety is said to increase fertility. In some areas of New England, it was once believed that snakes would not go near where wild geraniums were growing. It was also thought that a geranium in the window prevented flies from entering the house. The properties associated with this flower are believed make it appropriate for the skin...treatment of dermatitis or acne, for example,as well as to tone the tissue. It is also thought to be very effective in lymph drainage and for cellulite treatments. Geranium essence is an excellent emotional stimulant and a wonderful mood enhancer. To dream of a geranium symbolizes long-lasting beauty and enduring elegance. In the language of flowers, the oak-leafed geranium means friendship and the rose geranium means preference. The scented geranium also means preference, but in addition can indicate melancholy, stupidity or folly.

According to an old Moslem legend, the geranium was once a common mallow until Mohammed hung his shirt upon the plant one day in order for it to dry. When it was removed, the plant was covered with brightly-colored flowers which exuded a spicy aroma. A mallow no more, it was now a geranium.

The lucky gemstone of an individual is truly associated with the month of birth rather than the Sign under which a person was born. The original association of a special gem with each month was recorded in the Bible (Exodus 28 and 39). An original Breastplate of Aaron, High Priest of the Hebrews, was said to be made by Moses in 1250 BC, according to instructions he received during his forty days spent in the mountains. The twelve gems in the breastplate were later linked with the Signs of the Zodiac and later still, associated with the months in the year. What follows describes the breastplate of the High Priest:

It was square -- a span [22 centimetres] long and a span wide -- and folded double. Then they mounted four rows of precious stones on it. In the first row there was a ruby, a topaz and a beryl; in the second row a turquoise, a sapphire and an emerald; in the third row a jacinth, an agate and an amethyst; in the fourth row a chrysolite, an onyx and a jasper. They were mounted in gold filigree settings. There were twelve stones, one for each of the names of the sons of Israel, each engraved like a seal with the name of one of the twelve tribes.
(Old Testament, New International Version, Exodus, Chapter 39, vs. 9-14)

The precise identification of some of these precious stones is uncertain. For example, in the same passage of the Revised Standard Version of Exodus, diamonds, sardius, and carbuncle (an alternative name for the garnet) are also included in the list of twelve biblically significant gemstones. It should also be kept in mind that aquamarines and emeralds are forms of beryl, while sardonyx is a form of onyx, and jacinth and chrysolite are also known respectively as zircon and peridot.

The lucky gem for Aries individuals born in March is the bloodstone. They share this fortunate yet inexpensive earth stone with those Pisces individuals who were also born during the same month. It is in the chalcedony family of stones and is sometimes known as the heliotrope, which is derived from two Greek words meaning "sun-turning" and refers to the belief that the stone, when immersed in water, would change the image of the sun to blood-red. Chalcedony is a variety of quartz, which occurs in massive formations, and was named for the ancient town of Chalcedon in Turkey. The Bible mentions that the third foundation of the wall of the Holy City was constructed from this mineral. A magnificent example of carved bloodstone with the seal of the German Emperior, Rudolf II, may be seen at the Louvre Museum in Paris

The bloodstone, an opaque green jewel with flecks of red (resulting from iron oxides), has been called the Stone of Courage, Vitality and Iron-Clad Strength, aiding an individual to focus on the energy of the heart. It is also sometimes referred to as the Stone of the Warrier or the Gem of the Martyr. The bloodstone is believed to assist in the overcoming of stress and anxiety, while revitalizing love and friendships. In addition, it is credited with the ability to bulldoze obstacles out of an individual's path, while bringing honesty and integrity to relationships. It is also thought to renew love and heal wounds, tempering strength with compassion. In Roman times, the the soldiers ascribed to the bloodstone the ability to stop the bleeding of wounds, either by direct contact with the stone or by the application of the powdered form...the modern explanation for this curative belief is based upon the presence of iron oxide, an astringent used today in surgery. Such widely separated races as the Arabs and the aborigines of North America often preferred the bloodstone cut in the shape of a heart to ward off the evil eye. Indeed, in ancient times few houses were so poor as not to own a bloodstone for its curative and protective abilities.

During the Middle Ages, this gem was attributed special powers since the spots on its surface were considered to be the blood of Jesus Christ. Indeed, the legend of its origin states that it was originally formed when drops of the Messiah's blood, drawn by the spear thrust into his side by a Roman soldier, fell and stained some dark green jasper laying at the foot of the cross. Of some associated interest is the fact that in the French Royal Collection (located in Paris) there resides a bust of Jesus Christ carved from bloodstone and so executed that the red spots of the stone most realistically resemble drops of blood. Medieval Christians often used this stone to carve scenes of the crucifixion, as well as using it to create sculptures representing flagellation and martyrdom. For some unrecorded reason, the bloodstone was also held in high reverence by cattle breeders during this time. In addition, gardeners believed that it protected them from the bites of poisonous insects of serpents. The ancients employed this jewel to facilitate admittance into the realms of the ancestors, thereby opening communications with those who had previously walked the path of life. The Egyptians and Babylonians would use this stone extensively for seals. The bloodstone is said to be particularly effective in the assistance of an easy labor, resulting in the safe delivery of newborn babies. This gem is thought to be a prosperity stone, helping to manifest wealth, as well as providing courage and physical vitality. When worn, the bloodstone is believed to increase an individual's life span and can be used to create the illusion of invisibility...in the form of not attracting personal attention. Today, the bloodstone is chiefly used in signet rings (often bearing crests or monograms) and for ornamental items.

The lucky gem for Aries individuals born in April is the diamond. They share this fortunate jewel with those Taurus individuals who were also born during the same month. The diamond, a sparkling precious stone, white or blue in color, is sometimes referred to as the King of Crystals (or King Stone) and Stone of Invulnerability. Traditionally, this jewel is the symbol of purity and innocence, considered to be most lucky when worn on the left side of the body. The hardest of all precious gems (and the hardest substance known in nature), it is a crystalline form of carbon. The word diamond is derived from adamas, which is Greek in origin and means "indomitable" or "unconquerable," suggesting the eternity of love. It represents strength, virtue, bravery, fearlessness, invincibility and insight, bestowing these fine attributes upon its wearers. The Hebrews believed that the diamond lost its sparkle if touched or worn by a traitor and in ancient times, it was thought to drive away the Devil. The Hindus once held the belief that a flawed diamond (or one containing spots or specks) was so unlucky that it could deprive the God Inda of his highest heaven. The first river-bed (alluvial) diamonds were thought to have been discovered around 800 B.C.

The diamond is considered to be the greatest of all gem stones, revered throughout the ages not only for its great beauty and strength, but also for its powerful positive spiritual and physical influences. This stone is said to enhance the wearer with charm and beauty. Physically, it is believed to strengthen the kidneys and reproductive organs and afford protection against severe disease. The Ancient Romans believed that the diamond, when worn on the left side next to the skin, endowed bravery and daring to the the wearer. During the Middle Ages Queen Elizabeth I was made a gift of a diamond to ward off the plague and Napoleon carried a sword with a diamond in the hilt to assure victory in battle. Antiquated writings tell of a diamond which hung about the neck of Abraham which could cure the illness of any man who gazed upon it, and it is said that when Abraham died, the Lord sealed the gem within the Sun. Even today, the diamond engagement ring remains the accepted token of promised love and loyalty. It is thought this tradition may have begun in 1477 when Maximilian I of Austria presented a diamond ring to Mary, daughter of the Duke of Burgundy, as a betrothal gift. To dream of diamonds was once thought to be a sure sign of success, wealth and happiness.

A history of tragedy and misfortune has often accompanied the more highly-prized examples of the diamond. Stones such as the Hope Diamond were so unfortunate and brought such ill-luck that the very mention of its name once struck terror into peoples' hearts. However, the gem itself is not unlucky...the bad luck being mainly brought about by the greed and lust with which humankind has fought, thieved and connived in order to obtain such great wealth. Indeed, legend states that a diamond purchased out of greed, or one that is stolen or won from another, will not bring good luck to the wearer. A diamond given as a gift or which is representative as a token of trust and affection between sweethearts can never bring ill-luck. According to lore, the diamond came into existence when the God of Mines called together all his noblemen and instructed them to bring him one of every variety and color of gemstone in existence. Once he had received the collection, he crushed them, forming one magnificent jewel of rare beauty, purity and indestructibility...the diamond. The diamond is the traditional gem for the 10th, 30th and 60th Wedding Anniversaries. It is also known as the Winter Gemstone.

The lucky day for those who fall under the jurisdiction of Aries is Tuesday. The origin of this day derives from Norse Mythology and Tiw or Tyr, God of War. When the Germanic Angles and Saxons invaded England in the 500s, they suplanted a culture that had been heavily influenced by Rome for several hundred years. At that time, Tuesday had already been named for the Roman God of War, Martius. In the French, Italian, and Spanish languages, the word for Tuesday is still derivative of this Roman God...Mardi, Martedi and Martes, respectively. However, when the Germanic tribes conquered England, they laid their own lexicon over that of the Romans. Thus, the Norse/Saxon God of War, Courage and the Sword now took precedence over the Roman God of War and the day was renamed Tiwesdaeg in honor of this Nordic God.

The Saxons believed that the Norse Gods of Scandinavia lived in a type of heaven known as Asgard. The King of these Gods was named Woden or Odin and he had a built in Asgard a great hall called Valhalla. It was to Valhalla that all the dead heroes were carried by the beautiful Valkyries, who rode winged horses. Tiw was a son of Woden and helped his father to choose which heroes would go to Valhalla. A wise and magnificent warrior himself, Tiw spent most of his time engaging in great battles. According to legend, Tiw fought the fierce wolf called Fenris. He managed to bind the evil creature but in the process, had his hand bitten off by the vicious fangs of the beast. Saxon warriors strove to be like Tiw...to fight on toward victory even though they might be tired, hungry or wounded. To endure hardship in pursuit of triumph was to be remembered in songs around the feast table. During a time when there was no media and little writing, to be celebrated in song was to be a famed celebrity.

Fat Tuesday is the designation generally given to the day just prior to the beginning of Lent. Lent is a forty day period of fasting for many Christians and it always begins on a certain Wedensday prior to Easter. As the day before...always a Tuesday...is the last chance for revelry and also the last chance to use up perishables such as butter, lard and other fats, that day has become known as Mardi Gras, which is French for Fat Tuesday. The celebration of Mardi Gras is probably most famous for its associations with New Orleans, capital of the State of Louisiana in America. In the British Isles, Fat Tuesday is known as Shrove Tuesday, but commemorates the same festival. Also referred to as Pancake Day, one of the best known customs of Shrove Tuesday is that of the Pancake Race at Olney in Buckinghamshire, where it has been held since 1445. This race came into existence when a woman cooking pancakes heard the shriving bell summoning her to confession, whereupon she ran to church wearing her apron and still holding her frying pan. Thus, without knowing it, she began a tradition that has lasted for over 500 years. According to current rules, only women may participate in the race. Each contestant must wear a dress (no slacks or jeans allowed), an apron and a hat or scarf. She must also carry a frying pan containing a hot, cooking pancake, which must be tossed three times during the race. The starting point is the market square and the course winds for 375 meters before ending at the church. The first woman to arrive must serve her pancake to the bellringer and receive a kiss in return. The winner is also awarded a prayer book from the vicar. According to an ancient rhyme, Tuesday's child is full of grace.

FLOWERS/HERBS: Allspice, Cactus, Dragon's Blood, Pepper, Betony, Blackberry, Bramble, Cowslip, Garlic, Gorse,
Hops, Lichen, Lupine, Mustard, Nasturium, Nettles, Onion, Radish,
Rosemary, Thistle, Thyme, Wake-Robin, Wild Rose and Woodbine
OILS: Black Pepper, Cloves, Frankincense, Ginger, Pennyroyal, Pine, Basil and Cinnamon
GEMSTONES: Ruby, Garnet, Amethyst and Topaz
ANIMALS: Ram, Tiger, Leopard and Stallion
TREES: Holly, Thorn and Chestnut
BIRDS: Magpie, Robin and Vulture
METAL: Iron