Gnome Meaning as Earth Elementals

This post on Gnome meaning is the second in a series of four discussions on elementals and their symbolic meanings.

In the symbolic realm of elementals, there are four clans who rule the realms of nature.

Gnomes are the clan of earth elementals , (Undines = Water, Sylphs = Air and Salamanders = Fire).

Here are a few bits about Gnomes:

• The word Gnome comes from the Latin word gnoma which means "Knowledge"
• The term Gnome is also derived from Latin genomus which means "Earth-dweller"
• Gnomes correspond with the earth and all of its aspects
• They are associated with the direction North

Common modern mind-sets are tempted to snicker at the prospect of Gnomes, but this is ill-advised. Their purpose is serious (although their humor is bright), whose power is in their numbers.

Ancient legend indicates armies of Gnomes insure the stability of Earth. As their name suggests, Gnomes are the ones with the power knowledge of the Earth. As such, ancient mystics called upon Gnomes as an invocation of the properties of Earth in ritual.

Gnome meaning in mythology can be linked to Geb, the Egyptian Earth god, as well as Kubera from India who is a hoarder of precious metals, dazzling diamonds, and other sparkly bits nestled in the folds of Earth.

Think Gnomes are just fluff and fable? Think again. The concept of, and the name Gnome was coined by Paracelsus, a no-nonsense (and highly respected) physician. He was also a genius in the arena of alchemy and astrology.

Gnomes have been likened to goblins, fairies and elves, but to lump these all together as "same" would be missing all the glorious devils in details.

Gnomes are symbols of the Earth. As such, they encourage stability, grounding and offer a rooting quality to our experience. They are not without their wiles. Part of the levity that comes from these little dudes comes from an innate livelinessthey imbue. They love their Mother (Earth), and are in-turn, loved back by her.

In fact, legend indicates they are dastardly in conniving tricks on those who would fool with their "Mother, Nature (of course). Translation: Gnomes have zero-tolerance for Earth rape.

If you enjoyed this page on Gnome meaning, check out the other elemental clans:

• Sylphs: Air Elementals
• Undine: Water Elementals
• Salamanders: Fire Elementals

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