WIGHTS | First Church of Druwayu

WIGHTS; LIVING ONES

The term wight originally denoted a living being, derived from the root wi- or vi-, meaning "life." It was synonymous with "creature" or "entity," referring to a specific being. Over time, it's meaning narrowed to describe spiritual or semi-spiritual beings, with varied representations across cultures. These representations fall into three primary categories, rooted in ancient traditions and supported by artifacts.

Geometric Shapes and Symbols: These abstract forms, often combinations of shapes or symbols, served as beacons or calls to attract specific wights. They were typically associated with formless entities that manifested through natural forces or environmental features, exerting influence without a tangible presence.
Icons, Objects, or Carved Images: Wights could be linked to physical objects, ranging from crafted figures to natural items like stones or human-made artifacts such as jewelry, tools, weapons, or musical instruments. These objects were seen as conduits or dwellings for wights, enabling them to exert influence—positive or negative—based on their nature and mood.
Costumes and Masks: A person wearing a mask or costume representing a wight invited its presence, blending the concepts of symbols and objects. The wight might possess the wearer or use them as a medium during rituals, dances, or performances, which later evolved into theater and modern storytelling. Tests were conducted to verify authentic possession, ensuring the intended wight, not a deceptive or malevolent entity, was present. Signs of genuine possession included sudden spikes in body temperature or electrostatic-like surges causing trembling.

Authentic possession was believed to require a healthy, robust host, as two souls sharing a body could "burn out" the host, leading to death. Wights were thought to grant hosts unnatural strength or abilities, but malevolent wights might attempt to displace the host’s soul to seize the body. If not expelled within days, the host’s soul could become a lost, wandering spirit, potentially turning malevolent.

Cultural interpretations assigned specific roles to these categories, often tied to their perceived proximity to a supreme deity. However, many sources, influenced by later biases, misclassified all non-divine entities—including human ghosts—as demons, falsely labeling them as evil.

The concept of angels as winged humanoids often surprises people, as it stems from depictions of lesser deities rather than divine messengers. These deities also had their own hierarchies of servants, including animals, natural forces, or chosen humans, acting as their agents or intermediaries.

Variations of spelling:

Wuht, wihht, wyt, wighte, wighȝt, wiȝt(e), wiȝth, weiht, weiha, wīh, wekti, whight, wigt, wīha, wīhaz, wēoh, wai, wa, wae, viht, vihta, vigt, veiht, vae, vaetr, vé, véttr, vaettr, vekti, vätte, vætte, vette, fā, fae, fey, fay, faer, feria, faet, and fata to name just a few.

Other Related Terms

The Vættr: Vættr (pl. Vættir) are believed to have a significant impact on the natural world and are often associated with specific locations such as mountains, forests, and bodies of water, though not all are specifically reserved to just nature but also various other influences or functions, many times associated with death.
- The term Vættir is a collective term used to describe a wide range of supernatural beings just as is Wight and Fairy. In this case its clearly based in Latin vi pronounced "v-eye" derived from as in vitae (vital/vitality) having the same base meaning of "life/alive" connected with an Icelandic based singular or plural suffix
The Fairy: Fairy (pl. Fairies) has a strange development behind its namesake. It's first base meaning from Latin is fari meaning "announce/decree." It likely that later or during the development of the concepts it also related to the word "fair" from Vulgar Latin feria meaning "pleasing/enjoyable."
- A third influence is of course fae which is akin to vae from Latin vi pronounced "v-eye" derived from as in vitae (vital/vitality) having the same base meaning of "life/alive" combined with with ery (from ergi/urge) 'work' as "life worker" ery/erg/ergi/urge is also the same source as eerie that came to take on the sense of "caution/timidness/disturbing."

Most likely it was derived from source of "fair" meaning "pleasing/enjoyable" and pronounced as fair-ee-uh. The alternative combination is fae as the alternative of vae and wae (life) akin to Vulgar Latin vi pronounced "v-eye" as in vital having the same base meaning, combined with ery (from ergi/urge) 'work' as "life worker which would then hold its link to the associated sense of fate as the word fate is derived from Vulgar Latin fari meaning figuratively "to speak" in the sense of announce. It should be noted that ery/erg/ergi/urge is also the same source as eerie that came to take on the sense of "timidness/disturbing" as something being a sensed but otherwise unseen presence.

Once again the connection here is specifically with Wihas "life having" in the sense of the omnipresent life force and essence. This can then be expressed into the concept of the Wheel of Being which represents the diverse expressions (patters) of this essence from which all beings and things are made and return back to in their own ways and time even when we do not entirely comprehend the basis of such things. While some may object to this and claim it is "silly magical thinking and entirely unscientific" the fact is all sciences themselves came from and still retain elements of magical thinking even if most fail to recognize it.

THE WHEEL OF BEING AND WIGHTS

The framework described here posits that all existence originates from the One and Three, transitioning from Pure Energy (PE) to Pure Matter (PM), which combines to form Living Matter (LM)—biological life. Upon death, LM releases Living Energy (LE), often called a ghost, which retains memory, personality, and awareness as a distinct entity. This cycle, termed the Wight Wheel, reflects four spiritual states and processes, all contingent on the One and Three and specifically the Drikeyu.

Core Concepts

Pure Energy (PE): PE is the uncaused, indestructible life force—eternal and formless, unable to act without a directive cause. It manifests through patterns and expressions but cannot be directly known, only observed through its effects.
Pure Matter (PM): PM encompasses all physical substances—particles, atoms, and elemental forms like plasma, gas, liquid, and solid (or symbolically, fire, wind, water, stone). It includes organic compounds and forms the basis of observable, objective phenomena.
Living Matter (LM): LM is biological life, a fusion of PE (the "spark" of life) and PM (the physical body). The mind, shaped by bodily experiences, develops consciousness, personality, and intelligence. LM represents the tangible, living forms most readily understood.
Living Energy (LE): LE, or the ghost, is the conscious entity released at death, retaining the individual’s memories, personality, and awareness. Composed of a less dense "spirit body," LE resembles PE but remains individualized. It may influence the physical world, interact with the living, or reenter the cycle through rebirth.

Implications of Living Energy (LE)

LE entities, or ghosts, exist as dynamic patterns of energy, akin to neurological structures retaining information. They may appear formless or shapeshift into recognizable forms, aligning with folklore describing ghosts as dreamlike or communicative in dreams.
LE can influence the physical environment by absorbing and redirecting energy, affecting electrical impulses in living beings’ nervous systems for benign or malignant purposes. This explains cross-cultural beliefs in ghosts and disembodied entities, as well as associated phenomena like apparitions or poltergeist activity.
LE also suggests an afterlife where ghosts persist as aware entities, potentially evolving into semi-physical or non-physical states. Rebirth is possible if the entity reenters the cycle, provided its lineage or species persists. Notably, not all LE entities originate from biological life; some may emerge directly as formless intelligences, imperceptible to human senses (e.g., outside visible light spectrums). These non-biological entities, distinct from ghosts, may lack structure and appear as hazy masses of force or energy.

This does not conflict with the concepts presented within the context of the True Sacred Geometry because this is a continuation of the cyclical processes through which the One and Three are expressed just as it is not in conflict with the Drikeyu. That is because the Wihas is what is called in this case as Pure Energy. The Process of the cycles is the expression of the dynamics of the Wyrda. The initiating governing rulers is therefore the Worloga. That is why these diverse connections are complimentary, intertwined and form the foundations of Drikeyu and the culture and traditions of Druans; including those that don't even know about this and yet will inevitably be drawn to such things.

Nature of Wights

To get right to the point, because Wight can be used for both a living being and the immortal essence of the living being becoming more or less a ghost as the continued existence of the individua's sense of self or beingness, their natures are wide ranging and include a myriad of concepts. Though the sense of pantheon is not necessary a proper term in this context, in a general sense it can be said the various families or orders of Wights naturally varies from community to community and region to region ad well as language to language. How well known such may have been at one point or another, without any actual concrete and clear written records preserved, such is more or less hypothetical or speculative at best. That said, we can isolate 13 of the most common qualities associated with them.

They are not divine in the sense of being transcendent and omnipotent.
Like any living thing, they can sometimes make mistakes and behave badly.
In essence, they are not different from human beings or nature but part of nature like us.
They exist as within the universe we do, and not distinct from it.
Some can be equal to humans, more primal like wild animals, lack any awareness or be more advanced in their intelligence and awareness, but not absolute.
Some may prefer to interact with humans, some avoid humans and others not care one way or the other if we exist or if we do not.
They can be considered as making up the diverse living forces that inhabit any living beings including humans.
Some can be distinct beings themselves developing more directly from the forces of nature and the universe.
They can be expressed or be the forces of nature and the various features of the environments anywhere within, on or beyond this world.
They can also be the minds and memories of animal and human beings who became Wights after their deaths but still present to a certain point.
They can even be formed from the collective thoughts, emotions and urges of beings like humans till they become their own composite and self aware entity, often called an elemental more or less but have a more temporary existence as ‘spirits of places.’
The most commonly believed or accepted means by which such self-aware Wights may communicate with people is the through the sensations they get in the environment, whether a sense of comfort or unease, or through vivid dreams rather than the more random ones everyone has.
Dreams that seem to repeat or occur more than once or continue like a story being told that you do not quickly forget are considered such self aware Wights either warning you, teaching you or reminding you of something important but that can only truly be sorted out by the one experiencing such because it always tends to be very personal in nature.

Another factor is though they are not worshiped in the usual sense of the word as it has come to be applied in place of other terms, each is viewed as a powerful being who, if given proper respect, can use his or her particular power for human good, bringing rainfall, healing, fertility, or protection, and if disrespected take those gifts away and simply allow misfortune to fall upon such people without having to directly cause such.

This does not mean it is thought they cannot directly lash out, though it is generally considered one has to do something particularly bad to evoke their wrath. This is also evident in the fact that many concepts surrounding Wights, even by some other name or term in some other culture or language, regard all the different names for such beings among different people and nations are just different ways of talking about and expressing the same thing. It should be no surprise then that cross culturally we often find three common connections in diverse customs and folklore.

The Wight as a being, with its own traits of personality and overall character.
The Wight represented by a dancer who represents and becomes a medium of the Wight
The Wight image/idol/doll that becomes the representation and the home of the Wight.

The Essence of Existence and Wights as Representatives

Wights, in an animistic sense, embody the life essence that flows through all existence—ancestors, animals (including family pets), natural forces, landscapes, celestial phenomena, and even intelligent entities that have never taken physical form. Unlike deities, wights are not usually "worshiped" in the common sense, however, they are honored as the enduring essence of beings, from individual ancestors to revered rulers, recognized according to their cultural significance. Every living being inherently possesses this essence and is considered a wight, both in life and after death, deserving respect regardless of familial ties.

Spiritual Abilities and Influence

Some traditions suggest that wights exert influence over their surroundings, though accessing these abilities is often dangerous or limited. Certain individuals are believed to possess innate spiritual gifts, forming the basis for concepts like spiritual powers or abilities.

Upon death, wights may become localized presences, tied to specific places and operating within the constraints of the Drikeyu—the cosmic framework that governs all existence. Just like humans, wights exhibit both positive and negative tendencies, making them capable of being helpful or harmful. Respecting their presence—or leaving them undisturbed—is essential to avoiding hostility.

Abstract and Ineffable Wights

Some wights represent abstract concepts that defy precise definition or translation between languages. While their presence may be intuitively understood, they often resist articulation, leading to personal comprehension that lacks explicit description. Critics argue that this broad definition allows anything to be considered a wight, but this inclusivity reflects a holistic view of existence, embracing the interconnectedness of all things rather than imposing rigid classifications. In addition, the same "critics" will often describe such things in ways shared by other distinct culture while trying to force an isolationist mentality which is conflicting and hypocritical, and more often than not, some sort of "anti-other" personal defect.

Exploration of the Drikeyu: The Cosmic Framework of Existence

The Drikeyu represents the natural order or cosmic framework that governs the existence and interactions of all entities, including wights. Though not fully defined in previous texts, it can be understood as a metaphysical structure that establishes the boundaries and possibilities within which wights operate. It ensures that their influence remains aligned with the broader balance of reality.

Cosmic Order and Harmony

The Drikeyu functions as the fundamental principle that maintains harmony between the physical and spiritual realms. It prevents chaos or unchecked influence by establishing natural limits for all entities.

For example:

A wight tied to a river may influence its flow and surrounding ecosystem, but it cannot disrupt the broader balance of nature.
A mountain wight may affect local weather, yet it remains subject to environmental cycles beyond its own power.

These interconnected forces ensure that wights exist within the structure of reality rather than above it.

Interconnectedness of Existence

The Drikeyu reflects animistic beliefs—that all things, living and non-living, are interwoven within a greater cosmic system.

Wights are expressions of life essence, operating within the Drikeyu’s order.
Their actions, whether beneficial or harmful, are shaped by their relationship to the world, other beings, and the One and Three—the ultimate source of existence.

Everything is connected through this framework, ensuring that no entity exists in isolation.

Moral and Practical Implications

Respect for wights is essential, as violations of the Drikeyu may disrupt balance:

Provoking wights through disrespect or ignorance could result in spiritual or environmental disturbances.
The Drikeyu imposes ethical guidelines, encouraging reverence for nature, ancestors, and unseen forces.
Maintaining balance ensures harmony, both physically and spiritually.

1. Animistic Essence

Wights embody the life force present in ancestors, animals, natural elements, landscapes, celestial bodies, and non-physical entities. They are not deities but vital presences within existence. They can also represent the spiritual essence of natural phenomena, ancestors, and abstract forces. Though not always gods, they possess awe-inspiring or sacred qualities.

2. Localized Influence

Wights may become tied to specific places (forests, rivers, mountains) and exert influence within the Drikeyu, requiring respect to avoid hostility. Some are considered to reside in sacred locations (shrines, trees, stones), influencing their surroundings. Rituals and offerings are performed to ensure harmony and prevent misfortune.

3. Positive & Negative Potential

Wights reflect human-like duality, capable of being helpful or harmful depending on treatment while others are simply more prone to hostility towards others, including humans. Many are considered able to bestow blessings (protection, prosperity) or curses (disasters, illness) based on human actions such as neglect or disrespect. They also adapt independently as well as along side human culture as a sort of evolution of their own.

Differences

For the most part, the apparent differences are only superficial as far as the specific cultural developments over time and their various independent formation of concepts and shared cross cultural contributions, yet are mentioned for clarification within regards to cultural perceptions.

1. Cosmological Framework

Wights exist within the Drikeyu, which governs all entities equally, ensuring balance between cosmic laws, dynamics, and essence. They are subject to the same order as humans, animals, and natural forces, rather than being outside or above it.

2. Cultural Expression

Wights are expressed across cultures with diverse linguistic and artistic representations, but they all share the same animistic foundation. Many try applying or giving them a formalized structure that wights do not necessarily follow. It was also part of related cultures the basic belief that it is important for humans to cultivate good relationships with them, since they had power over the natural forces of particular locations and animals under their care in those locations, and could cause both good and bad results and otherwise help or harm humans who interfered with the places and creatures under their watch.

3. Role of Ancestors

Wights encompass individual ancestors, rulers, and cultural figures, continuing their life essence beyond death. All beings inherently possess this essence, making honoring of ancestor central in wight traditions that can include focus extending beyond human ancestry to broader divine forces. This includes, but not limited to, those considered to be "holy or hallowed ones, and such holiness did not come from some sense of perfection but for the efforts they made or make in bringing peace, health and overall well being for all people and the world in which we exist.

4. Abstract Concepts

Wights explicitly include ineffable, abstract forms that resist precise articulation, reflecting philosophical recognition of existence beyond language.
While they can also embody spiritual forces or influences some, but not all, are often considered connected to physical manifestations such as natural things as stones and locations to human crafted objects or structures, being less abstract and more concrete in concept.
This means they are an expression of a far more diverse fluid spiritual hierarchy, though one can argue the mundane concept of a hierarchy can also be misleading or over emphasized.

When Wights also Include the concept of Ghosts

The most common symbol associated with the ghost is that of the five-pointed star pattern and the strs of the night sky associated with the ancestors. This basic concept is also the basis behind the proper meaning and position of such 'pentagrams' and pentacles (pentagram in a circle).

The upright is the most common one representing ascension to the sky after death, while the inverted actually represented birth or incarnation. This is also based on the observation that in most cases when someone dies, they are more often face up to the sky, while during the birthing process, the head is pointed downward. This also is the basis behind the star as an abstract symbol of the individual with the points, including the center, expressing aspects of the individual.

The Six Aspects (Technically 12) of the Ghost

The concept of the ghost body acknowledges the continuation of existence beyond the physical, extending beyond the common "five souls" model by recognizing the center, making six core aspects, plus the flesh body in life and the ghost body in the afterlife, totaling seven. These aspects define an entity’s individuality and presence, both in life and beyond:

Mind & Memories – The cognitive repository of experience.
Individual Personality & Self – The unique traits that define identity.
Will & Temperament – The guiding force behind intention and action.
Name & Identity – The symbolic representation of existence.
Feelings & Emotions – The essence of bonds and connection.
Vitality & Life Essence – The core energy that sustains being.

The Spiritual Body & Its Representation

The spiritual body is often depicted as a shadow or image, reflecting the shape and presence of the individual. In modern terms, one may consider defining at least some of them as electro-magnetic wave patterns. Many cultures created figurines or statues as vessels for souls, serving as abodes for wights and spirits. Damaging these figures required ritual repairs or replacements, ensuring the soul’s transition, while destruction or removal of names banished the ghost, leading to a "second death."

Treating Spirits with Respect

Ghosts, much like the living, should be treated with dignity. Rather than assuming all ghosts are bound to locations, consider:

Many spirits choose to appear at different places.
Some remain curious about the living world, observing changes.
A few may be territorial, but this mirrors human behavior.
Encounters should be approached with reverence, not provocation.

Yes, they have distinctly male or female genders

Contrary to later theological claims that spiritual entities are androgynous or genderless “pure intellects,” ancient texts and traditions consistently depict them as possessing distinct biological and gendered traits. These entities—commonly referred to as wights—are not abstract ideals but living essences with functional attributes, appearances, and roles that mirror the diversity found across species. How one chooses to engage or honor these entities is a personal matter, but any framework that denies their structural diversity is not historically accurate—it is ideological revision. Wights are not to be equated as mere ideas. They are entities and the essences of entities. Our "feelings" about such are irrelevant. We can, as shown in the section on deities, brake these down to five primary expressions:

Genderless
Male
Female
Asexual
Hermaphrodite.

Entities associated with the ability to swap gender are considered a form of hermaphrodite while a genderless being is often represented as able to assume the forms or likenesses of the other four classifications. It must also be understood these are not more than two base genders of male or female and the genderless, but rather a spectrum of forms suited to their particular contributions within the ecology and dynamics of life and spiritual realities. Wights are not uniform—they are species-level diverse, and their gendered or non-gendered states are part of their natures that parallel physical or biological counterparts.

Sexual Orientation (Only 3)

In addition one cannot confuse these forms with the only three actual sexual orientations of the heterosexual which means sexual drives and reproductive urges with those of the opposite gender of their own and produces, homosexual urges which means sexual drives direct to those of the same gender which produces no offspring, and the bisexual meaning sexual urges directed towards both the same and opposite gender that still only procreates with the opposite gender but is factually impossible for those of the same genders.