The Witch's and Druids Den

“Let me tell you about a secret most don’t know,” the druid began, his voice dropping to a soft tone as the fire crackled beside him. The flickering light danced across his face, casting shadows on his weathered features. He leaned in a little closer, eyes sparkling with the weight of the story about to unfold.
“There’s an ancient energy beneath our feet,” he continued, “a current that runs deep through the Earth. It’s not something most people think about, but it’s there, flowing quietly like a hidden river, powerful and constant.”
He paused, letting the words settle into the air before going on. “And the ones who guard that energy? The Gnomes. They’re the keepers of these telluric currents, small beings you’ve probably heard of, but not in the way I’m about to explain. They are the quiet, unseen guardians of the Earth’s heartbeat, the ones who channel and protect this flow, ensuring balance and harmony in the land. While the wind howls through the trees and the rivers rush downstream, it’s the Gnomes who tend to the Earth’s inner energy, guiding it, keeping it steady.”
The druid leaned back, his gaze focused on the crackling fire, as though seeing beyond the flames to a deeper truth. “Most don’t realize it, but when we walk on the land, we’re walking on that current. We feel it pulse beneath our feet, a connection that ties us to the very heart of the Earth. And when we take the time to honor that energy, when we connect with the land and its life, we’re tapping into the work of the Gnomes, whether we realize it or not.”
A knowing smile tugged at the corners of his mouth as he looked back at the gathered listeners. “It’s an ancient magic, one that’s always been here, waiting for us to remember.”

---

The word gnome comes from the modern Latin term gnomus (Possibly coming from the Gnarus meaning “Knowing or Expert” speculated to be a compound of the Greek gê, “earth” and nomós, “dwelling” ), first introduced by the 16th-century Swiss physician and alchemist Paracelsus in his work Liber de Nymphis, Sylvanis, Pygmaeis et Salamandris et de caeteris Spiritibus (The Book of Nymphs, Sylphs, Pygmies, Salamanders, and Other Spirits). Paracelsus described gnomes as elemental beings of the Earth, responsible for guarding its treasures and navigating through its depths. While Paracelsus popularized the term, it’s unclear whether he invented the word entirely or adapted it from older traditions. The concept of gnome-like beings predates his writings, as similar creatures are found in various folklore, though they were referred to by other names.

Let’s take a journey into the parallels of how different cultures brought these earthy friends to life. Now, the beings we’re about to explore aren’t exactly like the gnomes we think of today, but you can see how their stories have helped shape what we know and love about them. Some of you might say, “Wait, isn’t there a difference between a gnome and a dwarf, or a gnome and an alux?” And you’d be right—there are distinctions! But I’m not here to decide what’s the same or different. That’s for you to ponder. What I’m doing is exploring the similarities between spirits that share the same earthy, grounding energy as the gnomes we know today. These beings may come from different cultures, but their themes and roles often overlap. Sometimes, it’s like looking at the same figure through a different lens, with each culture highlighting unique traits and stories. So, let’s dig in and see how these spirited guardians connect us to the Earth in their own special ways.

In German folklore, people tell stories about the Erdmännchen—“little men of the earth.” These tiny, magical beings live deep underground, guarding hidden treasures of gold and gemstones. They’re known for their ability to shapeshift, slipping through the natural world unseen. Even though they keep to themselves, they aren’t dangerous. Instead, they’re a reminder of the earth’s mysteries and the wonders hidden beneath our feet. In Scandinavia, the Nisse (in Denmark) and Tomte (in Sweden) are beloved little guardians of homes and farms. These bearded, gnome-like figures bring good luck to those who treat them well. But be careful—they can be a bit mischievous if ignored or disrespected! With their classic pointy hats and hardworking nature, they remind us to appreciate those who quietly help us along the way. Up in the Swiss Alps, people speak of small mountain spirits who protect the land and its hidden treasures. They are said to live among the peaks, watching over nature and keeping everything in balance. Their stories reflect the deep respect the Swiss have for their beautiful mountains. In Britain, the Brownie is a helpful little creature that takes care of household chores—so long as it’s treated with kindness. These shy but hardworking beings prefer to work at night when no one is watching. A warm meal or a small gift is a perfect way to thank them, but if offended, they’ll disappear. Brownies remind us that even unseen help makes a big difference. The Kabeiroi (or Cabeiri) of ancient Greece are mysterious spirits linked to fire, metalworking, and protection. While more like deities than gnomes, they are sometimes imagined as small, dwarf-like figures guarding hidden treasures beneath the earth. They were honored in sacred places like Samothrace and Lemnos, reminding people of the power and secrets of the earth. The Lares and Penates were Roman household spirits who watched over families and homes. While their focus was more on protection than on nature, their role as unseen helpers make them similar to gnome-like beings. Romans often left them offerings, showing how much they valued these quiet guardians. In Gaulish and Gallo-Roman tradition, the Genii Cucullati were mysterious hooded spirits often seen near springs or alongside snakes. Like gnomes, they are linked to the earth and its hidden powers. They watch over sacred spaces, treasures, and people, appearing as faceless figures cloaked in mystery. Their presence reminds us to respect both the seen and unseen parts of the world. The Aos Sí of Irish folklore, known as the “People of the Mounds,” are supernatural beings who live in underground hills and are deeply connected to nature. They guard hidden treasures and sacred places. Like gnomes, they can be kind or tricky, depending on how they’re treated. Honoring them is a way to stay in harmony with the land. In Wales, the Tylwyth Teg, or “Fair Folk,” are beautiful and mysterious beings who live near hills, forests, and streams. They are more ethereal than gnomes, but their connection to the land and their sometimes mischievous ways make them similar. Their stories remind us of the bond between people and nature and the need to respect the spirits of the land. Cornish miners once believed in Knockers, small underground creatures who led them to rich veins of ore by making knocking sounds. Though playful, they could also be helpful if treated kindly. These little beings share the gnome’s deep connection to the earth, and miners often left offerings for them as a sign of respect. On the Isle of Man, the Fenodyree or Phynnodderee are hardworking spirits who help with farming and harvesting. These earthy beings love the land and protect its bounty. Like gnomes, they remind us to appreciate the unseen helpers who keep life running smoothly. In Brittany, people tell stories of the Corrigans, small fairy-like beings who live near ancient stone circles and sacred mounds. They can be playful or helpful, depending on how they’re treated. Like gnomes, they care for the land and its secrets, teaching us to respect the magic of nature. In Slavic folklore, Domovoi are household spirits who protect families and homes, much like gnomes. They are kind to those who treat them well but can be troublesome if ignored. In the forests, the Leshy serves as a guardian of the wild. These spirits show how important it is to live in harmony with the land. The Mairuak of Basque mythology are ancient beings said to have built the region’s great stone monuments. Often described as small and dwarf-like, they are deeply tied to the land and its mysteries. Like gnomes, they guard sacred places and remind us of the past written in stone. In Spain and Portugal, stories tell of the Trasgos or Trasgu, small trickster spirits who live in homes or wild places. They love playing pranks but can be helpful when treated kindly. Like gnomes, they are connected to the land and its hidden treasures, showing how respect and mischief often go hand in hand in folklore. The Maahiset of Finnish legend are earth-dwelling spirits who live in underground worlds. Deeply tied to the land, they watch over its hidden riches. Like gnomes, they remind us of the mysteries beneath our feet and the need to respect the earth’s secrets. In West African traditions, especially among the Yoruba, Earth Spirits guard the land and keep nature’s cycle in balance. Though they look different from gnomes, they share the same role as protectors of the natural world. Their stories show the deep respect for the forces that sustain life. In Hindu traditions, Yakshas are powerful earth spirits who guard treasures hidden beneath the ground. They watch over both nature and wealth, much like gnomes. Their stories teach us about the sacred bond between humans and the land. Many Indigenous traditions across North America speak of “Little People,” small spirits who live in the earth or sacred places. They protect natural treasures and sometimes offer help to those who show them respect. These stories, much like gnome lore, remind us of the importance of living in balance with nature. The Duende of South and Central American folklore is a small, tricky spirit connected to homes and forests. Sometimes they guide travelers, other times they play pranks. Like gnomes, they are nature’s guardians, reminding people to respect the hidden forces of the world. In the Amazon, the Chullachaqui is a small, shapeshifting forest spirit who protects the land. He can either trick or guide people, depending on their intentions. Like gnomes, he watches over the earth’s hidden treasures, ensuring nature’s well-being. In the Andes, myths tell of the Pishtaco, a shadowy figure tied to mining and the earth’s resources. Though not like gnomes in appearance, these stories reflect a deep connection between people and the land, showing how folklore often links humans to the earth’s hidden mysteries. The Alux of Mayan legend are small spirits who guard crops and sacred places. Farmers leave them offerings, much like the traditions around gnomes in Europe. Their tales remind us to live in harmony with nature. The Anchimayen of Mapuche mythology are small supernatural beings who watch over sacred places. Though not directly tied to the earth, their role as protectors reflects a common theme—respecting the unseen forces that guard our world.

The image of the gnome has evolved over the centuries, with the 19th century marking the rise of fun garden gnomes typically placed in gardens to bring good luck and protection. This modern iteration of the gnome draws from much of the traditional folklore, but it also reflects our ongoing fascination with these creatures and the protective, grounding role they play. As symbols of good fortune, gnomes have found their way into our homes and gardens across the world, serving as gentle reminders of the Earth’s natural magic and the importance of staying connected to the our great mother earth.

An Alchemical Understanding of Gnome

Now lets take a quick step into alchemy, as gnomes play an important role as spirits of the Earth. Paracelsus grouped them with other elemental beings—salamanders for fire, undines for water, and sylphs for air. Gnomes represent everything grounded and earthy. Paracelsus describes them as two spans tall. They are able to move through solid earth, as easily as humans move through air, and hence described as being like a “spirit”. Alchemists believed gnomes guarded the physical treasures of the earth, like gold and silver basically the flow of minerals and energy beneath its surface,(the material properties of the Earth). Symbolized the hidden wisdom and potential. Like in alchemy transformation begins with the basics (transform and refine). The alchemist’s journey, like the work of the gnome, starts by digging into the raw material of life to uncover something greater. Gnomes aided alchemists by connecting them to the physical energies of the Earth, enabling them to unlock the hidden properties of materials. They are nature’s intermediaries teaching us grounding and stability. They also teach us that while it’s tempting to look to the stars, we must stay rooted. Through their connection to the earth, they guide us to the importance of balance—integrating the material and spiritual sides of life giving us earth-based magic. This form of magic is used for practical purposes, such as healing through the minerals and herbs of the Earth, as well as for metaphysical purposes like grounding and aligning with the natural rhythms of the planet.

What are the Gnomes Protecting?

As we know gnomes are believed to be elemental spirits of the Earth, representing the grounding, stabilizing, and material aspects of existence. Their role is not only that of protectors of the Earth’s treasures—such as gold, silver, and minerals—but also as keepers of the telluric currents that flow beneath the Earth’s surface. What is the Telluric Current you might ask? Well only the greatest treasure ever lol.

“Telluric” comes from the Latin word “tellus”, which means “earth” or “ground” and the -ic is a common suffix in English, derived from Latin, used to form adjectives meaning “pertaining to” or “related to.” Telluric literally means “pertaining to the Earth.”

Telluric currents are natural electrical currents that travel through the Earth, influenced by the planet’s geomagnetic field, solar activity, Earth’s ionosphere and the conductivity of the Earth’s materials. These currents are often linked to the flow of energy through the land and have been recognized in various esoteric and spiritual traditions as forces that influence health, mood, and spiritual alignment.

The telluric currents are a main part of my Earthbound Craft, a form of magic deeply rooted in the physical world and connected to the energies of the Earth itself. These currents are seen as both protective and transformative, carrying the life force of the Earth and enabling us practitioners to ground ourselves, aligning with their energies, and perform Earth-based magic.
This is what the Gnomes protect the greatest treasure of all the telluric currents, they are the guardians and channelers of these currents, they make certain their proper flow and balance.
Gnomes, as keepers of these currents, help maintain harmony within the Earth’s energetic system, helping the natural forces to remain balanced. When we connect with the telluric currents, we practitioners can attune ourselves to the Earth’s natural rhythms, gaining the insight into the forces that shape our world. Gnomes are the intermediaries between these earthly energies and us humans, guiding those of us who seek to deepen our connection with the planet and harness its power.

---

The druid smiled and looked down at the earth, as if he could feel the hidden energy flowing beneath his feet. “Gnomes,” he began, “aren’t just those little statues in gardens. They’re part of something ancient—something we’ve forgotten in our busy lives. They watch over the Earth’s currents, the natural flow of energy that runs quietly under our feet. They remind us of our connection to the land and the care it needs.” He paused, letting his words sink in before continuing. “Gnomes teach us to slow down, to notice the little things that really matter. They show us how to care for the soil, protect the forests, and respect the energy that keeps everything alive. When we listen to their stories and their lessons, we can find a deeper connection to the Earth—and maybe even to ourselves.” The druid leaned forward, his voice warming like the glow of the fire. “In their tales and even in the figures we tuck into flower beds, gnomes show us how to live gently and thoughtfully. They show us that magic isn’t always about big, flashy things. Sometimes, it’s as simple as planting a seed, watching it grow, and taking the time to appreciate the life all around us.” He looked up, his smile soft but full of meaning. “So, let’s honor the gnomes. Not just for their myths, but for the truths they share. They care for the Earth’s energy, keeping it steady and balanced. And they invite us to do the same—to care for this world, to dig into the earth and into our hearts, and to discover the treasures waiting there. That’s the magic they leave for us to carry forward.”

Below are some simple rituals that can help you to connect with the Telluric currents and befriend some Gnomes along the way. These rituals be adapted to suit various magical needs. Each ritual taps into the Earth’s natural energy, enhancing the power of manifestation, grounding, protection, and healing, with a little help from our friends the Gnomes.

Grounding with the Gnomes: A Ritual of Balance

This rite is to help align yourself with the telluric currents and ground yourself, restoring balance and stability.

• A piece of earth (soil, sand, or clay)
• A candle (preferably green or brown for Earth energy)
• A bowl of water
• Incense (sandalwood or patchouli for grounding)

Find a quiet area outdoors, preferably near a tree or natural feature like a rock or a plant. If indoors, sit on the floor near a window or a place where you can feel connected to nature.

Sit comfortably and close your eyes. Take a few deep breaths to center yourself. Light the candle and say:
“Gnomes of the Earth, guardians of the current, I call upon you to guide my spirit to the heart of the Earth. Help me ground myself, connecting with the deep currents that flow beneath us. As I walk the path of balance, I seek your guidance and strength.”

Site on the ground hold you arms to your side with your hands on the earth, feeling its weight and texture. Focus on the energy of the Earth beneath you, imagining the telluric currents flowing through the ground.

Take the piece of earth (soil, sand, or clay) and gently place it in your hands. Hold it for a few moments and feel the connection to the planet. Imagine the gnomes guiding you to the currents deep below, allowing the energy of the Earth to flow through you.

Dip your fingers into the bowl of water and sprinkle a small amount of water onto the earth in your hands, symbolizing the flow of life from the Earth’s surface to its core. Say:
“As the currents run deep, I receive the water of life, grounding and nourishing me.”

Sit quietly for a few moments, allowing the energy to settle. When you feel grounded, thank the gnomes for their assistance. Extinguish the candle and release the stone or crystal to absorb the energies of the earth. End with a statement of gratitude:
“I give thanks to the gnomes and to the Earth. I am aligned with the current, grounded in stability.”

---

Calling the Earth’s Power: A Ritual for Manifestation

This rite is to draw on the telluric currents to manifest a goal or intention with the assistance of the gnomes.

• A piece of paper and pen
• A small plant or tree sapling (if indoors, use a plant you care for)
• Earth element symbols (stones, crystals, or objects associated with the Earth)
• A green or brown candle
• Incense (cedar or frankincense for manifestation)

Create a sacred space outdoors, in a garden, or near a plant if indoors. Set the plant or tree sapling in front of you. Light the candle and incense.

Focus your mind on the Earth and its energies. Call upon the gnomes with the following words:
“Gnomes of the Earth, keepers of the deep currents, I seek your aid in manifesting my desires. Guide my hands and heart to draw upon the power of the Earth to bring forth what is needed.”

On the piece of paper, write down your goal or intention clearly, focusing on what you wish to manifest. Place the paper beneath the plant or sapling, allowing it to absorb the energy of the Earth and nature’s growth.

Hold your hands over the plant and focus on the energy flowing from the Earth through the roots. Visualize the telluric currents nourishing the plant, and in turn, strengthening your intention. Imagine the gnomes supporting the flow of this energy. Say:
“Earth, grow with power. With the currents deep, so shall my desires take root.”

Leave the paper under the plant for a period (a full moon cycle, or until you see growth in the plant). Each day, focus on the plant and your intention, feeding it with gratitude and energy.

When you feel the energy has been released, thank the gnomes for their assistance:
“Gnomes, guardians of the currents, I thank you for your wisdom and guidance. As the Earth supports all life, may my intentions be nourished by the currents you protect.”

---

Earthbound Protection Ritual with Gnomes

This rite is to protect your home or space by invoking the energies of the Earth and the gnomes.

• A small jar or container
• Stones, crystals, or earth from your yard or a special place
• Salt (a protective element)
• A green or brown candle
• A pinch of herbs for protection (sage, rosemary, or thyme)

Set up your ritual space near your home’s entrance or in a place where you wish to protect. Light the green or brown candle and place the jar or container in front of you.

Focus your attention on the ground beneath you and imagine the telluric currents flowing through the Earth’s surface. Say:
“Gnomes of the Earth, protectors of the currents, guardians of stability, I call upon you to shield my home and space from harm. With the strength of the Earth’s energy, guard my surroundings.”

Begin to fill the jar with stones or earth from a sacred place, adding salt and herbs for protection. As you do this, visualize the jar growing with Earth energy, its protective power becoming stronger with every layer.

Hold your hands over the jar and focus on the currents beneath the Earth, imagining the gnomes channeling their protective power into the jar. Say:
“With this earth, I bind protection. With this salt, I seal the currents of safety.”

Once the jar is filled, place it near your home’s entrance or in the room that requires protection. Leave the candle burning for a while longer (safely) to allow the energy to settle.

After the ritual is complete, express gratitude to the gnomes for their protection:
“Thank you, Gnomes of the Earth, for your strength and guidance. May your currents keep my space safe and grounded.”

---

Earthly Healing with the Gnomes

This rite is to heal an area, body, or spirit with the grounding energy of the telluric currents and the gnomes.

• A piece of green or brown cloth
• Healing herbs (such as lavender, thyme, or mugwort)
• Stones or crystals (such as rose quartz, amethyst, or black tourmaline)
• A small bowl of water
• A candle (green for healing)

Create a sacred healing space with the cloth laid out before you. Light the candle and focus on your healing intention.

Close your eyes and call upon the gnomes:
“Gnomes of the Earth, healers of the deep currents, I call upon your strength and wisdom to bring healing to my body, spirit, and surroundings. Guide me through the currents to restore balance and health.”

Place the healing herbs in a small bowl of water and allow them to soak in the energies of the Earth. Hold the stones or crystals in your hands and place them on your body, wherever you feel the need for healing. As you do this, visualize the currents of the Earth flowing through you, channeling healing energies with the assistance of the gnomes.

As you feel the energy flowing, say:
“With the Earth’s grounding force, may this healing flow and bring balance to my being.”

Once you feel the healing is complete, thank the gnomes:
“Gnomes of the Earth, thank you for your healing energy. I am restored and balanced, in tune with the Earth’s currents.”

---

Resources and Useful Reading

• Liber de Nymphis, Sylphis, Pygmaeis et Salamandris by Paracelsus
• The Book of the Gnomes by Sabine Baring-Gould
• The Fairy-Faith in Celtic Countries by Wentz, W. Y. Evans.
• Dictionary of Celtic Myth and Legend by Miranda Green
• Encyclopedia of Norse and Germanic Mythology (Vol. 1) by M Lindemans
• The Early Germans by George Henderson
• Alchemical Traditions and Elemental Spirits by Mark Krake
• Teutonic Mythology by Jacob Grimm
• Gnomes by Wil Huygen and Rien Poortvliet
• Scandinavian Folk Belief and Legend by Birgit and Peter Sawyer.
• The Tomten by Astrid Lindgren (based on Swedish folklore).
• Swiss Folklore by Arnold Büchli.
• The Mythical Alps: Stories of Spirits and Creatures in Alpine Folklore Studies.
• British Goblins: Welsh Folk-lore, Fairy Mythology, Legends and Traditions by Wirt Sikes.
• The Lore of Scotland: A Guide to Scottish Legends by Sophie Kingshill and James Robertson.
• Greek Religion by Walter Burkert.
• The Kabeiroi and the Mysteries of Samothrace by Michael B. Cosmopoulos.
• Religions of Rome by Mary Beard, John North, and Simon Price.
• The Roman Household by Hendrik Mouritsen.
• The Gods of the Celts by Miranda Green.
• Celtic Myths and Legends by Peter Berresford Ellis.
• Fairy and Folk Tales of the Irish Peasantry by W.B. Yeats.
• The Otherworld: Music and Song from Irish Tradition by Ríonach uí Ógáin.
• Welsh Folk-Lore: A Collection of the Folk-Tales and Legends of North Wales by Elias Owen.
• Celtic Myth and Legend by Charles Squire.
• Piskies and Knockers: A Guide to Cornish Folklore by William Bottrell.
• Traditional Stories of Old Cornwall by Mabel Quiller-Couch.
• Manx Folklore and Legends by Sophia Morrison.
• Celtic Folklore: Welsh and Manx by John Rhys.
• Breton Legends by Anatole Le Braz.
• Folk Tales of Brittany by Elsie Masson.
• Russian Fairy Tales by Aleksandr Afanasyev.
• Slavic Mythology by Jan Máchal.
• Basque Mythology by José Miguel de Barandiarán.
• An Anthology of Basque Folk Tales by Marianne Moore.
• Spanish Fairy Tales by Fernán Caballero.
• Folklore of Spain in the American Southwest by Aurelio M. Espinosa.
• The Kalevala compiled by Elias Lönnrot.
• Finnish Folk Culture by Ilmar Talve.
• African Religions & Philosophy by John S. Mbiti.
• Yoruba Mythology and Folklore by Harold Courlander.
• The Forest of Symbols: Aspects of Ndembu Ritual by Victor Turner (general symbolic connections).
• The Yakshas: Essays Based on Original Sources by Ananda Coomaraswamy.
• Spirits of the Earth: A Guide to Native American Nature Symbols, Stories, and Ceremonies by Bobby Lake-Thom.
• The Sacred Wisdom of the Native Americans by Larry J. Zimmerman.
• Latin American Folktales: Stories from Hispanic and Indian Traditions by John Bierhorst.
• The Duende: A Journey in Search of Flamenco by Jason Webster (symbolic exploration).
• Myths and Legends of the Amazonian Indigenous Peoples by Juan Carlos Galeano.
• Forest Spirit Tales of the Amazon Basin by Mark J. Plotkin.
• Myths and Rituals of the Andes by Sabine MacCormack.
• Maya Mythology and Folklore by Karl Taube.
• Myths of the Ancient Maya by Linda Schele and David Freidel.