{"id":24519,"date":"2021-07-01T01:10:19","date_gmt":"2021-07-01T05:10:19","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/?p=24519"},"modified":"2021-06-25T12:05:02","modified_gmt":"2021-06-25T16:05:02","slug":"book-review-pagan-portals-iris-goddess-of-the-rainbow-by-irisanya-moon","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/2021\/07\/01\/book-review-pagan-portals-iris-goddess-of-the-rainbow-by-irisanya-moon\/","title":{"rendered":"Book Review \u2013 Pagan Portals: Iris, Goddess of the Rainbow and Messenger of the Godds by Irisanya Moon"},"content":{"rendered":"<h1 class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><b>Book Review<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/h1>\n<h1 class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #030303;\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><b>Pagan Portals: Iris, Goddess of the Rainbow <\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/h1>\n<h1 class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #030303;\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><b>and Messenger of the Godds<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/h1>\n<h1 class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #030303;\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><b>by Irisanya Moon<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/h1>\n<h1 class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #030303;\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><b>Publisher: <\/b><\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #030303;\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><b>Moon Books-John Hunt Publishing<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/h1>\n<h1 class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #030303;\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><b>96 Pages<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/h1>\n<h1 class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #030303;\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><b>Publication Date<\/b><\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #030303;\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><b>: July 1, 2021<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/h1>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-24520\" src=\"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iris.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"243\" height=\"375\" srcset=\"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iris.png 243w, https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iris-194x300.png 194w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 243px) 100vw, 243px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><i><b>Iris, Goddess of the Rainbow and Messenger of the Godds* <\/b><\/i><\/span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">by Irisanya Moon is a new release that is part of the <\/span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><i>Pagan Portals<\/i><\/span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> collection of books published by Moon Books, an imprint of John Hunt Publishing. I must say that given all that we have been through with politics, global affairs, COVID-19 and more this past 18+ months, the timing of this title speaks to me of hope and the fresh and beautiful start a rainbow provides at the conclusion of a heavy downpour. I also found it refreshing in reading the author\u2019s reasons for using the particular spelling of <\/span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><i>\u201cGodds\u201d<\/i><\/span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> for this title&#8230;.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><i><b>&#8230;*Note: I will use \u2018godd\u2019 to help move away from gendered words for deity who I believe move beyond human categorization&#8230; <\/b><\/i><\/span><sup><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><i><b>1.<\/b><\/i><\/span><\/sup><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><i><b>Iris, Goddess of the Rainbow and Messenger of the Godds <\/b><\/i><\/span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">is organized into seven (7) chapters, each building upon the last to provide the reader with enough information to whet the appetite for deeper exploration and relationship. I must admit that Iris is not a god that I commonly have come across and this was reinforced in the author\u2019s statement&#8230;<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><i><b>&#8230;. Iris doesn\u2019t have a lot of resources and references as compared to the other Greek godds. While She plays roles in many stories you might know, Her role is often written out or minimized to focus on the \u2018larger\u2019 godds. While considered a minor deity, Iris is certainly the one who moves stories along, who moves lives along, and who comes at precisely the right time. And that is where we begin&#8230;. <\/b><\/i><\/span><sup><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><i><b>2.<\/b><\/i><\/span><\/sup><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">The author, Irisanya recounts her meeting with Iris with a journey to Berlin and a visit to the Pergamon on a day off. Her first encounter being that of an image of Iris on a relief , beside Hera and leading Zeus\u2019 four-horse chariot. A search on the internet returned other information and the many rainbows that seemed to be consistently prevalent in all of the author\u2019s settings prompted deeper investigation. Taking a magical name that is inclusive and honoring a specific deity one is called to always organically arises and is gifted. The author shares with the reader the taking of her name Irisanya and the profound connection to the god Iris that developed. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>Chapter 1:Meeting Iris <\/b><\/span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">presents valuable information and questions to be asked of oneself in cultivating relationship with any deity. These are outlined as&#8230;<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><i>Stop: Why Are You Called?<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><i>Steady: Release Expectation<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><i>Hear: The Messages are Everywhere<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">and conclude with a contemplative activity to \u201cget to know more about\u201d&#8230;<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><i>Practice: Trance into the Realm of Iris<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Each statement, in and of itself, provokes self exploration and accountability before entering into any relationship. These are also a reminder to the reader that magick and magickal relationships are hard work, and require self scrutiny as well as knowledge of the who and what you are working with if a fruitful and useful collaboration is to occur. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><strong>Chapters 2 \u2013 4<\/strong> offer the myths, correspondences and energies to be found in working with Iris. I especially liked <\/span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>Chapter 5:Traveling the Rainbow-A Magickal Practice. <\/b><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>Traveling the Rainbow-A Magickal Practice <\/b><\/span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">begins with the science behind the formation of the physical rainbow. These beautiful creations are the out-picturing of water and light, the vehicle of Iris&#8230;<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><i><b>&#8230; So many steps happen to conjure the magick of water and light <\/b><\/i><\/span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">(a rainbow).<\/span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><i><b> And, from there, Iris travels and is seen carrying messages. Some say that She travels in forms that people can recognize. I believe the rainbow is one of those forms. It is instantly recognizable, but also not an everyday event&#8230;<\/b><\/i><\/span> <sup><span style=\"font-size: large;\">3.<\/span><\/sup><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">The author then continues to provide the reader with practices that can be aligned with each of the colors and vibrations contained within the prism of a rainbow. Collages, spell workings, divination and more are sprinkled throughout the colors and energies of each. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">The final <\/span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>Chapter 7: Cultivating a Relationship with Her<\/b><\/span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> is a fitting way to move the reader into taking what experiences they may have had in the reading and practice of the suggested activities and what may have arisen in more of a calling to enter into relationship. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><i><b>&#8230;. Not all relationships are the same, true. But all relationships need attention. Even in this moment, I can think about my relationships with deities and the attention I offer to them. I feel closer to those who I devote more time to and I feel less close to those I only wave to from time to time. In the overall scheme of relationships, the more attention I devote, the more the relationship works for me. While this is what is said of humans, I believe this to be true of deities too. The more I spend time with Iris, the more messages I receive. The more I follow the messages I hear, the more I feel Her in my life&#8230;.<\/b><\/i><\/span> <sup><span style=\"font-size: large;\">4.<\/span><\/sup><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">This chapter includes all that the reader would need in consideration of what the next steps would be in cultivating a working relationship with Iris, or for that matter any deity. Journaling, altars, a dedication ritual and a thoughtful inclusion of a section entitled <\/span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><i>\u201cWhen Relationships Don\u2019t Work\u201d<\/i><\/span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> provide solid ground for flexibility in what these steps will\/could be for each individual. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><u><b>Would I Recommend:<\/b><\/u><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">I have had the privilege to review multiple titles from the Pagan Portals series and have found each to fit nicely into the categories of \u201cjust enough information to intrigue, but not so much as to overwhelm\u201d. <\/span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><i><b>Iris, Goddess of the Rainbow and Messenger of the Godds <\/b><\/i><\/span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">by Irisanya Moon falls neatly in alignment with that sentiment. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Irisanya Moon gives a compelling recounting of her experience of Iris, while leaving it open-ended for the reader to write their own story. This provides an overall gentle tone to this godd\u2019s energies and makes Her very inviting in the possibility for deeper relationship. There is additionally, some very sound advice that is useable in the quest for deepening relationship with any deity and I always, personally, appreciate these thoughts being woven into a book\u2019s reading, laying the groundwork for making consciously informed choices in all magickal practices. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><i><b>Iris, Goddess of the Rainbow and Messenger of the Godds <\/b><\/i><\/span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">by Irisanya Moon is a bright book of beauty and joy, with unexpected treasured revealed much like the rainbows we are rarely privy to unless we waited the storm out and really look at what arises. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><u><b>Notes: <\/b><\/u><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Author\u2019s Notes, x<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Author\u2019s Notes, x<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: large;\">pps. 36-37<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: large;\">p. 66<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\"><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><u><b>About Author Irisanya Moon<\/b><\/u><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>Irisanya Moon<\/b><\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> is a priestess, teacher, and initiate in the Reclaiming tradition. She has taught classes and camps around the world, including the US, Canada, UK and Australia. Irisanya has also contributed to a number of books including Elements of Magic, Naming the Goddess, and The Goddess in America. She is based in California, USA.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-24520\" src=\"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iris.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"125\" height=\"193\" srcset=\"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iris.png 243w, https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iris-194x300.png 194w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 125px) 100vw, 125px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/product\/1789047110\/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=1789047110&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=paganpages-20&amp;linkId=c7e490bb82addec9d8ca68b08bdeed9d\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Pagan Portals &#8211; Iris, Goddess of the Rainbow and Messenger of the Godds on Amazon<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>***<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\" align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>About the author:<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-20762\" src=\"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Robin-Fenelly.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"173\" height=\"162\" \/><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><i><b>Robin Fennelly\u00a0<\/b><\/i><\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">is an Elder within\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><u><a href=\"http:\/\/www.sacredwheel.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">The Assembly of the Sacred Wheel Tradition<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/u><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">\u00a0and serves as High Priestess of\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><u><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.oakandwillow.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">C<\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/www.covenofthemysticpath.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">oven of the Mystic Path<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/u><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">, the 12th Coven\u00a0within the Assembly of the Sacred Wheel Tradition. She teaches\u00a0and facilitates\u00a0classes for the Pagan Experience Study Group that\u00a0serves as foundation for membership within\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><u><a href=\"http:\/\/www.covenofthemysticpath.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Coven of the Mystic Path<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/u><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Her spiritual journey is strongly rooted in both Eastern philosophy and the Western Magickal systems from which she has formed a core foundation that is diverse in knowledge and rich in spiritual practice.\u00a0 A life-long learner, her practice has evolved from the classical and philosophical teachings of books, practical experience and enrichment of this knowledge\u00a0base by attending workshops of various spiritual traditions presented by master teachers.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Robin formally came to the Wiccan path in 1994. Following a practice as a solitary for 2 years, she dedicated to\u00a0Oak and Willow Coven of The Assembly of the Sacred Wheel Tradition in November of 1996. She received her\u00a01st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th (Elder) degrees within the Assembly Tradition and has served as High Priestess of two ASW covens since Samhain of 2001 and the Winter Solstice of 2015.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><br \/>\nAs a teacher of esoteric and magickal studies\u00a0she uses Energetic Anatomy, Tarot, Astrology, Hermetic Qabala, Eastern Philosophy, and Numerology as the foundations of her diverse selection of workshops and writings for more than 25\u00a0years. Exploration of varied energetic protocol has been the focus of her work for some time now and the information gained through direct experience informs all of her magickal and spiritual work.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Robin\u2019s writings have been featured online, and in print Internationally.\u00a0 She has authored several books incorporating her unique style of writing making use of poetry, prose and pathworking to enhance the concepts presented.\u00a0 She has taught extensively throughout the Pagan community, including Sacred Space Conference, Spring Magick, Between the Worlds Interfaith Conference and Free Spirit Gathering Festival. Her most recent projects include a channel on youtube: <\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><u><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCI08DQcpZUH4d26Ht4Afzog\/\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>A Journey to the Inner Chamber<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/u><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>. <\/b><\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">She also shares audio pathworkings and ritual on her bandcamp site: <\/span><\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/teachingsonthepathwithrobin.bandcamp.com\/\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><u><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>Teachings on the Path with Robin.<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/u><\/span><u> <\/u><\/a> <\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Robin is the owner of\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><i>Holistic Embrace\u00a0<\/i><\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">providing services for mind, body and spirit such as Tarot readings, Astrology reports, Spiritual Guidance\u00a0and other related offerings.\u00a0 She lives in Eastern Pennsylvania and her life is blessed by a 40+- year marriage, five children and the opportunity to work in the field of public education.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>Robin\u2019s Website<\/b><\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">:\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><u><a href=\"http:\/\/www.robinfennelly.com\/\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">www.robinfennelly.com<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/u><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>Coven of the Mystic Path, ASW<\/b><\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">:\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><u><a href=\"http:\/\/www.covenofthemysticpath.org\/\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">www.covenofthemysticpath.org<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/u><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>Her books can be found on Amazon or purchased directly through her website:<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>For more info<\/b><\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">:\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><u><a href=\"http:\/\/www.robinfennelly.com\/books.html\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">http:\/\/www.robinfennelly.com\/books.html<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/u><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">The Inner Chamber, Vol. 1 It\u2019s Written in the Stars-Astrology<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">The Inner Chamber, Vol. 2 Poetry of the Spheres-Qabalah<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">The Inner Chamber, Vol. 3 Awakening the Paths-Qabalah<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">The Light of SELF: Consciousness, Spiritual Practice and Learning to Breathe<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Magickal Verse: A Collection of Poetry and Prose<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">A Year of Gaia: The Eternal Cord<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">The Elemental Year: Aligning the Elements of SELF<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Temple of the Sun and Moon: Luminous Devotions<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Sleeping with the Goddess: Nights of Devotion<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">A Weekly Reflection: Musings for the Year<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">The Magickal Pen: A Collection of Esoteric Writings<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">The Enchanted Gate: Musings on the Magick of the Natural World<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">The Temple of the Sun: An Astrological Solar Year<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"western\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Writings in the Shadow: An Exploration of the Shadow Nature<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Book Review Pagan Portals: Iris, Goddess of the Rainbow and Messenger of the Godds by Irisanya Moon Publisher: Moon Books-John Hunt Publishing 96 Pages Publication Date: July 1, 2021 \u00a0 Iris, Goddess of the Rainbow and Messenger of the Godds* by Irisanya Moon is a new release that is part of the Pagan Portals collection of books published by Moon Books, an imprint of John Hunt Publishing. I must say that given all that we have been through with politics, global affairs, COVID-19 and more this past 18+ months, the timing of this title speaks to me of hope and the fresh and beautiful start a rainbow provides at the conclusion of a heavy downpour. I also found it refreshing in reading the author\u2019s reasons for using the particular spelling of \u201cGodds\u201d for this title&#8230;. &#8230;*Note: I will use \u2018godd\u2019 to help move away from gendered words for deity who I believe move beyond human categorization&#8230; 1. Iris, Goddess of the Rainbow and Messenger of the Godds is organized into seven (7) chapters, each building upon the last to provide the reader with enough information to whet the appetite for deeper exploration and relationship. I must admit that Iris is not a god that I commonly have come across and this was reinforced in the author\u2019s statement&#8230; &#8230;. Iris doesn\u2019t have a lot of resources and references as compared to the other Greek godds. While She plays roles in many stories you might know, Her role is often written out or minimized to focus on the \u2018larger\u2019 godds. While considered a minor deity, Iris is certainly the one who moves stories along, who moves lives along, and who comes at precisely the right time. And that is where we begin&#8230;. 2. The author, Irisanya recounts her meeting with Iris with a journey to Berlin and a visit to the Pergamon on a day off. Her first encounter being that of an image of Iris on a relief , beside Hera and leading Zeus\u2019 four-horse chariot. A search on the internet returned other information and the many rainbows that seemed to be consistently prevalent in all of the author\u2019s settings prompted deeper investigation. Taking a magical name that is inclusive and honoring a specific deity one is called to always organically arises and is gifted. The author shares with the reader the taking of her name Irisanya and the profound connection to the god Iris that developed. Chapter 1:Meeting Iris presents valuable information and questions to be asked of oneself in cultivating relationship with any deity. These are outlined as&#8230; Stop: Why Are You Called? Steady: Release Expectation Hear: The Messages are Everywhere and conclude with a contemplative activity to \u201cget to know more about\u201d&#8230; Practice: Trance into the Realm of Iris Each statement, in and of itself, provokes self exploration and accountability before entering into any relationship. These are also a reminder to the reader that magick and magickal relationships are hard work, and require self scrutiny as well as knowledge of the who and what you are working with if a fruitful and useful collaboration is to occur. Chapters 2 \u2013 4 offer the myths, correspondences and energies to be found in working with Iris. I especially liked Chapter 5:Traveling the Rainbow-A Magickal Practice. Traveling the Rainbow-A Magickal Practice begins with the science behind the formation of the physical rainbow. These beautiful creations are the out-picturing of water and light, the vehicle of Iris&#8230; &#8230; So many steps happen to conjure the magick of water and light (a rainbow). And, from there, Iris travels and is seen carrying messages. Some say that She travels in forms that people can recognize. I believe the rainbow is one of those forms. It is instantly recognizable, but also not an everyday event&#8230; 3. The author then continues to provide the reader with practices that can be aligned with each of the colors and vibrations contained within the prism of a rainbow. Collages, spell workings, divination and more are sprinkled throughout the colors and energies of each. The final Chapter 7: Cultivating a Relationship with Her is a fitting way to move the reader into taking what experiences they may have had in the reading and practice of the suggested activities and what may have arisen in more of a calling to enter into relationship. &#8230;. Not all relationships are the same, true. But all relationships need attention. Even in this moment, I can think about my relationships with deities and the attention I offer to them. I feel closer to those who I devote more time to and I feel less close to those I only wave to from time to time. In the overall scheme of relationships, the more attention I devote, the more the relationship works for me. While this is what is said of humans, I believe this to be true of deities too. The more I spend time with Iris, the more messages I receive. The more I follow the messages I hear, the more I feel Her in my life&#8230;. 4. This chapter includes all that the reader would need in consideration of what the next steps would be in cultivating a working relationship with Iris, or for that matter any deity. Journaling, altars, a dedication ritual and a thoughtful inclusion of a section entitled \u201cWhen Relationships Don\u2019t Work\u201d provide solid ground for flexibility in what these steps will\/could be for each individual. Would I Recommend: I have had the privilege to review multiple titles from the Pagan Portals series and have found each to fit nicely into the categories of \u201cjust enough information to intrigue, but not so much as to overwhelm\u201d. Iris, Goddess of the Rainbow and Messenger of the Godds by Irisanya Moon falls neatly in alignment with that sentiment. Irisanya Moon gives a compelling recounting of her experience of Iris, while leaving it open-ended for the reader to write their own story. This provides an overall gentle tone to this godd\u2019s energies and makes Her very inviting in the possibility for deeper relationship. There is additionally, some very sound advice that is useable in the quest for deepening relationship with any deity and I always, personally, appreciate these thoughts being woven into a book\u2019s reading, laying the groundwork for making consciously informed choices in all magickal practices. Iris, Goddess of the Rainbow and Messenger of the Godds by Irisanya Moon is a bright book of beauty and joy, with unexpected treasured revealed much like the rainbows we are rarely privy to unless we waited the storm out and really look at what arises. Notes: Author\u2019s Notes, x Author\u2019s Notes, x pps. 36-37 p. 66 About Author Irisanya Moon Irisanya Moon is a priestess, teacher, and initiate in the Reclaiming tradition. She has taught classes and camps around the world, including the US, Canada, UK and Australia. Irisanya has also contributed to a number of books including Elements of Magic, Naming the Goddess, and The Goddess in America. She is based in California, USA. Pagan Portals &#8211; Iris, Goddess of the Rainbow and Messenger of the Godds on Amazon &nbsp; *** About the author: Robin Fennelly\u00a0is an Elder within\u00a0The Assembly of the Sacred Wheel Tradition\u00a0and serves as High Priestess of\u00a0Coven of the Mystic Path, the 12th Coven\u00a0within the Assembly of the Sacred Wheel Tradition. She teaches\u00a0and facilitates\u00a0classes for the Pagan Experience Study Group that\u00a0serves as foundation for membership within\u00a0Coven of the Mystic Path.\u00a0\u00a0 Her spiritual journey is strongly rooted in both Eastern philosophy and the Western Magickal systems from which she has formed a core foundation that is diverse in knowledge and rich in spiritual practice.\u00a0 A life-long learner, her practice has evolved from the classical and philosophical teachings of books, practical experience and enrichment of this knowledge\u00a0base by attending workshops of various spiritual traditions presented by master teachers. Robin formally came to the Wiccan path in 1994. Following a practice as a solitary for 2 years, she dedicated to\u00a0Oak and Willow Coven of The Assembly of the Sacred Wheel Tradition in November of 1996. She received her\u00a01st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th (Elder) degrees within the Assembly Tradition and has served as High Priestess of two ASW covens since Samhain of 2001 and the Winter Solstice of 2015. As a teacher of esoteric and magickal studies\u00a0she uses Energetic Anatomy, Tarot, Astrology, Hermetic Qabala, Eastern Philosophy, and Numerology as the foundations of her diverse selection of workshops and writings for more than 25\u00a0years. Exploration of varied energetic protocol has been the focus of her work for some time now and the information gained through direct experience informs all of her magickal and spiritual work. Robin\u2019s writings have been featured online, and in print Internationally.\u00a0 She has authored several books incorporating her unique style of writing making use of poetry, prose and pathworking to enhance the concepts presented.\u00a0 She has taught extensively throughout the Pagan community, including Sacred Space Conference, Spring Magick, Between the Worlds Interfaith Conference and Free Spirit Gathering Festival. Her most recent projects include a channel on youtube: A Journey to the Inner Chamber. She also shares audio pathworkings and ritual on her bandcamp site: Teachings on the Path with Robin. Robin is the owner of\u00a0Holistic Embrace\u00a0providing services for mind, body and spirit such as Tarot readings, Astrology reports, Spiritual Guidance\u00a0and other related offerings.\u00a0 She lives in Eastern Pennsylvania and her life is blessed by a 40+- year marriage, five children and the opportunity to work in the field of public education. Robin\u2019s Website:\u00a0www.robinfennelly.com Coven of the Mystic Path, ASW:\u00a0www.covenofthemysticpath.org Her books can be found on Amazon or purchased directly through her website: For more info:\u00a0http:\/\/www.robinfennelly.com\/books.html The Inner Chamber, Vol. 1 It\u2019s Written in the Stars-Astrology The Inner Chamber, Vol. 2 Poetry of the Spheres-Qabalah The Inner Chamber, Vol. 3 Awakening the Paths-Qabalah The Light of SELF: Consciousness, Spiritual Practice and Learning to Breathe Magickal Verse: A Collection of Poetry and Prose A Year of Gaia: The Eternal Cord The Elemental Year: Aligning the Elements of SELF Temple of the Sun and Moon: Luminous Devotions Sleeping with the Goddess: Nights of Devotion A Weekly Reflection: Musings for the Year The Magickal Pen: A Collection of Esoteric Writings The Enchanted Gate: Musings on the Magick of the Natural World The Temple of the Sun: An Astrological Solar Year Writings in the Shadow: An Exploration of the Shadow Nature<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":208,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"iawp_total_views":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[10005],"tags":[10346,10095,13184,13183,12606,11058,10075],"class_list":["post-24519","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-reviews","tag-author","tag-book","tag-goddess-of-the-rainbow-and-messenger-of-the-godds","tag-iris","tag-irisanya-moon","tag-pagan-portals","tag-review"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/24519","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/208"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=24519"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/24519\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":24527,"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/24519\/revisions\/24527"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=24519"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=24519"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=24519"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}