Temenos Silybos is a coven for men who love men serving the Greater New Orleans and southern Mississippi region.

Temenos is a sacred circle set apart from the mundane world. In antiquity it denoted an area reserved for worship of the Gods. A large temenos is located at the Juktas Sanctuary at the palace of Knossos.

Silybos is Greek for “tuft” or “tassle” and inspired the Latin name for thistle (Milk Thistle Silybum marianum and Holy Thistle Cnicus benedictus) varieties of which are native to Crete and the Mediterranean. The thistle has long been a symbol of valor and courage. Historically, they were used for vitality and protection, as well as breaking hexes.

The Spear Thistle (Cirsium vulgare) is the national symbol of Scotland. According to legend, a surprise attack by Norse invaders was thwarted when one of them stepped on a thistle, crying out in pain and alerting the Scots to the danger. This prickly plant became a symbol of protection and vigilance, embodying Scotland’s fierce defense of its land and people.

Our name evokes the natural landscape of Crete’s mountains, valleys, and rivers. It also draws on our connection to Traditional Witchcraft, with its roots in Old English and Celtic lore.

Within the Brotherhood each grove is akin to a coven in witchcraft and is headed by a Minos, Third Degree High Priest. Each grove functions autonomously within the framework of the Laws and practices of the tradition.

Our grove is part of the Eleutheria Line of tradition. Our initiatory lineage traces a direct initiatory line back to Lord Gwydion, the Brotherhood’s founder.

Ours is a mystery tradition. Our teachings are oath-bound, handed down from brother to brother.

Temenos Silybos is located in the greater New Orleans metro area and serves south eastern Louisiana and southern Mississippi. For more information, use the contact link above. If you are interested in becoming a member, please see the Seekers page.