Elementals
An elemental is a mythological being first appearing in the alchemical works of Paracelsus. Traditionally, there are four types:
In mysticism, magic and alchemy, an elemental is a creature (usually a spirit) that is attuned with, or composed of, one of the classical elements: air, earth, fire and water. Undines are similar to humans in size, while sylphs are rougher, bigger, longer, and stronger. Gnomes are short, while salamanders are long, narrow, and lean.
Nature spirits, which include elementals, are believed to be various types of beings or spirits, which inhabit Nature. The belief in their existence was almost universal in the ancient era of religions. Nature spirits usually abide in trees, rivers, plants, bogs, mountains, and minerals. They attached themselves to practically every natural thing. Elementals are of a lower type of nature spirit. They are believed to exist as the life force in all living things. They are said to even exist in the four elements of earth, air, fire, and water; the planets, stars, and the signs of the zodiac; and the hours of the day and night.
They are referred to by various names including Fairies, Elves, Brownies, Leprechauns, Gnomes, Sprites, Pixies as well as many others. They are ruled or governed over by higher spirits such as archangels (which in modern witchcraft are called Lords of the Watchtowers, the Guardians, or the Mighty Ones). Generally elementals are looked upon as benevolent creatures that maintain natural harmony. Also included among elementals are elves that live in woods and along seashores, and household spirits such as goblins, brownies, and kobolds. Sometimes fairies are included within the elemental category, and also mannikins which are male fairies having the attributes of elves, gnomes, and brownies. Elementals do appear as clairvoyants and are easy recognizable. Many wear clothes and jewelry. Gnomes are dwarfish creatures living in caves and mountains. Sylphs appear as butterflies, undines as waves, and salamanders as lizard-like creatures that play in flames. Thus far elementals, except water babies, seem like nice, friendly little creatures of nature. But, others share a different viewpoint. Although the elementals are classed as nature spirits, they are thought by some to be entities of the astral plane. Some elementals are said to be deceitful and hateful toward human beings and enjoy causing accidents and tragedies.
