Imbolc Law

The wheel is about to turn once again and Imbolc is almost upon us once again. We are heading, to what is, one of my favourite times of year, Spring. The Earth is warming, the sap will be rising, the bulbs are readying for growth. Soon will we start to see, if we hacven't already, these signs, such as the first signs of buds on the trees.

So today I am posting various bits and bobs I have collected on Imbolc. I hope you enjoy them.

This coming weekend I will be gathering with friends for a Heathen blot to honour Frigga who is a Norse goddess. So I am hoping for good weather.

I will also be doing something myself at home. So I send blessing for Imbolc to you all. May all your plans for this coming year be as fruitful as the crops in the fields and the fruit on the trees.

Beannachd

Reki  (Pagan Hare)

February 2 -- Imbolc



Also known as: Oimelc, Candlemas, St Brigit's Day.


As with all Old Tradition observances, this holiday is usually celebrated beginning at sundown on February 1 and continuing through the day of February 2. Imbolc means in the belly of the Mother because that is where seeds are beginning to stir as it is Spring.


Another name for this holiday is Oimelc, meaning milk of ewes since it is also the traditional lambing season in the old world. This holiday is especially sacred to the Celtic Fire Goddess, Brigit, patron of smithcraft, healing, midwifery, and poetry.


A Covens High Priestess may wear a crown of lights (candles) to symbolize the return of the Goddess to her Maiden aspect, just as the Sun God has reached puberty. Weather lore associated with this sabbat is retained by the folk holiday of Groundhog's Day.

The Christian religion adopted a number of these themes, as follows: February 1 became St. Brigit's Day, and February 2 became Candlemas, the day to make and bless candles for the liturgical year. The 'Feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary ' adapts the Maiden Goddess theme. The alternative date of February 14 Old Candlemas, Christianized as Valentine's Day is employed by some Covens.

Traditional Foods:


All foods from the Dairy including cheese or sour cream ect... Also Curries and all dishes made with peppers, onions, shallots, garlic and chives are fine. Foods symbolic of the Sun are also appropriate.

Herbs and Flowers:


Violet, Primrose, Snowdrop, Rowan, All of the first flowers of the year.

Incense:


Lilac

Sacred Gemstone:


Amethyst

Special Activities:


Light Candles or lamps in each room of the house right after sunset for a few minutes to honor the Sun's rebirth.


Copyright © 1997-99 Akasha, Herne and The Celtic Connection www.wicca.com. All rights reserved.


________________________________________






http://www.wicca.com/celtic/akasha/imbolc.htm