We are now in the Imbolc window and those of RavenStar Enchantments Spiritual Awareness Center are all about IMBOLC and consumed in gathering preparations and festival.
With that in mind I give you the best viewed articles of Imbolc from the sales of our private college text library.
Our Imbolc gift to you...... all 30 plus pages!
With that in mind I give you the best viewed articles of Imbolc from the sales of our private college text library.
Our Imbolc gift to you...... all 30 plus pages!
ALL THING IMBOLC
Dr. Raven Dolick M.s.D.
Feb 1, 2016
all rights reserved
Excerpt from our last years best seller "The Wheel of the Year".
Imbolc First Spring Sabbat
Imbolc is the first of three spring Sabbats and the Festival of Brighit, the Maiden. Celebrate with joy and a feast made from recipes provided.
Light, noticeably, begins to overtake darkness on Imbolc, called Oimealg, by the Druids, which is the festival of lactating sheep. It’s derived from the Gaelic word oimelc meaning ewes’ milk. Livestock have either given birth to the first babies of the year or will soon do so. It’s the time of blessing seeds and consecrating farming tools. Imbolc marks the center of the dark half of the year and is the festival of the Maiden, Brighid, whose name means Bright One, High One, Bright Arrow and Power, from this day to Ostara, the spring equinox. It’s a time to prepare for growth and renewal.
Imbolc is the first of three spring Sabbats and the Festival of Brighit, the Maiden. Celebrate with joy and a feast made from recipes provided.
Light, noticeably, begins to overtake darkness on Imbolc, called Oimealg, by the Druids, which is the festival of lactating sheep. It’s derived from the Gaelic word oimelc meaning ewes’ milk. Livestock have either given birth to the first babies of the year or will soon do so. It’s the time of blessing seeds and consecrating farming tools. Imbolc marks the center of the dark half of the year and is the festival of the Maiden, Brighid, whose name means Bright One, High One, Bright Arrow and Power, from this day to Ostara, the spring equinox. It’s a time to prepare for growth and renewal.
Imbolc Celebration
Corn dollies are made from corn husks and put in baskets with white silk flowers. Hearth fires and candles are put out and re-lit. A besom, by the front door, symbolizes sweeping out the old and welcoming the new. Lit candles, in fireproof containers, are in every room of the house to honor the re-birth of the Sun.
Remove Yule evergreens from the home and burn them, clean the home and grounds. Gather around the altar and perform self-blessings and spiritual dedication. Meditate to go on an inner journey for Divine inspiration. Affirm the artist within.
Corn dollies are made from corn husks and put in baskets with white silk flowers. Hearth fires and candles are put out and re-lit. A besom, by the front door, symbolizes sweeping out the old and welcoming the new. Lit candles, in fireproof containers, are in every room of the house to honor the re-birth of the Sun.
Remove Yule evergreens from the home and burn them, clean the home and grounds. Gather around the altar and perform self-blessings and spiritual dedication. Meditate to go on an inner journey for Divine inspiration. Affirm the artist within.
Imbolc Craft: Create a Corn Dolly
Items needed: corn husks, six cotton balls, scissors, tacky glue and ribbon or yarn. Fold a strip of corn husk in half. Put or three cotton balls in the middle and twist the husk, tying it with yarn to make a head. Leave some husk in the front and back, beneath the head to make a torso. Fold two husks in half to make arms. Tie these at the ends to make hands. Put the arms around the husks that form the torso. Put three cotton balls in the torso and tie at the waist. Put several husks, around the waist, upside down, overlapping them. Tie at waist, then fold the husks so a skirt is formed. Tie these at the waist. Trim the edge of the skirt. Allow the doll to dry completely. Once it’s dry, the doll can be decorated. Hair can be made of yarn, a face painted and clothing added.
Items needed: corn husks, six cotton balls, scissors, tacky glue and ribbon or yarn. Fold a strip of corn husk in half. Put or three cotton balls in the middle and twist the husk, tying it with yarn to make a head. Leave some husk in the front and back, beneath the head to make a torso. Fold two husks in half to make arms. Tie these at the ends to make hands. Put the arms around the husks that form the torso. Put three cotton balls in the torso and tie at the waist. Put several husks, around the waist, upside down, overlapping them. Tie at waist, then fold the husks so a skirt is formed. Tie these at the waist. Trim the edge of the skirt. Allow the doll to dry completely. Once it’s dry, the doll can be decorated. Hair can be made of yarn, a face painted and clothing added.
Imbolc Feast Recipes
Dairy foods, onions, poppy seeds, peppers, herbal teas and spiced wine are traditional fare. Pagan Imbolc: A Time for Celebration and a Special Feast and Urban Pagan Imbolc Celebration and Feast have more recipes.
•Clam/Oyster Chowder: Sauté 2 slices of diced bacon and 1/2 teaspoon crumbled dried thyme until bacon is soft. Add 1 (10.75 ounce) can Manhattan clam chowder, 1 can water, 1 (6.5 ounce) can minced clams, 1 tablespoon crumbled dried parsley, ¼ teaspoon celery seed, 9 chopped cherry tomatoes, 1 sliced carrot, 1 sliced parsnip, 1 chopped bell pepper, 1 diced medium potato and 1 (3 ounce) can drained smoked oysters. Bring to boil. Simmer for 1 hour, adding water if needed.
•Cheese Sticks: Blend together 8 ounces shredded Swiss cheese and 1/4 cup margarine. Stir in 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce. Add 1 cup flour. Mix well. Roll dough, between 2 sheets waxed paper until it’s 1/8 inch thick. Cut into 1 1/2 squares. Put on greased baking sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for 12 minutes.
•Czech Goulash: Sprinkle salt in large pot. Add 2 pounds beef cubes and 2 tablespoons paprika, brown meat) on all sides. Add 1 pint water, 1 (28 ounce) can chopped tomatoes and liquid, 1 bay leaf, 1 minced carrot and 1 chopped onion. Boil. Cover and simmer for an hour or until meat is tender.
•Poppy Seed Noodles: Cook 1 pound fine according to package instructions. Drain. Melt 2 tablespoons margarine. Add noodles and 2 teaspoons poppy seeds. Stir until noodles are coated.
•Minted Peas: Cook 1 (16 ounce) package of peas according to instructions. Drain. Melt together 1 tablespoon each margarine and mint jelly. Add peas to mixture and simmer for five minutes.
•Crispy Rhubarb Custard: Blend together 3 beaten eggs, 1 1/2 cups sugar, 1/2 cup light cream, 4 tablespoons flour, 4 cups sliced rhubarb and 1 teaspoon lemon extract. Mix together 1/2 cup each light brown sugar, oatmeal, butter and flour. Crumble. Pour rhubarb into 8 x 8 baking pan. Cover with crisp mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes.
Dairy foods, onions, poppy seeds, peppers, herbal teas and spiced wine are traditional fare. Pagan Imbolc: A Time for Celebration and a Special Feast and Urban Pagan Imbolc Celebration and Feast have more recipes.
•Clam/Oyster Chowder: Sauté 2 slices of diced bacon and 1/2 teaspoon crumbled dried thyme until bacon is soft. Add 1 (10.75 ounce) can Manhattan clam chowder, 1 can water, 1 (6.5 ounce) can minced clams, 1 tablespoon crumbled dried parsley, ¼ teaspoon celery seed, 9 chopped cherry tomatoes, 1 sliced carrot, 1 sliced parsnip, 1 chopped bell pepper, 1 diced medium potato and 1 (3 ounce) can drained smoked oysters. Bring to boil. Simmer for 1 hour, adding water if needed.
•Cheese Sticks: Blend together 8 ounces shredded Swiss cheese and 1/4 cup margarine. Stir in 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce. Add 1 cup flour. Mix well. Roll dough, between 2 sheets waxed paper until it’s 1/8 inch thick. Cut into 1 1/2 squares. Put on greased baking sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for 12 minutes.
•Czech Goulash: Sprinkle salt in large pot. Add 2 pounds beef cubes and 2 tablespoons paprika, brown meat) on all sides. Add 1 pint water, 1 (28 ounce) can chopped tomatoes and liquid, 1 bay leaf, 1 minced carrot and 1 chopped onion. Boil. Cover and simmer for an hour or until meat is tender.
•Poppy Seed Noodles: Cook 1 pound fine according to package instructions. Drain. Melt 2 tablespoons margarine. Add noodles and 2 teaspoons poppy seeds. Stir until noodles are coated.
•Minted Peas: Cook 1 (16 ounce) package of peas according to instructions. Drain. Melt together 1 tablespoon each margarine and mint jelly. Add peas to mixture and simmer for five minutes.
•Crispy Rhubarb Custard: Blend together 3 beaten eggs, 1 1/2 cups sugar, 1/2 cup light cream, 4 tablespoons flour, 4 cups sliced rhubarb and 1 teaspoon lemon extract. Mix together 1/2 cup each light brown sugar, oatmeal, butter and flour. Crumble. Pour rhubarb into 8 x 8 baking pan. Cover with crisp mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes.
After Imbolc Feast Camaraderie
Women have decorated a chair by the hearth or mixed candles for Brighid. Put the corn dollies and white silk flowers, evergreens and violets in it to honor her. Open the door to welcome her into the home. May Brighid gives blessings to the house. Put out food and drink, such as buttered toast, grains, seeds and milk for her. Make plans for Ostara, the next Sabbat and first day of spring.
Women have decorated a chair by the hearth or mixed candles for Brighid. Put the corn dollies and white silk flowers, evergreens and violets in it to honor her. Open the door to welcome her into the home. May Brighid gives blessings to the house. Put out food and drink, such as buttered toast, grains, seeds and milk for her. Make plans for Ostara, the next Sabbat and first day of spring.
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Imbolc
Dr Raven Dolick M.s.D.
Feb 2, 2015
all rights reserved
Dr Raven Dolick M.s.D.
Feb 2, 2015
all rights reserved
By February, most of us are tired of the cold, snowy season. Imbolc reminds us that spring is coming soon, and that we only have a few more weeks of winter to go. The sun gets a little brighter, the earth gets a little warmer, and we know that life is quickening within the soil. Imbolc is celebrated on February 2nd.
Imbolc is a celebration of many things to many people, but one thing is clear -- for folks in the Northern Hemisphere, it's the halfway point between the dark of winter and the beginning of spring. The Roman celebration of Lupercalia, which takes place around this same time, brings with it a purification theme, as does the Christian celebration of Candlemas. This festival of light is the perfect time to honor the gods or goddesses of your hearth and home.
Imbolc is a celebration of many things to many people, but one thing is clear -- for folks in the Northern Hemisphere, it's the halfway point between the dark of winter and the beginning of spring. The Roman celebration of Lupercalia, which takes place around this same time, brings with it a purification theme, as does the Christian celebration of Candlemas. This festival of light is the perfect time to honor the gods or goddesses of your hearth and home.
Spring is Coming!
Imbolc is a holiday with a variety of names, depending on which culture and location you're looking at. In the Irish Gaelic, it's called Oimelc, which translates to "ewe's milk." It's a precursor to the end of winter when the ewes are nursing their newly born lambs. Spring and the planting season are right around the corner.
Imbolc is a holiday with a variety of names, depending on which culture and location you're looking at. In the Irish Gaelic, it's called Oimelc, which translates to "ewe's milk." It's a precursor to the end of winter when the ewes are nursing their newly born lambs. Spring and the planting season are right around the corner.
The Romans Celebrate:
To the Romans, this time of year halfway between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox was known as Lupercalia. For them, it was a purification ritual in which a goat was sacrificed and a scourge made of its hide. Thong-clad men ran through the city, whacking people with bits of hide. Those who were struck considered themselves fortunate indeed. This is one of the few Roman celebrations that is not associated with a particular temple or deity. Instead, it focuses on the founding of the city of Rome, by twins Romulus and Remus, who were suckled by a she-wolf -- in a cave known as the "Lupercale".
To the Romans, this time of year halfway between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox was known as Lupercalia. For them, it was a purification ritual in which a goat was sacrificed and a scourge made of its hide. Thong-clad men ran through the city, whacking people with bits of hide. Those who were struck considered themselves fortunate indeed. This is one of the few Roman celebrations that is not associated with a particular temple or deity. Instead, it focuses on the founding of the city of Rome, by twins Romulus and Remus, who were suckled by a she-wolf -- in a cave known as the "Lupercale".
The Feast of Nut:
The ancient Egyptians celebrated this time of year as the Feast of Nut, whose birthday falls on February 2 (Gregorian calendar). According to the Book of the Dead, Nut was seen as a mother-figure to the sun god Ra, who at sunrise was known as Khepera and took the form of a scarab beetle.
Christian Conversion of a Pagan Celebration:
When Ireland converted to Christianity, it was hard to convince people to get rid of their old gods, so the church allowed them to worship the Goddess Brighid as a saint -- thus the creation of St. Brigid's Day. Today, there are many churches around the world which bear her name.
The ancient Egyptians celebrated this time of year as the Feast of Nut, whose birthday falls on February 2 (Gregorian calendar). According to the Book of the Dead, Nut was seen as a mother-figure to the sun god Ra, who at sunrise was known as Khepera and took the form of a scarab beetle.
Christian Conversion of a Pagan Celebration:
When Ireland converted to Christianity, it was hard to convince people to get rid of their old gods, so the church allowed them to worship the Goddess Brighid as a saint -- thus the creation of St. Brigid's Day. Today, there are many churches around the world which bear her name.
Purification and Light:
For Christians, February 2nd continues to be celebrated as Candlemas, the feast of purification of the Virgin. By Jewish law, it took forty days after a birth for a woman to be cleansed following the birth of a son. Forty days after Christmas - the birth of Jesus - is February 2nd. Candles were blessed, there was much feasting to be had, and the drab days of February suddenly seemed a little brighter.
For Christians, February 2nd continues to be celebrated as Candlemas, the feast of purification of the Virgin. By Jewish law, it took forty days after a birth for a woman to be cleansed following the birth of a son. Forty days after Christmas - the birth of Jesus - is February 2nd. Candles were blessed, there was much feasting to be had, and the drab days of February suddenly seemed a little brighter.
Love & Courtship:
February is known as a month when love begins anew, in part to to the widespread celebration of Valentine's Day. In some parts of Europe, there was a belief that February 14th was the day that birds and animals began their annual hunt for a mate. Valentine's Day is named for the Christian priest who defied Emperor Claudius II's edict banning young soldiers from marrying. In secret, Valentine "tied the knot" for many young couples. Eventually, he was captured and executed on Feb. 14, 269 C.E. Before his death, he smuggled a message to a girl he had befriended while imprisoned -- the first Valentine's Day card.
February is known as a month when love begins anew, in part to to the widespread celebration of Valentine's Day. In some parts of Europe, there was a belief that February 14th was the day that birds and animals began their annual hunt for a mate. Valentine's Day is named for the Christian priest who defied Emperor Claudius II's edict banning young soldiers from marrying. In secret, Valentine "tied the knot" for many young couples. Eventually, he was captured and executed on Feb. 14, 269 C.E. Before his death, he smuggled a message to a girl he had befriended while imprisoned -- the first Valentine's Day card.
A Celtic Connection:
Serpents in the Spring
Although Imbolc isn't even mentioned in non-Gaelic Celtic traditions, it's still a time rich in folklore and history. According to the Carmina Gadelica, the Celts celebrated an early version of Groundhog Day on Imbolc too - only with a serpent, singing this poem:
Thig an nathair as an toll
(The serpent will come from the hole)
la donn Bride
(on the brown day of Bride (Brighid)
Ged robh tri traighean dh'an
(though there may be three feet of snow)
Air leachd an lair
(On the surface of the ground.)
Among agricultural societies, this time of year was marked by the preparation for the spring lambing, after which the ewes would lactate (hence the term "ewe's milk" as "Oimelc"). At Neolithic sites in Ireland, underground chambers align perfectly with the rising sun on Imbolc.
Serpents in the Spring
Although Imbolc isn't even mentioned in non-Gaelic Celtic traditions, it's still a time rich in folklore and history. According to the Carmina Gadelica, the Celts celebrated an early version of Groundhog Day on Imbolc too - only with a serpent, singing this poem:
Thig an nathair as an toll
(The serpent will come from the hole)
la donn Bride
(on the brown day of Bride (Brighid)
Ged robh tri traighean dh'an
(though there may be three feet of snow)
Air leachd an lair
(On the surface of the ground.)
Among agricultural societies, this time of year was marked by the preparation for the spring lambing, after which the ewes would lactate (hence the term "ewe's milk" as "Oimelc"). At Neolithic sites in Ireland, underground chambers align perfectly with the rising sun on Imbolc.
The Goddess Brighid
Like many Pagan holidays, Imbolc has a Celtic connection as well, although it wasn't celebrated in non-Gaelic Celtic societies. The Irish goddess Brighid is the keeper of the sacred flame, the guardian of home and hearth. To honor her, purification and cleaning are a wonderful way to get ready for the coming of Spring. In addition to fire, she is a goddess connected to inspiration and creativity.
Brighid is known as one of the Celtic "triune" goddesses -- meaning that she is one and three simultaneously. The early Celts celebrated a purification festival by honoring Brighid, or Brid, whose name meant "bright one." In some parts of the Scottish Highlands, Brighid was viewed as Cailleach Bheur, a woman with mystical powers who was older than the land itself. Brighid was also a warlike figure, Brigantia, in the Brigantes tribe near Yorkshire, England. The Christian St. Brigid was the daughter of a Pictish slave who was baptized by St. Patrick, and founded a community of nuns at Kildare, Ireland.
In modern Wicca and Paganism, Brighid is viewed as the maiden aspect of the maiden/mother/crone cycle. She walks the earth on the eve of her day, and before going to bed each member of the household should leave a piece of clothing outside for Brighid to bless. Smoor your fire as the last thing you do that night, and rake the ashes smooth. When you get up in the morning, look for a mark on the ashes, a sign that Brighid has passed that way in the night or morning. The clothes are brought inside, and now have powers of healing and protection thanks to Brighid.
Like many Pagan holidays, Imbolc has a Celtic connection as well, although it wasn't celebrated in non-Gaelic Celtic societies. The Irish goddess Brighid is the keeper of the sacred flame, the guardian of home and hearth. To honor her, purification and cleaning are a wonderful way to get ready for the coming of Spring. In addition to fire, she is a goddess connected to inspiration and creativity.
Brighid is known as one of the Celtic "triune" goddesses -- meaning that she is one and three simultaneously. The early Celts celebrated a purification festival by honoring Brighid, or Brid, whose name meant "bright one." In some parts of the Scottish Highlands, Brighid was viewed as Cailleach Bheur, a woman with mystical powers who was older than the land itself. Brighid was also a warlike figure, Brigantia, in the Brigantes tribe near Yorkshire, England. The Christian St. Brigid was the daughter of a Pictish slave who was baptized by St. Patrick, and founded a community of nuns at Kildare, Ireland.
In modern Wicca and Paganism, Brighid is viewed as the maiden aspect of the maiden/mother/crone cycle. She walks the earth on the eve of her day, and before going to bed each member of the household should leave a piece of clothing outside for Brighid to bless. Smoor your fire as the last thing you do that night, and rake the ashes smooth. When you get up in the morning, look for a mark on the ashes, a sign that Brighid has passed that way in the night or morning. The clothes are brought inside, and now have powers of healing and protection thanks to Brighid.
***This is a section from last year’s best selling eBook “The Wheel of the Year”, loaded in tradition, ritual designs, lore, history and even traditional recipes ensuring every Esbat and Sabbat are as respectfully done as they were intended to be. Written and recently updated by Doctor of Metaphysics Raven Dolick M.s.D and speaks to the novice and the crone with much new and valuable information. Secure yours today shipped to your email provider PRONTO after Paypal Confirmation again saving you snail mail time, shipping and handling and taxes!
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How To Hold an Imbolc Candle Ritual (for Solitaries)
Dr Raven Dolick M.s.D.
Feb 2, 2016
all rights reserved
Feb 2, 2016
all rights reserved
Imbolc is a festival of light -- celebrate it with candles and flames!
Hundreds of years ago, when our ancestors relied upon the sun as their only source of light, the end of winter was met with much celebration. Although it is still cold in February, often the sun shines brightly above us, and the skies are often crisp and clear. As a festival of light, Imbolc came to be called Candlemas. On this evening, when the sun has set once more, call it back by lighting the seven candles of this ritual.
** Note: although this ceremony is written for one, it can easily be adapted for a small group.
Hundreds of years ago, when our ancestors relied upon the sun as their only source of light, the end of winter was met with much celebration. Although it is still cold in February, often the sun shines brightly above us, and the skies are often crisp and clear. As a festival of light, Imbolc came to be called Candlemas. On this evening, when the sun has set once more, call it back by lighting the seven candles of this ritual.
** Note: although this ceremony is written for one, it can easily be adapted for a small group.
Difficulty: Average
Time Required: Varied
Time Required: Varied
Here's How:
1. First, set up your altar in a way that makes you happy, and brings to mind the themes of Imbolc. You'll also want to have on hand the following:
• Seven candles, in red and white (tealights are perfect for this)
• Something to light your candles with
• A large bowl or cauldron big enough to hold the candles
• Sand or salt to fill the bottom of the bowl/cauldron
Prior to beginning your ritual, take a warm, cleansing bath. While soaking, meditate on the concept of purification. Once you're done, dress in your ritual attire, and begin the rite.
1. First, set up your altar in a way that makes you happy, and brings to mind the themes of Imbolc. You'll also want to have on hand the following:
• Seven candles, in red and white (tealights are perfect for this)
• Something to light your candles with
• A large bowl or cauldron big enough to hold the candles
• Sand or salt to fill the bottom of the bowl/cauldron
Prior to beginning your ritual, take a warm, cleansing bath. While soaking, meditate on the concept of purification. Once you're done, dress in your ritual attire, and begin the rite.
2 If your tradition requires you to cast a circle, do so now.
Pour the sand or salt into the bowl or cauldron. Place the seven candles into the sand so they won't slide around. Light the first candle. As you do so, say:
Although it is now dark, I come seeking light.
In the chill of winter, I come seeking life.
Light the second candle, saying:
I call upon fire, that melts the snow and warms the hearth.
I call upon fire, that brings the light and makes new life.
I call upon fire to purify me with your flames.
Pour the sand or salt into the bowl or cauldron. Place the seven candles into the sand so they won't slide around. Light the first candle. As you do so, say:
Although it is now dark, I come seeking light.
In the chill of winter, I come seeking life.
Light the second candle, saying:
I call upon fire, that melts the snow and warms the hearth.
I call upon fire, that brings the light and makes new life.
I call upon fire to purify me with your flames.
3. Light the third candle. Say:
This light is a boundary, between positive and negative.
That which is outside, shall stay without.
That which is inside, shall stay within.
Light the fourth candle. Say:
I call upon fire, that melts the snow and warms the hearth.
I call upon fire, that brings the light and makes new life.
I call upon fire to purify me with your flames.
This light is a boundary, between positive and negative.
That which is outside, shall stay without.
That which is inside, shall stay within.
Light the fourth candle. Say:
I call upon fire, that melts the snow and warms the hearth.
I call upon fire, that brings the light and makes new life.
I call upon fire to purify me with your flames.
4. Light the fifth candle, saying:
Like fire, light and love will always grow.
Like fire, wisdom and inspiration will always grow.
Light the sixth candle, and say:
I call upon fire, that melts the snow and warms the hearth.
I call upon fire, that brings the light and makes new life.
I call upon fire to purify me with your flames.
Finally, light the last candle. As you do so, visualize the seven flames coming together as one. As the light builds, see the energy growing in a purifying glow.
Fire of the hearth, blaze of the sun, cover me in your shining light.
I am awash in your glow, and tonight I am made pure.
Like fire, light and love will always grow.
Like fire, wisdom and inspiration will always grow.
Light the sixth candle, and say:
I call upon fire, that melts the snow and warms the hearth.
I call upon fire, that brings the light and makes new life.
I call upon fire to purify me with your flames.
Finally, light the last candle. As you do so, visualize the seven flames coming together as one. As the light builds, see the energy growing in a purifying glow.
Fire of the hearth, blaze of the sun, cover me in your shining light.
I am awash in your glow, and tonight I am made pure.
5. Take a few moments and meditate on the light of your candles. Think about this Sabbat, a time of healing and inspiration and purification. Do you have something damaged that needs to be healed? Are you feeling stagnant, for lack of inspiration? Is there some part of your life that feels toxic or tainted? Visualize the light as a warm, enveloping energy that wraps itself around you, healing your ailments, igniting the spark of creativity, and purifying that which is damaged.
When you are ready, end the ritual. You may choose to follow up with healing magic, or with a Cakes and Ale ceremony.
When you are ready, end the ritual. You may choose to follow up with healing magic, or with a Cakes and Ale ceremony.
What You Need
•Seven candles, white and red, and something to light them with
•A bowl or cauldron with sand in the bottom
•Seven candles, white and red, and something to light them with
•A bowl or cauldron with sand in the bottom
Suggested Readings:
‘The Wheel of the Year:
This Ebook is over 250 pages of folklore, ritual design, events, customs and traditional recipes to make any gathering or circle the best it was meant to be. And on top of that even more than the usual. We have expert advice on the Esbats and Sabbat to include several chapters on everything you need to know concerning the moon and its phases for ceremony and traditions. This Ebook also is a part of our Minister's package for those seeking Level 1 certification. Valuable and comprehensive information and as with any of our Ebooks or certified courses you receive FREE tutorship from your author on the subject at hand. Way beyond any other Spiritual Awareness Center all for only $25.00.
‘The Wheel of the Year:
This Ebook is over 250 pages of folklore, ritual design, events, customs and traditional recipes to make any gathering or circle the best it was meant to be. And on top of that even more than the usual. We have expert advice on the Esbats and Sabbat to include several chapters on everything you need to know concerning the moon and its phases for ceremony and traditions. This Ebook also is a part of our Minister's package for those seeking Level 1 certification. Valuable and comprehensive information and as with any of our Ebooks or certified courses you receive FREE tutorship from your author on the subject at hand. Way beyond any other Spiritual Awareness Center all for only $25.00.
Here is your quick link saving you snail mail time and postage and handling. Sent pronto to your email provider:
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How To Make a Brighid's Crown
Dr Raven Dolick M.s.D.
Feb 2, 2015
all rights reserved
Dr Raven Dolick M.s.D.
Feb 2, 2015
all rights reserved
Brighid is the goddess who reminds us that spring is around the corner. She watches over hearth and home, and this craft project combines her position as firekeeper with that of fertility goddess. Make this crown as an altar decoration, or leave off the candles and hang it on your door for Imbolc.
You'll need the following supplies:
• A circular wreath frame, either of straw or grapevine
• Winter evergreens, such as pine, fir or holly
• Spring flowers, such as forsythia, dandelions, crocus, snow bulbs
• Red, silver and white ribbons
• Candles at least 4" long -- tapers are perfect for this
• A hot glue gun
You'll need the following supplies:
• A circular wreath frame, either of straw or grapevine
• Winter evergreens, such as pine, fir or holly
• Spring flowers, such as forsythia, dandelions, crocus, snow bulbs
• Red, silver and white ribbons
• Candles at least 4" long -- tapers are perfect for this
• A hot glue gun
Here's How:
1. Place the wreath form on a flat surface. Using the hot glue gun, attach the candles around the circle.
Next, attach a mixture of winter greenery and spring flowers to the wreath. Blend them together to represent the transition between winter and spring. Make it as thick and lush as you can, weaving in and around the candles.
Wrap the ribbons around the wreath, weaving between the candles. Leave some excess ribbons hanging off, if you plan to hang this on your door or a wall, and then braid it or tie in a bow. If you're using it on an altar, light the candles during rituals to honor Brighid.
1. Place the wreath form on a flat surface. Using the hot glue gun, attach the candles around the circle.
Next, attach a mixture of winter greenery and spring flowers to the wreath. Blend them together to represent the transition between winter and spring. Make it as thick and lush as you can, weaving in and around the candles.
Wrap the ribbons around the wreath, weaving between the candles. Leave some excess ribbons hanging off, if you plan to hang this on your door or a wall, and then braid it or tie in a bow. If you're using it on an altar, light the candles during rituals to honor Brighid.
What You Need
•A wreath form
•Winter greenery and spring flowers
•Candles
•Ribbons
•A wreath form
•Winter greenery and spring flowers
•Candles
•Ribbons
Suggested Reading:
http://www.ravenstarenchantments.com/online-store.php
Excerpt from our last years best seller, "The Wheel of the Year" ebook. Loaded with traditional lore, history, ritual designs and even crafts and recipes to help ensure every Sabbat and Esbat is done as respectful as you intend them to be.
http://www.ravenstarenchantments.com/online-store.php
Excerpt from our last years best seller, "The Wheel of the Year" ebook. Loaded with traditional lore, history, ritual designs and even crafts and recipes to help ensure every Sabbat and Esbat is done as respectful as you intend them to be.
Imbolc First Spring Sabbat
Dr Raven Dolick M.s.D.
Feb 2 2016
all rights reserved
Dr Raven Dolick M.s.D.
Feb 2 2016
all rights reserved
Imbolc is the first of three spring Sabbats and the Festival of Brighit, the Maiden. Celebrate with joy and a feast made from recipes provided.
Light, noticeably, begins to overtake darkness on Imbolc, called Oimealg, by the Druids, which is the festival of lactating sheep. It’s derived from the Gaelic word oimelc meaning ewes’ milk. Livestock have either given birth to the first babies of the year or will soon do so. It’s the time of blessing seeds and consecrating farming tools. Imbolc marks the center of the dark half of the year and is the festival of the Maiden, Brighid, whose name means Bright One, High One, Bright Arrow and Power, from this day to Ostara, the spring equinox. It’s a time to prepare for growth and renewal.
Imbolc Celebration
Corn dollies are made from corn husks and put in baskets with white silk flowers. Hearth fires and candles are put out and re-lit. A besom, by the front door, symbolizes sweeping out the old and welcoming the new. Lit candles, in fireproof containers, are in every room of the house to honor the re-birth of the Sun.
Remove Yule evergreens from the home and burn them, clean the home and grounds. Gather around the altar and perform self-blessings and spiritual dedication. Meditate to go on an inner journey for Divine inspiration. Affirm the artist within.
Light, noticeably, begins to overtake darkness on Imbolc, called Oimealg, by the Druids, which is the festival of lactating sheep. It’s derived from the Gaelic word oimelc meaning ewes’ milk. Livestock have either given birth to the first babies of the year or will soon do so. It’s the time of blessing seeds and consecrating farming tools. Imbolc marks the center of the dark half of the year and is the festival of the Maiden, Brighid, whose name means Bright One, High One, Bright Arrow and Power, from this day to Ostara, the spring equinox. It’s a time to prepare for growth and renewal.
Imbolc Celebration
Corn dollies are made from corn husks and put in baskets with white silk flowers. Hearth fires and candles are put out and re-lit. A besom, by the front door, symbolizes sweeping out the old and welcoming the new. Lit candles, in fireproof containers, are in every room of the house to honor the re-birth of the Sun.
Remove Yule evergreens from the home and burn them, clean the home and grounds. Gather around the altar and perform self-blessings and spiritual dedication. Meditate to go on an inner journey for Divine inspiration. Affirm the artist within.
Imbolc Craft: Create a Corn Dolly
Items needed: corn husks, six cotton balls, scissors, tacky glue and ribbon or yarn. Fold a strip of corn husk in half. Put or three cotton balls in the middle and twist the husk, tying it with yarn to make a head. Leave some husk in the front and back, beneath the head to make a torso. Fold two husks in half to make arms. Tie these at the ends to make hands. Put the arms around the husks that form the torso. Put three cotton balls in the torso and tie at the waist. Put several husks, around the waist, upside down, overlapping them. Tie at waist, then fold the husks so a skirt is formed. Tie these at the waist. Trim the edge of the skirt. Allow the doll to dry completely. Once it’s dry, the doll can be decorated. Hair can be made of yarn, a face painted and clothing added.
Items needed: corn husks, six cotton balls, scissors, tacky glue and ribbon or yarn. Fold a strip of corn husk in half. Put or three cotton balls in the middle and twist the husk, tying it with yarn to make a head. Leave some husk in the front and back, beneath the head to make a torso. Fold two husks in half to make arms. Tie these at the ends to make hands. Put the arms around the husks that form the torso. Put three cotton balls in the torso and tie at the waist. Put several husks, around the waist, upside down, overlapping them. Tie at waist, then fold the husks so a skirt is formed. Tie these at the waist. Trim the edge of the skirt. Allow the doll to dry completely. Once it’s dry, the doll can be decorated. Hair can be made of yarn, a face painted and clothing added.
Imbolc Feast Recipes
Dairy foods, onions, poppy seeds, peppers, herbal teas and spiced wine are traditional fare. Pagan Imbolc: A Time for Celebration and a Special Feast and Urban Pagan Imbolc Celebration and Feast have more recipes.
Dairy foods, onions, poppy seeds, peppers, herbal teas and spiced wine are traditional fare. Pagan Imbolc: A Time for Celebration and a Special Feast and Urban Pagan Imbolc Celebration and Feast have more recipes.
•Clam/Oyster Chowder: Sauté 2 slices of diced bacon and 1/2 teaspoon crumbled dried thyme until bacon is soft. Add 1 (10.75 ounce) can
Manhattan clam chowder, 1 can water, 1 (6.5 ounce) can minced clams, 1 tablespoon crumbled dried parsley, ¼ teaspoon celery seed, 9 chopped cherry tomatoes, 1 sliced carrot, 1 sliced parsnip, 1 chopped bell pepper, 1 diced medium potato and 1 (3 ounce) can drained smoked oysters. Bring to boil. Simmer for 1 hour, adding water if needed.
Manhattan clam chowder, 1 can water, 1 (6.5 ounce) can minced clams, 1 tablespoon crumbled dried parsley, ¼ teaspoon celery seed, 9 chopped cherry tomatoes, 1 sliced carrot, 1 sliced parsnip, 1 chopped bell pepper, 1 diced medium potato and 1 (3 ounce) can drained smoked oysters. Bring to boil. Simmer for 1 hour, adding water if needed.
•Cheese Sticks: Blend together 8 ounces shredded Swiss cheese and 1/4 cup margarine. Stir in 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce. Add 1 cup flour. Mix well. Roll dough, between 2 sheets waxed paper until it’s 1/8 inch thick. Cut into 1 1/2 squares. Put on greased baking sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for 12 minutes.
•Czech Goulash: Sprinkle salt in large pot. Add 2 pounds beef cubes and 2 tablespoons paprika, brown meat) on all sides. Add 1 pint water, 1 (28 ounce) can chopped tomatoes and liquid, 1 bay leaf, 1 minced carrot and 1 chopped onion. Boil. Cover and simmer for an hour or until meat is tender.
•Poppy Seed Noodles: Cook 1 pound fine according to package instructions. Drain. Melt 2 tablespoons margarine. Add noodles and 2 teaspoons poppy seeds. Stir until noodles are coated.
•Minted Peas: Cook 1 (16 ounce) package of peas according to instructions. Drain. Melt together 1 tablespoon each margarine and mint jelly. Add peas to mixture and simmer for five minutes.
•Crispy Rhubarb Custard: Blend together 3 beaten eggs, 1 1/2 cups sugar, 1/2 cup light cream, 4 tablespoons flour, 4 cups sliced rhubarb and 1 teaspoon lemon extract. Mix together 1/2 cup each light brown sugar, oatmeal, butter and flour. Crumble. Pour rhubarb into 8 x 8 baking pan. Cover with crisp mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes.
After Imbolc Feast Camaraderie
Women have decorated a chair by the hearth or mixed candles for Brighid. Put the corn dollies and white silk flowers, evergreens and violets in it to honor her. Open the door to welcome her into the home. May Brighid gives blessings to the house. Put out food and drink, such as buttered toast, grains, seeds and milk for her. Make plans for Ostara, the next Sabbat and first day of spring.
Women have decorated a chair by the hearth or mixed candles for Brighid. Put the corn dollies and white silk flowers, evergreens and violets in it to honor her. Open the door to welcome her into the home. May Brighid gives blessings to the house. Put out food and drink, such as buttered toast, grains, seeds and milk for her. Make plans for Ostara, the next Sabbat and first day of spring.
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Deities of Imbolc
Dr Raven Dolick M.s.D.
Jan 31, 2016
all rights reserved
Dr Raven Dolick M.s.D.
Jan 31, 2016
all rights reserved
Although traditionally Imbolc is associated with Brighid, the Irish goddess of hearth and home, there are a number of other deities who are represented at this time of year. Thanks to Valentine's Day, many gods and goddesses of love and fertility are honored at this time.
•Aradia (Italian): Popularized by Charles Godfrey Leland in Gospel of the Witches, she is the virginal daughter of Diana. There is some question about Leland's scholarship, and Aradia may be a corruption of Herodias from the Old Testament, according to Ronald Hutton and other academics.
•Aenghus Og (Celtic): This young god was most likely a god of love, youthful beauty and poetic inspiration. At one time, Aenghus went to a magical lake and found 150 girls chained together -- one of them was the girl he loved, Caer Ibormeith. All the other girls were magically turned into swans every second Samhain, and Aenghus was told he could marry Caer if he was able to identify her as a swan. Aengus succeeded, and turned himself into a swan so he could join her. They flew away together, singing exquisite music that lulled its listeners to sleep.
•Aphrodite (Greek): A goddess of love, Aphrodite was known for her sexual escapades, and took a number of lovers. She was also seen as a goddess of love between men and women, and her annual festival was called the Aphrodisiac.
•Bast (Egyptian): This cat goddess was known throughout Egypt as a fierce protector. Later on, during the Classical period, she emerged as Bastet, a slightly softer, more gentle incarnation. As Bastet, she was regarded more as a domestic cat than a lioness. However, because of her position as a guardian, she often was seen as a protector of mothers -- as a cat to her kittens -- and childbirth. Thus, she evolved into the identity of hearth goddess, much like Brighid in the Celtic lands.
•Ceres (Roman): This Roman agricultural goddess was a benefactor of farmers. Crops planted in her name flourished, particularly grains -- in fact, the word "cereal" comes from her name. Virgil cites Ceres as part of a trinity, along with Liber and Libera, two other agricultural gods. Rituals were performed in her honor prior to spring, so that fields could be fertile and crops would grow. Cato recommends sacrificing a sow to Ceres before the harvest actually begins, as a gesture of appreciation.
•Cerridwen (Celtic): Cerridwen represents powers of prophecy, and is the keeper of the cauldron of knowledge and inspiration in the Underworld. In one part of the Mabinogion, Cerridwen pursues Gwion through a cycle of seasons -- beginning in the spring -- when in the form of a hen, she swallows Gwion, disguised as an ear of corn. Nine months later, she gives birth to Taliesen, the greatest of the Welsh poets.
•Eros (Greek): This lusty god was worshipped as a fertility deity. In some myths, he appears as the son of Aphrodite by Ares -- the god of war having conquered the goddess of love. His Roman contemporary was Cupid. In early Greece, no one paid much attention to Eros, but eventually he earned a cult of his own in Thespiae. He also was part of a cult along with Aphrodite in Athens.
•Faunus (Roman): This agricultural god was honored by the ancient Romans as part of the festival of Lupercalia, held every year in the middle of February. Faunus is very similar to the Greek god Pan.
•Gaia (Greek): Gaia is the mother of all things in Greek legend. She is the earth and sea, the mountains and forests. During the weeks leading up to spring, she is becoming warmer each day as the soil grows more fertile.
•Hestia (Greek): This goddess watched over domesticity and the family. She was given the first offering at any sacrifice made in the home. On a public level, the local town hall served as a shrine for her -- any time a new settlement was formed, a flame from the public hearth was taken to the new village from the old one.
•Pan (Greek): This studly Greek fertility god is well known for his sexual prowess, and is typically portrayed with an impressively erect phallus. Pan learned about self-gratification via masturbation from Hermes, and passed the lessons along to shepherds. His Roman counterpart is Faunus.
•Venus (Roman): This Roman goddess is associated with not only beauty, but fertility as well. In the early spring, offerings were left in her honor. As Venus Genetrix, she was honored for her role as the ancestress of the Roman people, and celebrated as a goddess of motherhood and domesticity.
•Vesta (Roman): This hearth goddess of Rome was the one who watched over home and family. As a hearth goddess, she was the keeper of the fire and sacred flame. Offerings were thrown into the household fires to seek omens from the future. Vesta is similar in many aspects to Brighid, particularly in her position as a goddess of both home/family and of divination.
•Aradia (Italian): Popularized by Charles Godfrey Leland in Gospel of the Witches, she is the virginal daughter of Diana. There is some question about Leland's scholarship, and Aradia may be a corruption of Herodias from the Old Testament, according to Ronald Hutton and other academics.
•Aenghus Og (Celtic): This young god was most likely a god of love, youthful beauty and poetic inspiration. At one time, Aenghus went to a magical lake and found 150 girls chained together -- one of them was the girl he loved, Caer Ibormeith. All the other girls were magically turned into swans every second Samhain, and Aenghus was told he could marry Caer if he was able to identify her as a swan. Aengus succeeded, and turned himself into a swan so he could join her. They flew away together, singing exquisite music that lulled its listeners to sleep.
•Aphrodite (Greek): A goddess of love, Aphrodite was known for her sexual escapades, and took a number of lovers. She was also seen as a goddess of love between men and women, and her annual festival was called the Aphrodisiac.
•Bast (Egyptian): This cat goddess was known throughout Egypt as a fierce protector. Later on, during the Classical period, she emerged as Bastet, a slightly softer, more gentle incarnation. As Bastet, she was regarded more as a domestic cat than a lioness. However, because of her position as a guardian, she often was seen as a protector of mothers -- as a cat to her kittens -- and childbirth. Thus, she evolved into the identity of hearth goddess, much like Brighid in the Celtic lands.
•Ceres (Roman): This Roman agricultural goddess was a benefactor of farmers. Crops planted in her name flourished, particularly grains -- in fact, the word "cereal" comes from her name. Virgil cites Ceres as part of a trinity, along with Liber and Libera, two other agricultural gods. Rituals were performed in her honor prior to spring, so that fields could be fertile and crops would grow. Cato recommends sacrificing a sow to Ceres before the harvest actually begins, as a gesture of appreciation.
•Cerridwen (Celtic): Cerridwen represents powers of prophecy, and is the keeper of the cauldron of knowledge and inspiration in the Underworld. In one part of the Mabinogion, Cerridwen pursues Gwion through a cycle of seasons -- beginning in the spring -- when in the form of a hen, she swallows Gwion, disguised as an ear of corn. Nine months later, she gives birth to Taliesen, the greatest of the Welsh poets.
•Eros (Greek): This lusty god was worshipped as a fertility deity. In some myths, he appears as the son of Aphrodite by Ares -- the god of war having conquered the goddess of love. His Roman contemporary was Cupid. In early Greece, no one paid much attention to Eros, but eventually he earned a cult of his own in Thespiae. He also was part of a cult along with Aphrodite in Athens.
•Faunus (Roman): This agricultural god was honored by the ancient Romans as part of the festival of Lupercalia, held every year in the middle of February. Faunus is very similar to the Greek god Pan.
•Gaia (Greek): Gaia is the mother of all things in Greek legend. She is the earth and sea, the mountains and forests. During the weeks leading up to spring, she is becoming warmer each day as the soil grows more fertile.
•Hestia (Greek): This goddess watched over domesticity and the family. She was given the first offering at any sacrifice made in the home. On a public level, the local town hall served as a shrine for her -- any time a new settlement was formed, a flame from the public hearth was taken to the new village from the old one.
•Pan (Greek): This studly Greek fertility god is well known for his sexual prowess, and is typically portrayed with an impressively erect phallus. Pan learned about self-gratification via masturbation from Hermes, and passed the lessons along to shepherds. His Roman counterpart is Faunus.
•Venus (Roman): This Roman goddess is associated with not only beauty, but fertility as well. In the early spring, offerings were left in her honor. As Venus Genetrix, she was honored for her role as the ancestress of the Roman people, and celebrated as a goddess of motherhood and domesticity.
•Vesta (Roman): This hearth goddess of Rome was the one who watched over home and family. As a hearth goddess, she was the keeper of the fire and sacred flame. Offerings were thrown into the household fires to seek omens from the future. Vesta is similar in many aspects to Brighid, particularly in her position as a goddess of both home/family and of divination.
Suggested Reading:
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A must for every SERIOUS practitioner “The Wheel of the Year is over 250 pages of history, lore, ritual designs, activities, crafts and even traditional recipes to ensure every Esbat and Sabbat are done as respectfully as you want them to be . Last year’s best seller ebook shipped pronto to your email provider with a free tutorial for subject matter......
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The Story of Imbolc
Dr Raven Dolick M.s.D.
Feb 2, 2016
all rights reserved
Dr Raven Dolick M.s.D.
Feb 2, 2016
all rights reserved
At Imbolc the spark of light born at Yule becomes a flame to warm people and the land. Now we see the first signs of spring. The trees are in bud and some flowers (snowdrops for example) begin to blossom. The word 'Imbolc' means 'in the belly', whilst 'Oimelc' means 'ewe's milk'. Both refer to the fact that many ewes are pregnant at this time and in a mild year the first lambs will be born about now. Imbolc is the quickening of the year, the time when the Earth is made pregnant with the promise of summer fruitfulness and the harvest to come.
At Imbolc the Goddess casts aside the robes of Wise One and returns as Maiden, dressed in white. In some groups a Maiden will be chosen and will wear a crown of lights and a white robe or cloak for the ritual. It is worth noting that up until relatively recently, the term 'maiden' was used to denote a female who had not yet given birth to child, so that even an obviously pregnant married woman could be a maiden and take this role in ritual. The God, who was reborn at Yule, is now seen as a young man, full of vigour, and his pursuit of the Maiden starts at this sabbath.
Imbolc is the time when the last of Yule's festive evergreens are removed. In some places it is still traditional to hold on to the (undecorated) Christmas fir until Imbolc, when it is taken and burned on the Imbolc fires. These days few of us can afford to keep the tree in place, especially as our modern forced and treated trees find it hard to keep their needles until January, let alone a whole month later. However, there is a practical alternative. As part of your Imbolc celebrations, take all the Yule and Christmas cards you have been given and recycle them, either making them into gift tags for the following year or cutting out the pictures to give to a local playgroup.
In ancient Rome this was a festival of Pan and the priests of Pan, called the Luperci, would run through the streets dressed in goatskin cloth whipping the people, especially women, to make them fertile for the coming year.
In many parts of the British Isles you will find wells dedicated to Bride or to the Christian St Bridget. Originally these would have been associated with the Goddess. If you are lucky enough to live near one of these, or able to visit one, look for a nearby tree with scraps of fabric tied to its branches. This will be a 'wishing tree'. Many people, whether Witches, Pagans or otherwise, visit these places to make an offering to the Goddess in the hope of having a wish granted. Such offerings are usually a strip of cloth, but it is not unusual to see necklaces of plaited grasses, small posies of flowers and even a child's shoe tied to a wishing tree. If you do visit such a site and wish to leave an offering, try to make it something which will soon return to the earth - a small circlet of grass plaited whilst thinking about your wish, or a hair from your own head, offered as a form of sacrifice. Look in your local press for notices of well-dressing celebrations, as many of these still take place at this time of year.
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At Imbolc the Goddess casts aside the robes of Wise One and returns as Maiden, dressed in white. In some groups a Maiden will be chosen and will wear a crown of lights and a white robe or cloak for the ritual. It is worth noting that up until relatively recently, the term 'maiden' was used to denote a female who had not yet given birth to child, so that even an obviously pregnant married woman could be a maiden and take this role in ritual. The God, who was reborn at Yule, is now seen as a young man, full of vigour, and his pursuit of the Maiden starts at this sabbath.
Imbolc is the time when the last of Yule's festive evergreens are removed. In some places it is still traditional to hold on to the (undecorated) Christmas fir until Imbolc, when it is taken and burned on the Imbolc fires. These days few of us can afford to keep the tree in place, especially as our modern forced and treated trees find it hard to keep their needles until January, let alone a whole month later. However, there is a practical alternative. As part of your Imbolc celebrations, take all the Yule and Christmas cards you have been given and recycle them, either making them into gift tags for the following year or cutting out the pictures to give to a local playgroup.
In ancient Rome this was a festival of Pan and the priests of Pan, called the Luperci, would run through the streets dressed in goatskin cloth whipping the people, especially women, to make them fertile for the coming year.
In many parts of the British Isles you will find wells dedicated to Bride or to the Christian St Bridget. Originally these would have been associated with the Goddess. If you are lucky enough to live near one of these, or able to visit one, look for a nearby tree with scraps of fabric tied to its branches. This will be a 'wishing tree'. Many people, whether Witches, Pagans or otherwise, visit these places to make an offering to the Goddess in the hope of having a wish granted. Such offerings are usually a strip of cloth, but it is not unusual to see necklaces of plaited grasses, small posies of flowers and even a child's shoe tied to a wishing tree. If you do visit such a site and wish to leave an offering, try to make it something which will soon return to the earth - a small circlet of grass plaited whilst thinking about your wish, or a hair from your own head, offered as a form of sacrifice. Look in your local press for notices of well-dressing celebrations, as many of these still take place at this time of year.
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The legends of Brighid are as old as Ireland itself
Dr Raven Dolick M.s.D.
Feb 2, 2016
all rights reserved
Dr Raven Dolick M.s.D.
Feb 2, 2016
all rights reserved
Origins of Brighid:
In Irish mythological cycles, Brighid (or Brighit), whose name is derived from the Celtic brig or "exalted one", is the daughter of the Dagda, and therefore one of the Tuatha de Dannan. Her two sisters were also called Brighid, and were associated with healing and crafts. The three Brighids were typically treated as three aspects of a single deity, making her a classic Celtic triple goddess.
In Irish mythological cycles, Brighid (or Brighit), whose name is derived from the Celtic brig or "exalted one", is the daughter of the Dagda, and therefore one of the Tuatha de Dannan. Her two sisters were also called Brighid, and were associated with healing and crafts. The three Brighids were typically treated as three aspects of a single deity, making her a classic Celtic triple goddess.
Patron and Protector:
Brighid was the patron of poets and bards, as well as healers and magicians. She was especially honored when it came to matters of prophecy and divination. She was honored with a sacred flame maintained by a group of priestesses, and her sanctuary at Kildare, Ireland, later became the home of the Christian variant of Brighid, St. Brigid of Kildare. Kildare is also the location of one of several sacred wells in the Celtic regions, many of which are connected to Brighid. Even today, it's not uncommon to see ribbons and other offerings tied to trees near a well as a petition to this healing goddess.
Brighid was the patron of poets and bards, as well as healers and magicians. She was especially honored when it came to matters of prophecy and divination. She was honored with a sacred flame maintained by a group of priestesses, and her sanctuary at Kildare, Ireland, later became the home of the Christian variant of Brighid, St. Brigid of Kildare. Kildare is also the location of one of several sacred wells in the Celtic regions, many of which are connected to Brighid. Even today, it's not uncommon to see ribbons and other offerings tied to trees near a well as a petition to this healing goddess.
Celebrating Brighid:
There are a variety of ways to celebrate the many aspects of Brighid at Imbolc. If you're part of a group practice or a coven, why not try Honoring Brighid With a Group Ceremony? You can also incorporate prayers to Brighid into your rites and rituals for the season. Having trouble figuring out what direction you're headed? Ask Brighid for assistance and guidance with a Brighid's Crossroads Divination Ritual.
There are a variety of ways to celebrate the many aspects of Brighid at Imbolc. If you're part of a group practice or a coven, why not try Honoring Brighid With a Group Ceremony? You can also incorporate prayers to Brighid into your rites and rituals for the season. Having trouble figuring out what direction you're headed? Ask Brighid for assistance and guidance with a Brighid's Crossroads Divination Ritual.
Brighid's Many Forms:
In Britain, Brighid's counterpart was Brigantia, a warlike figure of the Brigantes tribe near Yorkshire, England. She is similar to the Greek goddess Athena and the Roman Minerva. Later, as Christianity moved into the Celtic lands, St. Brigid was the daughter of a Pictish slave who was baptised by St. Patrick, and founded a community of nuns at Kildare.
In addition to her position as a goddess of magic, Brighid was known to watch over women in childbirth, and thus evolved into a goddess of hearth and home. Today, many Pagans and Wiccans honor her on February 2, which has become known as Imbolc or Candlemas.
In Britain, Brighid's counterpart was Brigantia, a warlike figure of the Brigantes tribe near Yorkshire, England. She is similar to the Greek goddess Athena and the Roman Minerva. Later, as Christianity moved into the Celtic lands, St. Brigid was the daughter of a Pictish slave who was baptised by St. Patrick, and founded a community of nuns at Kildare.
In addition to her position as a goddess of magic, Brighid was known to watch over women in childbirth, and thus evolved into a goddess of hearth and home. Today, many Pagans and Wiccans honor her on February 2, which has become known as Imbolc or Candlemas.
Crafts to Honor Brighid:
In many Pagan traditions today, Brighid is celebrated with crafts that honor her role as the protector of the hearth. You can make a Brighid corn doll, as well as a Bride's Bed for her to sleep in. Perhaps the best known decoration is the Brighid's Cross, whose arms represent the place where a crossroads comes together, the space between light and dark.
In many Pagan traditions today, Brighid is celebrated with crafts that honor her role as the protector of the hearth. You can make a Brighid corn doll, as well as a Bride's Bed for her to sleep in. Perhaps the best known decoration is the Brighid's Cross, whose arms represent the place where a crossroads comes together, the space between light and dark.
Brighid and Imbolc:
Like many Pagan holidays, Imbolc has a Celtic connection, although it wasn’t celebrated in non-Gaelic Celtic societies. The early Celts celebrated a purification festival by honoring Brighid. In some parts of the Scottish Highlands, Brighid was viewed as a sister of Cailleach Bheur, a woman with mystical powers who was older than the land itself. In modern Wicca and Paganism, Brighid is sometimes viewed as the maiden aspect of the maiden/mother/crone cycle, although it might be more accurate for her to be the mother, given her connection with home and childbirth.
Like many Pagan holidays, Imbolc has a Celtic connection, although it wasn’t celebrated in non-Gaelic Celtic societies. The early Celts celebrated a purification festival by honoring Brighid. In some parts of the Scottish Highlands, Brighid was viewed as a sister of Cailleach Bheur, a woman with mystical powers who was older than the land itself. In modern Wicca and Paganism, Brighid is sometimes viewed as the maiden aspect of the maiden/mother/crone cycle, although it might be more accurate for her to be the mother, given her connection with home and childbirth.
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