AlabamaDeb
Site Admin
Joined: 07 Oct 2005
Posts: 78
Location: Guntersville, Alabama |
| Imbloc (Feb. 2) |
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Related Deities: Brigid, Brid, the Maiden, the Spring Goddess, the Young Lord
Related Herbs: Angelica, basil, bay leaves, myrrh
Related Stones: Quartz crystal, opal, moonstone, aventurine, sunstone
Although we call this celebration Imbolc or Candlemas, its also Groundhog day to many. The word Imbolc means "in the belly". This festival is a celebration of the first fetal stirrings of the Earth as she responds to the wake-up call of spring. This is definitely a fire festival, the emphasis here is not really so much on the warmth but in the light. The light is necessary to guide spring's path so it doesn't get lost, or even worse, forget to renew the Earth with its greening. Also this is the reason why all candles to be used in magical efforts for the next year are blessed at this time.
One theme for this festival surrounds the preparation of Brid's or Brigid's bed. This is usually a basket filled with raffia or Easter grass that's decorated with ivy and white satin ribbons. The a corn dolly dressed as a bride is placed inside along with a symbol of masculinity. This represents the first intimate encounter between the Maiden Goddess and the Young Lord, and ensures the fertility in the months ahead.
The most common theme, however is that of purification. It's symbolized by the sweeping of the Cricle, and is a little like spring-cleaning for the body, mind and spirit. we get rid of what's no longer of use to us - bad habits, old ideas, preconceived notions, unsavory character traits, and so forth - to make way for the new and exciting things to come. We open our minds and spirits to change and all it entails. And in doing so, we embrace new life - a fertile, wonderful life when doors open and things fall into place, a life that greens our hearts as well as our spirits, the life that we truly want to live.
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As Time Passes, So Do Lives.....
Deborah |
