— SACRED TIME —

Imbolc

February 1–2 · Celtic tradition · Paganism of antiquity

Fixed date

Esoteric and historical meaning

First light returning to the womb of winter, under the sign of Brigid: goddess of fire, the forge, poetry, and healing. Principle of inspiration that precedes manifestation.

Operative mechanics — ritual acts

·Ritual cleaning of the house and altar: clearing out before calling in.
·Lighting several candles in every room at sunset.
·Weaving Brigid's cross with rushes or straw, hung on the door.

Traditional foods

·Milk and fresh dairy products
·Oat bread
·Sunflower seeds

Offerings

·A bowl of milk left on the doorstep
·A white cloth (brat Bríde) displayed overnight

Taboos to respect

·Do not spin or use needles on the day of the goddess
·Do not leave the house untidy

Associated symbols

Brigid's cross · Flame · Sheep · Snowdrop

Note for paradigm shifting

A prime moment for new statements of intent: you sow, you do not harvest.