Category: Esbats

Moons and Days

MOONS AND DAYS

New Moon–Begin banishing and negative works several hours before the New Moon
and positive works several hours after the new Moon.

Waxing Moon–We call on the Goddess as the Virgin and begin new projects.

Full Moon–We worship the Goddess as mother and perform positive works.

Waning Moon–We call on the Goddess as Crone and work banishing of negative
energies.
Each Full Moon has a different meaning and magical purpose. Because of this, it
is a good idea to plan your Full Moon Rituals to work with the meaning and
purpose of the Moon.

November–Snow Moon: Plan for a ritual to work on ridding yourself of negative
thoughts and vibrations.
December–Oak Moon: Plan for a ritual to help you remain steadfast in your
convictions.
January–Wolf Moon: Plan a ritual of protection around your home and family.
February–Storm Moon: Plan a ritual to ask the Old Ones for help in planning
your future.
March–Chaste Moon: Plan a ritual to plant your desires.
April–Seed Moon: Plan a ritual to physically plant your seeds of desire in
Mother Earth.
May–Hare Moon: Plan a ritual to reaffirm your goals.
June–Dyad Moon: Plan a ritual to balance your spiritual and physical desires.
July–Mead Moon: Plan a ritual to decide what you will do once your goals have
been met.
August–Wort Moon: Plan a ritual to preserve what you already have.
September–Barley Moon: Plan a ritual of Thanksgiving for all the Old Ones have
given you.
October–Blood Moon: Plan another ritual of Thanksgiving. Make sure to have
some red Wine on hand for an offering.

Days

Sunday–Sun: Rituals: money, health, friendship related. Color: yellow.
Element: Fire. Number: 6

Monday–Moon: Rituals: Conceptual, self-inspiration, psychic ability,
inspiration, change.
Element: Water. Color: Silver. Number: 9

Tuesday–Mars: Rituals: Overcoming enmity, developing courage, protecting
property.
Element: Fire. Color: Red. Number: 5

Wednesday–Mercury: Rituals: Career.
Element: Air. Color: Yellow. Number:

Thursday–Jupiter: Rituals: Money, Legal Matters, Religious, Matters.
Element: Water. Color: Blue. Number: 4

Friday–Venus: Rituals: Love, Attraction.
Element: Earth, Water. Color: Green. Number: 7

Saturday–Saturn: Rituals: Disciplining ourselves.
Element: Earth. Color: Black. Number: 3

Moon Phases & Astrology

MOON PHASES & ASTROLOGY

Moon in Aries:
This is the best time to work magick involving leadership, authority, rebirth, spiritual conversation, or wilpower. Healing rituals for ailments of the face, head, or brain are also done during this period of time.

Moon in Taurus:
This is the best time to work magick for love, real estate, material acquisitions and money. Healing rituals for ailments of the throat, neck and ears also done during this time.

Moon in Gemini:
This is the best time to work magick for good communication, change of residence, writing, public relations and travel. healing rituals for ailments of the shoulders and arms, hands, or lungs are also done in this period of time.

Moon in Cancer:
This is the best time to work magick for home and domestic life. healing rituals for ailments of the chest or stomach are also done during this time period of time.

Moon in Leo:
This is the best time to work magick involving autority, pwer over otehrs, courage, fertility, or childbirth. Healing rituals for ailments of the upper back, spine, or heart are also done during this period of time.

Moon in Virgo:
This is the best time to work magick involving employment, intellectual matters, health and dietary concerns. Healing rituals for ailments of the intestines or nervous system are also done during this period of time.

Moon in Libra:
This is the best itme to work magick involving artistic work, justice, court cases, partnerships and unions, mental stimulation and karmic spiritual or emotional balance. Healing rituals for ailments of the lower back or kidneys are also done during this period of time.

Moon in Scorpio:
This is the best time for magick involving sexual matters, power, psychic growth, secrets and fundamental transformations Healing rituals for ailmlents of the reproductive organs are also done in this period of time.

Moon in Sagittarious:
This is the best itme to work on magick for publications, legal matters, travel, and truth. healing ru=ituals for ailments of the liver, thighs or hips are also done at this time.

Moon in Capricorn:
This is the best time to do magick for organization, ambition. recognition, career and political matters. healing rituals for the knees, bones teeth, and skin are also done at this time.

Moon in Aquarious:
This is the best time to work magick involving science, freedom, creative expresion, problem solving, extrasensory abilities, friendship and breaking bad habbits or unhealthy addictions. healing rituals for ailments of the calves ankles or blood are also done in this period of time.

Moon in Pisces:
This is the best time to work magick involving dreamwork, clairwoyance, telepathy, music, and the creative arts. Healing rituals for ailments of the feet or lymph glands are also done at this time.

Moon Symbols

MOON SYMBOLS

Moon Symbols: Certain Symbols have been associated with the Moon and Moon
deities for thousands of years. Many symbols recur in diverse cultures with no contact with each other. Ancient spiritual leaders knew how to communicate with
the collective unconscious, which is the storehouse of all knowledge, and hear
the deities’ voices which speak there.

Using these symbols in meditation, ritual, or spell-working may intensify your
connections with the archetypal powers of the Moon. Examine the entries
carefully and decide what is appropriate for the situation, be it simple
meditation of a full-blown ritual. For instance, I have no trouble identifying
with Cats, but have never been able to decide on how to use Bats.

Ambrosia: The feminine mysteries of the menstrual cycle; the re-creative power
of menstrual blood. Called soma among the Hindus, red claret of the faeries,
and wise blood.

Bat: A creature of frequent association with the Moon and darkness. In China, bats were symbols of good fortune and happiness; in Europe, a companion creature
of the Goddess Hel. Christians made the bat evil and demonic in order to
disengage people from the Goddess.

Blood: The words “blessing” and “blood” are related. Red has always been
considered the color of life. It is also the color of the Mother aspect of the
Triple Goddess, indicative of Her fruitfulness through menstruation and birth.
Smudging and staining the hands and feet with henna was practiced by followers
of Hecate, Anath, and many Hindu Goddesses. Altars and people were consecrated
by sprinkling with blood in these ancient times. Today, objects and people are
sprinkled with salted water.

Boat: The Moon was called the Boat of Light by the Babylonians. Egyptians
depicted the Crescent Moon with the horns turned upward either as part of the
lunar deities headdress or carved sky-boats, such as the ones pictured in the
temple of Isis.

Bull: Originally the lunar symbol of the Great Mother with the horns
representing the Crescent Moon, the bull later came to represent the Sun Gods.
However, it was often still connected with a Moon Goddess such as Cybele or
Attis.

Cat: Mau: The Egyptian word for Cat. To the Egyptians especially, the cat was
a Moon creature, and sacred to such Goddesses as Isis, Bast, Artemis, Diana, and
Freyja. When Diana became known as Queen of Witches in the Middle Ages, the cat
was associated with Witchcraft and Goddess worship.

Circle: The circle was symbolic of the Moon long before being seized by the Sun
Gods. In Scotland, the Orkney Islands are still called Temples of the Moon.
The ancient Greek divinatory tool known as Hecate’s Circle was a gold sphere
with a sapphire in its center, and was hung on a thong of oxhide.

Color: Primary Moon deity colors are white, red, or black, depending on Moon
phase. The Hindu Goddess Kali and many European Triple Goddesses specifically
used these colors to designate their various aspects: white – maiden; red –
mother; black – crone.

Cow: Feminine symbol of both Moon and the Earth. Egyptian Moon Goddesses
connected with the cow were Isis, Hathor, Neith, amongst others.

Crescent: The New Moon; marking the change from the Dark Moon, it is the very
first sliver of Moon. Old European designs portray the lunar cycle by a right
crescent, a circle, and a left crescent. At times, the circle was replaced with
a large snake coil. Semicircles also symbolized the crescent, as did bull
horns. U-shaped marks not only represented crescents, but were also combined
with dots to symbolize owls – Moon birds. The croissant, or any crescent-shaped
cake is sacred to Moon deities.

Crow: This bird was frequently associated with the Dark Moon Goddesses such as
the Morrigan, due to its black color.

Crystal: This stone most often represents the Full Moon and its divinatory
powers.

Dew, Rain: Many cultures associate these forms of condensation with the Moon.
The early dew after a Full Moon is said to heal and improve beauty if rubbed
into the skin. Certain phases and signs of the Moon are purported to be
conducive to rain.

Dogs: Canines have long been associated with Moon deities, especially Crescent
New Moon Goddesses. Managarmr (Moondog) was the mightiest of all dog-wolf
supernatural beings according to a Norse story.

Dragon: Dragons are primarily associated with solar eclipses, but are also
associated with the Moon and lunar eclipses. The idea of dragons and eclipses
was held in China, Northern Asia, Finland, Lithuania, North Africa, and Persia.
Legend dictates that dragons often fly about in the moonlight.

Eye: Often associated with the Moon, especially in ancient Egypt. Many little
Eye Goddesses have been found in Mediterranean and European sites.

Fan: Among the ancient Asiatic and Oriental cultures, the fan represented the
phases of the Moon.

Fish: Some cultures symbolized the Moon with a fish instead of a snake. Some
Moon Goddesses were depicted with fish-tails, akin to mermaids.

Frog: Many times a lunar symbol; sometimes called a toad. Hekat the frog
Goddess was connected with birth in ancient Egypt.

Grotto, Garden: It was common to worship a Moon Goddess or God in a grotto or
garden. These sacred spaces usually contained a Moon tree such as an olive, a
sacred stone, or a spring, or all of these.

Groves: Groves of trees were often sacred to the Moon Mother, especially if
they held springs, pools, or lakes. Ceremonies of drawing water and pouring it
were part of her rituals. If a grove contained a grotto where water came
directly out of a rock, it was especially sacred.

Hare or Rabbit: Many cultures around the world, including Tibet, China, Africa,
Ceylon, and some Native Americans, said that a hare lived on the Moon along with
the ruling Moon deity. Especially associated with lunar Goddesses.

Horns: Bull or cows horns have always been connected with the Moon and Moon
deities. Cattle and bison horns have been recovered that have thirteen notches
carved into them; the Great Goddess of Laussel is such an example. These
notches represent the thirteen Moon months of a seasonal year. The Greek Hera
was also called Keroessa (“Horned One”) in her aspect of Io, the Moon Cow.

Horseshoe: A crescent Moon symbol and also a yonic emblem.

Hounds, Dogs: Packs of hounds, such as Alani of Diana, represent the dangerous
energies of the Moon.

Labrys, Double Axe: A Goddess and Moon symbol, said to have been one of the
weapons preferred by the Amazons. A thunderbolt was said to have been given in
this shape to the Amazons by Hera. In Crete and at Delphi, both originally
Goddess centers, the labyrs was a ceremonial scepter.

Lamp: The Moon is called by many the lamp of the night. Their close connection
with the Moon’s light is demonstrated by the additional titles attached to
Goddess names such as Juno Lucina , and Diana Lucifera.

Mirror, round: The Moon is called the heavenly mirror in Central Asia and many
other parts of the world. The mirror is a Goddess symbol sometimes called a
soul-carrier or soul-catcher. Some cultures believed that the souls of the dead
went to the Moon to await reincarnation.

Moonstone: A feldspar gemstone with a white, cloudy form. It is said to
contain the image of the Moon. The Hindus said it was formed from the
congealing of the Moon’s rays. Pope Leo X (1475-1521 CE) was said to own a
moonstone that waxed and waned in brilliance with the Moon. The stone is said
to cure nervousness and bring luck to the owner.

Old Man, Old Woman: The markings on the Moon surface are often called the Old
Man or Old Woman in the Moon. Some cultures such as the Asians, Mayans, or
Aztecs, called these markings the hare, frog, or toad.

Owl: A night hunter possessing large eyes, the owl has long been associated
with the Moon. The Egyptians considered the owl a symbol of death, night, and
cold. To the Greeks, however, it was an emblem of wisdom and the Goddess
Athena. Its staring eyes connected it with the Eye Goddesses, Lilith, Minerva,
Blodeuwedd, Anath, and Mari, among others. The owl has long been associated
with the Moon, wisdom, sacred lunary mysteries, and initiations.

Ox: In Greece and Rome, this animal was seen as a lunar animal.

Pomegranate: Due to its blood-red juice and its many chambers and seeds, the
pomegranate is symbolic of blood, the Dark Moon deities, and the land of the
Dea.

Pillar, Cone: The earliest representation of the Moon; sometimes this stone was
a meteorite. Often it was grouped with a circular stone which represented the
Full Moon. Some pyramids fall into this category.

Raven: A black bird associated with the Dark Moon Goddesses such as the
Morrigan and Rhiannon.

Scythe, Sickle: A symbol of the Crescent Moon. Used by the Amazons and women
who worshipped Moon Goddesses, particularly Crone deities. Even the Druids used
a Moon-shaped sickle for their sacred ceremonies.

Semicircle: The semicircle represents the Crescent Moon in symbology.

Shell: A symbol of the Great Mother and related to the Moon.

Silver: This metal has long been regarded as the Moon’s metal. Silver was used
for divinatory cups.

Snake: As a Goddess symbol, the snake is the same as the spiral when it is
coiled. Each turn of the coil marks a day in the lunar calendar. Zigzag lines
represent snakes. Serpents were associated with the Dark Moon because they were
considered related to the Underworld. Some Dark Moon Goddesses were depicted
with snakes as hair. There are pictures showing Cybele offering a cup to a
snake. In the mythology of Mexico are tales of the woman serpent (Moon) who is
devoured by the Sun, a description of an eclipse or the phases of the Moon.

Soma: A sacred liquid connected with the Moon. In India it was called soma;
the Persians knew it as haoma, and the Celts as red claret. See Blood. The
Chinese Goddess Ch’ang-O drank this sacred liquid, then fled to live on the
Moon.

Sow: The white sow has been associated with Moon deities from the Celtic lands
to the Mediterranean. It was connected with Astarte, Cerridwen, Demeter,
Freyja, and the Buddhist Marici.

Spiral: The spiral, whichever way it turned, represented an aspect of the Great
Goddess, and also the Moon. The upward and downward spiraling, or in and out,
can be compared with the waxing and waning of the Moon. The Greek Crane Dance,
probably originally performed in Crete by the bull-dancers, was danced around a
horned altar which was part of the labyrinth. Spirals appear on some ancient
Goddess statues, primarily replacing what would be eyes.

Toad: Some cultures saw a toad, instead of a hare, in the Moon. In some parts
of Asia, Africa, and North America, the toad is a symbol of the Moon and
fertility.

Tree: Frequently a tree, called a Moon tree, was an emblem of the Moon. Many
Assyrian pictures portray this. Sometimes, it is more like a maypole with
ribbons hanging from it rather than an actual tree. Often the Moon tree was
guarded by animals.

Triple Symbols: Many groups of triple symbols represent the three phases of the
Moon. Hecate Triformis is an example of the Triple Moon Goddess, as is the
Celtic Morrigu. The tripod, triangle, and trident are all connected directly
with the three phases of the Moon Goddesses, or with Gods who are consorts of
these Goddesses.

Wishing Well: There is an Icelandic charm of this name which has four Crescent
Moons as dippers about its edge. The Moon has long been associated with water
and the granting of wishes or prayers. Several Goddesses, such as the Greek
Demeter and the Celtic Brigit, had sacred Moon wells where rituals, large and
small, were held for the granting of desires.

Wheel: Though the wheel has most often been a Sun symbol, there were occasions
when it represented the Moon. Arianrhod’s Silver Wheel or Oar Wheel is really
the Moon.

Willow: A Moon tree sacred to such Dark Moon Goddesses as Hecate, Circe, and
Persephone. The willow (helice) gave its name to the Helicon, abode of the nine
muses, the orgiastic abode of the Moon Goddess.

Wings: Long before the Persians adopted the winged disk as a symbol of their
Sun God, the Moon Goddess was shown with wings. Sometimes the Moon itself,
whether Crescent or Full, was pictured with wings. Certain birds, such as doves
and pigeons, were associated with the Moon.

Wolf: Many Gods and Goddesses who had connections with the Moon, also had the
wolf as their symbol. The wolf howls as the Moon, as do dogs; they hunt and
frolic by moonlight. The Moon priestesses of many cultures were adept at astral
traveling and shape shifting, both talents usually practiced at night. They
also practiced rituals, dancing and singing, outdoors under the Moon. A Roman
festival, the Lupercalia, was in honor of the wolf Goddess Lupa or Feronia. The
Norse believed that the giant wolf Hati dogs the courses of the Moon, and in the
final days will eat this celestial body.

Yin and Yang: This Chinese symbol represents the joined powers of the male and
female, positive and negative; in other words, a cyclical alternation of
duality. At one point in ancient Chinese history, this design symbolized the
phases of the Moon, the light and dark cycles. Much of the ancient world spoke
of the Two Ladies or Two Mistresses of the Moon.

Moon Lore

MOON LORE

It was once believed that:
1. The shadowed areas of the Moon were forests where the Goddess Diana hunted,
and the bright areas were plains. 2. That the Moon was a spinning wheel, upon which the Goddess spun the lives of
Men and Women.
3. That the Moon was a gem worn by the Goddess, and that the stars were
decorations upon Her gown.

The names by which the Moon was called, as she appeared in each month of the
year, varied with the significance of the seasonal month. In October and
November we see the need for preparations for Winter. In February, the wolves
were drawing closer to the villages looking for food. In March the sounds of
ravens signaled the coming of Spring. April through June we see the signs of
growing things. In July, the Moon marks the signs of horns and antlers upon
young animals. In September, of course, we find that the time is marked to reap
the Harvest.

Names of the Moon:

October: Hunter’s Moon
November: Larder Moon
December: Long Night Moon
January: Winter Moon
February: Wolf Moon
March: Raven Moon
April: Meadow Moon
May: Flower Moon
June: Rose Moon
July: Antler Moon
August: Piscary Moon
September: Harvest Moon

———-

MOON MAGIC

The accumulation and direction of the subtle forces of the moon, is one of the
arts of Witchcraft. Moon magic is a personal art, even though there are basic
guidelines. In ancient times, witches held the position of the Moon priestesses/priests. In coastal regions, and upon islands, witches were also Sea
Priestesses/Priests. The use of water from the sea was an important aspect in
Moon Magic (salt being a crystal form). The “charging” of water, and the release
of the “charge” through evaporation, was an important aspect. So too was the
soaking of woods and herbs in sea water, which were later dried, and burned as
incenses and offerings. Two excellent books on this subject are MOON MAGIC and
THE SEA PRIESTESS by Dion Fortune.

The use of Portals to gain access to the Lunar Realms, and the building of
magical images there, is a very important aspect of Moon Magic. The actual
“essence” of the power used in Moon Magic, originates out among the stars. The
Sun draws in the stellar influences and transmits them into our Solar System.
The Planets within our System absorb this energy which then merges with their
own vibrations or energies. The Planets, in turn, then emanate a composite
energy within our Solar System. Each Planet’s energy or vibratory pattern is
unique, and influences other planetary bodies and forces, within each planet’s
sphere of influence. This is the basis of Astrology and Planetary
correspondences in Magic (this is how and why it works). The Moon is the focal
point of power upon the Earth. The Moon absorbs, condenses, and channels all of
these forces, which are then carried to our Planet, upon the Lunar Light
Spectrum.

Agrippa, a 15th Century magician, understood these principles when he wrote
“…but the Moon, the nearest to the heavenly influences, by the swiftness of
her course, is joined to the sun, and the other planets and stars, as a
conception, bringing them forth to the inferior world, as being next to itself,
for all the stars have influence on it, being the last receiver, which
afterwards communicates the influence of all superiors to these inferiors, and
pours them forth upon the Earth…”

Aradia, the Holy Strega, told her followers to seek the Moon above all others,
for the purposes of Magic. In the closing prayer of the Full Moon Ritual, we
find these words which Aradia’s followers were later to have written :

” O’ Goddess of the Moon…teach us your ancient mysteries.-
.. that the Holy Strega spoke of, for I believe the Strega’s
story, when she told us to entreat Thee, told us when we
seek for Knowledge, to seek and find Thee above all others”.

Agrippa understood this also, when he wrote, “Therefore. her (the moon) motion
is to be observed before the others, as the parent of all conception……hence
it is, that without the Moon intermediating, we cannot at any time attract the
power of the superiors…” What Agrippa spoke of, is what witches have known for
Ages: The Moon is the focal point of power upon the Earth. Without the Moon we
cannot make use of the Universal Forces beyond her.

In Moon Magic, the ritual altar is the focal point for the Lunar forces which
are drawn upon. Women are the vessels for Lunar Energy, receiving and directing
the magical force. Men can also become lunar vessels, but women are much better
suited (as their biology is more attuned to the Moon’s Cycles, than are men’s
biology). The method used by both women and men will be given in another note
(part 4 or 5, depending upon available space).

The Moon altar is placed facing the West Quarter. The altar itself should be
round, but a square or a rectangle is OK. In the center of the altar, place a
bowl of saltwater. A white sea shell is then set into the center of the bowl. As
this is done, whisper the name of the Goddess who rules the current phase of the
Moon, under which you are working. The new moon belongs to Diana (De-ah-nah),
the Full Moon to Jana (Jah-nah) and the waning Moon to Umbrea. Around the bottom
of the bowl. set nine white shells, forming a crescent (horns upward, as in a
smile). If the magic is for the gain of something, place the shells from right
to left. If the magic is for the removal, or loss of something, then place the
shells from left to right.

As each shell is placed, chant the name of the Goddess who presides over the
goal of the magical influence you desire. Matters concerning “beginnings” are
under Diana. Matters involving “forces”, energies, or powers are under the
influence of Jana. Matters of Death, decline, and stagnation are ruled by
Umbrea.

Censers of Moon Incense are placed around the bowl, upon the altar, forming a
triangle (so you have 3 incense containers forming a triangle, with the Moon
Bowl in its center). A reversed triangle (V) is formed for manifestations
desired upon the physical plane. Upright triangles (A) are formed for
manifestation upon the astral plane.

During the magical work, the energy is focused into the altar bowl (or moon
bowl, as it is often called). This can be done in several different ways. In
group rituals, members may point their ritual blades at the Priestess, who
stands before the altar. The members visualize their energy flowing from their
themselves, through their blades, and into the aura of the Priestess. The
Priestess then visualizes this collective energy flowing from herself, through
her own blade, into the moon bowl. Or she may simply place her palms over the
bowl and focus the energy out through her hands. During this technique, she may
recite an incantation, stating the purpose of the “charge”, or the group may
chant the spell’s intent. One of the ways in which energy can be raised for this
technique, is through deep breathing. Each person draws in air slowly and
deeply, and exhales as they visualize the energy flowing outward through their
ritual blades, or their hands. Eastern Mystics teach that the Ether of our
planet can be drawn in through the breath, and condensed as pure energy. This
they call “Prana”.

Another method is to “enchant” the water. Begin by passing your right hand, palm
down, over the bowl in a clockwise manner. Perform nine passes, then do the same
with your left hand. You will need to create a Chant which will serve to
describe your intent. It can be a simple rhyme, or whatever you want. As you
chant, blow gently upon the water slightly disturbing the surface. Formulate the
incantation to be as descriptive as you can, about what you desire.

Once you have spoken the incantation into the bowl, it is time to release the
“charge”. One technique for this is to boil the water, and observe the steam as
it evaporates. Boil it until all of the water is gone. As the steam rises up,
repeat your incantation, and watch the steam as it moves upward. It is carrying
off your magic, so that it may take effect. Think this as you watch it (thoughts
ARE things).

Another very old method is to pour out the contents of the bowl into a stream,
or river. As you do this, you recite a simple rhyme spell, such as :

“Water to water
a witch’s spell
I give this stream
to speed it well”

Receiving the Moon’s Light: (for women)

The Priestess receiving the Full Moon, will need an assistant. The assistant
will require a silver disk, smooth and highly polished. If absolutely necessary,
a small hand mirror may be used in its place. The Priestess will stand or kneel
before the altar, with her head bowed down. The assistant will part her hair at
the base of the skull, using water or oil to help separate the hair, if it is
short.

While the priestess visualizes the form of the Goddess merging from behind, into
her own form, the assistant will reflect the Moon’s light upon the base of the
skull, using the silver disk. You will find that this is quite difficult in city
light pollution, and works best in a country setting, or a desert. Once the
Priestess receives the Moon she can channel it into the Moon bowl, or she can
“store” it within her Being for seven days. This light is pure Lunar energy, and
can be “impregnated” with whatever “thoughtform” the priestess desires.

Receiving the Moon’s light: (for men)

The Priest receiving the Full Moon, does not need an assistant, but may choose
one if he desires. Men cannot receive the Moon in the same manner as women, nor
should they visualize the Goddess merging with them. The Priest will stand, or
kneel, before the altar with his head slightly bowed. Using a polished brass
disk, the Moon’s light is reflected upon his forehead. At this point the Priest
will visualize himself as the Full Moon itself.

Once the light is received, the Priest can channel it into the bowl. Men do not
“hold” Moon Light very well, and it is best to channel it off before the seven
day period, which the Priestess enjoys.

There are several ways for a woman to receive the Moon’s Light, without any
assistant. The technique I gave in this subject note, is just one of the magical
techniques. The Moon may also be received in a religious setting (no magic
intended, just a blessing or a union with Deity). In these modern times, you can
set up a mirror behind you, and angle it so that it reflects down upon you, if
you desire to try the magical technique. One of the old ways of non-magical
union, was for the woman to lay nude beneath the Full Moon in the Full Moon
Goddess Posture. This posture is also referred to as the Star Goddess Posture,
and is an X formation, arms and legs spread out wide. The woman anoints herself
with an oil of the Moon, just below her navel (forming a crescent with the oil).
As she lays upon the earth, she will look up into the Moon, and slowly draw in
the muscles of her abdomen, as she mentally pictures that she is drawing down
the light of the Moon, into herself. Just as men draw power into themselves
through the solar plexus, a woman draws power into herself through the navel
region (“pit of the stomach” kind of thing. This is the center of a woman).
This is just one method, but it can be a powerful experience.

*Blessing for Lammas Feast*

*Blessing for Lammas Feast*

Now is the Time if the First Harvest,
When the bounties of Nature give of themselves
So that we may survive
O God of the ripening fields, Lord of the Grain,
Grant me the understanding of Sacrifice
As you prepare to deliver yourself
Under the sickle of the Goddess

And journey to the lands of Eternal Summer
O Goddess of the Dark Moon,
Teach me the secrets of rebirth
As the Sun loses its strength and the nights grow cold…

(Crumble grains of wheat and let them fall on your altar or table.
Take a bite of the ritual fruit and continue…)

I partake of the First Harvest,
Mixing its energies with mine
That I may continue my quest
For the starry wisdom of Perfection
O Lady of the Moon and Lord of the Sun,
Before Whom the Stars halt their courses,
I offer my thanks
For the continuing Fertility of the Earth.
May the nodding grain loose its seeds
To be buried in the Mother’s breast
Ensuring Rebirth in the Warmth of next Spring…

(Consume the rest of the ritual fruit and merry meet!)
It is appropriate to plant the seeds from the fruit consumed in Ritual. If they sprout, grow the plant with love and as a symbol of
Your connection with the Goddess and God.

Author Unknown

Casting Your Spells – Working by the Moon

Casting Your Spells

Working By The Moon

Moon time is the oldest measurement of time used by humans and it accords with our natural rhythms in the lives of men as well as women. In magick, we primarily look to the moon for timings.

The waxing or increasing moon from the crescent to the night before the full moon is potent for all forms of attracting magick, for the gradual increase of money, love, happiness or health and for fertility spells. These powers will grow daily as the physical moon size increases, to reach their height on the full moon.

The full moon represents a surge of power that can be plugged into for fertility, that consummation of love or commitment, a major money gain or for launching a creative venture. Also, because the full moon is unstable, this day and night is good for initiating change.

The waning moon helps us to let go of what we no longer need or wish for in our lives and banish pain, sorrow or a destructive influence; a perfect phase for starting diet spells. As the moon decreases in size so the pull that holds negative people or factors in your life likewise weakens.

Days following the Full Moon

Days following the Full Moon

Day 15 – 17
The full moon rises at sunset and sets at sunrise so you can have a brief period when both sun and full moon are in the sky  together, which creates amazing energy. Use these days to initiate sudden or dramatic change, for a surge of power, the consummation of love, for healing,  for prophecy, for all matters concerning women and also motherhood, for conception and for granting small miracles, for artistic and creative success and all  legal matters.
Day 15 is like day 1 of the new moon, good attunement day with the energies of the moon cycle and good for meditation as welll  as channelling wisdom from the Moon Mother or Gabriel, archangel of the moon.

The Waning (or Decreasing) Moon

The Waning (or Decreasing) Moon

The moon decreases from right to left until, finally, the crescent disappears from the left. about two and a half days later  the crescent reappears on the right. Waning moon magick should not be thought of as dark or negative but rather a process of bidding farewell to what is no  longer wanted or helpful.
Use the Waning Moon for:
Removing pain and sickness
Removing obstacles to success and happiness
Lessening negative influences
Reducing the hold of addictions and compulsions
Banishing negative thoughts, grief, guilty, anxiety and destructive anger
Banishing the envy and malice of others
Ending relationships gently

The Disseminating Moon (the Waning or Decreasing Full Moon)

The Disseminating Moon

(The Waning or Decreasing Full Moon)
Day 18 – 21
The full moon is shrinking and rises now in the mid-evening, setting in the middle of the next morning, being visible for much  of the time.
Use the decreasing full moon for protection of home, self and love ones, for banishing bad habits, phobias and fears, for  ending a long-standing destructive or abusive relationship, for relieving acute pain and fighting viruses and for leaving behind the past that holds us back  from happiness.

The Waning Moon Half Moon or Last Quarter Moon

The Waning Moon Half Moon or Last Quarter Moon

Days 22 – 25
This moon rises about midnight and sets around midday the next day. She is visible for the whole time she is in the sky.
Use for protection while travelling, especially at night, from fears that wake us in the night, from phantoms and nightmares,  for reducing major debts, for concerns about older people, for mending quarrels and for avoiding intrusion of privacy, for peaceful divorce and for relieving  stress.
Day 23 is an important time for healing and day 25 for all women’s petitions and needs.

The Balsamic or Waning Crescent Moon

The Balsamic or Waning Crescent Moon

Days 26 – 28 and day 29 when relevant.
The Balsamic Moon rises before dawn(after the midnight of its day) and sets at mid-afternoon of the following day. She is best  seen in the eastern sky in the dawn and very early morning.
Use the Waning Crescent for quiet sleep if you are an insominiac, for peace of mind if you have been anxious or depressed, for  protection from crime and harm, for the easing of addictions, for saying goodbye fondly and for finding what is lost or has been stolen – also the dark of  the moon for the latter.

The Moon Void of Course

The Moon Void of Course

This is not apparent in the sky, but is a brief time when spells tend to be less effective and, in everyday life, meetings or  projects tend to get stuck and travel plans can go haywire.
The void of course occurs as the moon leasves one astrological sign and travels to another. The moon spends about two and a  half days each month in each zodiac sign. The void of course can last from a few minutes to almost a day.
You can check in any almanac like Old Moore’s or increasingly, horoscope pages in newspapers will alert you to this and the  times. In an almanac it will be marked as v/c or even VOC next to the moon symbol and the time this begins. If you need to do spells at the void of course  time, add extra incense, fresh flowers or herbs to counter the effects.

Dark Moon/Chant to Seal a Spell During this Phase

Dark Moon

Some practitioners use this phase as a period of rest. They find it useful for regeneration, relaxation, and gathering  for the creative phase of the waxing Moon.
Others prefer to use it for meditation, psychic power enhancement, or for delving into past life memories to help them  better understand current difficulties. Dark Moon energy also lends itself to divination and maters where truth is an issue.
To seal spells performed during the dark Moon, use this chant or one of your own choosing:
I call on You, Oh Crone so wise–
One Who rules the darkest skies.
Come and be my treasured Guest,
And aid me on this magickal quest.

Waxing Moon/Chant to Seal A Spell During this Phase

Waxing Moon

This phase occurs when the Moon grows from dark to full. In this phase, the Moon provides the proper energy for magickal  efforts requiring growth or enhancement. It is a good time for beginnings, fresh starts and new love and is of benefit in building, businesses, friendships,  partnerships, and financial prosperity. The waxing phase also provides suitable conditions for planting herbs, developing psychism, and increasing physical  health and well-being.
To seal spells performed during the waxing Moon, use this chant or one of your own choosing:
Oh, Maiden Moon, now hear my plea:
Hearken, hearken unto me!
As you grow, my spell enhance–
And power its magick with Your dance.

Waning Moon/Chant to Seal a Spell During this Phase

Waning Moon

The shrinkage of the Moon from full to dark is called the waning phase, and it offers an energy suitable for recession,  peaceful separation or elimination. Use the waning Moon to end undesirable eating patterns, break bad habits or to remove yourself from dysfunctional  partnerships or stressful situations. Its energies favor any magickal effort requiring decrease or removal.
To seal spells performed during the waning Moon, use this chant or one of your own choosing:
Oh Aging One of grace, now hear:
With your guidance, this spell steer.
Remove all blocks and hesitation,
And take it to its destination.

Full Moon/Chant To Seal A Spell During this Phase

Full Moon

The Moon’s energy is most intense when She reaches abundant fullness. Any magickal effort, especially difficult ones,  can benefit greatly from the potency of this phase. Use the full Moon to amplify magickal intent and to give spellworkings additional power.
To seal spells performed during the full Moon, use this chant or one of your own choosing:
Abundant Mother, Moon so bright
Hear my plea upon this night.
Your fertile power lend this spell;
Make it potent, strong and well.

May the Fifth Month of the Year of our Goddess, 2019


“The new earth quickens as you rise.
The May Queen is waiting.
Feel the pulsing ground call you to journey,
To know the depths of your desire.
The May Queen is waiting.
Moving through the night, the bright moon’s flight.
In green and silver on the plain.
She waits for you to return again.
Do not keep Her waiting.
Her temper stings if you refuse to taste Her honey.
Surrender as enchantment brings
The first light of dawning.
Move with Her in sacred dance, through fear to feeling.
Bringing ecstasy to those who dare.
Living earth is breathing.
Loving through the night in the bright moonlight,
As seedlings open with the rain.
She’ll long for you to return again.
Do not keep Her waiting.”

– Ruth Barren, The May Queen is Waiting

MAY – THE FLOWER MOON

May is the fifth month of the year. It’s astrological sign is Taurus, the bull(April 20 – May 21), a fixed earth sign ruled by Venus. The month is name for Ma’a, a Roman goddess and mother of the God Hermes. May is known as the queen of months. Since May begins one of the halves of the year, it is an initiation, similar to a cardinal zodiac sign, it shifts power to the new dynamic. The dynamic of May is one of fertility in plants and animal (including human, birth, growth, and abundance.

For those of us in the Northern Hemisphere, the month of May is a month of lushness and beauty. The main holiday is May Day or Beltane. This sabbat celebrate the sacred union of the Goddess and God. It is a celebration of growth and fertility. A traditional part of this holiday is the maypole, usually a fir tree with the side branches removed–a symbol of fertility. Since growth is a theme of May, another central figure of the month is the Green Man, a male form covered with leaves and branches. He is an ancient nature spirit, who brings life to the fields and forests after the long winter.

The Full Moon of May in the Northern Hemisphere is known as the Flower Moon. The Moon is so named for the many flowers and trees that bloom this month associated with magic. Lilacs were originally grown near the home to repel evil. Wild blue violets can be used in love magick. A steaming infusion made with dried dandelions root was use to contact spirits. The Hawthorne three is also associated with May folk magick in the North. To make a wish come true, burn three Hawthorne branches in a Beltane fire.

—Excerpt from Llewellyn’s Witches’ Spell-A-Day Almanac

May’s Correspondences

Festival: Beltane, May Day. Symbols include the May pole, boughs of flowers, and fires.

Moon name: Flower Moon. Flowers come into full bloom and the corn is ready to be planted. Other names include Grass Moon, Milk Moon, Hare Moon, and Corn Planting Moon.

Astrological signs: Taurus, April 21–May 20; Gemini, May 21–June 20.

Birthstones: Emerald and agate.

Nature spirits: Tree fairies and spirits.

Animals: All cats, butterflies, and foxes.

Birds: Swallow, dove, and swift.

Trees: Hawthorn, apple, and elder.

Flowers: All tree blossoms, foxglove, and lilac.

Herbs: St. John’s wort, chamomile, flowering thyme, elderflower, and yarrow.

Scents: Rose, frankincense, honeysuckle, lilac, and jasmine.

Colors: Pink, apricot, and green.

Goddess: Diana.

Powers: Love, fertility, and joy—the expressive energy of life’s forces.

Other: May Day, Labor Day, Oak Apple Day.

—Hedgewitch Book of Days: Spells, Rituals, and Recipes for the Magical Year
Mandy Mitchell

Symbols for the Month of May

 

May’s Festivals
Beltane, May Day, Labor Day, Oak Apple Day

 

May’s Sign of the Zodiac
Taurus(April 21–May 20)
Gemini(May 21–June 21)

 

May’s Celtic Tree Astrology
Saille (Willow) (April 15 – May 12)
Huath (Hawthorne) (May 13 – June 9)

 

May’s Runic Half Months
Lagu (April 29 – May 13)
Ing (May 14 – May 28)
Odal (May 29 – June 13)

 

May’s Birthstone
Emerald and Agate

 

May’s Birth Flower
Foxglove, and Lilac

 

May’s Goddess
Diana

 

May’s Folklore

“A swarm of bees in May is worth a load of hay.”

“Mist in May, heat in June, makes harvest come right soon.”

“If you wash a blanket in May, you will wash one of the family away.”

“Those who bathe in May will soon be laid in clay!”

Folklore Courtesy – Hedgewitch Book of Days: Spells, Rituals, and Recipes for the Magical Year
Mandy Mitchell

Pagan Calendar of Events for May

MAY 1: BELTANE SABBAT: Festival of Spring and Fertility. Sidhe Day. Beltaine – Celtic festival marking the arrival of summer in ancient times.

MAY 4: Celtic/British Festival of Cerridwen and Brigit: Corn Goddesses of Fertility

May 4 – Celtic Festival of Cerridwen and Brigit – Corn Goddesses of fertility, healing, and poets.
– St. Monica’s Day (Irish)
– Veneration of the Thorn (Irish)
– Festival of Sheila Na Gig (Irish)

MAY 6: – Shepherd’s Day – Day to meditate on Deity as Lord of Animals: Dumuzi (Old Sumerian), Osiris (Egyptian), Pan (Old Greek), Shiva Pasupati (Hindu).
– Eyvind Kelve (Norse)

MAY 9: – Greek Feast of Artemis

MAY 9-12: Lemuria – Roman festival when the spirits of the dead are thought to revisit their homes.

MAY 13: – Roman Garland Day, Offering garlands to Neptune.
– Month of Hawthorn, Celtic festival of the tree.
– Our Lady of Fatima Day (Portugal)

MAY 14: – Isis Day in ancient Egypt

MAY 14: -16 Feast of Divine Love and Compassion – Source of healing and beneficence, honoring the Goddess as Isis (Old Egyptian), Oshun (Yoruba/Santeria), Lakshmi (Hindu).

MAY 15: – Festival of Vesta (Roman)
– Maia and Mercury’s Day (Roman)

MAY 18: – Celtic Feast of Greek God Pan – Who represents the masculine in Nature and protects men throughout their lives. Men recognized the transitions in their lives and honored male fertility.

MAY 19: Celtic Feast of Brigid – In which sacred healing wells and springs were adorned with flowers in honor of Goddess Brigid, daughter of Mother Goddess Danu and Father God Dagda.

MAY 21: Dark/Bright Mother Goddess Day—honoring Hecate/Demeter; Uma; Kali/Parvati .

MAY 26: – Festival of Diana begins (ends 31st) (ancient Roman holiday)

MAY 28: FEAST OF BENDIDIA—family feast day honoring of the Goddess of the Moon, Dark Moon, Underworld, Secret Wisdom and Witches.

May 30 – Frigg’s Day, Northern Goddess, spouse of Odin (Teutonic “heathen” European pre-Christian holiday)
– Feast of the Queen of the Underworld Begins (Roman)

May rolls in soft and lovely, weaving within the grasses a bevy of wildflowers that bewitch our senses and are a colorful reminder of life’s ever-renewing power. Of the many wildflowers associated with Beltane and the peak of spring’s fertility,, my favorite has to be the dandelion. The happy yellow flowers take me back to my childhood, when I would spend hours chasing butterflies through wild fields and bejeweling myself with dandelions in buttery circlets that would leave me covered with soft yellow pollen–proving yes, I did, indeed like butter.

Little did I know then of the simple dandelion’s many magickal and medicinal uses. Highly nutritious spring greens, dandelions are packed with calcium, potassium, and high amounts of vitamins and they have been used to stimulate the digestive system, restore mineral balance to the kidneys, and detoxify  for hundreds of years.

According to folklore, blowing dandelion seed heads was said to divine how much your partner loves you. If you could blow all of the seeds off the dandelion head in one puff, your lover carried a passionate fire for you. If a few seeds remained, he or she might have a few reservations about the relationship. If you blow the seed head and the majority of seeds remain, you are not loved at all.

Magically, dandelion is used in spells for wishes, for divination, to call spirits and for growth and transformation. Make a tea from the ground dried root and add it to mugwort (avoid during pregnancy) and cinnamon for a powerful psychic tea.

 

Dandelion Renewal Spell

Just as the onset of spring transforms the earth with a lush green haze and a profusion of blooms that hint to the bounty of summer, we too can feel a lightening of spirit, a renewal of body, mind and soul as spring’s promises are fulfilled all around us.

With dandelion’s association with growth and transformation, this dandelion renewal spell can be done alone or with your coven or circle and would be appropriate to do at Beltane or anytime during the Maiden’s reign. The simplicity of this spell makes it a great spell for kids, too.

All you need is one intact dandelion seed head per person. If working with children, talk for a moment about renewal and what it means to them. Have everyone hold up their dandelion seed heads and say together,

The air is alive with the hum of bees
As the wind tousles the tops of trees,
The blooms are bright and fertility abounds,
Our wish, dear Lady, for renewal to be found,
Not only across this greening land,
But within the heart of every woman, child and man.
Blessed Be!

Blow your dandelion seed heads to the four directions. As you do this, imagine the dandelion seeds planting themselves into the hearts of humankind. Imagine an abundance of joy, peace and fulfillment for all that happens as the dandelion takes root. When you’re done, find a nice spot in a field, park or lawn. Make yourself a circlet of dandelions and reflect on sunny thoughts and bright ideas for the future.

–Monica Crosson

Witchy Ways to Celebrate May

Decorate your home and altar with combinations of flowers and colors to celebrate the union between the Goddess and the God.

Work with herbs in your magic by creating spell bags and sachets. Cook with herbs whenever you can.

Create a spell for strength and wellness by lighting a Beltane candle and burning your spell written on some pretty paper.

Create a harmonious magical garden with symbols and signs of the craft. Paint pebbles and draw shapes in the earth.

Get outside and find one useable foraged ingredient for your recipes. This is also good for expanding your plant knowledge.

Connect with the God aspect by connecting with nearby trees. Spend time touching the tree and water the roots as an offering.

Make daisy chains as offerings for the Fae folk.

–Hedgewitch Book of Days: Spells, Rituals, and Recipes for the Magical Year
Mandy Mitchell

We are Witches
We walk the path of the Old Gods
From this moment forth
We will not walk alone
Together, we will worship
Together, we will practice our Craft
Together, we will learn and grow
We vow to work, from this day forward
In perfect love and perfect trust
According to the free will of all
And for the good of all
Creating only beauty
Singing in harmony
Our song upon the Earth
Love is the law and love is the bond
In the name of the Goddess and the God
So do we vow, and so mote it be.

 

––Circle, Coven, & Grove: A Year of Magickal Practice
Deborah Blake

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The Wicca Book of Days for June 15 – The June Moon

The Wicca Book of Days for June 15th

The June Moon

 

Wiccans honor the Full Moon under a variety of names during their June Esbats, depending on which of its powers they wish to highlight. Some term it the “Mead Moon,” in which case “mead” may refer to either England’s fermented-honey drink, or “meadow,” this name speaks of natural sweetness and fertility. Others call it the “Dryad Moon,” denoting the nymph that the ancient Greeks believed lived within every tree. Another name is the “Lover’s Moon,” signifying the nature of the relationship between the Goddess and Horned God at this time of year.

 

Magna Carta Day

 

June 15 marks the anniversary of the signing in England, in 1215, of the Magna Carta, the “great charter” guaranteeing certain human rights that is regarded as one of the first democratic documents. Give thanks that you live in a democratic society today, and resolve to use your vote in November.

WORKING WITH THE MOON

 

WORKING WITH THE MOON

 

1) MOON

a) Waxing Moon- this is the time of beginnings, health and healing, fertility, psychic awareness, beauty.

i) Waxing Information: The time from the New Moon through the first quarter to the Full Moon is the proper time to perform healing rituals, positive magick, and spells that increase love, good luck, growth of any kind, sexual desire, and wealth.

b) Full Moon -Protection, Love, Healing Purification, Money, Travel and psychic awareness.

i) Full Moon Information: The period of the Full Moon increases the powers of extrasensory perception, and is the proper time to perform lunar goddess invocations, fertility rites, transformations, spirit conjuration’s, and spells that increase psychic abilities and prophetic dreams.

c) Waning Moon- Banishment’s of habits, addictions, disease and negatives. Jealousy, guilt and hurts are released.