Tag: The Craft

Pagan Meal Blessing Spell

Meal Blessing Spell

You can do this any day, or on a special occasion, before preparing a meal.

1. Light a candle in the kitchen and pass your hand three times, clockwise, over the food you are preparing.

2. Say softly three times:
“A blessing on the meal and peace on earth.”
3. Before setting the dining table, carry the same candle to the center of the table.

4. When the food is on the table, or just before you serve it, say:

“Give thanks to the Mother Earth.
Give thanks to the Father Sun.
Give thanks to the plants in the garden,
Where the Mother and Father are One.”
If you know the people well, you could say these blessing words before the meal. But if not, say them silently in your heart.

March 26 Astronomy Picture of the Day

Discover the cosmos! Each day a different image or photograph of our fascinating universe is featured, along with a brief explanation written by a professional astronomer.

2022 March 26

Pluto at Night

Image Credit: NASA, Johns Hopkins Univ./APL, Southwest Research Institute

Explanation: The night side of Pluto spans this shadowy scene. In the stunning spacebased perspective the Sun is 4.9 billion kilometers (almost 4.5 light-hours) behind the dim and distant world. It was captured by far flung New Horizons in July of 2015 when the spacecraft was at a range of some 21,000 kilometers from Pluto, about 19 minutes after its closest approach. A denizen of the Kuiper Belt in dramatic silhouette, the image also reveals Pluto’s tenuous, surprisingly complex layers of hazy atmosphere. Near the top of the frame the crescent twilight landscape includes southern areas of nitrogen ice plains now formally known as Sputnik Planitia and rugged mountains of water-ice in the Norgay Montes.

March 25, 2022 Daily Horoscopes

Click here for Georgia Nicols’ Daily Horoscopes

Moon Alert

There are no restrictions to shopping or important decisions today. The Moon is in Capricorn.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

Today you will make your point when talking to others. Nevertheless, a parent or boss (or someone in authority) might do something that affects your cash flow, earnings or assets in some way. Or perhaps something will affect a possession you own? Make sure you get to the bottom of things.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

Something related to travel plans is unpredictable today. For example, scheduled travel plans might be delayed or cancelled, whereas some of you might suddenly have to travel when you did not expect to do so. University and college schedules are also unreliable. It’s a crapshoot.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

This is a popular time for you. You’re in the groove! Nevertheless, something unexpected might impact banking details or something to do with inheritances, insurance matters or shared property. Double check everything to stay on top financial matters.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

People continue to admire you. (Looking good!) Be cooperative with close friends and partners, but expect a few surprises. Someone might demand more freedom in the relationship? Or perhaps they will have a surprising suggestion? You might meet someone unusual today.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

Your work routine will probably be interrupted for some reason today. Or perhaps, unexpected news that is health-related will surprise you? Pet owners should be vigilant because something related to your pet might catch you off guard. Today will have some unexpected events.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Parents take note: This is a mildly accident-prone day for your kids, so be vigilant. Know where they are at all times. Social plans might also change suddenly today. Or perhaps, you will receive a surprise invitation to go somewhere? Be aware that this window of opportunity will be brief, so act fast.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

Something unexpected might impact your home routine today. Small appliances might break down or a minor breakage could occur. Someone unexpected might appear at your door. Be wise and stock the fridge so you’re ready for anything. “Coffee, tea, beer?”

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

This is a mildly accident-prone day for you, so pay attention to everything you say and do to minimize problems. Stay cool because emotional distractions can cause accidents. Meanwhile, unusual news, new faces and new places will keep you on your toes today.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

Keep an eye on your possessions and your money because some unpredictable influences are at play today. For example, you might find money or you might lose money. Likewise, be smart and protect what you own against loss, theft or damage. A wise teacher once said, “Trust everyone and always lock your door.”

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Today the Moon is in your sign dancing with unpredictable Uranus, which makes you feel independent and self-reliant. You might meet a new friend. One thing is certain: Something unusual will affect your day. Perhaps your spontaneous and original ideas will impress someone?

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

Your psychic abilities are highly tuned today because the Moon is hiding in your chart dancing with your ruler Uranus. This definitely sharpens your antennas. Obviously, this is a good day to trust your intuition and go with your hunches. For example, “If you think something fishy is going on – it is.”

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

This is an interesting day because you’re bound to encounter interesting people. New friends, especially people who are different or unusual in some way, might come into your world. If you are dealing with a group or an organization, someone might have a forward-thinking idea. Be ready to listen.

If Your Birthday Is Today

Singer, composer Elton John (1947) shares your birthday today. You are playful, high spirited and entertaining. You don’t hesitate to speak your mind, but fortunately, you are clever, articulate and an excellent debater. And people like you. This is a year of learning and teaching. You will have opportunities to enjoy more solitude, and reflect upon your spiritual beliefs. Later in the year, life will become more exciting.

March 25, 2022 Birthday Horoscope

Happy Birthday! May the next year of your life be better than the past year! 

Click here to read anyone’s birthday horoscope from sunsigns.org

IF YOUR BIRTHDAY IS ON March 25, you are a shy Aries however; a crowd of people brings out the best in you. You are likely to have fanatical social talents and are often times, the center of attention at parties or social gatherings. These Arians are creative, independent and sympathetic. Those born on this day have a calming aura that will soothe any unfriendly forces.

What your birthday 25 March says about you is that you love your home and it is a general mix of the things that interest you. Its lavishness is filled with creative things and essentials.

It serves as a reminder that you are a most curious individual and your home displays the knowledge you have gained through the years. All you need is someone to share it with.

In lieu of your social skills, you have many associates but few close friends. March 25 birthday horoscope predicts that you enjoy life outside of the family unit. You prefer mingling with independent minds as your primary source of inspiration.

The birthday astrology analysis for Arians born on this day predicts that you seek the security of a loving and loyal partner. You want someone who you can set a foundation for marriage. Those born on this day look for mates that are much like them. You are a warm, attentive, and passionate person but sometimes have trouble expressing your true feelings.

The ideal partner understands that you have been hurt before therefore, you put up a shield. Underneath it all though, Aries, you have a great spirit and will invest your emotions into a relationship. Maybe you rush in where you should not have.

This could be heartbreaking if it is not with the person you thought was under that pretty smile. However, Aries with zodiac birthday March 25 people, you have a tendency to act on your impulses and could get involved in another before ending your first relationship. Some of you Arians have a more than average drive to be intimate.

Popular choice of careers based on the March 25 birthday personality are those involving communicating. You love to talk! This really opens the doors to many different arenas but a motivational speaker would be an awesome opportunity for you and for those that hear you.

You are confident and it shows in the way you walk and talk. You are influential, friendly and trustworthy. You would love a job that would pay you for what you are worth, but it is not the end of the world if it does not. Those born on this day would rather have a job that is gratifying.

Aries, you do not take care of yourself as you should. You tend to neglect your physical health needs. You are busy but you should take time to get scheduled check-ups. Aries, you are not as effective when your body is lacking its required vitamins or sleep.

To conquer moodiness, Arians like to relax by the sounds of soothing music to daydream by. While in this dream state, you are able to avoid mental stresses. Nevertheless, wake up, Aries and get a check-up.

As the March 25 birthday meanings show, those of you who are born on this day are the life of the party. When you enter a room, the spotlight is on you. You have few close friends but choose those people that are like-minded and independent.

You lead an active life, therefore; you sometimes neglect your body. There are no two ways about it, Aries you must sleep. Daydreams are good but do not serve you well as it is only a temporary distraction from reality.

 

Famous People And Celebrities Born On March 25

Laz Alonso, Howard Cosell, Aretha Franklin, Elton John, Juvenile, James Lovell, Katharine McPhee, Haywood Nelson, Gloria Steinem

See: Famous Celebrities Born On March 25

This Day That Year – March 25 In History

31 – According to Dionysius Exiguus, calendar maker, this is the first Easter
1668 – America hosts its first horse race
1863 – First Medal of Honor given to Army soldier
1901 – Near Marshalltown, Iowa, a Rock Island train derails killing 55 people

March 25  Mesha Rashi (Vedic Moon Sign)
March 25 Chinese Zodiac DRAGON

March 25 Birthday Planet

Your Ruling planet is Mars that is fiery, passionate, ambitious, competitive and a go-getter.

March 25 Birthday Symbols

The Ram Is The Symbol For The Arians

March 25 Birthday Tarot Card

Your Birthday Tarot Card is The Chariot. It symbolizes motivation, strength and a positive outlook. The Minor Arcana cards are Two of Wands and Queen of Wands

March 25 Birthday Compatibility

You are most compatible with people born under Zodiac Sign Scorpio: This zodiac match will be very loving and compassionate.
You are not compatible with people born under Zodiac Sign Aquarius: This relationship will require a lot of understanding.

See Also:

March 25 Lucky Numbers

Number 1 – This number signifies power, action, a doer who always achieves his goals.
Number 7 – This is a sophisticated number who is all for global awareness and charitable deeds.

Read about: Birthday Numerology

Lucky Colors For March 25 Birthday

Red: This is a powerful color that symbolizes love, anger, rage, determination, and radiance.
Sea Green: Signifies peace, love, calmness and new perspective.

Lucky Days For March 25 Birthday

Tuesday – This is the day of the planet Mars symbolized by adventure and an ambition to be the best.
Monday – This day is ruled by the Moon and signifies intuition, emotions, and a nurturing temperament.

March 25 Birthstone Diamond

Diamond is a stone that stands for energy, positive thinking, romance, and purity.

Ideal Zodiac Birthday Gifts For People Born On The 25th Of March:

Gym accessories for the Aries man and a pair of sunglasses for the Aries woman.

Printable Return to Sender

This spell is from spells8.com

The Witch Said What?!

For You Viewing Pleasure

Guided Meditation with Pluto

Guided Meditation with Pluto Living on YouTube

For Your Listening Pleasure

Wiccan Goddess Chant

Let’s Have Some Fun – Printable Coloring Page

March 24 Astronomy Picture of the Day

Discover the cosmos! Each day a different image or photograph of our fascinating universe is featured, along with a brief explanation written by a professional astronomer.

2022 March 24

The overdeveloped spiral arm of the galaxy NGC 772, which was created by tidal interactions with an unruly neighbor, dominates this observation made by astronomers using the Gemini North telescope located near the summit of Maunakea in Hawai‘i.

Arp 78: Peculiar Galaxy in Aries

Image Credit & License: International Gemini Observatory / NOIRLab / NSF / AURA
Processing: T.A. Rector (Univ. Alaska Anchorage), J. Miller (Gemini Observatory/NOIRLab), M. Zamani & D. de Martin

Explanation: Peculiar spiral galaxy Arp 78 is found within the boundaries of the head strong constellation Aries. Some 100 million light-years beyond the stars and nebulae of our Milky Way galaxy, the island universe is over 100,000 light-years across. Also known as NGC 772, it sports a prominent, outer spiral arm in this detailed cosmic portrait from the large Gemini North telescope near the summit of Maunakea, Hawaii, planet Earth. Tracking along sweeping dust lanes and lined with young blue star clusters, Arp 78’s spiral arm is likely pumped-up by galactic-scale gravitational tidal interactions The close companion galaxy responsible is NGC 770, located off the upper right of this frame. But more distant background galaxies are clearly visible in the cosmic field of view.

Smells like witch spirit: How the ancient world’s scented sorceresses influence ideas about magic today

Most perfume ads suggest that the right scent can make you sexy, alluring and successful. A blend by Black Phoenix Alchemy Labs, meanwhile, offers to make you smell like Hecate, the three-faced Greek goddess of witchcraft.

As a classics scholar who studies both magic and the senses in the ancient world, this idea of a witch-inspired perfume fascinates me – and “Hecate” is just one of many magic-inspired fragrances available today.

What does a witch smell like, and why would you deliberately perfume yourself like one?

Smells are impossible to see or touch, yet they affect us emotionally and even physically. That’s similar to how many people think of magic, and cultures around the world have connected the two. My current research is focused on how magic and scent were linked in ancient Rome and Greece, ideas that continue to shape views of witches in the West today.

Greeks and Romans of all walks of life believed in magic and used spells ranging from curses to healing magic and garden charms. Magical handbooks from the time show that Greco-Egyptian magicians used fragrance extensively in their rituals, even scented inks, and doctors believed strong-smelling plant species to be more medically effective than others. The gods themselves were thought to smell sweet, and places they touched retained a pleasant odor, making scent a sign of contact with the divine.

Witches wielding perfumes …

To read the rest of this article from theconversation.com

Printable Healing Potion

For Your Viewing Pleasure

Conjuring: The Healers of the Appalachians

Printable Freezer Spell for Binding

Printable Mars Spell

Happy and Blessed Mabon Dear Sisters and Brothers – Printable

A Magickal Rite for Mabon: Honor the Dark Mother

A Magickal Rite for Mabon

Honor the Dark Mother at Mabon

Demeter and Persephone are strongly connected to the time of the Autumn Equinox. When Hades abducted Persephone, it set in motion a chain of events that eventually led to the earth falling into darkness each winter. This is the time of the Dark Mother, the Crone aspect of the triple goddess. The goddess is bearing this time not a basket of flowers, but a sickle and scythe. She is prepared to reap what has been sown.

The earth dies a little each day, and we must embrace this slow descent into dark before we can truly appreciate the light that will return in a few months.

This ritual welcomes the archetype of the Dark Mother and celebrates that aspect of the Goddess which we may not always find comforting or appealing, but which we must always be willing to acknowledge. Decorate your altar with symbols of Demeter and her daughter — flowers in red and yellow for Demeter, purple or black for Persephone, stalks of wheat, Indian corn, sickles, baskets. Have a candle on hand to represent each of them — harvest colors for Demeter, black for Persephone. You’ll also need a chalice of wine, or grape juice if you prefer, and a pomegranate.

If you normally cast a circle, or call the quarters, do so now. Turn to the altar, and light the Persephone candle. Say:

The land is beginning to die, and the soil grows cold.
The fertile womb of the earth has gone barren.
As Persephone descended into the Underworld,
So the earth continues its descent into night.
As Demeter mourns the loss of her daughter,
So we mourn the days drawing shorter.
The winter will soon be here.

Light the Demeter candle, and say:

In her anger and sorrow, Demeter roamed the earth,
And the crops died, and life withered and the soil went dormant.
In grief, she traveled looking for her lost child,
Leaving darkness behind in her wake.
We feel the mother’s pain, and our hearts break for her,
As she searches for the child she gave birth to.
We welcome the darkness, in her honor.

Break open the pomegranate (it’s a good idea to have a bowl to catch the drippings), and take out six seeds. Place them on the altar. Say:

Six months of light, and six months of dark.
The earth goes to sleep, and later wakes again.
O dark mother, we honor you this night,
And dance in your shadows.
We embrace that which is the darkness,
And celebrate the life of the Crone. Blessings to the dark goddess on this night, and every other.

As the wine is replaced upon the altar, hold your arms out in the Goddess position, and take a moment to reflect on the darker aspects of the human experience. Think of all the goddesses who evoke the night, and call out:

Demeter, Inanna, Kali, Tiamet, Hecate, Nemesis, Morrighan.
Bringers of destruction and darkness,
I embrace you tonight.
Without rage, we cannot feel love,
Without pain, we cannot feel happiness,
Without the night, there is no day,
Without death, there is no life.
Great goddesses of the night, I thank you.

Take a few moments to meditate on the darker aspects of your own soul. Is there a pain you’ve been longing to get rid of? Is there anger and frustration that you’ve been unable to move past? Is there someone who’s hurt you, but you haven’t told them how you feel? Now is the time to take this energy and turn it to your own purposes. Take any pain inside you, and reverse it so that it becomes a positive experience. If you’re not suffering from anything hurtful, count your blessings, and reflect on a time in your life when you weren’t so fortunate.

When you are ready, end the ritual.

By Patti Wigington,Paganism/Wicca Expert
Article found on & owned by ThoughtCo

Happy and Blessed Ostara Dear Sisters and Brothers – Printable

Weekly Horoscope Sunday, March 20 to Saturday, March 26, 2022

Click here for Georgia Nicols’ Daily Horoscopes 

All Signs

Oh, happy spring! Today is the Spring Equinox, when the Sun enters Aries, the first sign of the zodiac. On this lovely day, Mercury is also lined up with Jupiter, which portends positive things for the month ahead. (We like.) Having said that, there will be some tense moments this week, especially Tuesday. (“Where are my kid gloves?”) But this will mellow out by Friday when a dynamic, energy encourages us to shake off negative emotions and enjoy spontaneous fun. By Saturday, confidence and clarity is restored along with bonds of friendship and trust. Oh yes — trust everyone and always lock your door.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

It’s that time again when the Sun is in your sign for four weeks, which is your best chance to rejuvenate yourself and recharge your batteries for the rest of the year. Naturally, your focus of attention will be more personal and on yourself, and that’s exactly as it should be. You will project yourself with more forcefulness than usual, which is why this is a great time to make a strong impression on others. Because you are personally empowered, it’s best to work alone or run the show. (You’ll be less of a team player in the next few weeks.) Expect some challenges dealing with friends or groups, perhaps about money or possessions. Someone might try to thwart your goals. (Big mistake!)

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

Right now your personal year is ending because your birthday is a month away. Therefore, the next four weeks are the perfect time to keep a low profile and give serious thought to what you want for yourself in the year ahead. (Birthday to birthday.) Goals are important right now because this is a time of harvest in your life. Many cherished dreams are coming true. In addition, now you can now see clearly what is working in your life and what is not. In fact, your strong ambition might be thwarted by someone this week. If so, look for ways to match your goals with their goals, or vice versa, so that you have a win/win situation. Many hands make light work.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

You’re heading into a lovely four-week window that will increase your popularity and heighten your interest in groups, clubs and organizations. Perhaps a friendship will assume a greater importance for you? According to the Mayo Clinic, friendships enrich your life and improve your health. However, better to be alone than in bad company! This is because your friends will influence your mind and your thinking; and it’s your mind that makes the decisions that determine your future. In this way, your friends can actually affect your entire life! Therefore, hang out with quality people. Make friends with people who want the best for you – people who have your back.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

For the next four weeks, the Sun will travel across the top of your chart. (This is the only time all year this happens.) This is wonderful news because it symbolizes that you are in the spotlight, and that others admire you. This will happen even if you don’t do anything different or special. It’s like magic. (Chalk it up to smoke and mirrors.) Nevertheless, this influence is a reality, which means you can use it to your advantage. Obviously, now is the time to go after what you want and make your pitch. Do whatever you can to get the approval or permission from people in power to further your agenda. Make hay while the Sun shines!

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

In the next four weeks, do what you can to broaden your horizons. Take up a new study. Explore new and unfamiliar experiences. Meet people from different backgrounds. Grab every chance to travel or change your surroundings so that you feel invigorated by something new and fresh. Even the most trivial encounter might be stimulating. Basically, the theme for this month ahead is that you want to break free from your usual routine and go somewhere where you can learn something new. For some of you, you might be more involved with the law or legal matters. Others will be excited to explore metaphysical, philosophical and new belief systems that are either modern or ancient.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Count on feeling more intense and passionate about every aspect of your life in the next four weeks. You might even notice strange compulsions surfacing. (“I want to open doorknobs. I don’t know why?”) During this same window of time, you might meet someone who causes you to do some serious soul-searching, which could force changes in your life. They might even challenge your values or make you rethink what you thought was important. You will also have a greater concern for finances, resources and property that is jointly held. Perhaps you are trying to borrow money or get financial backing? Struggles and interruptions at work, or possibly related to a pet, or even your health might arise this week. Stay chill. Jupiter will bring you divine protection.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

For the next four weeks, the Sun will be opposite your sign. In your chart, this means the Sun will be as far away from you as it can get all year. Because the Sun is your source of energy, this means that you will feel more tired than usual. Ergo, get more sleep. This polarized position of the Sun will also increase your focus on close friends and partners. The good news is it will give you more objectivity as you view these relationships, which means you will have a better chance to see how to improve the relationship. Meanwhile, parents should be aware that this is an accident-prone week for their kids. Sports accidents might occur. Social plans, including vacations might be cancelled or suddenly changed. Oops.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

In the next four weeks, you will be more competent, more energetic and driven to be more organized. This is timely because this week, there will be interruptions to your home or family scene, and fortunately, (voila!) you will have the energy and focus to cope with whatever happens. Basically, in this window of time, you will strive to make every action count. You will refine your techniques and sharpen your approach to be efficient, effective and productive. (Oh, you’re on a tear!) Increased activity on the home front or within your family will create some speed bumps this week. You will also be into redecorating and making things look nicer at home. You might focus on your health more than usual including your interaction with a pet. “Wanna treat?”

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

Oh joy! The next four weeks will bring you happy times because the Sun will be travelling through one of the most fun parts of your chart. (Yay me!) You will want to get out and have a good time. You’ll feel lighter, happier and eager to explore amusing diversions. This is a great window to enjoy a vacation, as well as fun outings. You might be more involved than usual with children. Certainly, your attitude toward your relationships will be lighter and for some, new romance will begin. Nevertheless, conflict with siblings or neighbours might occur this week, especially Tuesday. Best to zip thy lip.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Your attention will shift to home, family and your private life in the next four weeks. Some of you will be more involved than usual with a parent. Grab every opportunity to go off by yourself and spend some time in contemplation. Maybe memories of your past, as well as thinking about personal self-evaluation will occur. You’re keen to work hard to earn money, and you’re spending it on beautiful things as well. In fact, this week, especially Tuesday, you might have financial disputes with someone. This disagreement could be about vacations, social issues, the arts or something to do with your kids. Some will have a rocky time with romance.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

The pace of your days will accelerate in the next four weeks. Suddenly, you’ve got things to do, places to go and people to see! This same window of time will be great to learn new things or explore new avenues through reading, writing and studying. You might also be more involved with siblings and relatives. However, be aware that with Mars in your sign, you’re coming on a bit strong and this is bound to trigger conflict with others, especially at the beginning of the week around Tuesday. If this occurs, remind yourself what your long-term objective is. What’s more important? Being right or being in the relationship?

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

Money and finances are on your mind in the next four weeks. You might consider a new job offer or ponder moneymaking ideas? You will also be busy more than usual with your possessions. At a subtle level, you will be giving more thought to your values in life. In other words, what really matters? (So important to know.) Some angst might be triggered at the beginning of the week because of something going on behind the scenes. Or perhaps it’s going on internally in your mind? “I’m going to have a serious shower argument with myself.” (Ah yes, those shower arguments when you remember to say the perfect clever response to stun your opponent.)

History of Ostara, The Spring Equinox

History of Ostara, The Spring Equinox

The word Ostara is just one of the names applied to the celebration of the spring equinox on March 21. The Venerable Bede said the origin of the word is actually from Eostre, a Germanic goddess of spring. Of course, it’s also the same time as the Christian Easter celebration, and in the Jewish faith, Passover takes place as well. For early Pagans in the Germanic countries, this was a time to celebrate planting and the new crop season.

Typically, the Celtic peoples did not celebrate Ostara as a holiday, although they were in tune with the changing of the seasons.

According to History.com,

“At the ruins of Chichen Itza, the ancient Maya city in Mexico, crowds now gather on the spring (and fall) equinox to watch as the afternoon sun creates shadows that resemble a snake moving along the stairs of the 79-foot-tall Pyramid of Kukulkan, also called El Castillo. On the spring equinox, the snake descends the pyramid until it merges with a large, serpent head sculpture at the base of the structure. While the Maya were skilled astronomers, it’s unknown whether they specifically designed the pyramid to align with the equinox and create this visual effect.”

A New Day Begins

A dynasty of Persian kings known as the Achaemenians celebrated the spring equinox with the festival of No Ruz, which means “new day.” It is a celebration of hope and renewal still observed today in many Persian countries, and has its roots in Zoroastrianism.

In Iran, a festival called Chahar-Shanbeh Suri takes place right before No Ruz begins, and people purify their homes and leap over fires to welcome the 13-day celebration of No Ruz.

Mad as a March Hare

Spring equinox is a time for fertility and sowing seeds, and so nature’s fertility goes a little crazy.

In medieval societies in Europe, the March hare was viewed as a major fertility symbol. This is a species of rabbit that is nocturnal most of the year, but in March when mating season begins, there are bunnies everywhere all day long. The female of the species is superfecund and can conceive a second litter while still pregnant with a first. As if that wasn’t enough, the males tend to get frustrated when rebuffed by their mates, and bounce around erratically when discouraged.

The Legends of Mithras

The story of the Roman god, Mithras, is similar to the tale of Jesus Christ and his resurrection. Born at the winter solstice and resurrected in the spring, Mithras helped his followers ascend to the realm of light after death. In one legend, Mithras, who was popular amongst members of the Roman military, was ordered by the Sun to sacrifice a white bull. He reluctantly obeyed, but at the moment when his knife entered the creature’s body, a miracle took place. The bull turned into the moon, and Mithras’ cloak became the night sky. Where the bull’s blood fell flowers grew, and stalks of grain sprouted from its tail.

Spring Celebrations Around the World

In ancient Rome, the followers of Cybele believed that their goddess had a consort who was born via a virgin birth.

His name was Attis, and he died and was resurrected each year during the time of the vernal equinox on the Julian Calendar (between March 22 and March 25).

The indigenous Mayan people in Central American have celebrated a spring equinox festival for ten centuries. As the sun sets on the day of the equinox on the great ceremonial pyramid, El Castillo, Mexico, its “western face…is bathed in the late afternoon sunlight. The lengthening shadows appear to run from the top of the pyramid’s northern staircase to the bottom, giving the illusion of a diamond-backed snake in descent.” This has been called “The Return of the Sun Serpent” since ancient times.

According to the Venerable Bede, Eostre was the Saxon version of a Germanic goddess called Ostara. Her feast day was held on the full moon following the vernal equinox–almost the identical calculation as for the Christian Easter in the west.

There is very little documented evidence to prove this, but one popular legend is that Eostre found a bird, wounded, on the ground late in winter. To save its life, she transformed it into a hare. But “the transformation was not a complete one. The bird took the appearance of a hare but retained the ability to lay eggs…the hare would decorate these eggs and leave them as gifts to Eostre.”
Modern Celebrations

This is a good time of year to start your seedlings. If you grow an herb garden, start getting the soil ready for late spring plantings. Celebrate the balance of light and dark as the sun begins to tip the scales, and the return of new growth is near.

Many modern Pagans mark Ostara as a time of renewal and rebirth. Take some time to celebrate the new life that surrounds you in nature–walk in a park, lay in the grass, hike through a forest. As you do so, observe all the new things beginning around you–plants, flowers, insects, birds. Meditate upon the ever-moving Wheel of the Year, and celebrate the change of seasons.

Author

Patti Wigington
Published on ThoughtCo.com