February 9th and 10th
Festival of Yemanja
In Afro-Brazilian spiritual traditions, Yemanja is the Goddess of all sea waters and a symbol of mastery. Her name means “the mother whose children are the fish.” She is considered to be a Mother Goddess and has dominion over all large bodies of water, including the depths of the ocean.
Yemanja is the patron of motherhood and is often associated with the moon. Her colors are blue and white. Her symbols include the fan, mermaid, a silver crescent, and all things that come from the sea.
On this day in Brazil, great festivals honor Yemanja. They begin a daybreak with ocean-bound processions of singers and dancers, all expressing their love for the Goddess. Those participating carry candles and offering carved with fish to the sea shore. Thousands of candles in tiny paper boats are set afloat on the ocean as participants make wishes for the coming year.
Magickal Activity
Yemanja’s Magick Wishing Bowl
Items You Will Need:
White paper
A white enamel bowl
A blue 7-day candle
Seven white fresh chrysanthemum flowers
Blue food coloring or anil (a blueing agent)
Begin by writing your desire on the piece of white paper. Place the paper into the bottom of a white enamel bowl. Set the candle on top of the paper in the bowl, fill the bowl with water, and use the food coloring or anil to color it blue. Carefully place each chrysanthemum flower in the bowl of water, light the candle, and make your wish.
The candle must be left to burn out completely. This will take approximately seven days. At the end of this time, you must take the entire bowl (candle and all) to the nearest large body of water. Gently put the entire contents into the water along with seven silver coins. Make your wish, turn, and walk away. Do not look back.
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