IMBOLC


Northern Hemisphere: February 2
Southern Hemisphere: August 1

    Imbolc means, literally, "in the belly". For in the womb of Mother Earth, hidden from our mundane sight but sensed by a keener vision, there are stirrings. The seed that was planted in her womb at the solstice is quickening and grows.

    Imbolc is the festival of the Maiden, for from this day to March 21st, it is her season to prepare for growth and renewal. This sabbat celebrates the first evidence of the return of life. The Sun is slowly starting to make its return and the very hardiest of plants will begin to grow again from this day forth.

    It is the time of Blessing of the seeds and consecration of agricultural tools. In some areas, this is the first day of ploughing in preparation of the first planting of crops.

    Another prominent idea around Imbolc was cleaning. People began cleaning their house, both physically and magickally. Cleansing and purifying all items as this was a time of renewal.

    Celebrations during this sabbat are some of the most beautiful. They tend to include a large amount of candles in addition to the bonfire.



    Correspondences
     Symbols
    White Flowers, Candle Wheels, Brighid's Crosses, Priapic Wands (acorn-tipped),Corn Dolls and Ploughs

    Gods/Goddess
    All Virgin/Maiden Goddesses
    Gods of Love and Fertility

    Colors
    White, Pink, Red, Yellow, Light Green, Brown

    Traditional Foods
    Pumpkin seeds, Sunflower seeds, Poppyseed Cakes, muffins, scones, and breads, all dairy products, Peppers, Onions, Garlic, Raisins, Spiced Wines and Herbal Teas

    Herbs
    Angelica, Basil, Bay Laurel, Blackberry, Celandine, Coltsfoot, Heather, Iris, Myrrh, Tansy, Violets, and all white or yellow flowers

    Incense
    Basil, Bay, Wisteria, Cinnamon, Violet, Vanilla, Myrrh

    Oils
    Patchouli, Cinnamon, Orange, Frankincense, Sandlewood, Myhrr

    Gemstones
    Amethyst, Bloodstone, Garnet, Ruby, Onyx, Turquoise

    Deities:
    Brighid, Aradia, Athena, Inanna, Gaia, Februa, Aengus Og, Eros, Februus

    Focus of Imbolc
     This is a time for renewal. Dispense with all that holds you back and start fresh. Purify your soul and everything that surrounds you. This is a time for initiations or rededications.

    Sister's Sabbats Sites
     BrisaTrue
    MoomMist

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updated January 27, 2000


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