Moon Phases
The phases of the Moon have a profound significance in the Wiccan religion. For Wiccans, the Moon's phases are important when working particular spells and rituals, gardening and everyday life in general. The cycles of the Moon can be likened to the monthly cycle of a woman. The Moon is a symbol of the Goddess as well as a source of energy.
Below, I will explain the Moon phases in detail and then I will state what type of spells should be cast at each phase.
Note that if you live in the Northern Hemisphere, the Moon's phases go in the opposite direction, eg: the Moon waxes on the right and wanes on the left.
New Moon: The Moon lies directly between the Earth and the Sun. The Moon is completely unlit, so we can see no Moon at all.
Waxing Crescent Moon: The Moon begins its journey and after approximately three days, a tiny area of the sunlit side is revealed as a delicate crescent to the left of the Moon. As the Moon grows in light it is said to be waxing.
First Quarter Moon: Over the next three and a half days the crescent grows until the left half of the circle is lit. The Moon has moved ninety degrees and covered the first quarter of its journey.
Waxing Gibbous Moon: The Moon continues to wax (grow) until three quarters of the Moon circle is light.
Full Moon: Each of the following nights the Waxing Gibbous Moon grows until the Moon lies directly opposite the Sun and the full circle is illuminated.
Waning Gibbous (or Disseminating) Moon: The Moon now begins the second half of its cycle, gradually diminishing in light. It is said to be waning. Three and a half days later the perfect circle of light is lost.
Last Quarter Moon: After a few more days, the Moon is half light, half dark with the lit side on the right.
Waning Crescent (or Balsamic) Moon: Less and less light shows, until the Moon is just a thin crescent to the right side of the circle. A few days later, the Moon will be compeletely dark and the cycle starts all over again.
Moon Power:
New Moon: To begin a brand new relationship or job.
Waxing Moon: To attract growth, prosperity and commitment.
Full Moon: For casting spells of love and high magick.
Waning Moon: To finish a relationship or to banish negative energy.
Pray to the Moon when she is round
Luck with you shall then abound.
What you seek for shall be found
In sea or sky or solid ground.
