As we crossed the threshold into the brighter half of the year at Winter Solstice, we now approach Imbolc, a time for nurturing ourselves as nature gets ready to emerge from a period of rest.
In the belly
As the Celtic Wheel continues to turn, we find ourselves at Imbolc, which represents the slow emergence of Spring, rather than the abrupt ending of Winter. Imbolc marks the halfway point between Winter Solstice and Spring Equinox.
The word “Imbolc” translates to “in the belly” ; a reference to the time of year and new beginnings, new life and fertility. Imagine a seed in the ground, a baby in a dark womb or an egg in a nest. These fascinating entities are buried in darkness with so much potential, which mirrors the seasons: in the darkness of Winter, something is biding its time, ready to slowly emerge in the Spring.
Ancient rituals
Ancient peoples would have celebrated Imbolc by lighting a fire; as with all four of the fire festivals. This time of year was important as the growing season begins. Fire is a very sacred element in ancient Paganism. It is furiously respected, feared and revered. It is believed to have magical power. Lighting a fire was a way to wield protection over the land, the livestock and the people.
Brigid: The saint and goddess
Brigid has been revered in Irish culture for generations. Originally an ancient diety, she is thought to have been a druidess and a healer. As Catholicism became more popular in Ireland, Brigid became the matron saint of the country, symbolising new beginnings and the flourishing of life in Spring.
Making a Brigid’s cross at Imbolc is woven into the fabric of Irish society, a wonderfully therapeutic craft activity that soothes the soul. The crosses are hung above doorways to protect the household from misfortune. Each Imbolc, last year's crosses are thrown into the fire, and a new one is woven. Another tradtion is to leave a piece of cloth (also known as Brigid's Cloak or Brat Bhríde) outside on 31st January and Brigid will bless it as she passes by that night, giving the owner protection for the year ahead.
Brigid is the maiden form of the crone goddess An Cailleach. An Cailleach rules over the winter season, casting her spell on the land, making it frozen, hard and desolate. She strips the leaves from the trees and blows cold winds across the land. At Imbolc, she changes form into Brigid, the goddess of light and life.
Whether you place your beliefs in Brigid the druidess or Brigid the saint, we can all find comfort in what she symbolises and be hopeful for the year to come.
Tree Wisdom
The Celtic Wheel has a tree zodiac; which links a native Irish tree to each part of the year. At Imbolc, the Rowan/ Mountain Ash tree is prevalent; a very magical tree and a tree of protection, due to the vibrant red colour of its berries. Bringing a sprig of Rowan indoors meant the house was protected from evil spirits and misfortune.
Like Hawthorn and Elder, Rowan has white flowers and is considered a fairy (or faerie) tree; a portal into the Otherworld where non-human entities reside.
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