Imbolc

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Imbolc is one of the four major Sabbats (holidays). It is also one of the three fire festivals.

Imbolc means "in milk" and is the celebration of the world as it comes alive with life. All of the mother animals are full of milk for their young. The Goddess is also in milk for her nursing baby. She nourishes the world along with Her child.

Imbolc is the day we bless our magical candles. Celebrate this time with a candle making party. Help your world welcome Spring by planting flowers.

(February 2)


Imbolc Lore

     It is traditional upon Imbolc, at sunset or just after ritual, to light
every lamp in the house-if only for a few moments. Or light candles in each 
room in honor of the suns rebirth. Alternately, light a kerosene lamp in the 
with a red chimney and place this in a prominent part of the home or in a Window.

     If snow lies on the ground outside, walk in it for a moment, recalling the 
warmth of summer. With your projective hand, trace an image of the sun on the 
snow

     Foods appropriate to eat on this day include those from the dairy, since 
Imbolc marks the festival of calving. Sour cream dishes are fine. Spicy and 
full-bodied foods in honor of the Sun are equally attuned. Curries and all 
dishes made with peppers, onions, leeks, shallots, garlic, or  chives are 
appropriate. Spiced wines and dishes containing raisins-all foods symbolic of 
the Sun-are also traditional.

Imbolc Ritual

A symbol of the season, such as a representation of a snowflake, a white flower, or perhaps some snow in a crystal container can be placed on the altar. An orange candle anointed with musk, cinnamon, frankincense or rosemary oil, unlit, should also be there. Snow can be melted and used for the water during the circle casting. Arrange the altar, light the candles and censer, and cast the Circle.

  • Recite the Blessing Chant
    
  • Invoke the Goddess and God
    
Say such words as the following:

This is the time of the feast of torches,
when every lamp blazes and shines
to welcome the rebirth of the God.
I celebrate the Goddess,
I celebrate the God;
All the Earth celebrates
Beneath its mantle of sleep.

Light the orange taper from the red/altar candle on the altar. Slowly walk the circle clockwise, bearing the candle before you. Say these or similar words: All the land is wrapped in winter. The air is chilled and frost envelops the earth. But Lord of the Sun, Horned one of animals and wild places, Unseen you have been reborn of the gracious Mother Goddess, Lady of all fertility. Hail Great God! Hail and welcome! Stop before the altar, holding aloft the candle. Gaze at it's flame. Visualize your life blossoming with creativity, with renewed energy and strength. If you need to look into the future or past, now is an ideal time.

  • Works of magick, if necessary, may follow.
    
  • Celebrate the simple feast or cakes and ale ritual.
    
  • Clear the circle.

The pervious was taken from: Wicca: A guide for the Solitary Practitioner-By Scott Cunningham

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