The people of the early British Isles were called Gaelic or Celts. They were similar to the people across the English Channel in that all grew tired of the cold, dreary winter and looked forward to spring. In late January or early February, our Ancestors noted that the first signs of spring were appearing - the heralds of spring one might say. In different parts of the land, it might be an animal, a bird, or even a tree or bush that showed the Sun was becoming stronger and the days longer.
To help the Goddess of Fertility to encourage good birthing in the animals for this was also the time of the early calves and lambs, the Ancestors would hold celebrations when the weather seemed that it was turning better - most frequently on February 2. A festival of light and bonfires and dancing and story telling honouring the Goddess (Brigit) and the God (The Horned God) to ensure their divine help in keeping a food supply until the harvest happened. The celebration was also to help cheer the Sun in to shining more brightly and warmly to hurry the thaw.
Our Ancestors used animals that hibernate to determine the upcoming month of weather. Bears, badgers, groundhogs, hedgehogs and snakes (serpents) are all used as guides. People used to have faith that Mother Nature and the Oneness with all would adequately predict what their year would hold. Once the prediction was finished, the Ancestors felt peaceful, and went about their lives.
Prosperous Imbolc to each of you!
No comments:
Post a Comment
Thanks for reading this blog post. Sharing is good if it is kind and either has questions or tells about an experience.
Blessings,
Judy