Imbolc February 1

 

Imbolc is the Celtic holiday that marks the beginning of spring.

 

It is ruled by the goddess of spring, known as Brigit or Brigantia in

Ireland, and Bride in Scotland. In Irish myth, the god of the earth

Dagda, also known as the "good god," had three daughters, who were all named Brigit.

 

The first Brigit was the goddess of poetry, the second was the

goddess of smithcraft, and the third was the goddess of fire and

healing. All three are really aspects of one triple goddess who was

associated with the Sun and with fire.

 

On this day Brigit used her flame to rekindle the fire in the earth

and assure that plants would have the heat that they need to break

through the earth and begin to grow. In ancient times, a woman

dressed as Brigit would bless the fires in the households and forges

across Ireland.

 

On this day, Brigit's snake would come out of its mound, and the

snake's behavior would determine how long the remaining frost will

last. This is the most likely origin of Groundhog Day.

 

In Christian times, Brigit became a saint associated with the Virgin

Mary. Imbolc became the Christian Candlemas, the Feast of the

Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which is celebrated by

lighting candles.

 

A Brigit's cross is a talisman made of woven reeds that form a cross

with a woven square in the center and four equal arms extending out

from the center. This design gives the cross a sense of rotation that

evokes the wheel of the year. Brigit's cross should be made or bought

on this day and used to protect the home throughout the year.

 

Also on this night one can leave a silk ribbon on the doorstep for

Brigit to bless. Later it can be used for healing.