Imbolc is a very old pre-Christian fire festival that falls midway between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox, celebrated by many on February 2nd of each year. Before the Gregorian calender was introduced, it would have been the eve and day of the full moon around this time. It heralds the first signs of green shoots and the very first stirrings of Spring in the Northern hemisphere, the time of new life and increased fertility.
The word ‘Imbolc’ means ‘in the belly’ in old Irish and denotes the time when the very first lambs of the year are born in to the world. The deity associated with this festival day is Brigid (pronounced Breed) who is the goddess of fertility, midwifery, fires (especially the hearth fire in our homes), smithing, healing, poetry, agriculture and pretty much anything handmade.
Brigids crosses, ready to hand out to loved ones
Brigids’ loving energy blesses us all – she represents the returning sun, warmth, vitality and the return of green growth – but some may wish to show her their heart felt appreciation and attract extra blessings to their household. These beautiful little ‘crosses’ are satisfyingly easy to make and can be hung outside the threshhold of your house to honour her. Some also hang them above stables, animal sheds etc. In return, Brigid is said to bestow her protection and purification to the household.
The Common rush
Green rushes are commonly used and can be found in abundance in damp fields at this time of year. They only take a few minutes to make so make a few and hand them out to loved ones or hang them in a special tree to honour Brigid.
A great little video tutortial for making Brigids crosses can be found here.
In Ireland, many people leave out items of their own clothing or a simple piece of cloth on the eve of Imbolc for Brigid to bless. Her many gifts and her association with agriculture, healing, the arts, protection and fertility are perhaps why she is so dearly loved to this day. Find other ways to honour Brigid and celebrate Imbolc here.
