Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
Many Wiccan, modern Druids, and eclectic modern pagans incorporate a narrative of the Holly King and Oak King as rulers of the waning year and the waxing year respectively. These two figures battle endlessly with the turning of the seasons. At the summer solstice, the Holly King defeats the Oak King and commences his reign.
Bealtaine (anglicised as 'Beltane') (/ ˈ b ɛ l. t eɪ n /; Irish pronunciation: [ˈbʲal̪ˠt̪ˠəʲnə], approximately / ˈ b (j) ɒ l t ɪ n ə / B(Y)OL-tin-ə) [5] [6] is the Gaelic May Day festival, marking the beginning of summer. It is traditionally held on 1 May, or about midway between the spring equinox and summer solstice.
Devoted to Woden, for victory in the forthcoming "Summer" months. March: Lencten-tid (Spring Feast) Devoted to the goddesses Hréðe, and Hludana. April: Eáster-freólsdæg (Eostre's Feast) Devoted to Eostre. Summer solstice: Midsumordæg : Devoted principally to Thunor, but also to Helith, with whom they associate good luck and healing. [26]
However the Divine King of Frazer was split into the kings of winter and summer in Graves' work. [2] [4] Stewart and Janet Farrar characterize the Oak King ruling the waxing year and the Holly King ruling the waning year, and apply the interpretation to Wiccan seasonal rituals. [6]
For example, the Summer Solstice altar cloth should be white and the altar decorated with Summer flowers, fruits and anything else that symbolizes Summer. [2] This goes for each Sabbat. Certain Wiccan traditions may have different colors but universally, the altar is usually decorated to represent the time of year.
Common pagan festivals include those marking the summer solstice and winter solstice as well as the start of spring and the harvest. [70] In Wicca and Druidry, a Wheel of the Year has been developed which typically involves eight seasonal festivals.
Get AOL Mail for FREE! Manage your email like never before with travel, photo & document views. Personalize your inbox with themes & tabs. You've Got Mail!
Thaw from cold to spring Spring equinox, Alban Eilir 20 or 21 March 21 or 22 September Height of spring season Beltaine, Calan Mai: 30 April or 1 May 31 October or 1 November Planting crops, warming days Summer Solstice, Alban Hefin 21 or 22 June 21 or 22 December Longest day and shortest night Lughnasadh: 1 or 2 August 1 or 2 February