The Oracle

Imbolc - Feb 2nd

This festival is known by many names, depending on religion or indeed its location. Here are just a few examples, Candlemas, Ground hog Day, Saint Birgit's Day, the festival of lights, etc. It is held at the mid point of the winter season – February 2nd, though it is common practice to start proceedings the night before. Imbolc is a Welsh term (Oimelc in Irish), literally meaning “In the Belly”, it also means Ewes’ Milk, and relates to the fact that sheep begin to lactate at this point. This was extremely important to our ancestors as this was once a major source of food and one of the only sources of fat during the harsh months.

The term Candlemas relates to the fire festival aspect of Imbolc, the lighting of a bonfire (or a candle) to bring light to the dark months. Symbolically this was a representation of the sun gaining strength and returning to bring forth life. Typical of any ritual, in most religion, the lighting of a candle or bonfire usually incorporates some form of meditation or even prayer. At this time of the year people are encouraged to think of the things they wish to lose. This could be such things as a person who wishes to leave behind emotional stress or even quitting smoking.

Also at this time of year many communities would come together and seek omens for the future. This is not the sort of Hollywood concept of dark omens but rather omens of good fortune. For example people would look to nature for omens that the land was ready for planting and whether or not it was going to be a good year for crops. That is a far cry from the idea of dark omens and images of witches gathering to bring blight to crops. Instead it conjures images of a wise farmer noting important features that would benefit him and his future harvest.

Copyright Richard J Blackburn 2008