What in the World is Imbolc? Plus, A Brief Primer on the Celtic Wheel of the Year

[icymist]

If you're familiar with the Celtic wheel of the year, you probably know that it's based on an agrarian cycle. And while most people reading this are probably not farmers or particularly tied in with the growing seasons of the earth, the archetypes upon which the wheel of the year rely are so deeply rooted in our collective consciousness that we understand quite easily how to connect the points on that wheel with our mundane and spiritual lives. For example, it makes sense that Ostara (spring equinox) is a time to begin new projects. It makes sense that Beltaine (May Day) is associated with fertility and flowers and romance. It makes sense that Litha (summer solstice) is a time for heightened activity, and that Yule (winter solstice) is a time for sleep and dreaming. Heck, even most people get that Lammas (August 1) has to do with giving that final push to projects already bearing fruit.

So. What's the deal with Imbolc?

Imbolc falls on Feb. 2. Its name comes from the Gaelic oimelc for "in milk." This refers to ewes, whose udders become full with milk at this time in preparation for their lambs, who usually arrive in the middle of February.

There. Do you now understand the meaning of Imbolc and why it deserves a cross-quarter spot on the wheel of the year?

Read the full article

[brokensymmetry]

1. Interesting article.

So...let's suppose we're on a cycle of political
renewal (rebirth?). Perhaps Imbolc would be both
the symbol of, and the season for, such change?

[Ilsa]

2. Interesting how this time of year is so close to

the beginning of Lent, and how Lent is based upon Easter, which is tied to the first full moon after the vernal equinox.

It is already starting to warm up in south texas, with fewer periods of cold. Alot of people seem more energetic. My husband and his father have begun fishing again, doing yard work, trimming trees, etc. Inside, we are doing spring cleaning, rearranging, etc. It is a period of revitalization here.