Imbolc: An Introduction

Imbolc is when the energy shifts from the winter Crone to the youthful Brigid, the goddess of light, hearth, and creativity. This holiday, also called Candlemas or Oimelc, is celebrated from February 1st through sundown on February 2nd, marking the halfway point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox.

The word "Imbolc" means "in the belly" because the seeds of spring are stirring in the belly of Mother Earth. The term "Oimelc" means ewe's milk because many herd animals are heavily pregnant or producing milk.

Brigid the Goddess

Imbolc celebrations took the form of festivals honoring the pagan goddess Brigid, who oversaw fertility, poetry, crafts, and prophecy. The day was celebrated by burning lamps and lighting bonfires in tribute to Brigid. Young girls would make a doll of the Goddess Brigid from oat or wheat straws. The girls would carry the dolls in a basket with white bedding door-to-door, and gifts were given from each household.

Legend says if you leave a piece of clothing outside, Brigid might bless it as she moves from house to house. People would often make up a bed for her if she needed to rest a while on her journey.

From Brigid to St. Brigid

Brigid was brought into Christianity as St. Brigid and became One of Ireland's patron saints. Brigid is the patron saint of Irish nuns, midwives, newborns, dairy maids, and cattle. The stories of St. Brigid and the goddess Brigid are very similar. Both are associated with milk, fire, the home, and babies.

Candlemas

Candlemas is a Christian holiday celebrated on February 2nd with aspects in common with Imbolc. It is a purification holiday celebrating light's return after winter's darkness by lighting candles.

Correspondences

Colors: green, pink, white, yellow

Plants: Rowan, sycamore, cedar, grain, Basil, blackberry

Crystals: amethyst, turquoise

Goddesses: Athena, Brigid, Danu, Juno, Selene, Vesta

Gods: Cupid, Dumuzi, Eros

animals: Badger, groundhog, deer, sheep

Magical focus: beginnings, fertility, hope, healing, prosperity, inspiration, youth, purification