Celtic Soul

 

The Esbats

   

Moonlight has held people in a certain enchantment, about which poets have expounded for centuries. Even to walk in the moonlight is to feel a touch of magic; one cannot help but sense the energy. Luna does not give us a harsh bright light as does the sun. She provides just enough to part the darkness of night and invite us into other realms.

The waxing phase of the moon is a time for growth. It is a time to plant; literally and symbolically. Magic done during this time culminates on the full moon. This phase is conducive for creativity because of the high energy and clarity of vision it brings. It is also conducive for teaching. The energy of the full moon is intense. It is a time for sending forth intentions because of the high-powered energy that can propel them to manifest.

 

     

When we enter into ritual we strengthen our connection with the cycles of nature, bringing us into rhythm with the natural world and with our own nature. When we take time to step outside of the mundane world, we encounter the rich flow of spiritual energy. We can reach deep inside ourselves and connect on a level that nourishes and gives us the strength to carry on in the rough and tumble of the physical and mental parts of our lives.

The Esbats relate the advancing seasons with the magic of moonsheen. Even though the full moon rises at sunset on the opposite horizon from the sun, her mood reflects the seasons without being completely tethered to them. The Sabbats have their traditional purposes but the Esbats can run free. The energy is vibrant. Esbats are a time to laugh from the belly and dance like there is no tomorrow.

Excerpted from
A Year of Ritual
© Llewellyn

 

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© Celtic Soul - Sandra Kynes
 
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