Beltane, May 1
Beltane, also called May Day by many Christians. This Sabbat celebrates the
fertility and union of the Horned God and the Goddess. At this time, life is
renewing itself. Birds and animals are mating. In the fields, newly planted
seeds are beginning to grow. Great fires are lit honoring the fertility God
Belenos. Some leap the fires to show the exuberance of the season.
A Maypole is erected and bright ribbons are hung on it. The Maypole, a phallic
symbol, represents the masculine. The soft colored ribbons are the feminine.
The union of the two symbolizes the union of the God and Goddess. This is the
time to fertilize your dreams with action. It is legend that children conceived
at Beltane were gifted by the Gods. These children became known as Merry-Be-Gots.
| HERBS: Honeysuckle, St. John's wort, Hawthorn, All flowers. INCENSE: Frankincense, Lilac, Rose. COLOR: Green, Soft pink, Blue, Yellow. DECORATIONS: Maypole, Strings of beads or flowers, Ribbons, Spring flowers FOOD: Dairy, Oatmeal cakes, Cherries, Strawberries, Wine, Green salads. |
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