Moon Lore

There's a different theme for each different moon of the year, so click on the name of a month above to learn more!!

Barley Moon

The Barley Moon also signifies harvest, but Her message is much different than that of the Wort Moon: it heralds the reaping of grain fields. This is important to the Witch because the grain holds the mysteries and cycles of life, death, and rebirth within its core. Each kernel is the product of the first grain ever grown. And yet this life renews itself every year to lend its energy and nourish our bodies. Thee is little else on Earth more ancient or powerful.

In celebrating the Barley Moon, remember that we have much in common with the grain. We are each descended from the first pair of human beings, and their blood still courses through our veins. It sustains and energizes us. It gives us life. Remember, too, that we - each and every one of us - are products of this ancient and fertile life force. And that even though personal ancestry plays a part in our individual identities, we are all related, one to each other, and bound together for all of eternity. Simply put, we each form a link in the chain of eternal life.

 

Barley Moon Ideas:

  • Dress in shades of yellow-gold, tan and warm brown to honor the grain harvest.
  • Use yellow-gold candles and burn Full Moon incense. Alternatively, burn patchouli incense.
  • Decorate the altar with paper chains, ancestor photos, or belongings, sheaves of wheat, and other grains of the season.
  • Serve oatmeal cookies or sweet bread, and either alcoholic or nonalcoholic malt beverages for libation.
  • Asperge the Circle with a sheaf of grain. After Circle, place it on top of the outdoor libation spot and leave it for the birds.
  • Write a thank-you note to one of your ancestors and burn it in incense, letting the smoke carry your message to it recipient.
  • Set aside some time to meditate on the chain of life and Universal connection. This is especially important if there are people in your life whom you don't like right now. Then make an effort to mend any relationships gone awry. If you need help taking the first step, say the following prayer to the Mother Goddess:
    • "Gracious Goddess,
      Who art Maiden, Mother, and Crone,
      Celebrated be Your Name. 
      Help me to live in peace upon
      Your Earth and grant me safety in Your arms. 
      Guide me along my chosen path and show me
      Your great eternal love as I strive to be kind to those who don't understand
      Our ways and lead me safely to Your Cauldron of Rebirth. 
      For it is Your Spirit that lives within me and protects me forever and ever. 
      So mote it be."

 

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