by Paul Lines

Created on: June 12, 2008

For Wiccan believers and followers the summer solstice, or Litha as they name it, which is celebrated around the longest day of the year, is a time for celebrating the power of light and the fruition of fertility, the later being because, as Wiccan sources describe it, "mother nature is heavy with pregnancy." In other words, crops are growing towards readiness for harvesting. As with the spring equinox and other seasonal occasions the Wiccan followers have a number of special rituals and celebrations that take place at the summer solstice as they give thanks to the Gods and Goddesses and look for help and guidance as they travel into the remainder of the year. These rituals can be performed either privately within one's own home or in a group environment.

As with other Wiccan rituals, the summer solstice takes place by forming a circle around an altar. The circle is made from flowers and summer fruits. However, for this ritual there is a cauldron of fire in the centre on the altar. Because the Wiccan followers believe that fairies are particularly active at this time of year, it is also customary to bring gifts and offerings of herbs. The activities within these rituals may vary somewhat. What is common to all is the chanting and recitals that accompany the celebrations. However, some may also use mirrors to capture the sunlight. Other actions that can be included are the plunging of a sword (or athame) into the cauldron or leaping across the flames, which is intended to purify and renew the person's energy levels.

Another ritual that can be performed, as an act of purification, is to make a pouch into which you place selected herbs, which is place upon the altar. Different coloured candles, which will be used to light the fire, are placed at the four points of the compass around the altar. The herbs are there to represent all of the bad and sad things that affect the believer's life, which will later be burnt and its ashes doused with water, signifying the purifying act. It is customary at this time to wear magical Wiccan jewellery and to engage in the process of chanting and recitals to the gods. Furthermore, the act of bathing and meditation before the commencement of the ritual is also recommended as this prepares the person's mind and thoughts for the task ahead. At the end of the ritual, the Wiccan believe will follow this with a small feast, usually comprising of cakes and ale, before finally releasing the circle.

In that these rituals allow the person participating to consider the deeper aspects of their lives and its meaning and purpose, it can be seen that from an emotional, psychological and spiritual aspect, they do have a cleansing effect, which can only be seen as beneficial.

Source:
http://www.magicspells.in/ostara_s pring_equinox.htm

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