by Nina Du Preez

Created on: February 09, 2010

The moon has since the beginning of time been an object of much interest. In the old days farmers would use the moon as a guide to when would be the best time to sow seeds/crops, and when to harvest. The moon played an important role in the development of modern day astrology, and has throughout history had an influence on humanity in some or other way. The moon is an integral part of the functioning of the earth, its seasons, the tides, etc, and this too is true for humanity in that we feel some kind of kinship with this most intriguing heavenly body. The sun provides growth and life to the planet, but the moon is a silent, mysterious being which very few people have been able to understand. Why does the moon appear to have different names at different times of the year, and can this help us in ritual work? What effect does the moon have on us personally? I will attempt to answer these questions, as well as provide other info regarding one of our most sacred symbols in this article, but first I would like to introduce you to the many faces of the moon, and the effects they have on ritual work.

History and basic physiology of the moon:

Throughout history there have always been people who have paid attention to the moon and its phases. From ancient times our ancestors knew that their affairs were influenced by nature's cycles. Being aware of the lunar cycles and the earth's seasonal changes has always been important to us. The ancients chose focus lunar energy on their goals and objectives, and these concepts are still used in modern times for goal setting and personal empowerment. Farmer's almanacs are based on the lunar cycles, as the farmer would time his harvest in accordance to the almanac. But even before settled agriculture, the moon phases served as a calendar for hunter/gatherer societies, and as mentioned before our modern calendar is divided into months, or "moons".

The moon's reflected energy has the power to affect our moods and emotions. The moon is more than just an entity in the sky that provides light at night. To many Wiccans she represents the Goddess. We use her natural energy in magic when performing spells and rituals, and for this reason it is important to know when the moon is in the correct phase. We witches, as well as other occultists, find the Full Moon particularly empowering and hold our most important rituals at this time. It can therefore be concluded from the previous text on the phases that the full and waxing moons are good for

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