The Goddess Brigid
At Imbolc we celebrate the return of the light and the coming of Spring. This traditional Gaelic festival is often celebrated on the second of February and is meant to celebrate the end of winter and the warming days.
It also is dedicated to the Goddess Brigid. The Goddess Brigid is a
member of the Tuatha Dé Danann, the daughter of the Dagda and wife of
Bres. As the Earth begins to stir beneath our feet with the promise of
life soon to return, we turn to the Celtic Goddess of Spring. A
triple-Moon Goddess, she is associated with wisdom, poetry, healing,
protection, blacksmithing, and domesticated animals. During Imbolc she
is often seen as the maiden and honored as the bride of the Sabbat.
There are many spellings and variations of her name to include Brighid,
Brid, Brighid, Brigit, and Bride, among others. Something interesting
is that while the spelling may differ, she keeps the same name as the
Maiden, Mother and Crone. She is known as the Goddess of the Flame and
the Sun. This association came from the story that when she was born at
sunrise, a tower of flame burst from her forehead. Her name is from
the Celtic brig or "exalted one." It is thought that her mother is Morrigan, another Celtic triple Mother Goddess. Her son is Ruadan.
If you love the arts Brigid is an amazing Goddess to work with as the is the Goddess
of poetry, crafting, and the arts. She is known for her assistance in
energy to do with the hearth and the home. She also oversees childbirth,
and time of birth. In Kildare Ireland, she was honored with a sacred
flame that was maintained by a group of priestesses. In Kildare you will
also find several sacred wells, which many are connected to Brigid as she is also known as the Goddess of Wells and Water. Brigid is a Goddess of Inspiration. Her primary symbols include fire, flames, the hearth, water, grain and a white swan.
Brigid was worshiped and loved by many. When the Celts were
being converted to Christianity, the Church realized they would have to
include Brigid as she was loved by so many. In Christianity she became Brigid
the Saint. The church claims that she was the foster mother of Jesus
Christ. They stated that she was the daughter of a druid who predicted
Christianity and that she was baptized by Saint Patrick. When the
Catholics took over, her Shrine in Kaldare was converted. They replaced
the priestesses with nuns, a tradition held to this day. They still tend
to the fire burning just as the priestesses had in ancient times.
One of the things that I love about the Goddess Brigid is that she is also known as a protective Warrior Goddess.
She has this beautiful nurturing and protective energy that reminds me
of a Mother. You may call on her for help with protection or security
as well.
Brigantia, Shining Queen of Heaven,
You, our Maiden, Mother and Crone,
You are earth-children's own.
From Green Isle to distant shore,
Far flung, your tales have spread.They tried, but your fire would not die;
eternal be the flame of Lady Bride.
Inspire us with your wisdom.
May the words to honor you spring up,
As flowers after winter's dearth.We drink of your healing milk,
Quicken in us the Spirit's rebirth.
May we forge a holy work,
Crafted with generous peace,
Made golden by love.Such will not fade.
And keep us ever safe
Under your mantle,
Dearest Brigit, fair Queen of Heaven.
JAL, 6-7-97
I hope you have a magickal day!
Much Love and Many Blessings,
Jasmeine Moonsong
P.S. I designed a special reading to help you develop your connection
with this beautiful Goddess of Spring and to see what energy and advice
she may have for you on your current journey in life If you are
interested you can find it here: The Goddess Brigid Tarot Journey
