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WHEEL OF THE YEAR - SPECIFIC WICCA WICCAN SABBATH HOLY DAY RITUALS

Beltane - History of Beltane

"May Day on the first of May is also known as Beltane or Bealtaine (pronounce Beel tawn uh). The 2 highest holy days in the Wiccan calendar are May Day and Samhain (Halloween). They fall at opposite ends of the year marking the transitions between spring to summer and fall to winter.

"If there was ever a pagan festival that epitomizes what the early Church was afraid of - it would be this festival of fertility! The God and Goddess are awakening to their sexuality and will become lovers. Wild dancing and carnal acts are associated with the holiday.

"In olden times a maypole was setup in a public space and hung with multi-colored ribbons. Traditionally the colors of ribbons were red and white. The pole was actually a large phallic symbol that young maidens danced around with the white ribbons and young males wove red ribbons between them. Of course as the dancers weave into the pole they grow closer and closer together.

"All the other actions and tools of this holiday are intended to be erotic in nature symbolizing the union of God and Goddess. Horn blowing, lush springtime greenery and fresh fruits abound. Goats and rabbits that are prolific breeding animals are popular during Beltane. Sweets and other decadent delights are important refreshments. Mirrors may be used as an opportunity for us to recognize and 'own' our own beauty and virility.

"Herders drove animals through and lovers leapt over a large bonfire. It is traditional to take a piece of the Beltane fire and bring it back to your home for blessing. Tonight we will light a fire, cleanse ourselves in its smoke and awaken the fires within us.