Tag: Celtic Tree Calendar
-
Reading the Reeds
The Celtic tree for October 28 to November 24 is the reed. Represented by the letter N, ngetal (pronounced nyettle) is the 13th letter of the Ogham alphabet. It symbolizes wisdom, adaptability, and protection. Following the lunar cycle of 28 days, the Celtic Tree Calendar tracks the year in terms of trees, not months, and…
-
The Vine that Grows on You
Correction: The Ogham symbol associated with the period from September 2 – 29 is Muin, the eleventh letter of the Ogham alphabet. Gort is associated with the Ivy Month, September 30 through October 27. Muin represents the vine, which produces grapes, and in turn, wine. The vine is connected to prophecy and truthful speaking–because typically,…
-
Pump Up Your Life Force with Hazel
With the apex of summer comes Coll, the Irish name of the ninth letter of the Ogham alphabet. Represented by the rune ᚉ, which means “hazel tree” or “inner life force,” Coll spans August 5 to September 1 in the Celtic Tree Calendar. Known as “The Knowledge Keeper,” the hazel was associated with inspiration, wisdom,…
-
All Hail the Oak!
In the Celtic Tree Calendar, the oak rules from June 10 through July 7, the longest days of the year. The peak of this period is the summer solstice. This year, it occurs on Friday, June 20, at 10:41 p.m., EDT. Although days grow warmer, light decreases, signaling the inevitable winter. Especially in ancient times, the…
-
Willowy Mysteries of Regeneration and Inspiration
With supple branches and silvery-green leaves that dance in the wind, the willow evokes femininity, magic, and healing. While there are more than 300 species of willow (Salix), the most common image is the weeping willow (Salix babylonica). The one represented by Saille, however, is the white willow (Salix alba), so named because its pale…
-
Strong and Mysterious, the Alder Facilitates Transition
In the Celtic Tree Calendar, the Alder (or Fearn) Moon spans mid-March to mid-April. Coinciding with the spring equinox, the Alder Moon symbolizes balance and transition. The Alder month, called fairin by the Celts and fearnóg in Modern Irish, is represented by the third consonant in the ogham alphabet and comes from the Proto-Celtic **wernā.…
-
Bold and Resilient, Birch Symbolizes Renewal
Birch, the first lunar month in the Celtic Tree Calendar, coincides with the new growth cycle that begins with first light after the winter solstice. Spanning the days between December 24 and January 20, the month is dedicated to renewal and recovery. The birch is singularly suited for that distinction. Despite its elegant, pendulous branches,…