Imbolc, Brigid, and Temperance

February 1st or 2nd , depending on who you talk to, is the Festival of Imbolc, or first light. This is the time of year when we begin to notice that yes, indeed, the days are getting longer. Bulbs are beginning to push up green spikes, and the snowdrops are in full bloom. It is a time of anticipation, new beginnings, and inspiration.

Imbolc probably derives from the Old Irish i mbolg “in the belly”, which refers to the fact that this is the start of lambing time in Ireland and the rest of Europe. It is also a perfect metaphor for the season. The year is pregnant with the coming of the sun, which brings new growth.

At this festival pagans honor Brigid: goddess of water and fire, wells and forges, healing and inspiration, smith craft and childbirth.

I see the angel on the Temperance tarot card as a perfect representation of Brigid. He/she stands between two opposing forces and works to reconcile them into a new and beautiful creation. In some decks the angel is holding fire and water. Blacksmiths use the opposing forces of fire and water to shape and temper steel. A baby is formed by the joining of a man and a woman, and art is inspired and created by the fusion of ideas.

Wishing you a blessed and inspired Imbolc.