Esbats:
Esbats are Wiccan celebrations performed on the Full Moon, and sometimes on the
New Moon as well. Full Moons have always been tradtional monthly meeting times for Witches. More and more Witches now celebrate
the New Moon as well.
There are two periods of the moon that are more powerful in many ways than either
the New or Full Moon. These are the midway points, or quarters, which are about seven days after both the New and Full Moons. You
will need to consult an accurate astrological calendar in order to determine where these points are in each month.
Halfway between the New and Full Moons, when the moon is between the worlds of
light and dark, when the moon lives on the edge of time-space and stands at the threshold between the worlds, this is a very
powerful time, more powerful than any other time of a month. Gray Witches can use these midway points for some of their most
potent magical spells.
First Midway Point: This point falls between the
New and Full moons, is an almost equal blend of light and dark energies, with the light energy holding a slight edge. This
time can be useful for working Full Moon magic that had no produced satisfactory results when performed at the usual time.
This is a time for positive magic that may beed a dose of dark energy to blast away resistance, such as in healing or spelling
for prosperity.
Second Midway Point: This point is the one that
falls between the Full and New Moons, is again a blance of light and dark energies. However the dark energy is slightly stronger
at this point. A Witch can use this energy flow to cut through barriers to success, remove pschic attacks that proved resistance
to ordinary magic, or push ahead projects that have stalled.
Both of these midway points are extremely powerful when used for serious divination
or for trance work. Rituals performed at these times, as well as the New and Full Moons, generate tremendous amount of energy
that can be used for magic or contacting those who are deceased. These midway points seem to make it easier for all spirits
to make clear contact.
The moon also works its way through the zodical signs, residing in each sign
for approximately two days. Any good astrological calendar should list the day that the moon slips into another zodiac sign,
Since the moon is primarily affects the emotions and emotional reactions to events, a Witch can use these emotional energies
when working magic.
Moon in Aries: This sign gives boldness, energy, and unfortunately
a tendency toward impetuousness. People tend to be argumentive and aggressive. However, when the moon is in Aries it is a
good time to start projects and channel energy for change.
Moon in Taurus: This energy is solid and well grounded, with
little push to hurry or change anything. People usually are mellower, less likely to become stresed. It is a good time to
work for consolidation of projects already started.
Moon in Gemini: The moon in this sign can be frenetic with
the surge of wild energy compelling one to move and do. People are more inclined to become involved in social activites, although
their thoughts may be scattered and their lives far less orderly than when the moon is in Taurus. This is a good time for
magic that involves the search for answers, as the magician will be more inclined to look at a variety of posibilities.
Moon in Cancer: When the moon travels through this sign,
emotions are closer to the surface than usual. Thoughts and activities center around the home and close family. People can
become overly sensitive, which may cause misunderstandings and hasty words. This is a time for magical projects affecting
the welfare of the family and home.
Moon in Leo: This sign projects energy that makes for drama
and melodrama, a love of attention and the spotlight. People can blow the smallest scene out of proportion if they are not
careful. This energy can be used to boost your self-esteem or to tackle an over inflated ego.
Moon in Virgo: A discriminating zodical sign, the moon in
Virgo is a good time for detailed work and tackling whatever needs to be done, no matter how mundane it is. People usually
are more helpful and productive now. Use this moon sign for working on magical projects that require a close eye on all details
and are turned to ordinary, everday solutions to make life better.
Moon in Libra: This sign affects the balance with which we
view our life and relationships, and partnership. However, it can cause balance in the extreme so that people dither instead
of making decisions. Use this energy when searching for balance point needed in spells.
Moon in Scorpio: This is the most intense sign of the moon's
journey through the zodiac. Extremes in mood are quite common. People tend to brood more over a slight offense than usual.
This is an excellent time for magical spells and meditations that will enchance the understand of the Mysteries and spirituality
in general.
Moon in Sagitarrius: This moon
in Sagittarius bring out an innter need to search for knowledge greater understanding. People can overdo or waste energy now
in their haste to enjoy life. This is a time to study and/or practice with magic and divination.
Moon in Capricorn: The moon in this sign sometimes makes
people pessimistic and cautious in all their dealings with others, particularly concering their career. This energy often
can be scattered or disruptive. It is a good time to work spells for your career or major life goals.
Moon in Aquarius: This zodical sign is one of rebellion.
Not open rebellion as with the Moon in Aries, but a quiet, subtle rebellion that is primarily stubbornness to not listen
to others. Sometimes people will do complete reversals in decisions at the last minute. This energy is good for spells to
help you break out of the norm and create a new in your life.
Moon in Pisces: The moon in this sign can cast a veil of
illusion over everything, bocking out reality and causing fuzzy thinking. However, what makes for an impressionable, unreal
everyday life can be used in a positive manner during meditation. This energy aid in becoming more spiritual and compassionate.
