Tidings of Peace at the Mourning Moon
Nov. 16th, 2024 12:42 am![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
alivemagdolene
Also Known As: Mad Moon, Beaver Moon, Dark Moon, Fog Moon, Moon When Horns are Broken Off, Elk Moon, Frost Moon, Trading Moon, Sage Moon, Snow Moon, Blotmonath (Sacrifice Month), Herbistmanoth (Harvest Month), Sassafras Moon, Moon of Storms, Moon When Deer Shed Antlers
Element: water
Nature Spirits: subterranean faeries
Herbs: grains of paradise, verbena, betony, borage, cinquefoil, blessed thistle, fennel
Colors: grays, sea-green, blues
Flowers: blooming cacti, chrysanthemum
Scents: cedar, cherry blossoms, hyacinth, narcissus, peppermint, lemon
Stones: topaz, hyacinth, lapis lazuli, turquoise
Trees: alder, cypress, hazel
Animals: scorpion, crocodile, jackal
Birds: owl, goose, sparrow
Deities: Kali, Black Isis, Nicnevin, Hecate, Bast, Osiris, Sarasvati, Lakshmi, Skadi, Mawu, Astarte
Power Flow: Taking root, preparation, transformation. Strengthen communication with the Gods that seem closest to you.
ABOVE TAKEN FROM MOON MAGICK BY DJ CONWAY
Mantra (By Yasmine Galenorn): I learn and grow from the past.
Info on This Moon From About Dot Com: In November, the Mourning Moon is upon us. It's also known as the Fog Moon or Frost Moon, depending on where you live. Some Native American tribes referred to it simply as The Moon When Deer Shed Antlers (although in most regions it's more accurate to say they're shedding their velvet - a buck doesn't usually lose antlers until later in the winter, unless you're very far north). In the early Celtic society, November was the beginning of the new year -- why not use the magic of this moon phase to celebrate new beginnings?
This is a time of washing away the baggage of the past and letting it go. Once you've done that, you'll be able to focus on the joys of the future. During the Mourning Moon phase, say goodbye to bad habits and toxic relationships, and get a fresh start for the new year. Work on developing and strengthening your connection with the Gods.
The Complete Idiot's Guide to Wicca and Witchcraft by Denise Zimmerman and Katherine A. Gleason
The Snow Moon is also known as the Beaver, Mourning, or Tree Moon. This is a good time to work with abundance, prosperity, and the bonds of family and friendship. This is also a good time to use divination to get an idea of what is up ahead. Remind yourself that although winter is coming, it will not last forever. Do what you can to reduce your stress and to strengthen your bonds with family and friends. Back before the advent of grocery stores and central heating, people really counted on those bonds, which could be the difference between making it through the winter or perishing. So, know who is really there for you, and count your blessings.
The Complete Idiot's Guide to Paganism by Carl McColman
NOVEMBER (Snow Moon)-- Divination, intuitive & psychic skills. Final preparation for cold.
The Craft - A Witch's Book of Shadows by Dorothy Morrison
Name: Snow
Cakes & Ale: butter cookies and hot chocolate
Colors: black, purple, navy blue, and other dark colors to honor the sleeping period of the earth
Altar Decor: purple candles, onions, garlic and other root vegetables, a child's sheet or quilt as an altar cloth
Incense mugwort or patchouli
Esbat Purpose: Celebrate the coming of the dark months; it's time for Mother Earth to rest and sleep
Try Drawing the Circle With: dream catcher [
alivemagdolene's note: Please only use dream catchers made by actual Native people; avoid woo appropriative nonsense whenever possible]Witch's Brew: Good Spells for Peace of Mind by Witch Bree
November's Beaver Moon is when we call upon our wild nature.
Witches Datebook by Yasmine Galenorn
On Samhain we remember our ancestors and mourn those we have lost. On the Mourning Moon, we reconnect with our roots so that we may be strong through the winter months. Lay a black cloth on your altar. Decorate with autumn leaves, gourds, orange candles, a mirror, a plate of cookies, a bottle of port wine, and pictures of your ancestors, your beloved pets who have crossed over, and anyone you might care to remember who has made the transformation from life to death.
On the night of the Full Moon, cast a circle and light the candles. Invoke your chosen Gods. Focus on each picture, thinking about how that person has touched your life, in ways both good and bad. Give thanks for the lessons and joys each person taught you. Toast them, and when you are done, leave the wine and cookies on the altar for the dead to feast on, and in the morning, leave the food and drink in a sacred spot for the Earth to reclaim. Affirmation for the Mourning Moon: I learn and grow from the past.
Witches Datebook (2002) by Edain McCoy
The Reed Moon is connected to the solar festival of Samhain, the time when we are open to contact with ancestor spirits, strengthen our family ties, and gather in supplies for the winter ahead.
First, take time to collect items you feel link you to your ancestors and place these objects on an altar. Light a candle for each spirit whose name you call aloud, then light one more for friendly wandering spirits. Once you sense their presence, offer them food and drink.
Thank the spirits for making sacrifices that made your world a better place, and for giving you stamina to cope with adversity. Think of all the positive aspects of yourself and honor them with blessings. For example:
Blessed be they who made me smart and patient.
Blessed be they who gave me artistic talent.
Blessed be they who gave me a sense of humor...
Witches Datebook (2003) by Edain McCoy
The Reed Moon means winter is approaching. It is a month of turning our energies toward hearth and home. The tree symbolizes family, fidelity, and trust. The wood was burned to honor household spirits and a family's patron Deities, and in ancient Scotland a broken reed was an omen of familial betrayal.
As the Reed Moon begins, you should bring reeds into your home and weave them into decorations or altar adornments. Place them in your hearth or kitchen area.
As you go through your home putting the reeds in place, chant a charm to empower them as talismans of protection and trust. They will impart the blessings of unity and purpose to your family this winter.
Impart your protection to one and all;
Beneath this roof shall fealty reign,
Love and security is ours again.
Witches Datebook (2004) by Edain McCoy
There is an old saying in Ireland that the reed can stand where mighty oaks have fallen. Slender, sturdy, and sharp, the reed reminds us that it's not always the biggest guy who withstands the storms of life, but the smartest.
Call upon the energies of the reed during its Moon to help you stay calm-- and to help you remain standing through whatever storms life throws your way.
No gale or cyclone makes you fall;
Tip as sharp as an arrowhead,
Fells your enemies, blesses your dead.
Grant to me your steady calm,
Be unto my soul a balm;
Keep me standing, keep me strong,
Through wind and calm, right and wrong.
Witches Datebook by Dallas Jennifer Cobb
As the Sun wanes and outward growth slows, vital energy settles in the roots. In November, turn within and let inner growth be the focus of the journey through the underworld. Learn, study, reflect, and grow. In this time of mourning and loss, let the quietness of home and hearth sustain you, for in safety and familiarity there is hope to see us through the long winter. As you explore the darkness, practice divination and exercise your intuition and psychic skills. The brightness within can help you to "See" with clarity in the time of the darkness. Make final preparations for the cold season, putting your life in order to that you are able to sustain yourself and care for your loved ones through the long months ahead.
I draw your brilliance deep within me,
Kali, Black Isis, Hecate, Osiris,
In our homes with loved ones, ever be near us.
Witches Datebook by Ellen Dugan
November is a transitional time as autumn fades and it becomes more winterlike every day. The skies may be brilliantly blue, but most leaves have fallen from the trees. In the morning, you may find that Jack Frost has been hard at work decorating windows, adorning autumn leaves, and coating blades of grass with his silvery-white frosting. Jack Frost, an elfish character connected to Norse folklore, was believed to have brought the brilliant fall colors by nipping leaves with his frost. In Russia, he is known as the benevolent Papa Frost-- a Santa type cloaked in shimmering white and silvery blue-- who was thought to bind water and earth together during the year's coldest days. Welcome the spirit of Papa Frost or Old Jack Frost into your magic and put the freeze on a troubling situation. Tonight, as the Full Moon rises, write your problem on a slip of paper, tuck it in a paper cup, fill the cup with water, and place in in the freezer.
Bring harm to none, and as I will it, so mote it be.
Witches Datebook (2010) by Elizabeth Barrette
In Cherokee tradition, November is the Trading Moon. With the harvest in and necessary foods stocked up, this time before the full force of winter is ideal for visiting and exchanging goods. To the Choctaw, this is the Sassafras Moon. When the mitten-shaped leaves turn orange and drop off, that's a good time to harvest the roots for flavoring beverages. The Dakota Sioux call this the Moon When Horns are Broken Off. This may refer to the broken antlers that occur when bucks fight over mates.
During November, the earth goes dormant. Many plants die back. People and animals begin relying more on stored foods and fat reserves. Several species of large animals have their mating season in late autumn or early winter. Offer suet and other high nutrient forms to wildlife.
Magically, work spells relating to animals at this time, such as deer totems. A piece of deerskin leather or some antler buttons can increase the connection. Hunting charms are appropriate for people who still hunt some of their own food. Rituals may celebrate animal spirits or the introspective energy of the dormant season.
Bring harm to none, and as I will it, so mote it be.
Witches Datebook by James Kambos
As a part of this ritual, take a walk in the November night. Leaves crunch underfoot, grass is sequined with frost, and bare trees look like ebony brushstrokes against the sky. Above this world is the crown jewel, the Frost Moon. Silver, distant, and serene, she represents the unseen realm and intuition. The guardian of the mysteries, she is all knowing, but reveals little.
We should look inside ourselves to find the answers we are seeking to improve our lives. During your Frost Moon ritual, develop your psychic powers. Light a silver candle. in your ritual space, place the divining tools you like to use, such as the tarot, pendulum, cauldron, or magic mirror. Or you may scry into the flame of the candle you've just lit. To help connect with the Unseen Realm speak this charm:
Bless me Frost Moon, share the secrets you keep.
Share with me the divine gifts of prophesy,
By card, mirror, smoke and fire, let me "see."
Witches Datebook (2016) by Elizabeth Barrette
November is called the Elk Moon. At this time of year, herd animals become more visible as forests lose their leaves and the rutting season occurs. Elk is a great teacher and leader. People who follow this path likewise have exceptional wisdom and determination. Furthermore the darkening hours and cooling weather bring people indoors to enjoy such community activities as storytelling or learning new crafts. Children study diligently in the schools.
For this spell, you need an image of a hoofprint. Elk's cloven hoof represents the two halves of education-- teaching and learning. hold the hoofprint in your hand and say, "Elk of the mountains, open my eyes. Teacher and student, let me be wise." Draw the Elk energy into your symbol and seal it there.
Choose a familiar skill to teach someone else, or a new skill that you want to learn. Keep your hoofprint image with you to improve your insight as you work. At the end of each lesson, think about what you have taught and learned, because they always come together, like the two toes of the elk. Thank the spirit of Elk for helping you through the process of education.
Witches Datebook by JD Hortwort
The last Gray Lady under the Full Moon this year is sage (Slavia officinalis), also known as culinary sage. How fortunate that this Full Moon comes so close to Thanksgiving in the United States this year. Gardeners who manage their landscape by lunar phrases believe a Full Moon is a perfect time to harvest herbs.
Rubbed safe is lighter and fluffier than ground-up sage. Make your own rubbed sage by drying fresh sage leaves in low heat. Pick up several of the leaves and rub them briskly between your palms. Do this until all of the leaves are crushed. Sift the rubbed leaves through a colander or a strainer. The end result is ready to use. Don't discard the coarser material. Brew a strong tea with one tablespoon of sage to two cups of boiling water. Allow to cool. Use as a gargle for a sore throat or to help heal inflamed gums.
Sage is an herb of wisdom. For blessings of health and wisdom, make small bundles of sage and juniper for friends as holiday presents. When the herbs have dried in about a month, they can be burned to cleanse the home.
Witches Datebook by Natalie Zaman
A long time ago, three men stole the Moon from the sky and hung it in a tree like a lantern. All agreed that the Moon was theirs and that each man would take his share with him to his grave. Eventually, the men and the pieces of the Moon were reunited in the underworld. The bright light of the now-always-full Moon caused chaos among the spirits and the demons who were used to living in darkness. Hearing the ruckus in the great below, St Peter came down from heaven and put the Moon back in the sky, restoring order to the world.
The Moon belongs to all of us and gazes down without judgement or favoritism. Not a thing to be tamed or captured, she is a perfect example by which to live, always changing, adapting, and thus maintaining balance. At November's Full Moon, meditate on the many things we share as human beings, similarities to be celebrated as much as our diversity:
In Her changing face we find the Divine.
Witches Datebook by Blake Octavian Blair
The Elder Moon gives us an opportunity for helping others with a magical boost to move forward, leave the troubling parts of the previous year behind, and begin anew at the winter solstice when the Sun is reborn. The elder tree brings magical energies known for banishing harmful energies, bringing us healing and closure, and promoting new beginnings. The elder is often referred to as the guardian of gateways. This sounds like just the ticket at this point in the calendar!
Bundle up and head into the moonlight if you can. Visualize yourself as an elder tree, roots deep into the ground, branches stretched high under the cleansing moonlight. See yourself with bare winter branches. The moonlight cleanses away harmful energies that do not serve, the magic of elder pushing them out and away from you. As they exit your trunk, the moonlight cleanses. As they exist your roots, the earth transmutes. Feel the earth, elder, and Moon working together as a sacred triad. Then, visualize new leaves, as if in spring, blossoming and bringing you new beginnings!
Witches Datebook by Deborah Blake
No matter what time of year it is, it is always a good idea to maintain an attitude of gratitude and be mindful of the blessings in your life. As the year winds down, November is a good month to focus on looking back at the gifts you have been given and all you have achieved. Even if things haven’t gone the way you wished them to, there are always things to be grateful for if you look hard enough. Gather a few that symbolize what you are giving thanks for— for example, a coin for prosperity, an apple for health or abundant food, a heart for those who have stood by your side. Then light a white candle and spend a few minutes thinking about all that you are grateful for and say,
For the unexpected gifts and the hard-won successes,
For the strength to deal with whatever comes,
For the people who walk the path with me— for these and more, I give thanks.
Witches Datebook by Monica Crosson
NOVEMBER MOON OF LOSS
Autumn is the season of letting go. Memories of summer still linger as the last of leaves fall, leaving only bare trees that seem to scratch desperately at a vacant sky. Gone is the birdsong and the drone of bees. Gone is the wild energy that kept our spirits high, leaving us with an emptiness that all the warmth of a fire and tea cannot seem to fill. This, of course, is analogous to life, as letting go of the past can be hard. But, in fact, it can be one of the most courageous acts we do for ourselves.
Under the gentle light of November's Full Moon, write down these dark things from your past that you cannot change on scraps of paper and burn them in a small fire. This is your reminder that although we cannot change the past, we can dictate a better future.
A safe and peaceful holiday to all that celebrate~!
