Of Equinoxes and Full Moons
Ostara On the Wheel of the Eight-Fold Year as observed by many Pagans, the Spring Equinox (the Second Quarter) is called Ēostre or Ostara. Named for an old Germanic Goddess, Ēostre, and the month called after her (Ēastermōnaþ). This month roughly corresponded with April and is the namesake of our present usage of Easter. It is the celebration of returning life to the land after the death of winter, and often symbolized by hares or rabbits (the hare is associated with goddess Ostara), baby animals like chicks (new life and beginnings) and eggs (fertility and increase). In Celtic or Druidic observation, the spring equinox (celebrated on March 21st) is called Alban Eiler—the Light of the Earth. The balance of Day and Night has always been seen as a powerful opportunity for magic and transition. It is a time to sow seeds, in both physical and spiritual realms. And of course,…
