Litha
Litha
This day is celebrated as the longest day of the year and consequently the shortest night as well (this day is opposite Yule). In many traditions Litha symbolizes the end of the Oak-Kings (waxing year) reign and is replaced by the Holly King (waning year).
It is important to note that even though there is now a separation of the light and dark half of the year it doesn’t mean good against evil but rather that light stands for life, growth and birth where darkness represents regeneration and withdrawal; both which are necessary in our lives.
It is believed that on Litha the veil between the worlds is again at it’s thinnest just as it is on Samhain and that the spirits can travel freely between the worlds.
Litha is the traditional time to harvest your magickal and medicinal herbs that have grown. Remember when you gather them to take no more than a 1/3 of the plant if possible so that healthy growth may continue and always remember to first ask and then thank the plant for its gift.
In June the full moon is known as the Mead (or honey) moon because June is an excellent time for harvesting honey from the hives. Mead is a brew made from honey and a traditional drink for summer solstice. It is also appropriate to have honey on your altar during the ritual cakes and wine for dipping. This symbolizes the sweetness of life.
Often times Litha is celebrated near the water since the sun is entering into Cancer during this time and Cancer is a water sign. Many will take rituals to the beaches if they are fortunate to live near one. This is an excellent time as well for gathering Magickal water for your spell work. If you are not fortunate enough to live near the ocean than gathering rainwater will work just as well, especially during thunder and lightening storms; the more electrical energy put out the better! Collect your water in a glass jar or porcelain, never metal. Store it on a shelf and never leave it on the ground, as the energy will ground itself out. Whatever hasn’t been used after 6 months you can return to its source and collect fresh. Feel free to add coral, shells and rocks to the water to increase its energy during this time. This water is for magickal use and not for drinking purposes.
Here are some ideas for how to celebrate Litha with some age-old customs. Jump over a small fire you have built with your partner to bring blessings into your life whether they are spiritual, material, physical or symbolic. Make ritual symbols of something’s in your life you would like to be rid of, charge them and toss that into the fire to burn them from your life. If you work with a group you might choose two men to act out the battle between the Oak King and the Holly King. Lastly celebrate the harvest of the season by enjoying the many fruits and vegetables picked during the summer. In this way you will be celebrating the richness and abundance of our earth mother. Share your harvest with those who may be less fortunate as well.
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