Holly Moon July 8 - August 4
In the Celtic Tree Calendar, Holly signifies the 8th month, the time of the barley harvest, representing growth, protection, fertility, riches, and increase. The Holly moon was called Tinne, pronounced chihnn-uh, by the Celts.
The Oak ruled in the previous month, but now its counterpart, the Holly, takes over in July. This evergreen plant reminds us of the immortality of nature. In the British Isles, Holly is the only native non-coniferous tree that does not shed its leaves in autumn. In spring it has small white flowers, which become green berries, which turn into scarlet berries in the winter. So it is, that Holly represents the twin of the Oak King, and presides over the dark half of the year. Its vitality is evident in the ever-green leaves, even in the cold winter months.
Medieval Christians identified Holly with Christ and revered it as sacred. Holly is said to offer protection and good luck, they are frequently found as marker trees and planted in hedges, or near dwellings to benefit from their protective aura.
Our ancestors used the wood of the Holly in the construction of weapons, but also in protective magic. Hang a sprig of Holly in your house to ensure good luck and safety to your family. Wear as a charm or make Holly Water by soaking leaves overnight in spring water under a full moon, then use the water as a blessing to sprinkle on people or around the house for protection and cleansing.
Keep a sprig of holly above your bed to ensure pleasant dreams.
The holly berry is symbolic of the life giving blood of the Goddess, keep some on your altar to invite happiness, balance, success, and luck.
Holly can also be utilized in any ritual relating to death and rebirth, and seasonal mysteries. Because holly burns extremely hot, it is suitable for any fire festival.
In Scottish folklore, holly branches outside the house are considered a strong ward against evil, and it is unlucky to burn holly under any circumstance.
Holly wood can be used to make wands which can be used to banish unwanted entities, and command evoked spirits.
Magical charm to make –
On a Full Moon night, pour some spring water in a dish, place some holly leaves into the water, go outside and position your dish where you can see the reflection of the moon in your bowl. Hold it there visualizing the Moon’s energy infusing with the energy from the holly. When you feel the energies settle, strain the leaves, and transfer the water to a bottle, cap and label this.
Wear your Holly Tree Water for protection, inner resourcefulness, prosperity, fertility, to celebrate the spirit of nature and limitless source that sustains us, even during the dark season.
Sources -
The Woodland Trust
A Kitchen Witch’s World of Magical Plants & Herbs by Rachel Patterson
Moon Magic, by Rachel Patterson
image from Unsplash
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