Awakening during Brigid’s Season
As we approach Imbolc, the time of awakening in the northern hemisphere, we find ourselves at another pivotal moment. Imbolc, known as “Imbulk” or “Imbolg” in Old Irish, signifies ‘in the belly’ (with ‘bolg’ meaning ‘belly’ in Gaeilge, or the Irish language). This term is believed to relate to the pregnancy of ewes at this season, marking the onset of lambing. Another interpretation suggests that Imbolc originates from Imfholc, which translates to ‘in the cleanse’ (where ‘folc’ means ‘wash’ or ‘cleanse’ in Gaeilge). As we transition from the introspective energy of the Winter Solstice, the land begins to awaken, heralding longer days and the bright promise of Bealtaine. Imbolc invites us to introspect and consider: What new opportunities are emerging for me? How can I stoke my creative energy?
Imbolc is one of the cross-quarter celebrations in the Celtic Calendar, alongside Samhain, Bealtaine, and Lughnasa, and stands as a significant fire festival. Traditionally associated with Brigid (who bears various names such as Brighid, Brigit, Bridget, and others) and her eternal flame, Imbolc truly belongs to her. In Irish mythology, Brigid or Bríg (pronounced “Breej”) is revered as a Goddess of the Tuatha Dé Danann. Notably, she is the first woman in Ireland to lament over the loss of her son Rúadán. This lamentation, or keening, represents a visceral expression of grief. Ancient texts recount: “She screamed loudly and finally wept. This was the first occurrence of weeping and loud lamentation in Ireland… she created a whistling to signal by night.” This echoes the profound heritage of keening, a sacred sound inherited from our ancestors in Ireland.
Brigid is also recognized in the 9th-century work Sanas Cormaic (Cormac’s Glossary) as a triple Goddess encompassing the domains of poetry, healing, and smithcraft: “Brigid—a poetess, daughter of the Dagda. This is Brigid the sage, revered for her artistic application.” Here, she embodies the goddess of poets and is regarded as the patron of the filí (the poet-seers), indicating the elevated status she held among the Aes Dána (“Aysh Dawna”), the esteemed ‘People of the Arts.’ It’s noteworthy to have a female deity associated with smithcraft during a time when metals symbolized the very essence of Mother Earth. The act of transforming ore into useful tools was seen as a magical endeavor. To this day, Brigid epitomizes healing and serves as a sacred midwife, her crosses being a common sight in Ireland’s maternity hospitals.
Furthermore, we must acknowledge Brigid as a Saint. Modern interpretations of this multifaceted figure vary greatly. Historically, the Church is believed to have integrated the ancient Goddess into its narrative during the process of conversion. The Saint is said to have been born in 451 CE, around the time Christianity made its entry into Ireland. Some view this Saintly Brigid as a reincarnation of the Goddess: “Brigid, who epitomizes excellence for the Irish, just as the pagan Brigit was unparalleled among the goddesses,” notes Marie-Louise Sjoestedt in her work, Celtic Gods and Heroes from 1940.
This year marks a significant moment for Ireland, as we celebrate Imbolc with a public holiday on 1st February in honor of Brigid (officially observed on Bank Holiday Monday, 6th). This gesture signifies a deep reclamation and acknowledgment of the feminine spirit within this land. The essence of the Goddess burns fiercely in our hearts. If you find yourself on Irish soil, there are numerous events planned to honor Brigid. For those wishing for creative inspiration, I authored a brief blog last year covering the crafting of crosses on Brigid’s Eve. According to lore, Brigid was born at a threshold—her mother positioned between home and the land. May you embrace the blessings of this sacred transition as you join Brigid in the awakening season.
