As the Wheel of the Year turns, we find ourselves standing at the threshold of one of the most vibrant and sun-drenched celebrations in the pagan calendar—Litha, also known as Midsummer or the Summer Solstice.
This enchanting festival marks the longest day and the shortest night of the year, a time when the sun reaches its zenith, and nature is bursting with life and energy. In this blog, we'll delve into what Litha is, its historical roots, the mythology surrounding it, how to celebrate this radiant holiday, and the symbols, crystals, deities, foods, and plants associated with it.
What is Litha?
Litha, celebrated around June 20-22 in the Northern Hemisphere, is a pagan holiday dedicated to the sun's power at its peak. It is a time of abundance, fertility, and the fullness of life. Traditionally, Litha is a fire festival that honours the sun god and the earth goddess, celebrating the vibrant energy of the natural world.
The History of Litha and Its Origins
The origins of Litha are steeped in ancient European traditions. It has its roots in the agricultural cycles of ancient peoples who celebrated the earth's fertility and the sun's life-giving power. According to "The Pagan Book of Days" by Nigel Pennick, the name "Litha" comes from the Anglo-Saxon names for the months of June and July, "Ærra Liða" (early Litha) and "Æftera Liða" (later Litha). These names reflect the importance of this time of year in ancient calendars.
Mythology and Deities Linked to Litha
Litha is rich with mythological significance and is associated with various deities across different cultures. In Celtic mythology, it is the time when the Oak King, representing the waxing year, battles the Holly King, who represents the waning year. This battle symbolises the shift from the light half of the year to the dark half.
In Norse mythology, Litha is associated with Baldur, the god of light and purity, whose death and resurrection are celebrated during this time. The festival also honours the goddess Freya, who embodies love, fertility, and the bounty of the earth.
In Wiccan traditions, Litha is often linked to the Horned God and the Mother Goddess, celebrating their union and the fertility of the earth. As "The Wiccan Year" by Judy Ann Nock suggests, this is a time to honour the god in his aspect as the Sun King and the goddess as the Earth Mother.
How to Celebrate Litha
Celebrating Litha can be a joyous and magical experience, filled with rituals, feasts, and outdoor activities. Here are some ways you can embrace the spirit of Litha:
1. Light a Bonfire: Traditionally, bonfires are lit to honour the sun and its life-giving energy. Gather with friends and family, light a fire, and celebrate with song, dance, and storytelling. If you Can't Light a Bonfire Light a candle instead.
2. Create a Sun Wheel: Craft a sun wheel or a sun symbol using natural materials like flowers, herbs, and branches. Hang it in your home or garden as a talisman for protection and prosperity.
3. Have a Feast: Prepare a feast with seasonal foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, honey, and grains. Share your meal with loved ones, and give thanks for the abundance of the earth.
4. Perform a Litha Ritual: Cast a circle, call upon the elements, and perform a ritual to honour the sun and the earth. You can include invocations, prayers, and offerings to the deities associated with Litha.
5. Spend Time in Nature: Go for a walk in the woods, have a picnic by the lake, or simply spend time in your garden. Connect with the natural world and soak up the sun's energy.
Litha Blessing
Here is a simple blessing you can use to honour Litha:
"Great Sun, we honour your light,
Your strength, your warmth, so bright.
Goddess of the Earth, so fair,
Bless us with your loving care.
As we celebrate this longest day,
Guide us on our magical way.
With fire and water, earth and air,
We call upon your power to share.
Blessed Litha, bring us cheer,
Abundance, love, and joy this year."
Symbols, Crystals, Deities, Foods, and Plants Associated with Litha
Symbols: Sun wheels, bonfires, oak leaves, and solar symbols are prominent during Litha.
Crystals: Sunstone, Citrine, Carnelian, Garnet, Tigers Eye and Amber are powerful stones to work with during Litha. These crystals embody the sun's energy and can be used for empowerment, creativity, and joy.
Deities: Litha honours deities such as the Oak King, Cernunnos, Lugh, Flora, Pan, Baldur, Freya, the Horned God, and the Mother Goddess.
Foods: Seasonal fruits, fresh vegetables, honey, grains, and herbal teas are perfect for a Litha feast.
Plants: Oak, mistletoe, St. John's wort, lavender, and chamomile are sacred plants associated with Litha. These herbs can be used in rituals, teas, and spellwork to enhance your connection to the season.
Creating an Altar for Litha
To create a Litha altar, decorate it with symbols of the sun and the earth. Use bright colours like gold, yellow, green, and orange. Place sun wheels, oak leaves, and solar symbols on your altar. Include crystals like Sunstone and Citrine, and add fresh flowers and herbs to honour the season. Light yellow or gold candles to represent the sun's energy.
Conclusion
Litha is a celebration of life, light, and abundance. It is a time to honor the sun's power, the earth's fertility, and the vibrant energy of the natural world. By connecting with the traditions and mythology of Litha, we can embrace the magic of the Summer Solstice and carry its blessings with us throughout the year. Happy Litha!
References:
- "The Pagan Book of Days" by Nigel Pennick
- "The Wiccan Year" by Judy Ann Nock