| The moon is a powerful source of energy. Most Pagans follow the moon cycles and plan their magickal workings around them. I think everyone is aware that the moon has different phases, and appears to be a different size and shape in each phase. Here, I will explain what each phase means to most Pagans and what type of magick is generally performed during each phase. The New Moon During this phase, the moon is not illuminated in the sky. This is the point before the moon begins a new cycle in the sky. Magick concerning any new beginning, attraction, healing, and growth is performed. The Waxing Moon During this phase, the moon is increasing in size. The crecent you see in the sky is facing to your left. Magick concerning any type of attraction is performed. All positive magick is performed during the waxing moon. Healing and protection magick can also be performed. The Waning Moon The waning moon begins after the moon is half illuminated during the waxing moon. At this point, the moon is decreasing in size. The crecent you see in the sky is facing to your right. During this phase, we perform rejection magick, magick to get rid of bad habits, magick to rid ourselves of negativity or to banish something from our lives. The Full Moon This, of course, is when the moon is completely illuminated in the sky and looks like a sphere. This is a time for divination, protection magick, banishings. In my practise, full moon magick can be performed three days prior to, to three days after the full moon. Not all Pagans agree with this, and many perform full moon magick only on the day or night of the full moon. I also believe all types of magick can be performed during the full moon (that has proven appropriate to my practise). Dark Moon This is a period of three days prior to the New Moon. Many practitioners believe no magick should be performed during this time. I don't agree with this. Although it is generally best to perform your magick during the appropriate moon phase, sometimes we are in need of something and can't wait for a particular phase to begin. If you have a serious problem, then go ahead with your spell. Your focus, desire, and direction is what will insure success. For Wiccans, the full moons are Esbats. These are celebrations to honor the goddess in many forms. I have added a separate page explaining the Esbats in more detail. |
| The Moon |