Azrael Arynn K Reviews

Added November 15, 2003

Candlemas

Feast of Flames

Author: Azrael Arynn K
Publisher: Llewellyn Publishing
Available At: Bookstores Everywhere
Publishing Date: Available Now
Genre: Non-fiction: Spirituality
Format: Print
Price: $14.95
ISBN: 0-7387-0079-7
Author Email/Website: www.ardantane.org
Reviewer: Ariana Tregarth

In February, most of us are cold and tired of winter and know that the end of winter is soon coming. Usually on February 1st or 2nd, many Pagans celebrate a holiday known by many names: Candlemas, Imbolg, Brigit's Eve, and many others. This book, Candlemas - Feast of Flames delves into this holiday and explores the history, the gods associated with it, and various aspects that make up this end of winter holiday.

From the ancient times, this time of year was celebrated because though the world in the northern hemisphere seemed dead, they knew that soon springtime and renewal of the land would be arriving. Various gods and goddesses had festivals during the month of February, but the best known is Brigit, the Celtic goddess that was later made a saint by the Catholic Church. The authors dedicate two chapters in dealing with her mythology and the customs. You learn the aspects of Brigit and how it relates to this season. As you read about the myths of Brigit, the various customs and traditions are placed in context. Even the crafts are mentioned and how to make them.

The next three chapters deal with ceremonies, divination, and making a Candlemas candle. You learn what type of rituals work best during this holiday whether you're a solitary practioner or with a group. The making of the candles was one of my favourite parts because growing up, my mother made candles as gifts for various family members. Each candle was special and seemed to convey energy about it, which is what we want the candle we create to do as well. The authors include a beautiful list of candle colours, herbs/oils, metals/stones, symbols, and days of the year for the creation of your candles. Also listed are the gods and purpose for each candle. This is definitely a list you'll refer to constantly if you keep making your own.

The final chapter of the book is all about the feast. From traditional to modern foods, this section gives you a sample of the various foods readily available during this time of year as well as wonderful beverages to sip on after the ceremony. As you go through this easy-to-understand book, you begin to develop an appreciation for this holiday meant to remind us that though things seem bleak in the depths of winter, we have the time of renewal coming ahead. Candlemas - Feast of Flames will be a book that you'll turn to each year when you make the great recipes or as your family and friends ask why you celebrate this day. I wish there had been more of the history of each celebration; this book will provide a firm base in which to develop your own traditions and rituals.

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