Observed as the Summer Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere and believed, by the ancients, to be a time when the sun (sol) actually stands still (sistere) while at its highest point in the noon sky on one day each year falling between June 21st & the 24th. Appearances can be deceiving (Old Sol never stands still) yet our forebearers seldom missed an opportunity to hold a ritual, feast or celebration (we haven’t changed much, have we?) and this event would certainly be no exception.
Traditionally ritual fires were built in fields, honorable men would then demonstrate their courage by jumping over the flames and the remaining ashes would be spread over garden areas to assure healthy crops. Celts paid tribute to their Goddess Aine, the equivalent of the Roman Goddess Venus and the Greek Goddess Aphrodite, seeking her favors in order to provide bountiful fall crops. In Ireland paying tribute to the Goddess Queen of Muster eventually (mid 19th century) gave way to Christianized fire rituals marking the eve of St John’s Feast Day. Legend has it that John’s mother, Elizabeth, lit a signal fire announcing that she had gone into labor and that all helping hands would be welcomed.
Several northern European countries recognize the June Solstice as a legal holiday and Midsummer Fire Festivals are celebrated throughout the world; from the small Fremont, WA community parade of nude cyclist to the week long Kupala Rites celebrated in Russia. Blending fire and water rituals young Russian ladies place small boats in waterways and attempt to interpret flow patterns which might reveal the names of their intended.
The solstice phenomenon marks the longest day/shortest night of the year and is commonly, and correctly, referred to as both the Start of Summer and/or Midsummer.
Traditionally ritual fires were built in fields, honorable men would then demonstrate their courage by jumping over the flames and the remaining ashes would be spread over garden areas to assure healthy crops. Celts paid tribute to their Goddess Aine, the equivalent of the Roman Goddess Venus and the Greek Goddess Aphrodite, seeking her favors in order to provide bountiful fall crops. In Ireland paying tribute to the Goddess Queen of Muster eventually (mid 19th century) gave way to Christianized fire rituals marking the eve of St John’s Feast Day. Legend has it that John’s mother, Elizabeth, lit a signal fire announcing that she had gone into labor and that all helping hands would be welcomed.
Several northern European countries recognize the June Solstice as a legal holiday and Midsummer Fire Festivals are celebrated throughout the world; from the small Fremont, WA community parade of nude cyclist to the week long Kupala Rites celebrated in Russia. Blending fire and water rituals young Russian ladies place small boats in waterways and attempt to interpret flow patterns which might reveal the names of their intended.
The solstice phenomenon marks the longest day/shortest night of the year and is commonly, and correctly, referred to as both the Start of Summer and/or Midsummer.
Ar
ies; The Ram 3.21-4.19
Always striving to be the leader of the pack, and urged on by Apollo’s fiery sword, an Aries born often suffers dire consequences for its impulsive ways. Led by Mars with outbursts of explosive energy and arrogance that tend to keep others at a distance. The need to be surrounded by family and friends is important to followers of the Ram, however, an impulsive and combative nature often makes matters worse for all involved. Look to a Gemini born for compatibility.
Tau
rus; The Bull 4.20-5.20
Strong and determined Taurus also has a gentleness which conveys confidence and dependability. In the shadow of Venetian love the raging Bull demonstrates affection and reliability to family, friends and strangers alike. Home and security are of the utmost importance; even extended departures from their home base leave a lasting mark. They may find criticism hurtful but a Cancer born could soothe the pain.
Gem
ini; The Twins 5.21-6.21
Your curiosity may have you putting your nose into places it does not belong more often than you care to admit. Yet you’re often able to come out a winner due to the fleetness of Mercury and its generosity in providing you with a witty response. The Twins’ duplicity serve you well giving you options unavailable to others. An Aries could compliment your abilities and make life pawsome!
Cancer; The Crab 6.22-7.22
Diana’s influence enhances your nurturing capacity whenever Luna reaches its full crest. The Crab’s defensive attributes often hide your true feelings from others and your persona may appear cold and uncaring to those who don’t know you well. Solitude suits you and the dependability of a Taurua could make life almost perfect.
Le
o; The Lion 7.23-8.22
The Lion’s roar is powerful and loudly expresses your generous nature. Loyalty, creativity and optimism may give way to deceitfulness, oppression and pessimsm if Sol fades from view for an extended period of time. Break out the treats and show others a good time to fend off the negatives that life throws our way. A Winged Messenger’s disciple could be a positive influence.
V
irgo; The Virgin 8.23-9.22To make order out of chaos is the Virgin’s best attribute and she does it swiftly with Mercury by her side. But you must be careful and not become too critical of other’s efforts. Nothing in life is perfect so don’t be so picky. The adoration you seek may be forth coming from a Cancer.
Lib
ra; The Scales 9.23-10.22The lovely Venus controls your heart making it difficult to balance trust with possessiveness. Your helpfulness is always appreciated and your diplomatic skills are excelled by no other, yet you doubt yourself all too frequently. The aggressiveness of an Aries may be beneficial in calming your indecisiveness.
S
corpio; The Scorpion 10.23-11.21
Your determination to bring dynamic change into every pack member’s life may cause unrest. To motivate others is one thing but watch your tongue for the sting of sarcasm will gain you little respect if the fury of Mars is allowed to run amuck. Your resourcefulness can not be matched and with a Bull by your side financial success should be easily achieved.
S
agittarius; The Centaur 11.22-12.21
Jupiter brings good fortune to the Centaur’s keen eye and straight shot so it’s understandable that your enthusiastic attitude and optimistic outlook can sometimes be annoying to your pack members. Outspoken honesty can be unnerving to those around you but you have the power to convince others of your causes and ideals if you’ll listen to a Gemini.
C
apricorn; The Sea-Goat 12.22-1.19 Saturn’s restrictive nature puts limits on the Sea-Goats determination forcing you to be less cautious than warranted. Still your responsible and practical ways serve you well in your devotion to others. Seek advice from a Cancer in order to maximize your ambitions.
A
quarius; The Water-Bearer 1.20-2.18 The Water-Bearer heeds advice well with its ability to be both objective and assertive while bringing balance into the lives of those who surround them. The most liberal and eccentric in our cosmic cycle, Aquarians are determined to hold onto their ideals and remain individuals no matter what the consequences. A Warrior Ram could add flames to this relationship.
Pis
ces; The Fish 2.19-3.20Sensitivity and compassion describe all Pisces who find their emotions run wild all too often. Sympathetic and humane their dream like attitude has no problem breaking down barriers to make life more comfortable to those they love and the less fortunate. The earthiness of a Bull may well bring balance into your life.
Please feel free to share my thoughts with others, however, reprinting for anything other than personal amusement should only be done with my consent.
Paw Up! to all of my StarGazer Furends!!
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