Litha
Litha (from Saxon tradition, the opposite of Yule) also known as Midsummer Nights Eve, Alban Heruin (Druidic). On this the Summer Solstice (the longest day of the year) light and life are abundant. At mid-summer the Sun God has reached the moment of his greatest strength. Seated on his greenwood throne he is lord of the forests and his face can be seen in church architecture peering from countless foliate masks. In many Wiccan celebrations this is when the Oak King (who represents the waxing year) is triumphed over by the Holly King (who represents the waning year). The two are one, the Oak King is the growing youth while the Holly King is the mature man. This Sabbat also celebrates the Goddess in some traditions. She is now heavy with child, as nature is heavy with the bounty of the coming harvest. This is considered to be a time when energies abound, and is a good time for magic and purification rites.
The Christian religion converted this day of Jack-in-the-Green to the Feast of St. John the Baptist, often portraying him in rustic attire sometimes with horns and cloven feet (like the Greek God Pan and similar in aspect to the Celtic Cerunnos).
Midsummer Night's Eve is also special for adherents of the Faerie faith. The alternative fixed calendar date of June 25 (Old Litha) is sometimes employed by Covens.Litha CorrespondencesSymbolism
Natures coming bounty, Summer Solstice, The Gods greatest moment of strength, maturity.Symbols
Summer Herbs, fresh greenery and flowers.Deities
Consort Aspect of the God (especially Pan, Cerunnos, Mercury, Thor) and Mother Aspect of the Goddess (Traditional Foods
Garden fresh fruits and summer vegetables are made into a variety of dishes and eaten by Pagan's who choose to celebrate this day, Ale and Mead are used to wash it down.
Herbs and Flowers
Mugwort, Vervain, Chamomile, Rose, Honeysuckle, Lily, Oak, Lavender, Ivy, Yarrow, Fern, Elder, Wild Thyme, Daisy, Carnation.
Incense
Lemon, Myrrh, Pine, Rose, Frankincense.
Woods Burned
Oak
Sacred Gemstone
Emerald, and any other green stones.
Special Activities
An Ideal time to reaffirm your vows to the Lord and Lady or your dedication to following the old traditions.
Candles
Blue, green, gold and red.
