Its hard to think of spring as we sit here in North America surrounded by snow and the cold grip of a winter that will not release its hold for several months yet. However, in the warmer latitudes of the Northern Hemisphere they fast approach the first days of spring. When I lived in Los Angele’s it was often the first few weeks of February that saw the blooming of crocus and daffodil. It was also the time for me to prep and sow my garden. This always struck me as a bit strange then because I was yet not as aware of climate and the history that shapes itself around a particular location. In California the climate is on much the same schedule as it was for the Romans in Italy. February 5 (the Nones) was the official beginning of spring for the Romans, and February the month of purification. Since it was the last month before the Roman new year, it was a time for wiping the slate clean and starting fresh. Houses where purified by good sweeping out and by sprinkling with salt and toasted spelt (a kind of wheat).
Since this time of year represents the coming of spring, the rituals focus on purification and fertility. Indeed, February gets its name from februa, or means of purification; the first two weeks are considered a time of abstinence. It’s worth noting that the old Roman year began with March and ended with December (which is why it’s called Decem-ber, the “tenth” month), so January and February were originally the unmarked “Terror Time.” I know in the hearts of many that I talk to this time of year still represents a “terror time” because the flock to warmer climates for their vacations and school breaks. Getting away from the aspects of winter and the disquieting sleep it can represent to many is still embed in instincts. So even though you may be house bound in the cold north or stepping out to the cool mornings further south and planning your garden now is a good time to set your intentions and do a personal purification.
Category: Mother Earth, Pagan, ritual
