Traditional British Witchcraft

The Full Moon

Esbats

Table of Contents

The Full Moon is a time when we commemorate this monthly lunar event with a Sabbat, a celebration and a time for meditation and spellwork. Healing, possibly special worship, and group business may also be conducted. This is not the same as the festivals, which are of secondary importance to a Shabbat.

If you are use to Wiccan terminology then I should explain the difference between correct traditional term usuage and modern Wicca useage of some key words:

• A Sabbat is a scheduled social gathering or special meeting for those that celebrate the Traditional Craft , especially on a Full Moon but also at any time when a group desires. Magic is often a prime activity, especially on the Full Moon. In our Trad, a sabbat is not usually held on a festival, but of course, it certainly can be done.

• A Full Moon is always an important Shabbat. In Wicca, this is called an esbat.

• A Festival is one of the old public pagan holidays, sometimes oberved out of respect or as a Trad tradition. It is a minor observance. It is what is called a Sabbat in Wicca.

There are thirteen Full Moons each year. It is a time of importance as the magic that is performed at this time has greater power. How the Full Moon is celebrated varies by tradition although magic always takes a center role among trained witches. This is because the Full Moon has greater magical energy and enhances the quality of spellcraft.

It's considered very appropriate to make the Full Moon a special day. A special evening meal followed by a walk under the light of the moon (if it is safe to walk outside in your area and if it's not raining or snowing). Families with young children may follow the meal with games. Couples may have a romantic dinner followed by something more intimate. The night of the Full Moon is also an excellent time to meditate as well as a time for spellwork.

More information on the Full Moons and their proper observance is in the Full Course material in The Journey to Trad Witchcraft.

The Moon Table of Contents

• The Moon And Magic

• Moon Myths

• Full Moon Dates & Times

Traditional Witchcraft