Days of the Sun
Michael Ragan analyses bronze-age solar observations in Ireland and how the cycles of the sun are linked to agrarian and religious practices. The eight solar days are reviewed and the differences between the solstice/equinox and "cross-quarter" day examined. The names of the days are translated, stripping away some modern misconceptions. Limited bibliography.
(published in Leaves, Nollaíg 6013/Winter Solstice, 1999)
Nollaig; the Winter Solstice and the Irish New Year
By Michael Ragan. Nodlaíg (spelled Nollaíg in Modern Gaelic), the Irish “Christmas,” has been considered the most important of all the Irish holidays throughout recorded history. Though now heavily woven with Christian mythos, the analytical observer might see something more, something older, something that seems to shine with a more ancient light.
Introduction to Irish Numerology
Michael Ragan presents a first look at the unique numerology of the ancient Irish. While modern numerology is based on first the work of Pythagoras and Plato, later modified by the thought of Hebrews, Gnostics and Gnostics, Irish numerology reflects a more pragmatic view
of life established long before the rise of the Greek civilization. A limited bibliography is included.
(published in Leaves, Mean Samhradh 6014/Mid-Summer, 2000)
The Trees of the Irish Lunar Calendar
By Willow Ragan. It is said that our kind used to live in trees, that over the course of thousands of years we left our leafy dwellings and become the earth walking people we are today. Be that as it may, trees have played a significant role in our physical, cultural and spiritual development. Our bark clothed cousins gave us food, shelter, tools, medicine and fueled our spirituality as well as the communal fires around which we warmed ourselves as we told and retold the histories and stories which would become our mythologies.
During the next years' cycle we'll explore the trees of the Irish calendar. Their day to day uses, the folklore that developed over the centuries and any medicinal uses they might have.
(The first installment in this series was published in the Nollaíg 6014/Mid Winter 2000 issue of Leaves)
