Color of the day: White Incense of the day: Coriander Incense of the day: Coriander In ancient times, the hearth-fire was rarely allowed to go out, especially in winter. When the fire had burned down to an ember, it was carefully preserved under a blanket of ashes. In Scotland, this was called "smooring," and it was done in a ritualistic way. The embers were arranged in a circle divided into three parts, with an ember in the middle known as Tula nan Tri (Hearth of the Three). You can perform this fire magic with three candles, with a fourth in the center symbolizing what you wish to preserve and encourage in the season to come. Close your eyes and pass your hand over the candles, saying: I am smooring the fire As Bridget would smoor. The gods' protection Be upon the flame. I will build this power As I build the hearth At the dawn of the red sun of day. |