The month of Reed symbolizes wisdom, adaptability, and communication with the ancestors. Reeds are flexible and that is beneficial as this month often brings changes. Reed reminds us that winter is near and we must prepare.
The Celts used it to make paper and pens. It symbolizes death and healing as reeds were used to make arrow points and tools for healers.
It’s Ogden letter. was originally Ñ (Ngetal: Reed). Interestingly no Irish or English words start with the Ng sound. At a later date, the letter Peith, Peit, Pethboc (Beith-bhog, soft B) was added for the P so occasionally you will see this letter with Reed.
Reeds
The common reed (Phragmites australis syn. Phragmites communis) is a grass that grows in wet marshy areas. It can grow quite tall and has hollow stems. Humans have used it to make a number of things.
Native reeds are found all over the world however many species have “traveled” and become invasive species. This has led to some confusion among scientists as they may look very similar.
Reeds are constantly dealing with change and the need to adapt to their environment. During this month we must work to bend but not break.
Uses For Reeds
The reed plant was very useful in the home. Reed became a protective covering as it was widely used as a thatch for roofs. In addition, reed mats provided decoration, comfort, and cleansing to the home.
Reeds make wonderful instruments. Both flutes and bagpipe pipes were made of reeds.
REED ASSOCIATIONS
Ogham Letter: Ngetal (N)
Symbolic Meaning: Adaptability, Clarity, Communication, Divination, Meaning, Security
Ruling Planet: Pluto (yes, poor Pluto is actually a star) and the moon
Ruling Elements: Water
Season: Fall
Corresponding Star Sign: Scorpio
Gender: Masculine and Feminine
Language of Flowers meaning:
Stone: Green Jasper, Turquoise
Colors: green
Bird: Owl and Goose, as well as Lapwing, Ruffled Grouse
Deity: Arawyn, Hecate, Rhiannon, Pwyll, and Odin
“The family of Reeds, watch over the wetlands
Standing-tall sentries of rivers, lakes and ponds
blessed by the omnipresent hands
of our dear Goddess, who cares for them all:
her reeds, rushes and cattails
which thrive along swamps.
The Celts have long honored
these most unique of plants
which make music in the wind
and most gracefully bend.”
Samhain
The month of Reed includes the holiday Samhain which celebrates the dead. During the end of October, the veil thins and we connect easily with our ancestors.
Check out our book on Samhain For Witchy Families!
Divination
Scrying, energy work, and connecting with ancestors are all powerful divination skills to practice this month.
Gather reeds during the fall and place them in a tall vase in your bedroom to enhance passion. If you are in need of protection place them in the living room.
Place reeds on your altar to connect with your ancestors.
Use six pieces of reed the same length to make a pentagram.
Write a poem and honor the Druids and/or Odin
In ancient Scotland, a broken reed was a bad omen and represented a familial betrayal.
Reed Zodiak
People born in this month are alluring to others and have strong personalities. They like to dig in and figure things out. They do well in careers in archaeology, detective work, and journalism.
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Celtic Month of Reed Spells
Spell 1: Protection and Harmony
Ingredients:
Fresh reed
White candle
Glass bowl of water
Instructions:
1. Find a quiet space where you will not be disturbed.
2. Light the white candle in front of you, representing purity and clarity.
3. Take the fresh reed in your hands and close your eyes, grounding yourself.
4. Visualize a circle of protection forming around you, glowing with white light.
5. Hold the reed above the flame of the candle and pass it through the smoke, saying:
With the power of the Celtic Reed,
I invoke this spell, protection I need.
May harmony surround me, both day and night,
Shielding me with love, and preventing all strife.
6. Dip the reed into the glass bowl of water to cool it down.
7. Extinguish the candle and take a few deep breaths.
8. Keep the reed with you as a symbol of protection and harmony throughout the Celtic Month of Reed.
Spell 2: Calling upon Spirits
Ingredients:
Dried reed leaves
Yellow candle
Charcoal disc
Mortar and pestle
Instructions:
1. Find a peaceful area where you feel connected to nature.
2. Crush the dried reed leaves in a mortar and pestle, releasing their essence.
3. Light a charcoal disc and place it in a heatproof container.
4. Sprinkle the crushed reed leaves onto the lit charcoal, allowing the smoke to rise.
5. Close your eyes and breathe deeply, focusing on your intention to connect with spirits.
6. Whisper the following incantation:
Celtic Reed, I call upon thee,
Grant me passage to the realm unseen.
Spirits of old, voices unknown,
Your wisdom and guidance I wish to be shown.
7. Sit quietly and receptive, ready to receive any messages or signs from the spirits.
8. Thank the reed and the spirits for their presence, and when done, safely extinguish the charcoal disc.
A Dumb (Silent) Supper is a great way to get in touch with your ancestors.
Spell 3: Abundance and Prosperity
Ingredients:
Reed seeds (preferably harvested at the proper time) from such plants as the common reed.
Reed plant - you can also purchase reed plants such as
Small clay pot
Potting soil
Water
Instructions:
1. On a sunny day, gather your materials outside. You can start seeds or pot a transplant purchased from a nursery. Fun plants such as papyrus and cattails can be purchased.
2. Fill the small clay pot with potting soil, leaving a few inches at the top.
3. Sprinkle the reed seeds over the soil, envisioning abundance and prosperity filling your life.
4. Cover the seeds gently with a thin layer of soil.
5. Water the pot thoroughly, ensuring the soil is moist but not overly saturated.
6. Place the pot in a sunny area where it will receive ample sunlight.
7. Each day during the Celtic Month of Reed, water the pot and speak the following words:
Reed of the Celts, bring abundance to me,
Prosperity and success for all to see.
As you grow, so shall my fortune rise,
Blessed by the magic of the Celtic skies.
8. Care for the reed plant, nurturing it as you nurture your intentions for abundance and prosperity.
Remember to always use spells with intention, respecting the natural cycles and the energy of the plants you work with. May the Celtic Month of Reed bring you blessings and empowerment on your spiritual journey!
Author, Ame Vanorio, is our founder, an environmental educator and a great lover of trees and herbs!
The Month of Vine means harvest time! We celebrate the Autumn Equinox and Mabon. Vines are fast, touching everything they can, and full of energy.