Beltane marks the spot on the wheel of the year between Ostara - the Spring equinox - and Litha - the Summer solstice. Beltane is celebrated from the evening of April 31 through May 1. Beltane is also one of two liminal times of the year, meaning a time when the veil between worlds is thinnest, the other time being Samhain.
Beltane is named after the Celtic Sun God Belenus and is a fire and fertility festival. The celebrations begin in the evening of April 31 when two large bonfires are lit and cattle and other livestock are herded between them for protection and purification. Traditionally, townsfolk would also jump over the flames for luck and cleanse themselves in the smoke for purification. All other fires would be put out before these bonfires were lit and hearth fires would be kindled from torches lit with the flames of the sacred Beltane bonfire.
The next day, on May 1, the maypole dance would take place in which a large pole would be thrust into the ground with coloured ribbons attached to the top. Townsfolk would dance around the pole holding a ribbon with men going one way and women the other. They would weave in and out from each other, wrapping the coloured ribbons around the pole. Handfasting and betrothal rituals would also be common at this time of the year.
This Wiccan Sabbat oil is hand blended with lavender, jasmine and rose essential oils in a base of olive oil and can be used to dress candles, in a bath, applied directly to the body, or in whatever way best suits your practices, preferences and intentions.
All oil blends are diluted to 5%, which means they are safe to use directly on the skin and in the bath. However, it is advisable to dab a small amount of the oil on the inside of your arm where your elbow bends to test for any reaction or sensitivity first.
