Moonstone New Age

July 8-August4th

Tinne (Holly, Ilex aquifolium)
 
 Holly represents the start of the waning year, moving towards the winter solstice. People ritualised this natural energy shift by The Oak and Holly Kings fighting each other at midsummer solstice. The Oak King is defeated by the Holly King, who reigns Supreme. The Oak King's power fades slowly however and the nights stay long until the autumn equinox.  It's said that the Holly King was known by the Druids as Dark Tanist, the dark twin of the sun god.  He represents the everlasting aspect of the soul that is transmuted when the Oak King sacrifices his ego in being defeated. 

The Symbol of the Oak King is the white mare who again transmutes into the unicorn, the animal symbol of Holly.

GAELIC
The July to August period is known as ELEMBIUOS - The Claim Time in the Coligny Celtic Calendar.

JULY - an t-Iuchar. The border time. The end of July and the begin of August were known as the dog days. At this time of the year Sirius, the dog star, is visible in the sky

AUGUST - an Lunasdal. 1st August is the Irish festival of Lugh, the harvest festival.

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