Welcome to the Horn and Cauldron podcast…
Today we take a look at Ostara. Held on the Vernal or Spring Equinox, Ostara is the beginning of astronomical spring. On this day, night and day are equal, and each day after it is longer than the last until the summer solstice. Cultures throughout the world have celebrated the Spring Equinox.
-Eoster-
Like Imbolc, much of what we know about Ostara is related to the holiday’s patron goddess Eostre. The word itself is an Old High Germanic word meaning “dawn”, which indicates that the word came about in the 8th-11th century. This falls in line with pretty much the same time frame as the birth of the words for the other pagan holidays we’ve covered so far.
-Traditions-
Throughout the world, the festivals for the spring equinox are associated with new beginnings, eggs, rabbits, flowers, and rebirth. Coloring or decorated eggs and eggshells is an ancient practice that is still popular today. Rabbits, like eggs are a no-brainer when you’re thinking about a spring fertility festival. Easter rabbits are a relatively new addition to this holiday, ad appeared in the middle ages. We talk about how we celebrate Ostara, and offer suggestions on ways that you can celebrate including painted protection eggs, Egg Drop Divination Soup, and correspondences.
-Painted Protection Eggs-
Using a large needle, or sharp implement, poke holes in the top and bottom end of four eggs and “blow out” the contents (eat the egg’s contents, or use them to bake something!). Let the eggs dry in a warm dry place for a few days. Once dry, use your art medium of choice to decorate them with protective symbols, then hang or display them in the four corners of your home. Replace them once a year, or if one breaks.
-Egg Drop Divination Soup-
1 ½ c broth
1 raw egg
1 tsp cornstarch
2 tsp cold water
Salt, sugar, and pepper to taste
Optional: pinch turmeric, sesame oil, chopped green onion (scallion)
1. Stir cornstarch and cold water together to dissolve. Set aside.
2. Combine broth, salt, pepper, turmeric, and sesame oil in a small pot, and bring to a boil.
3. Slowly add the cornstarch and water mixture to the boiling broth.
4. Crack the egg and beat it slightly. Ask the universe, or your patrons to show you what the future holds through the patterns the egg makes.
5. Pour the beaten egg into the soup, stirring gently.
6. Serve your soup in a bowl and top with green onions. Gaze at the soup, noting any symbols or figures that stand out to you. If you are unsure what a symbol means, consult a tea leaf dictionary.