8/21/2006 - Libation

Libation is a rather ancient practice and one that has been practiced in varrying ways by many different cultures. It is a practice that I still find to be an imporant and sacred rite and one which I prefomr. Libation is the act of pouring a liquid sacrifice upon the ground in honor of the Gods. I find it is a particuarly good way to think the Gods, or one particular diety after you have called upon them for some help.

Traditionaly wine is used as libation but I use a vairty of different things. Often I will make a mixture, of water, jucies, ground herbs/flowers and/or sometimes a food item, sometimes I will mix in things like sugar, salt, cinnimon, ginger, etc..and on occasion I will add a bit of wine if I have any handy or some other alchohol, really you cam mix into your libation whatever you wish and whatever things you think best reperesent your wishes and thanks. You should also take in consideration the God or Gods you are honroing and find things which you think might best represent them or things you think they would find appeasing.

You may mix your libation into any liquid carrying vessel, though it might be a good idea to have a particular bowl, goblet, chalice etc... desginiated for the use of giving libation, the best place to pour out your libation would be under a tree, in a garden, somewhere as close to nature as possible. Perhaps if there is one near by a park, or if possible in the woods somewhere. If you such are not avilable to you or not easy to access you may pour it out in a potted plant. As you pour your libation you should give a blessing using the words of your choosing to the God or Gods you are thanking and honoring.