Moon Magic: Dark Moon and the Sidhe, Faery, or Black Moon

Dark Moon

The Dark Moon is a liminal space where the moon sits between its waxing (gaining in illumination) and waning (decreasing in illumination) phases. When the moon is not visible in the sky at all.

The Dark Moon is also employed as a time for banishing, binding, or balancing; for honoring or exploring the Shadow aspects of oneself or deities of the underworld, or for transformational or ancestral workings.

The Dark Moon held great significance to the Celts as all liminal spaces did. The Dark Moon is a pause between one Moon cycle and the next.

The Dark Moon is the end of the previous moon cycle. It is the moment in time where we are absorbing everything that we learned & gained in the previous moon cycle.

Observe the Dark Moon on the night before the New Moon.

The Goddess as Maiden is celebrated at the waxing crescent, as Mother at full, and as Crone at the waning crescent. These phases make up the typical symbol of the Triple Goddess in Witchcraft. However, even in this emblem, the reverse side of the Full Moon portion is the Hidden Face, or Fourth Aspect of the Goddess – the Dark Moon. While the waning crescent honors the Crone of wisdom and age, the Dark Moon is the Goddess as Tomb and Womb.

While the New Moon honors the Dark Aspect of the Goddess as Crone, and the Dark Moon is held in hallowed reverence of the Goddess as the Tomb of Rebirth, the Sidhe Moon enhances magical practice with the Otherworld.

The day before the new moon is called the Dark Moon. We use this time for strong protection or defensive work.

Sidhe Moon

A Sidhe (pronounced Shee) is the second New Moon in a month. Or it is the third New Moon in a season with four new moons. It is considered an Otherworldly Moon. It is considered stronger than the regular New Moon.

The next one is Dec 30, 2024

There is very little written about it. But among those who revere the faery folk and embrace the Celtic heritage, this lunar event is cherished as a sacred and auspicious time. It is believed that during the Faery Moon, the veils separating our realms grow diaphanous, allowing for heightened interactions with the faery realm and its mystical inhabitants.

The Sidhe Moon is the reflection in this world of the Full Moon in the Otherworld. It is a glimpse into that realm from behind the Moon of the Other People, and so it is called the Sidhe or Fairy Moon.

The term “Sidhe Moon,” derived from the Irish and Scottish word “Sidhe” (pronounced “shee”), pays homage to the faeries and other supernatural beings found in Celtic folklore.

The second New Moon in a solar month is propitious for connecting with the Otherworld, working with the Sidhe, and adding psychic energy to magickal workings.

While the New Moon honors the Dark Aspect of the Goddess as Crone, and the Dark Moon is held in hallowed reverence of the Goddess as the Tomb of Rebirth, the Sidhe Moon enhances magical practice with the Otherworld.

It is a great time to work with the Sidhe and leave offerings out for them. I recommend milk, butter, honey, wine or whisky.

Sidhe Moon spell tips and activities:

• This new Moon is good for psychic work and connecting with the Otherworld and the world of Faery. It carries all the energy of the usual new Moon but perhaps with some extra energy.

• It is a good time to work magic for new beginnings, new ventures, and personal growth.

• However, to make room for new adventures you may need to cut some ties or clear out the things, ideas, and even people that may be holding you back.

• The Sidhe Moon is perfect for spiritual death to enable spiritual rebirth. As we grow, learn, and change we may have many spiritual rebirths in a lifetime.

• Make an offering to the Otherworld and the Fae at this time.

• The Sidhe Moon brings extra opportunities along with heightened intuition and self-knowledge. It is also supercharged and very good for Shadow work, divination, and Otherworld connections.

• The Sidhe Moon is also excellent for releasing and banishing magic.

Creating an Altar of Enchantment:

Set up a dedicated space or altar to honor the faery folk and the Faery Moon. Decorate it with symbols representing the elements of nature, such as crystals, flowers, shells, and candles. Leave offerings of honey, milk, or sweet treats as tokens of respect and gratitude.

Invocation and Communication:

During the peak of the Faery Moon’s influence, perform an invocation to the faery realm, respectfully inviting the faery folk to join your circle and lend their energies to your magical workings. You may use spoken words, chants, or even melodic incantations to call upon their presence.

Meditative Journeying:

Engage in guided meditative journeys or visualization exercises to enter the faery realm and seek wisdom or guidance from the faery folk. Explore the enchanted landscapes, encounter faery beings, and ask for their insights or blessings. Do not accept any food or drink though even in your meditation.

Spellwork and Intentions:

Use the potent energies of the Faery Moon to infuse your spellwork with enchantment and wonder. Focus on intentions related to personal growth, healing, creativity, and connecting with the natural world. Trust in the faery realm’s wisdom to amplify the potency of your magic.

Dancing Under the Faery Moon:

Dance under the luminous embrace of the Faery Moon, celebrating the union of the earthly and mystical realms. Allow the rhythmic movements to attune your spirit to the energies of the faery folk and the lunar magic.