Lugrâ is more than a celestial body—she is a Dêuâ in her own right, a divine presence who governs the rhythm of time and the turning of sacred cycles. As BNG is deeply animistic in its approach, we understand Lugrâ not as an object in the sky, but as a living being who breathes light and mystery into Bitus. Her phases shape the calendar of our bessus, marking the beginnings of months, the timing of our holy days, and the balance between Samos and Giamos. She is the quiet guide of our Bessus, ever present in her waxing and waning, teaching us to grow, to reflect, to celebrate, and to begin again. While many in BNG associate Abnobâ with her each, Tegobessus may feel other deities walk with Lugrâ as well: Sironâ, Rosmertâ, Sucellos, or others who speak through moonlight, healing, and dream. These are personal connections, formed in the intimacy of devotion and the stillness of night.
Lugrâ walks with us in all seasons, helping us live in rhythm with the cosmos and in harmony with our inner and outer worlds.
Our months are divided by the her passage into two sacred halves — Samos, the time of growing light, and Giamos, the time of waning dark. Each phase offers its own meaning and guidance, reflecting the eternal balance within the cosmos. The moon, Lugrâ, also serves as a marker for our calendar, guiding the start of each month and many of our holy days. Whether we are always aware of it or not, Lugrâ moves quietly through our Bessus, shaping the rhythm of our lives and the timing of our sacred work.
Samos
- Macarnolugrâ — the Growing Moon, the First Quarter.
The moon rises in strength and promise. This is the time of beginnings, of taking steps forward with care and courage. Samos invites us to welcome new possibilities and to set our intentions in motion. This phase is the start of the Coligny Month around the 1st. - Leucolugrâ — the Bright Moon, the Full Moon.
Here is fullness and fruition. The light is at its peak, revealing what has grown from our efforts. We honor this time with gratitude and celebration, holding space for abundance and clarity. This phase is usually around the 7th, 8th, or 9th of a Coligny Month.
Giamos
- Maruolugrâ — the Dying Moon, the Last Quarter.
The moon’s light fades, calling us to look inward. Reflection and release are needed now, as we prepare to lay down what no longer serves and make room for what is to come. This phase is usually around the 15th, 16th, or 17th of a Coligny Month. - Dubulugrâ — the Dark Moon, the New Moon.
In darkness, we find the seed of all things. This quiet time invites us to plant intentions deep within, to rest, and to trust in the hidden forces at work before the cycle turns once more. This phase is usually around the 22nd, 23rd, of a Coligny Month.
Through Samos and Giamos, we live in harmony with the moon’s steady rhythm — growing, completing, letting go, and beginning anew. These phases offer a living path to walk, honoring the wisdom of the ancestors and the unfolding of life itself.
Practical and Ritual Applications
We honor the turning of the moon by aligning our rites and meditations with its phases, moving in harmony with the energy of Samos and Giamos.
Let your practices follow the waxing and full moons of Samos, times of outward growth and active intention. Turn inward during the waning and new moons of Giamos, embracing quiet reflection and release. Offerings, prayers, and symbolic acts can mark these moments. During Samos, give thanks for new beginnings and the strength to grow. During Giamos, release what holds you back, creating space for renewal.
Practices for Samos — The Growing Light (Waxing Moon to Full Moon)
Focus: Growth, initiation, outward action, manifestation, gratitude
- Set intentions and goals for the lunar cycle, planting seeds for projects, relationships, or personal growth.
- Rituals of blessing and consecration — dedicate tools, spaces, or offerings with an emphasis on expansion and vitality.
- Creative work such as art, writing, or crafting that channels the energy of growth and light.
- Community gatherings or celebrations to honor abundance, harvest beginnings, or shared successes.
- Offerings of fresh flowers, fruits, or grains symbolizing fertility and flourishing life.
- Physical activity or health practices focused on strength, vitality, and outward expression (e.g., hikes, dance, yoga).
- Meditations and prayers that emphasize clarity, confidence, and embracing new possibilities.
- Study or learning to expand knowledge or skills, reflecting the theme of growth.
Practices for Giamos — The Waning Dark (Full Moon to New Moon)
Focus: Release, reflection, rest, inner work, purification
- Cleansing and banishing rituals like clearing energy, habits, or thoughts that no longer serve you.
- Journaling or contemplative meditation focused on self-reflection, lessons learned, and inner guidance.
- Rites of surrender or letting go are symbolic acts like burning written burdens, releasing stones into water, or cutting cords.
- Healing work, including restorative practices like herbal baths, energy healing, or quiet prayer.
- Dream journaling and night vigils to connect with deeper wisdom and guidance.
- Minimalist or slowing down activities like reducing distractions to aid in rest and inner listening.
- Offerings of smoke, water, or earth that represent transformation and grounding.
- Preparation for new beginnings by tidying sacred spaces or reviewing goals to clear the path.