Snowdrops at Candlemas

‘If Candlemas Day be fair and bright,

Winter will have another flight;

But if it be dark with clouds and rain,

Winter is gone, and will not come again.’

 

Anon 

 

Snowdrops. The French might call them Perce-Neige but here in the UK they are also known as Candlemas Bells, Candlemas Lilies, Eve’s Tear and Fair Maids of February. Sometime last year I planted some. Don't ask me where though, as I'm waiting to see myself. I simply adore them, along with many other springtime flowers.

 

It is believed by some that in the sixteenth century, monks brought the first snowdrop bulbs over to the British Isles from southern Europe, planting them in the monastery gardens and orchards. Others, however, will tell you that the Romans were responsible.

 

However, according to folklore, it is said that an angel helped these bells to bloom and pointed them as a sign of hope to Eve who, after being expelled from the Garden of Eden, wept in repentance and in despair over the cold. As the snow fell, covering the earth, it removed all traces of colour and life. But, an angel took pity on Eve, caught a snowflake in his hand and breathed on it. Falling to earth, it became the first snowdrop and the angel assured Eve that the arrival of this flower was a messenger of the forthcoming sun and summer. 

 

new beginnings, hope, rebirth, renewal, consolation, purity, fertility

 

 

Candlemas, "La Chandeleur”. The celebration of light… 

 

This ancient festival marks the midpoint of winter, halfway between the winter solstice, the shortest day and the spring equinox. Celebrated on 2 February, it marks the return of light, a symbol of protection and prosperity. 

 

Candles that are lit during Candlemas symbolise Jesus as the ‘light of the world’ and this celebration dates back to Roman times, when it was held to commemorate the purification of the Virgin Mary and the presentation of the baby Jesus in the Temple in Jerusalem, 40 days after his birth.

The Christian significance of the snowdrop is related to the nature of Virgin Mary. Snowdrops are a symbol of her purity and innocence. 

 

‘The snowdrop and primrose our woodlands adorn, and violets bathe in the wet o' the morn.’

 

Robert Burns

Pagan Sabbat of Imbolc

 

Occurring around the same time as Candlemas is Imbolc. Celebrations can begin from sundown on February 1, continuing throughout the following day. 

A welcome time of year for pagans for it means farewell to the long cold, harsh winter and hello to a much welcomed start of spring.

 

NB: Please do not pick the snowdrops for they are a gift to the earth for us all to enjoy and folklore will tell you that it causes misfortune should you bring them indoors.

 

Toodle-oo, oh dearest chums!

 

© 2024. Mrs WH