August 2021 Spiritual Calendar

Date Path Connection

August 1 Pagan, Wiccan, Druid Lammas/Lughnasadh

Summer is the union of Sun and Earth,  God and Goddess that come together in order to produce the First Grain Harvest.  As one of the eight major annual sabbats/festivals of the Wheel of the Year, it is a time for gathering with family and community to give thanks for abundance.  “Lammas” is derived from  “Loaf Mass” and highlights the importance of the first grain and loaves of the harvesting cycle as well as appreciation of the continuity of life.   As the present harvest feeds the community through the winter it also contains the seed of all future harvests, rebirth and regeneration.  

August 7-8 Astrology/Kabbalah New Moon/Rosh Chodesh Elul

Rosh Chodesh translated from Hebrew means “Head of the Month” and is the first day of the lunar month marked by the new moon.  Once again, the universe provides an opportunity to tune into the unique energy of each month.  It’s a  clean slate to tap into the full potential of the days ahead and leave behind what did not work for you in the previous months. The first day plants the “seed” of all that can be grown/manifested. New moons remind us to be optimistic and have trust in the timing of events in our lives; to always be on the lookout for new light/potential to connect to the positive aspects and have the strength to resist or transform any negativity. The special energy of Elul is one of introspection and renewal. It is a time to reflect on your life, reevaluate who you are and how you show up in this life. Where can you improve? Who needs an apology? What relationships can you heal? What can you do to live each day and ultimately each month and year as your highest self? 

August 9 Islam Hijri/Islamic New Year

Also known as Awal Muharram, Hijri is celebrated by Muslims as a day that recognizes two important events in the Islamic year. “Awal” means beginning in Arabic and Muharram is the name of the first month in the Muslim calendar: It commemorates the Hijrah, the Prophet’s journey from Mecca to Medina on the first of Muharram in 622 CE and marks a turning point in the history of Islam.  It is a time for Muslims to reflect on the passing of time and their own mortality as well as a time of mourning and connect to peace.  It is forbidden for Muslims to fight during this month.  

August 15 Christianity Feast of the Assumption of Mary

The Assumption is honored as the holy day that marks the occasion of the Virgin Mary/mother of Jesus’ bodily ascent to heaven at the end of her life. The Assumption refers to her being “assumed” - body and soul, physically and spiritually.   It is by the power of God that Mary was assumed and went straight to heaven..  The day is celebrated by attending mass, lighting candles, praying for peace and blessing the summer harvests.

August 18 Islam Ashura

On the 10th of  Muharram, many Muslims mark Ashura which commemorates the martyrdom of Hussain ibn Ali, the grandson of the Islamic Prophet Muhammad and pays tribute to the day Noah left the Ark, and the day that Moses and the Israelites were saved from Pharaoh by God creating a path in the Sea.  Many celebrate this day as National Martyrs' Day and it is considered to be a major holy day and observed by making pilgrimage and fasting.

August 12 -23 Hinduism Onam 

According to Hindu scriptures, the day marks the annual homecoming of the legendary and benevolent Raha/King Mahabali from Patla Loka where he was sent by Lord Vishnu’s Vamana avatar.  Popular belief is that his spirit returns to his kingdom to see his subjects happy and prosperous on the occasion of the auspicious harvest festival. The celebrations include boat races, colorful masks, music, song, dances and flower arrangements. 

August 21 Hinduism Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan is one of the most ancient festivals celebrated in India during the full moon of Shravana. It is a day to acknowledge the pious bond between a brother and a sister. Traditionally, sisters tie a rakhi or raksha bandhan  (sacred bracelet made of interwoven red and gold threads and amulets), around their brother’s wrists as a mark of affection while offering prayers for his long life, happiness and prosperity. The history of Rakshabandhan dates back to Hindu mythology where in Mahabharata (one of the two Sanskrit epics), Draupadi, wife of the Pandavas had torn the corner of her sari to prevent Lord Krishna's wrist from bleeding (due to an injury). Thus, a bond developed between them, and he promised to protect her.  

August 22 Astrology Full Sturgeon/Barley Moon

The August Sturgeon Moon is named by the Native Americans for the large, strong and ancient freshwater fish that are caught during this hot summer month. It is also known as the Barley Moon as it symbolizes the end of summer and the start of harvest season.  Rewarding patience, this is a time to reap the rewards of all that you planted - physically and spiritually.  You will start to notice the passing of time with shorter days and  cooler weather and is the perfect time to strengthen your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health. Harvest the relationships and practices that will sustain you so you can continue to grow.

August 23 Astrology Virgo Season begins

The Virgo sign starts on August 23 and ends on September 22.  Ruled by the nurturing, orderly and rule-abiding Virgin, Virgo energy focuses on control, purification and organization. However, perfectionism may prove to be an issue when nothing actually gets finished because of the countless details, organizing (and reorganizing). Tap in to the positive energy of Virgo by focusing on loyalty, tenacity, excellent work ethic and resourcefulness. However, do not get overwhelmed with details, self-imposed anxiety and criticism.  Be kind and give yourself a break. Be patient with your significant other, family and friends who are less perfect than you ;-)