Baltic Mythology: The Summer Goddess

The summer solstice is the time when nature is in its full bloom and the night is the shortest. In Lithuani, this festival was called Svente of Rasa. Unlike other Lithuanian holidays, Rasa does not include honoring the dead. Rasa means dew. Dew collected in the morning of Rasa had magical qualities. Herbs were an important part of Rasa. Herbs collected during Rasa included healing powers and possessed great strength. In the evening of Rasa young maidens gathered together to pick up herbs. Significant herbs of Rasa were bilberries, St John's worth, daisies, and all yellow flowers.

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Ačiū. Thank you for sharing about Rasa! I practice the old ways in the US and am meeting with friends on April 8, 2024 for the eclipse. We will be in the totality zone and will be making offerings to Saulė.