Post by david on Feb 12, 2019 17:55:23 GMT
The last month of the Madrian calendar is Moura, which is the month of penitence. If you read The Mythos Of The Sacred Maid in the Files, you will see that the Daughter Inanna descended into the Nether World, died on the World Pillar, and was resurrected. During this descent she experienced every possible suffering. It is through this Mystery that the material world was created and we were saved from non-existence. The explanation is that Inanna had to come into non-existence Herself and create various degrees of existence where we can live until we are perfect. During Moura we reflect this awesome Mystery by penitential actions.
There is a 24 hour fast every Monday in the month, and a 12 hour fast every Friday. The fasts are devoted to prayer and meditation. The 1st Moura corresponds to 20th February. The day before, Moura Eve, is a day energetic games and good food. Half way through, on 14th Moura (5th March) is Med Moura, when penitences are suspended and a decorated cake is eaten. These fasts reflect the Descent.
The actual Death is reflected on 28th Moura (19th March). The house fires are extinguished. A traditional house cooks on the fire, so there can be no hot food or drinks. spiced buns marked with a cross are eaten. It is a day of solemnity devoted to prayer and meditation. There is no worldly or practical activity on this day. The next day is Hiatus. It does not exist. It is outside the calendar. It is the day when Inanna hangs on the World Pillar. The fires remain out. The altar is bare of offerings and images and covered by a black cloth. It is a strict fast devoted to prayer and meditation.
The next day is Resurrection. The day begins either with Communion or, an hour of meditation. The house fires are relit with great rejoicing and the fast is broken with hot buttered rolls. It is the true Easter when Easter eggs are eaten. Games include painting and juggling with hard boiled eggs and pancake tossing. Madrianism may seem a difficult religion, but it is not just a belief. It is spiritual development, and requires an effort of will. This month is a reflection of the courage of Inanna.
May She be with you,
David.