The final full moon before Samhain, the Full Hunter’s Moon 2022, will peak at 2:54 PM, MST, October 9th. It will be visible in the night sky at nightfall. Last month we told the story of how in September and October, the full moon names changed, depending on the calendar day. Recall that these are the only two months of the year in which we have rotating names. The full moon closest to Mabon is always called the Harvest Moon. For two years it falls in September, and the other in October. This year the Harvest Moon fell in September.
Each month of 2022 seems to fly by and our full moon growth series is nearing an end. Our Full Hunter’s Moon ritual for 2022 is called finding your tribe. Last month we went back to basics, shaking off the summer and getting back in tine with ourselves and our practices. In August we discussed the challenges of navigating through difficult waters. We skipped the July lesson this year. The focus in June our focus was about growth and developing a network of like-minded people to socialize with. May was about risk and how taking chances impacted our lives. In April we reviewed how to keep the power of emotion from controlling our actions. March was about focusing our attention on embracing the lunar energy in all aspects of our lives. In February we looked at ways to creatively plan and in January our focus was preparing ourselves for the projected chaos of 2022. I’m happy to see so many people taking this year-long adventure with me.
Preparing For The 2022 Full Hunter’s Moon Ritual
This ritual can be performed on the 8th or the 9th, since the peak falls in the middle of the day. For best results, it should be preformed outside under the moonlight. If you have the space, position your circle around a bonfire or fire circle.
Please take note that this ritual celebrates the hunt and does include meat. If you plan on inviting guests that do not consume meat, you can substitute a consumable wild foraged item (that you ‘hunted’ for). Some examples would be wild onions, wild grapes, chickweed, any nuts, cattails, herbs, etc.
What items you’ll need to collect for this ritual (as written)
Quarter Candles (yellow, red, blue, green)
Large White Goddess Candle
Large Brown God Candle
Paper and pencil for each participant
Fire pit or cauldron suitable for safely burning small objects and paper
Athame or Wand
Altar – decorate with antlers, hunting items, skinning tools, and related hunting items
Meat (raw) and animal blood, to be used as an offering. plus some meat cooked to share
As always, anyone is welcome to bring stones, crystals, wands, or other magical tools to be charged on the communal altar during the ritual.
Any portion of the ritual that is bracketed by <> symbols should be understood as instructional notes and not to be spoken aloud.
The Full Hunter’s Moon Ritual Begins
<Using your Wand or Athame, point in each cardinal directions while calling the quarters; ask all participants to turn in the direction, following your lead>
With breath and life and the magick of my ancestors, I call upon the power of the universe to gather in a surrounding sphere of protection from the sky above to the earth below. I conjure this space of light and darkness, lost in the sands of time, free from all encumbrance, open to all who share in its lifeforce.
Calling the Quarters
East
Let us begin our journey in the East, the direction of the rising sun and the great spirits of Air. As summer passes into autumn, the air spirits make their presence known with carefully choreographed chaos. Playful winds dance around our legs, twisting upward before leaving us with a gentle kiss on the cheek. Oh to be worthy of such interaction with the spirits; we are blessed, we are loved, and we are always under the protection of the greatest power no human may even see. <light yellow candle>
South
Next we look to the South, the direction of the mid-day sun and the great spirits of Fire. Our gifts are many and we are constantly reminded of the great blessing of fire. With a great light carried through the ancient dark forests, we are fearless. Our hearth is a place of comfort and safety. The great fires bring us warmth and carry away that which no longer serves us. We are but stewards of this great and noble power and never shall ever come the day when we know all of its secrets. <light red candle>
West
Bring your sight to the West, the direction of the setting sun and the great spirits of Water. We stand on the precipice of the season of understanding, for each autumn, we see the three forms. As a liquid, the streams still flow and the tides remain unchanged. And yet as the nights grow cold, the warm breath gives the first signs of vaporous clouds. Shortly after, as the nights grow in length, the first snows fall and the ice quickly follows. When one spends time as three, but always remains one. <light blue candle>
North
And finally, please turn your attention North, the direction of the darkened night sky and the great spirits of Earth. The physical world is returning to ground. Our fields are barren as the last of the harvesting is completed. Leaves are staring to fall and the luxurious shades of green are melting into brown and straw. Energies are being stored for the coming winter. But, have no fear fellow travelers, for the Great Wheel continues to turn and as we are certain that the winter will bring snow, we can also be certain that it will only be temporary. <light green candle>
Goddess
<Ritual leader should raise their arms high, near the circle center>
Great Goddess, we are gathered here tonight for the Hunter’s Moon ritual, where we celebrate the hunt and the great rewards that we have been given. You have taught us that life, no matter what form, is sacred and that we should only take what is necessary for survival. We are thankful for the ability to gather together under the full moon and benefit from it’s energy. Keep us safe in our circle on this night. <Light Goddess candle>
God
Tonight we celebrate the hunt! So we call out to the Horned God Cernunnos to join us in our circle tonight. Through your eyes we see the celebrations of successful hunts of our ancestors, across the lands and across time. Their deeds and actions become ours as we show them respect and honor. <Light God Candle>
Welcome!
Introduction
The Hunter’s Moon is also called the Dying Grass Moon, the Sanguine Moon, the Travel Moon, and the Blood Moon, even when there is no eclipse. As we learned last month, the September and October full moon names are dependent on whichever falls closer to Mabon. It’s usually in September, as it was this year. Every third year it happens in October.
The name comes from Native America. After the final harvests were finished and crops were put away, the men would head to the forests to hunt. Deer, elk, moose, bear, and bison were some of the common large game animals hunted. The meat would be dried or cured, while the hides were used for warmth and shelter. Nothing was wasted, and the people were grateful at what nature provided them with.
We have already entered the dark half of the year and all around we see the signs of coming winter. Almost overnight, the temperatures have fallen, the fields turning to straw, and the leaves dropping. Tonight we celebrate the hunt, but also stay focused on our self-care. This is the final full moon before Samhain, the greatest celebration of the year. So prepare yourselves, as the new year begins on the night of the thinning veil. Release all that no longer serves you, prepare to commune with your ancestors. Now is the time!
Musical Interlude
Our ancestors used music as a way to raise energy prior to a ritual or ceremony. Drums, chanting, singing, and rhythmic movements were combined with darkness, firelight and a full moon, to create a powerful and magickal environment. Although music has evolved from those ancient days, its purpose remains the same. While searching for that ‘just right’ piece to accompany our Full Hunter’s Moon Ritual, I happened across this piece by Lisa Lambe, called Hunter’s Moon. Some have compared her voice to a young Stevie, and after listening you might agree. Close your eyes and let the music open your subconscious mind to the wonderful possibilities ahead of you.
2022 Full Hunter’s Moon Ritual – Finding your Tribe
As day becomes night, we often sink deep into thought. We may walk alone, through darkened forests and misty meadows, seeking guidance from the moon or the stars. In those times, we are comfortable speaking to our ancestors and the forest creatures, often seeking wisdom and perhaps a bit of magick. We have no fear, and are but wanderers in the great realm of the perfection of existence. And yet as we walk, each step leads us to the place we are destined to go. We are drawn by a deep rooted ancient connectivity, in places far and wide and also those near and known. This is the power of our tribe calling us home. All we need to do is listen.
Have you ever pulled toward something? Maybe felt a calling that was more powerful than you could imagine? Felt yourself drawn to places and people; some known and others not? How about when you make a connection with someone? Does that connection resonate in such a way that it just feels ‘right’? Consider yourself lucky if any of these events are within your grasp. For you are on the same wavelength as your tribe. Across the land, your tribe shares an energy source that binds you to one another. This tribe has no name and no locality. Some members may be in your village, while others may exist in a land on the other side of the world. Your tribe knows no boundaries.
Yet often we ignore the calling and the pulling. As humans, we tend to think we are in complete control of everything. We try to outthink and redefine the movement of energy and the whispers of the universe. Some are even so bold to think that they hold sway over the ways and means of things. Perhaps believing they are more powerful than the Gods or Goddesses for a brief moment. And that belief is what blinds them and covers their ears. They roam without a tribe and without the peace and comfort found in being complete. Do not fall prey to the belief that you can push, but rather surrender yourself to the belief that you can and will be pulled. But only if you are ready to follow that esteemed pathway to becoming a better you.
Our tribe is our safe haven. As we grow spiritually, we learn that each of us has a path to walk. Those paths may meander for many years, usually providing us with time to gain comfort in our own skin. When we are ready, they lead to intersections and mergers. We encounter other complementary spirits along the way. We no longer walk alone and soon the road fills with a multitude of others who fly the same flag. This is our tribe. These are the ones who complement us. They fill us with knowledge and emotions. There is no competition or collusion, it’s just a great gathering group of souls that fill one another with color and brightness. Empty spaces are filled with all the things we had hoped for, but never expected to realize. The more energy we share, the more we seem to have. Our tribe completes us.
Today, as we stand on the precipice of Samhain and the new year, under the light of the full moon, I ask you this. Have you found your tribe? If not, then can you surrender to the universe and be guided down the path? Are you prepared to grow spiritually and ascend to a new height? This isn’t simply finding some new people to hang out with. It’s finding the people who will share and care and always be there. One’s who you can share energy with as well as your wildest thoughts and dreams. They’re out there waiting for you. Release you inhibitions and find your tribe.
Celebrating the Hunt
The power of the full moon is beyond our comprehension. It can bring life to a worn object, add power to a sacred amulet, and strength to spells cast under it’s light. Our ancestors would watch for the changing shadows under the bright glow, as the stalked their prey into the night or the wee hours of the morning. The were thankful for the three bright nights in the time of growing darkness. Success meant a winter with hearty stews and the smell of roasted meat. Failure was not an option, for their survival often depended on it.
Hunter’s would make an offering to the Gods for bringing them rewards. Blood would be spilled, consumed, and certain cuts of meat were used as an offering. Tonight we honor that tradition by making an offering to the Gods of the Hunt.
<Ritual leader should present the sacrificial meat to the gathering>
Cernunnos, Great Horned God of the Hunt, we rattle these antlers to call you to our circle, in honor of the great rut and the dance of fertility. For only the strongest survive and thrive in the forest. We spill blood over this blade as a reminder of the kill, but not to embrace death, but to remember the spirit of the animal and the power which it shares with each of us through the flesh. And most importantly, we make an offering of the first portion of meat to feed you spiritually and honor you and all that has been lain upon our tables.
<Ritual leader should follow the process – rattle the antlers, spill the blood over a blade or other hunting tool, and then finally present the meat to be burnt in the fire as a sacrifice.>
We share this meat, so that all are reminded of the great hunts of the past, when our spirits ran wild through the forests and we sought the bounty of eternity. We share this meat as a symbol of great care that the Gods and Goddesses have provided for us and show us favor. The energies of the forest are presented to us through the consumption of flesh and we honor the great sacrifice of the stag and the boar. For this and so much more, we raise our hands high into the air in a great demonstration of gratitude! <leader should raise their arms to demonstrate> <share the prepared meat with the group>
Cleansing and Clearing
As we do each month, we gather together to release negativity. We consciously decide to burn that which needs burning. We choose to walk away from the things which weigh us down spiritually. Through fellowship with one another we gain clarity and guidance. In some circles, the weight of one member becomes the weight of all members, but in this circle we do not burden ourselves with taking on problems that are not of our own making. Those problems are identified and sent packing in the fire and smoke of our fire. So, before we begin, let us take a few moments to converse with one another. If you need help, now is the time to ask for it. If not, then take some time to self-reflect on your personal burdens and prepare to free yourself from that which isn’t serving you.
<take a few moments, or more, to allow for the group to self-reflect>
Throughout 2022 we’ve focused on taking control of our own lives and walking our chosen path. Each month we take another step toward complete spiritual independence and inner peace. Our bodies are recharged under the light of the full moon and we share our love and fellowship with one another. It’s a time to permanently clear burdensome baggage from the past. It’s a time to choose to break free from toxic people, toxic places and those who seek to use us for their own gain. We seek to rid our minds of negativity, fear, darkness and emotional pain.
The dark half of the year is upon us, so we must remain steadfast in our conviction. We must be vigilant and focused. The negativity that often gathers at our doorstep must be swept away, along with those who bring that negativity. Now is the time to invest in you. Focus on what has been holding you back and choose to rid yourself of it. If something isn’t serving your greatest and highest good, then ask yourself why you hold onto it. Focus your thoughts on those things and prepare to receive the cleansing power of the full Hunter’s Moon in your life.
We are about to enter the awakening stage of this ritual, so get comfortable, take off your shoes and connect with the energy of the earth. You are about to step through the door on a guided meditation of awareness and magick.
<from this point forward, the ritual leader should significantly slow down – each sentence must be allowed to sink into everyone’s thoughts – read one sentence, then a pause, then another then pause, and so on – speak with an even and calming voice throughout – your voice will help relax and allow everyone to focus>
Close you eyes. Relax your body. Take several deep breaths. Feel your flesh swaying with the night winds. You are light as a feather. Weightlessness. Neutral and balanced. Free your mind of mundane activities. Forget the future and forget the past. Enter a state of simply being. Listen to the wind and hear the whispering of your ancestors. You are entering into a state of calm rational thinking. A place of everything and nothing at all. Freedom and servitude are visible. Right and wrong are too. Darkness is clearly separate from the light, but there is a stripe of grey in between. Breathe deeply and remain focused. The threads of the universe are exposed for you to observe.
Where are your connections? How is your energy spent? What is bringing you to a higher state of being? Likewise, what is pulling you down? Are there heavy ropes around your spiritual neck? Is someone pleading you by a chain? Are your behaviors manipulated to serve another’s? Think of the places you visit and the time you spend there. Is their only draw negativity, cloaked in a false coat of comfort? Do you see the darkness and the damage it is bringing? Think and comprehend. Keep breathing deeply and remain focused. There is much to evaluate and understand but not everything must be immediate. Do not rush. Take time to explore and examine the connection. Release your spirit to fly upon the gusts, high in the skies. So high that nothing can influence the decisions you seek to make.
If you seek happiness, then take the steps to achieve it. If you are failing, then ask yourself what is stopping you. Are you being tricked? Has someone convinced you that material objects or pleasures of the flesh lead to happiness? When in fact, true happiness can only be achieved from within. Breathe slowly. Find your inner strength and banish that which is not serving you. Trust in yourself. Trust in the energy of the full Hunter’s moon. Lead yourself forward into victory and give no quarter to the forces of negativity.
Now slowly open your eyes, but remain focused.
Prepare to step into the light.
<distribute paper and pencils>
Stepping out of your darkness is often terrifying. It takes commitment and great strength to overcome forces that do not wish to surrender so easily. The combined energies of the earth beneath your feet and the moon above shall fuel your body as you take this journey. You are one with your ancestors. Also, you are one with the elements. It is time to step out of the darkness. Use your natural intention to shed yourself from the indebted feeling of the false narrative. Shed the negative forces that haunt you. Decide now that you are in command of your own life.
Now, write down everything that is working against you. Choose to release those thing which hold power over you. There is no judgement here, for we’ve all been burdened before. Pledge to yourself that you are cutting those cords forever. This is the moment to burn away that which causes you pain. This is the moment to free yourselves from fear and anxiety. I call out to everyone to regain their personal power and to take back the real you from those who’ve tried to take it from you. Stop participating in unhealthy relationships. Decide to no longer be at someone else’s disposal. Stop being used. Break free from the abuses.
Your future depends on your strength of mind. You are a warrior and you shall be victorious. You know it in your heart, as the feeling grows stronger with every beat. Allow the powerful energy of the full moon to strengthen your resolve. As you command it, then it shall be!
When you are ready, approach the fire with conviction and commit your list to the flames – saying out loud, “I release that which no longer serves me”
<Provide ample time for everyone to burn and meditate over what was released>
Steady yourselves, for a great weight has been lifted from your spiritual being. I congratulate you at taking this amazing step into self-healing and self-reliance. Before we close this full Hunter’s Moon ritual, know this. Breaking free from negativity isn’t easy and many of you will need support when you leave the circle. Negativity doesn’t give up easily. There are empty spaces in your mind and they need filled with positive thoughts before the evil can creep back in. Find your tribe, follow your path, rebuild your defenses. Strive to become the best version of yourself. Immerse yourself in the energy of the full moon. Trust in the universe. So Mote it Be!!
Closing the 2022 Hunter’s Moon Circle
North
We release you, great spirits of the North. Return to the world of magick and wonderment. Keep us in your protection in the days ahead as the veil becomes thinner and thinner. For the New Year and the great meeting of the ancestors is almost upon us. <extinguish green candle>
West
We bid farewell, great spirits of the West. With our spirits lighter and the burdens of negativity cast away, we look to the moving water for understanding. For motion is the manifestation of energy and energy is the fuel that will keep us from returning to the places of sorrow and suffering. <extinguish blue candle>
South
As we stare into the beyond, the great spirits of the South return our gaze. We honor the lessons of creation and destruction shared freely in the flames of the cleansing bonfires. The smell of smoke shall linger as we leave tonight; a reminder of the steps we have taken to regain that which has been lost. <extinguish red candle>
East
And in the East, we give a nod and silent whisper of gratitude. For the wind above carries the ash and residue of that which no longer serves us and with great gusts, those burdens are carried far from this place, never to return. <extinguish yellow candle>
Goddess
Great Goddess, without your light, we would never know the beauty that the world has; without your encouragement, we would never have developed and grown as a human race; without your continued guidance, we might have strayed from the path – for those things and so much more, we humbly thank you and the unconditional love shared with us this night and every night. <extinguish Goddess Candle>
God
Great God Cernunnos, we have prepared a table in your honor and offer high praises and celebration! For the hunt, for the meat, and for the spiritual growth that comes with the process. We seek your continued blessings and care in all that we do. <Extinguish God candle>
Walk with the knowledge that you are your own master!
This full Hunter’s Moon Circle is now open!
Huzzah!
Additional Readings
Witchabout – A Witch’s Journey
If you’d like to browse other Full Moon Rituals available, check out the Rites & Rituals Archives on The Gypsy Thread.
Winter Preservation Spell – Keeping the Magick in Your Growing Area Strong
If you are a fan of poetry & short stories, visit The Creative Exiles
- October’s Full Hunter’s Moon 2024 -Joining the Ancient Hunt - October 12, 2024
- September’s Full Harvest Moon Ritual for 2024 - September 12, 2024
- May’s Full Flower Moon 2024 – Blessed Abundance - May 22, 2024
