Ivy: Gebo
Each of the Celtic trees correlates with a Rune. Runes are a twenty-four letter alphabet, originating with Germanic tribes as early as the 2nd century. Runic glyphs were carved or etched into bone, wood, leather, jewelry, tools, weapons, and stone. Norse and Viking runic artifacts dating as far back as the 9th century have been found in several Northern European and Scandinavian countries, Russia, Turkey and North America. Notably, runes found in Canada and the United States pre-date Columbus by several hundred years, so he was definitely not the first visitor.
The Celtic month of Ivy, August 8 - September 4, is associated with:
Rune: Gebo
Gebo is the partnership rune, representing harmony, hospitality, generosity, agreements and contracts, union, sexuality, and connection with Higher Self.
Whether a friendship, family connection, romantic relationship, or a business partnership, this rune reminds us not to lose ourselves in the union. True and equal partnership is most healthy and successful when the individuals maintain their separateness and bring their whole selves into the union.
The greatest union of all is the connection with our Higher Self or Higher Power. The gift of human partnerships is to reflect back to us our strengths and our areas that need more growth, which ultimately leads us to deeper connection with the Divine. When there is something that needs our attention, often we'll notice it in our parent or child, life partner, or business partner. Before criticizing the other person, contemplate whether it is something that you're being shown about yourself.
Gebo is similar to Namaste, "The divine in me greets the divine in you." It symbolizes the freedom to reciprocate harmonious energy with others: to give and to receive, to support and be supported, to live and let live, and to love and be loved.
Do what lights you up,
Sadie
Please note: Some people start the tree calendar with Birch in January, which follows the solar calendar. However, I learned them in an older tradition, which aligns with the 13-month lunar calendar. It's up to you to discern what feels right for you, of course.
See also:
Leo 2024
Virgo 2024
Ivy August 8 – September 4
Ivy: Gort
Ivy: Opal
Ivy: Spider
Ivy: Labyrinth
Celtic Tree Months
Author of The Recollection of Trees book series. Fifth generation intuitive. Kitchen witch. she/her.