Oak: Dagaz
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 Oak, April 18 - May 15, is associated with:
Rune: Dagaz
This rune symbolizes breakthrough. It can signal a major shift or transformation, sometimes so radical that some people find they are not able to return to whatever "normal" was beforehand. Do not fear, it is a period that forever alters the course of life, but it is not unwanted change. Although surprising at the time it occurs, upon further reflection, we almost always realize it was a predictable and inevitable moment.
It can be like the Aces in the tarot (cups, wands, pentacles/coins, and especially swords), with circumstances that seem to be in the perfect timing, or feel like a gift from Beyond. It can bring a major period of achievement, personal growth, and prosperity. It is the light ahead, after a dark journey. You may need to put in extra effort to complete the transformation, but if you center yourself with meditation, yoga, forest bathing or tree hugging, you'll find joy and wonder even in the midst of the changes.
This is when the real and lasting change is external, as a result of the inner work you've done over weeks, months, and perhaps years.
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:
Oak April 18 - May 15
Taurus 2024
Oak: Duir
Oak: Herkimer Diamond
Oak: Bull
Beltane 2024
Celtic Tree Months
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Author of The Recollection of Trees book series. Fifth generation intuitive. Kitchen witch. she/her.