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Februa: The Tools used for Purification

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Written by: Dawn Black (Witchipedia)

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Reviewed by: Tina Caro

The ancient Romans called the tools used for purification Februa and the purification rituals performed during the festival of Lupercalia (Also called dies Februatus, the day of purification or purging, February 15th.) were named for these tools, though februa of other sorts were used in other rites as well.

The name for these tools was also given to the month in which it takes place, February (On the 15th).

The Luperci priests would offer a goat in sacrifice and cut thongs from its flesh, these thongs were the februa. Then they circumambulated Palatine hill, striking those they met along the way with the thongs, purifying them.

According to Plutarch, women of childbearing age sought this purification in hopes of increased fertility and easy childbirth.

It is probable that more material or practical activities like clearing fields for agriculture also took place during this time.

It is believed that this particular Februa ritual predated Rome considerably and may have been adopted from the Sabine culture. The word Februa means “to purge” or “to purify” and may be related to the word “fever” or febris, which is associated with purification by sweating.

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About Morningbird (Witchipedia's Founder)

I am a homesteading hearth witch who grew up along the shores of the Hudson River and has lived among the Great Lakes for the past 20 years. Together with my musical husband and youngest child, I steward a one-acre mini homestead with herb, vegetable and flower gardens, chickens, ducks, geese and rabbits, and areas reserved for native plants and wildlife. 

I have three children; two are grown, and I have been practicing magick alone and with family and friends for over 30 years.

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