Thursday, June 30, 2022. A beautiful morning, with a clear blue sky – you’d never think of the underworld on such a morning. Unless you are honoring the month of Tammuz, when we recognize the darkness that can underly the bright light of summer. As noted by our source Jill Hammer (see sources tab), Tammuz is named after the Sumerian god Tamuz, condemned by his wife Inanna to the live in the underworld six months of the year – descending in the summer heat, and returning as spring returns. In this month we also honor the birthday of patriarch Joseph, who was thrown into a deep pit by his brothers, emerging as a slave who would be taken to Egypt, later to save his people from famine.
In the happy, bright, carefree days of summer, especially here near Lake Erie where we often enjoy cool breezes and the lush greenness of rain-watered lawns and gardens and woodlands – it is easy to overlook the darker energies that nevertheless flow within us at this time of year. In the middle east, it is easier, the fierce piercing light and heat of the sun at this time of year make us yearn for winter and spring. In both places, though, we descend to the underworld of our strong, negative emotions, and try to learn from them.
In Tamuz, we are on guard for anger and darkness, and acting in the heat of the moment, which can bring us into conflict within our selves and with others. The key is to listen to what the dark side may be telling us, acknowledge it, and see what good can come of it. Maybe we need to take action to build a bridge with a loved one, maybe a long-covered-up story needs to be told, maybe we just need a break from daily stress and toil. May we all weather the month in peace, and come to its end with some new understanding that will help us to be our best selves. – Kirby
Much credit goes to Linda for the lovely photos! Thank you!
Our next Rosh Chodesh walking meditation, for the month of Av, will be on Friday, July 29, 7:30 am. Rain or snow or shine! Contact us for location.
Rosh Chodesh Cleveland 