Roman Gods for February: Introduction

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 In February, Romans prepare for the coming of spring by purifying themselves, their homes, and their communities. “February” comes from februum (purgation), and the februa (expiatory rituals). Ceremonies for the Dead abound, since a part of purification is fulfilling the obligations to the Dead. For example, the Lupercalia and Quirinalia have specific purification rites as a part of their rituals. In addition, the Terminalia and Fornacalia are a part of the worship of the Di Parentes (Parents). Meanwhile, the Feralia focused on all the Dead and the Parentalia on the Lar Familiaris (family spirit).

 

Ovid explains why “febura:”

The fathers of Rome called purification februa

Many things still indicate that meaning for the word.

 

The high priests ask the King and the Flamen

For woollen cloths, called februa in the ancient tongue.

When houses are cleansed, the roasted grain and salt,

The lictor receives, are called by the same name.

The same name too is given to the branch, cut from a pure

Tree, whose leaves wreathe the priests’ holy brows.

 

I’ve seen the priest’s wife (the Flaminica) ask for februa,

And at her request she was given a branch of pine.

In short anything used to purify our bodies,

Had that title in the days of our hairy ancestors.

 

(Ovid, “Fasti, Book II.” Translator: A.S. Kline)

 

For Roman Polytheists, the focus on the Dead puts them outside the norm of modern Pagans, who generally follow the Wheel of the Year. For these Pagans, Samhain, held in October, is when the Dead walk the earth. Meanwhile, Imbolc, which is held in February, is the fire festival of Brighid. This time of restrained joy focuses on the returning of new life. In contrast, for Romans, February is the time that the Dead walk freely amongst the living.

 

February was the only month in the original Roman calendar that had an even number of days. This was to allow the year have an odd number of days for good luck. February was originally the end of the year, with March being the beginning. Many of February’s festivals focus on the transition between the old and new year – making things right with the Dead, purifying, and re-establishing the boundaries.