Also called Morrígu, Mór-Ríoghain, Great Queen, Phantom Queen.
Their story
Before the Second Battle of Mag Tuired she met the Dagda at Samhain by the river Unshin and promised her help to the Tuatha Dé Danann. In the Táin she offered herself to Cú Chulainn, and when he refused she came against him as an eel, a wolf and a heifer; later he unknowingly healed her. After the battle of Mag Tuired she spoke a prophecy of peace and then of the end of the world.
Their day
Tuesday. In modern practice, Tuesday is often chosen for her through its link with Mars and with courage and struggle.
Best times to give to them
- Samhain
- the dark moon
- dusk
What they like being given
- fresh water
- red wine, or red grape or blackcurrant juice
- bread or oatcakes
- a promise kept
- work done for your land or community
How to honour them
- Speak to her honestly and make only promises you intend to keep.
- Put out food for crows and other birds in her name.
- Take part in work that protects land, water or vulnerable people.
- Keep a small space with a black stone or feather where you sit with her in quiet.
How they can help you
- courage in hard times
- standing up for what matters
- clarity about the future
- sovereignty over your own life
- facing change
Symbols
- the crow
- the raven
- the river ford
- the spear
The medieval texts group her with Badb, Macha, Nemain or Anand in varying ways, so her triple form is not fixed.
Festivals
- Samhain 1 November, beginning at sunset on 31 October