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Explore the Irish spiritual and cultural tradition of the Brat Bhríde, where a simple ribbon or piece of cloth transforms into a potent talisman of healing on Brigid’s Eve, and Brigid’s Day.
Brigid and the Brat Bhríde
As we approach St. Brigid’s Eve (31st January), leading us to Brigid’s Day (1st February), a palpable sense of tradition envelops Ireland.
The Brat Bhríde, Bratóg Bhríde, or Brigid’s Cloak, is an embodiment of our rich cultural tapestry, a syncretic blend of native Pagan and later Christian traditions and beliefs here in Ireland.
Rooted in Irish folklore, this practice sees ordinary pieces of cloth transformed into extraordinary symbols of healing and protection, honouring both St Brigid and/or the Tuatha Dé Danann Goddess Brighid… depending on your own preferences and inclinations.
[Learn More about the Goddess and Saint Here]
The Brat Bhríde Tradition Explained
The ritual begins on the eve of St. Brigid’s feast. Households across Ireland participate by placing a small cloth or ribbon, known as a Brat Bhríde, Bratóg Bhríde, or Ribín Bhríde, outside our homes.
Practically, this can be any piece of cloth, from embroidered linen to a tea towel or dish cloth to a length of ribbon (the traditional colours are white or red). The cloth is hung on a bush, or placed on a window ledge or balcony. Personally, I’ll catch a corner of my cloth in the window and shut it, so nothing blows away.
On St. Brigid’s Eve the old people always hang out a white piece of cloth on the thatch of the house. They ask St. Brigid that the cloth may have the same power as St. Brigid’s Cloak. They bring the cloth in, in the morning, and put it away safely. They say that it is a certain cure for a headache to tie this cloth around it. (County Kerry)
The Schools’ Collection, Volume 0413, Page 324
It is believed that as Brigid traverses the countryside, she bestows her blessings upon these items. This simple act of leaving a cloth or scarf outdoors, be it on a windowsill or a bush, is more than a ritual; it’s a connection to an ancient lineage of faith and healing.
Reflections and Variations on the Brat Bríde
This tradition, passed down through generations, holds personal significance for many. In County Galway, they’d do Brigid’s Crosses as was usual in most households, but also…
When the family went to bed the man of the house took a garment belonging to each member and placed it outside, so that Saint Brigid would find warm clothes on her journey.
The Schools’ Collection, Volume 0015, Page 057
While doing the more usual Brat Bhríde, some families reserved the cloth or the ribbon solely for headaches. However, others found diverse uses for it, from soothing sore throats to offering protection during travel.
Across Ireland, the Brat Bhríde’s uses really are as varied as its names. In some parts, it’s known as Bratóg Bhríde, with each region, county, and even local parish, infusing the tradition with local customs.
It’s not just humans who benefit though; the Brat Bhríde is also revered for its protective qualities for livestock, ensuring health and abundance.
Our Living Traditions
The Brat Bhríde tradition is a poignant reminder of Ireland’s spiritual heritage. It’s a practice that weaves together the threads of faith, folklore, and communal memory, creating a fabric rich with cultural significance.
As we continue to honour these traditions, we keep alive the spirit of St. Brigid, the Tuatha Dé Danann Goddess Brighid, and the ancestral wisdom of our land.
So, find a piece of cloth, and leave it outside overnight on January 31st. Comment below and let us know how you make your own Brat Bhríde!
🔥This article is about the traditions of Brigid, Goddess and Saint. If you’d like an overview of our Imbolc Seasonal Traditions and Customs in Ireland (Imbolg)… [Click Here for Imbolc Resources].🔥
Thank you so much for this! Great healing and wellness to ALL as we honour Goddess Brigid! 🥰
Wonderful share – Thanks for the information. I was unaware of this tradition/ritual. Now it sounds and Feels so Wonderful that I will definitely be giving it a go!
Found some cloth napkins that someone tucked away for a special occasion and forgot. I I put one out on the roof under my window, held down against the wind by a cool tile, and left a lit (electric) candle in the window. Just something simple. Felt quite meaningful.
I laid the red cloth napkin out on the 31st. I brought it in on February 1st. I saved a piece for myself and sent 3 of my grandchildren a piece. I believe in its healing powers. My Irish mother would have approved.
[…] the Brigid’s Girdle is a unique, woven cloth embodying the saint’s healing powers. During St Brigid’s Day, […]
[…] a red cloth for the goddess Brigid to bless. (For more about the tradition of the Brat Bride, go here.) This year, my wife and I are also clearing out our […]
I will be keeping a candle lit from the 31st of Jan and the entire day and night on Brigid’s day. I wanted a piece of red flannel to tie onto my curly willow outside overnight. This was my grandmother’s tradition and had to be red flannel. She kept this cloth in tissue paper also red in her press and used it for every ill. I remember this very well. She came from the Highlands of Scotland and spoke the gaelic of that area but mainly sang the songs. I’m looking forward to doing this very much. Now to find a suitable cloth. failte.
Lora a chara thank you for posting this lovely ritual. I’m looking forward to carrying this out tonight and tomorrow. Thinking of some meaningful words to honour and welcome her to my hearth and home. slainte.