Moon Phase Spotlight: The First Quarter on May 4 – More Than Just a Phase
- Jen Sequel
- May 4
- 3 min read
On May 4, 2025, the moon enters its First Quarter phase—a halfway point between the New Moon and Full Moon. Scientifically, this is when the moon is 50% illuminated and visible in the afternoon and early evening sky, setting around midnight. But beyond its astronomy, the First Quarter moon has long held symbolic and mystical significance across cultures. So, is this just another lunar phase, or is there more to the story?
Understanding the First Quarter Moon
During the First Quarter, the moon appears as a perfect half—light on the right side for observers in the Northern Hemisphere. It's a time of tension and momentum, astrologically considered a moment of challenge and decision. It marks the stage where the seeds of intention planted during the New Moon start to sprout—but only if effort and action follow.
Myth & Meaning Through the Ages
Ancient Greece & Rome
In Greco-Roman tradition, the moon was associated with Artemis (or Diana), the virgin huntress, a symbol of independence and the wilderness. The First Quarter was believed to be her time—energetic, active, and a bit combative. In this phase, people might have sought clarity or divine push when wrestling with decisions.
Mesopotamian Moon Lore
The Sumerians and Babylonians revered the moon god Sin (or Nanna), whose phases governed not just calendars but divine order. The First Quarter symbolized progress and strength—an omen that one's efforts were being seen and measured by the gods.
Celtic & Druidic Beliefs
To the Druids and other Celtic cultures, the First Quarter represented growth, a rise in personal power, and the need for commitment. Moon rites during this time often involved invoking Brigid, the goddess of inspiration and transformation, to bless new endeavors or resolve inner conflicts.
Hindu Lunar Tradition
In Hinduism, the waxing moon is a time of Shukla Paksha, a bright fortnight seen as auspicious. The First Quarter is especially favorable for learning, rituals, and beginning important tasks—reflecting Lakshmi’s energy of growth, fortune, and prosperity.
Astrological Significance – A Time for Decisions
In modern astrology, the First Quarter moon is a call to act on your intentions. You may feel internal friction—like you're being tested. Astrologers believe this is when obstacles appear, not to deter you, but to refine your direction. It’s a checkpoint, a cosmic “Are you serious about this?”
Because May 4 lands in Taurus season (sun sign), and depending on the moon's sign, this quarter could emphasize themes of stability, material comfort, or creative productivity. It's an excellent time to push forward with plans that require structure and patience.
“May the Fourth” — A Bonus Layer of Lore?
Though not ancient, it’s worth noting the coincidental overlap with “Star Wars Day” (May the Fourth be with you). If you're inclined toward myth and modern storytelling, there's something poetic about the moon hitting its action phase on a day associated with destiny, conflict, and the journey of the hero. In a way, the First Quarter is the moment the hero faces their first trial—and decides to keep going.
Practical Rituals for the First Quarter (May 4)
If you like to honor lunar energies, here are a few simple practices for May 4:
Journaling your progress on a new project.
Candle rituals for clarity and motivation.
Cleansing or charging tools for focus (especially under the moonlight).
Movement practices (like yoga, running, or dancing) to release blocked energy.
Final Thoughts
Is the First Quarter moon just another phase? Sure—astronomically speaking. But to many ancient and modern minds, it represents the turning point—when ideas become action, and intention meets resistance.
So on May 4, look up at the half-lit moon. Whether you're channeling Artemis, honoring the moon god Sin, or just trying to finish a stubborn project, the moon’s message is clear:
Keep going. You're halfway there.
As an added bonus, and what will more than likely become a packet of downloads for Patrons, I'm adding a New Fire and Bloom ritual to this post. It's purpose is to ignite passion, creativity, and personal growth as the season changes. There are two included - one using fire and other without.
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