What is the meaning of the Crescent moon in Wicca neo-paganism?

Answer 1

Answer:

It depends.

The crescent moon as represented in the symbol )0( (a more or less way to use type to represent the symbol) actually has triple meaning. This symbol is actually a symbol of two crescent moons; one waxing and one waning, with the full moon in the center between the two crescents. This is commonly known as a Goddess symbol, because in Wiccan theology the moon is representative of the Goddess's power. The waxing crescent (left) symbolizes the Goddess's transition from the status of Maiden to Mother (the full moon, the center circle.) The Waning moon (right) symbolizes the transition from Mother to Death; known as The Crone stage. From left to right we have the three forms represented in this way: the "Maiden" by the ) crescent, the "Mother" by the 0 full moon, and the "Crone" by the ( crescent.

You may also see the crescent in a Cheshire cat smile form sitting above a circle. This symbol represents the union between the God and Goddess: the crescent in this form represents the stags or horns of the Horned God, and the circle represents the full moon (i.e. the Mother phase of the Goddess.)

Answer 2

The Crescent Moon is actually part of a 3 part symbol, often called the Triple Moon. Depending on the direction the crescent is facing (whether it is waxing or waning), its meaning is different.

If the Crescent is waxing (the interior of the Crescent is facing left) it represents the Maiden, or virginity, or any other number of things dealing with youthfulness and maidenhood. It is also a representation of growing power and understanding.

If the Crescent is waning (The interior of the Crescent is facing right) it represents the Crone, or the dwindling of life. It also represents the fullness of knowledge and wisdom, someone or something to be respected and cherished as they pass that wisdom onto the next generation.

The third symbol is the Full Moon, or the Matron. It represents the fullness of life, leaving behind the insecurities and weakness of youth.

There is in actuality a fourth symbol inherent, though not often represented, in the Triple Moon sybol, and that is the new moon, or full darkness of the moon. This symbol is the representative of death. The end of this life. Yet there is always new beginning as the cycles start over, and new life continues the cycle.

All in all the symbol represents that various stages of life, death and rebirth.

As the moon is associated with the feminine side of life, the symbol is also inherently feminine in nature. That is to say pagans use female representatives (Maiden, Matron, Crone) to describe the various parts of the symbol.