In this article we will explore the hidden meanings of the Days of the Week, drawing from occult traditions and symbolic interpretations to illuminate their deeper resonance and try to understand these energies, so we can align our lives more harmoniously with the natural rhythms of the cosmos.
In today’s modern world, Days of the Week are often viewed as mere markers of time, guiding our routines and responsibilities. Yet, beneath the surface of these seven days lies a rich tapestry of history, mythology, and energetic significance. Each day is imbued with a unique vibration, shaped by ancient calendars, planetary associations, and esoteric wisdom.
The concept of the seven-day week is rooted in ancient civilizations, with origins that stretch back thousands of years and starting with the development of the first calendars.
Firstly, all calendars are based on astronomical cycles.
These cycles can be from the sun (solar), the moon (lunar), a combination of sun and moon (luni solar) or the stars – (sidereal)
Solar calendars are based on the Earth’s orbit around the Sun, specifically on the time it takes the Earth to complete one revolution around the Sun, known as a tropical year. Lunar calendars are based on the monthly cycles of the Moon’s phases Luni-solar calendars are based on the combination of two cycles: the lunar cycle (the Moon’s phases) and the solar cycle (the Earth’s orbit around the Sun) and sidereal calendars are based on the movement of celestial bodies, specifically the stars, rather than the movement of the sun or the moon
The Babylonian calendar, one of the earliest known, divided time into a seven-day cycle based on the phases of the moon. This practice was later adopted by the Jewish, Roman, and ultimately the Christian and Islamic calendars. There are still 12 lunar calendars used around the world today to mark religious practices, traditional holidays or cultural events: Chinese, Herbrew, Islamic, Hindu, Thai, Vietanmese, Burmese, Tibetan, Kurdish, Assyrian, Jain and Celtic.
The Gregorian calendar, a solar calendar used throughout the Christian world, is the most accepted and recognized calendar in the world. It is used alongside other calendars as a universal standard for international business, communication, and travel.
The Gregorian calendar is the result of reforms and modifications of the medieval Christian calendar and Julian calendar.
Within this universal system, the structure of the seven day week remains a deeply symbolic and ancient construct. Let’s have a look at some esoteric meanings that continues to resonate today.
Days of the week:
Each day of the week was named after one of the seven visible celestial bodies in the sky: the Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, and Saturn. The order of the days originally derived from the Babylonians. These names remain in modern languages, as a testament to their enduring influence. But beyond their astronomical origins, the days of the week have long been associated with archetypal energies and spiritual forces that can shape our lives in profound ways.
Sunday: The Day of the Sun
Language roots:
Sunday comes from Sol in Roman, Domenica in Italian, Sun in Anglo-Saxon
Sunday, as its name suggests, is governed by the Sun, a symbol of vitality, clarity, and divine light. In many traditions it is the first day of the week and in many cultures, the Sun is seen as a source of life and inspiration, making Sunday a day of celebration. Its energy promotes creativity, confidence, and a sense of purpose. In ancient Greek the Sun is also known as Helios.
Esoterically, The Sun represents the self, the soul, and the power of manifestation. It has the power to illuminate, therefore, to dispel darkness.
In occult teachings, the Sun represents:
- The Self and the Soul: It symbolizes individuality, self-expression, and the core essence of who we are.
- Vitality and Life Force: The Sun governs health, energy, and the inner fire that drives creativity and ambition.
- Divine Light: As the giver of light, the Sun is often associated with truth, clarity, and spiritual awakening.
- Manifestation: The Sun’s radiant energy supports growth and realization of potential.
The day of the Sun is uplifting, radiant and empowering. It can be used as a day to recharge your energy.
It is also a day to be used to set clear intentions and plan for the week with optimism and clarity. You can connect to the Sun spiritually by meditation, praying or engaging in practices that align with your higher self.
In Hindu tradition, Sunday is considered the first day of the week, and it is associated with the worship of Surya, the solar deity. Surya Namaskar is a greeting done to the sun, in which one pours water in gratitude of the sun. For more information on Sun Worship, you can check this video out!
Rituals performed on Sunday often focus on success, personal empowerment, or connecting with the divine. This day’s energy encourages us to shine brightly, embrace our authentic selves, and set intentions for the week with optimism and clarity.
To enhance the Suns energy, especially on Sunday, wear or use gold, yellow or orange colors to reflect the Suns’s vibrant energy. This helps to emanate warmth, vitality and joy. Crystals that enhance positivity, abundance and personal power are citrine. For joy and creativity, try sunstone and for grounding solar energy try amber.
In Astrology the Sun is connected to the sign of Leo – a sign that emanates power, strength and energy and demands attention. It is connected to the element of fire, inspiring action, passion, courage and transformation.
In Tarot, the Sun is connected to the Sun card – a bringer of joy, creative endeavors, new projects and new beginnings. It is the birth of a new day with abundance, growth and vitality.
Things to watch out for: Watch out for boastfulness, having too much pride, arrogance, ego, self-centeredness or overconfidence. The Sun is theoried to be the center of this solar system, therefore an overabundance of solar energy may cause these qualities.
Also watch out for burnout. Constant action with no grounding and no rest can cause an individual to burn the candle at both ends, or, to wear oneself out.
Things to take advantage of: Use Sunday as a day to create, especially self expression via creative works. This can be art, music or dance. Performing arts are especially favored as the energy of life and vitality is connected to the Sun. Be optimistic and enthusiastic. Use the day to give thanks for the sun and the blessings it provides everyone on the Earth. Celebrate radiance and warmth and life, the very essence of the Sun.
Monday: The Day of the Moon
Language roots:
Monday derives its name from the Moon, Luna in Roman, Lunedi in Italian, Moon in Anglo-Saxon
It is a celestial body associated with intuition, emotions, and the subconscious mind. In esoteric traditions, the Moon symbolizes the divine feminine, receptivity, and the cycles of life. The energy of Monday encourages introspection, emotional awareness, and nurturing connections. It is a day to honor the ebb and flow of feelings, embracing stillness and reflection.
The moon represents:
- The Subconscious Mind: A gateway to intuition, dreams, and hidden emotions.
- Cycles and Change: A reminder of impermanence and the need to adapt to life’s phases.
- Feminine Energy: The nurturing, receptive, and intuitive aspects of existence.
- Reflection and Illumination: Shedding light on what is hidden, both within and without.
In magic and ritual, Monday is linked to water, the element of emotions, and practices that enhance psychic abilities or healing.
Energetically, Monday invites us to tune into our inner world. Its reflective nature makes it an ideal day for journaling, meditation, or setting intentions for the week ahead. However, the Moon’s influence can also heighten sensitivity, making it important to practice grounding and emotional balance.
To enhance the moons energy wear or use silver, white or pale blue to reflect the Moons luminous and calming energy. Using silver in magical practices also helps to connect more deeply to moon energy.
Crystals that can amplify moon energy are moonstone, which enhances intuition, emotional balance and the connection to the divine feminine; selenite, which can clear energy and promote spiritual clarity and pearl, which symbolizes purity, wisdom and emotional harmony.
In astrology, the Moon is the ruler of the zodiac sign Cancer, which governs the home, family, and inner emotions. Astrological work on Monday often focuses on nurturing the self or relationships, addressing emotional blockages, or tapping into intuitive guidance.
If working with lunar magic or doing shadow work, Monday is a day when this energy will be stronger.
In Tarot, the moon is represented by the High Priestess card, which symbolizes what is internal, hidden, secret or occult.
Things to watch out for on Monday – pay attention to ebbs and flows of emotion, especially during full moons, when feelings, sentiments and nostalgic thoughts can be easily triggered. Mood swings may be common and fluctuate with the phases of the moon.
Also be aware of “lunatics”. Coming from the latin word lunaticus, these are people that are affected by madness (lunacy), or people that go crazy, or act “looney” during full moons and especially if the full moon falls on a monday!, And for cat lovers – pay attention to them during a full moons – This energy can be quite intense for our feline friends!
Things to take advantage of – Monday is a day of deep introspection, meditation, psychic, divination and intuitive work, shadow or dream work, self reflection, cleansing and purification, releasing emotional blocks, rest and self care. Pay attention to dreams; many messages come through the sub-conscious. Be receptive to messages received on Monday.
Tuesday: The Day of Mars
Language roots:
Tuesday takes its name from Mars, Martes in Roman, Martedi in Italian, Tiw in Anglo-Saxon.
Mars is the Roman god of war, conflict and action. In Norse mythology, the day is associated with Tiw, a god of combat and justice. In ancient Greece Mars is known as Ares.
Mars is masculine energy and represents drive, courage, and assertiveness, infusing Tuesday with fiery energy. This is a day for taking bold steps, tackling challenges, and asserting one’s willpower.
Mars is often associated with:
- Action and Initiative: The force that drives us to act decisively.
- Courage and Confidence: The strength to face challenges head-on.
- Conflict and Struggle: The duality of destruction and creation.
- Passion and Desire: The intense emotions that fuel purpose.
It’s energy is excellent for initiating projects, accepting new challenges, engaging in physical activities, or addressing conflicts with clarity and strength. It encompasses calculated action and decisive leadership. This day teaches the balance between brute force and strategic thinking.
Occult traditions often link Mars to the element of fire and the color red, symbols of passion, vitality and raw power of life force. It’s also linked to the metal Iron, making it a day of alchemy by turning raw energy into purposeful action.
To enhance Mars energy, use iron in rituals or magic, wear or use the color red, scarlet or orange, to harness raw power and physical strength, use spices such as cinnamon or burn dragon’s blood incense to deepen your connection to Mars or use crystals such as Carnelian for courage, red jasper, for energy and bloodstone for resiliance.
Being a powerful planet, Mars’ forceful nature can also provoke impatience or aggression, reminding us to channel its power constructively.
In astrology, Mars is the ruler of the zodiac sign Aries and Scorpio, Aries which governs boldness, courage, power, initiative and impulsiveness. Aries is also associated with the head, representing the mind, vision, and direction. It’s a time to break through any emotional blocks and confront problems head on, much like a Ram – the animal symbolized by Aries – would do during a battle. And Scorpio which transforms and purifies raw energy, transforming the rough diamond into something pure and powerful. In Tarot it is associated with the Tower: complete and sudden transformation and change which is unexpected and most of the time needed, but not necessarily welcome. It is the clearing of the slate and a new beginning, as the beginning of the growth of a plant in the ashes of the freshly erupted volcano after the dust is still settling.
Things to watch out for on Tuesday – arguments, escalation in conflicts, physical fights or violence, lack of compassion, impulsivity, taking risks, reckless or destructive behavior, impatience, dominating or desire to control others, being overly competitive, excess frustration, overworking, burning yourself out, rushed or hastily made choices. Road rage can be easily triggered on Tuesdays.
Things to take advantage of – good day for physical activity, starting new projects, pursuing goals, being assertive and bold, transformation and taking charge. Use Tuesday as an opportunity to be a trailblazer, take action. channel boldness into purpose, overcome obstacles, and embrace the warrior spirit within.
Wednesday: The Day of Mercury
Language roots:
Wednesday comes from Mercurius in Roman, Mercoledi in Italian, Woden in Anglo-Saxon.
Wednesday is governed by Mercury, Hermes in Greek, and is the planet of communication, intellect, and adaptability. In Roman mythology, Mercury is the messenger of the gods, and his influence imbues Wednesday with a sense of curiosity and mental agility.
This day is ideal for learning, networking, and creative problem-solving.
Mercury is associated with:
- The Mind: Logic, reason, and analytical thinking.
- Communication: Speech, writing, and negotiation.
- Travel: Movement, exploration, and commerce.
- Alchemy: Transformation, particularly the balance of spiritual and material energies. Mercury in alchemical traditions, is sometimes also known as quicksilver and represents the prima materia, or the original substance from which matter and spirit come. This means that Wednesday can be a powerful day to do inner alchemical work.
Esoterically, Mercury is associated with air and the mind, emphasizing clarity of thought and expression.
Rituals performed on Wednesday often focus on enhancing communication skills, divination, or gaining insight into complex situations.
The energy of this day encourages flexibility, adaptability and the pursuit of knowledge, making it perfect for intellectual endeavors like studying, solving problems, and any tasks require critical thinking Since it rules communication, it is also a good day to have any meaningful conversations.
To enhances Mercury’s energy, use yellow, silver, or light green represent Mercury’s quick and versatile energy. Burn incense or open windows to move air, which symbolizes intellect, movement, and communication and use Citrine and fluorite to enhance focus, and aquamarine to aid in clarity in communication.
Using different symbols such as a Caduceus, quill, parchment, or winged sandals (Hermes’ footwear) will be increased on Wednesday.
In astrology Mercury rules both Gemini and Virgo and these two signs lend energy to Wednesday. Intellect, logic, reasoning and analytical thinking will be enhanced, as well as paying attention to details and being meticulous.
In Tarot, it’s associated with the Magician – a cunning, intellectual fellow who has mastery over spells via words (the air quality) and who can persuade, control, manipulate or convince through communication, but who can also manifest exactly that which he desires.
Things to watch out for: Mercury is related to air so watch out for restlessness, anxiety, nervousness, overthinking or scattered thoughts. Communication and words are important with Mercury so pay attention to how you say things. Be truthful and avoid telling lies or manipulating people.
Things to take advantage of: Use Wednesday as a day to be Direct and clear in communication, especially in relationships. It’s a good day for expressing yourself, giving speeches in public, journaling or doing any type of writing activities, critical thinking or solving problems, Negotiating, especially in contracts or sales and skills of persuasion or influencing others can be heightened on Wednesdays. It’s a good day to be curious about different activities and learn something new! Being under Mercury, new information will be retained and memorized more quickly.
Thursday: The Day of Jupiter
Language roots:
Thursday comes from Jove in Roman, Giovedi in Italian, and Thor in Anglo-Saxon.
Thursday derives its name from Jupiter, the largest planet in our solar system and a symbol of expansion, abundance, and wisdom.
Known as Thor’s Day in Norse mythology, it is associated with the thunder god Thor, reflecting themes of strength, growth and protection.
Jupiter, in Roman mythology, is the king of the gods, ruling over justice, authority, and the heavens.
Jupiter is a planet of expansive energy that encourages us to think big, aim high, and connect with our higher purpose.
Jupiter’s associations include:
- Expansion: Growth, opportunity, long term vision and the broadening of horizons.
- Wisdom: Higher education, philosophy, and spiritual insight.
- Abundance: Wealth, prosperity, and success.
- Justice: Integrity, fairness, and ethical leadership.
In the occult realm, Jupiter is linked to prosperity, luck, and higher learning.
Rituals performed on Thursday often aim to attract abundance, enhance leadership skills, or deepen one’s connection to divine wisdom.
There is the possibility to see the big picture with Jupiter and seek a greater understanding of things. One can grow and expand materially and spiritually, as Jupiter is connected to the ether element, symbolizing the expansive nature of the cosmos.
To enhance Jupiter’s energy, try wearing or using colors of Royal blue, purple, or gold which represent Jupiter’s majesty and wisdom. Crystals, such as amethyst and sapphire can enhance spiritual wisdom, while citrine attracts abundance. In rituals, or to harness Jupiter’s strength and authority, use symbols such as thunderbolt, eagle and oak tree.
In astrology, Jupiter rules Sagittarius and traditionally Pisces. Sag known for Optimism, adventure, philosophy and a quest for truth and Pisces known for Spiritual depth, compassion, and connection to the divine.
In Tarot, Jupiter is associated with the Wheel of Fortune. Luck and prosperity are arriving …. or diminishing … depending on which direction the wheel is turning.
Things to watch out for: Jupiter is expansion – watch out for overconsumption and overindulgence in general. Avoid unrealistic expectations or arrogance that can come from an inflated ego. Jupiter can lead to overconfidence. Pay extra attention to details as Jupiter’s big-picture focus may overlook small details or have you neglecting details.
Things to take advantage of: The energy of this day encourages optimism and a broad perspective, inviting us to embrace life’s opportunities with gratitude. Its energy also fosters growth, generosity, and spiritual development, making Thursday a powerful day for setting long-term goals and seeking guidance.
Friday: The Day of Venus
Language roots:
Friday comes from Venere in Roman, Venerdi in Italian, Freya in Anglo-Saxon.
Friday is named after Venus, the Roman goddess of love, beauty, and harmony and representing the ideal of beauty and romantic desire. It ancient Greece she is known as Aphrodite.
In Norse mythology, the day is associated with Freya, a goddess of love and fertility. Venus imbues Friday with a sense of romance, creativity, and connection, making it an ideal day for nurturing relationships and indulging in self-care.
Venus symbolizes:
- Love and Affection: The bonds we form with others, from romantic to platonic relationships.
- Creativity and Art: The inspiration to create and appreciate beauty.
- Abundance and Luxury: Material pleasures, wealth, and sensual enjoyment.
- Harmony and Balance: The pursuit of peace in relationships and environments.
Esoterically, Venus governs the heart and the arts, encouraging expressions of beauty and affection. Rituals for love, attraction, or artistic inspiration are particularly potent on this day. Friday’s energy reminds us to prioritize joy, pleasure, and the bonds that bring us closer to others.
Venus’ energy also enhances prosperity rituals or manifestations aimed at financial stability.
To enhance the energy of Friday, wear or use the colors of Pink symbolizing love and affection and green symbolizing growth and abundance.
Crystals can be used in rituals to enhance the energy of Venus, especially on Friday, for stronger magic. Among them are Rose quartz, connected to unconditional love, emerald for prosperity, and jade for peace and harmony.
Likewise, herbs and plants such as rose, lilies and apple’s blossoms can be used in love spells or beauty potions.
In astrology, it governs both the signs Taurus (sensuality, grounded love, material pleasures) and Libra (balance, partnerships). In Tarot Venus is the Empress. Lush, beautiful and always giving birth to something, as the Empress is forever fertile and she lends to creative projects, abundant beauty and a nurturing quality.
Things to watch out for: Friday night is generally referred to as “the night out”. But watch out for overindulgence, such as in food, drink or sex, or escapism. These things are increased on Fridays. Avoid getting too caught up in pleasure sensations.
Focus on solid, real relationships versus superficial relationships. Venus has a tendency to see only what’s on the surface. Don’t let yourself become co-dependent or a people pleaser.
Things to take advantage of: Friday is a good day to strengthen relationships, express yourself with creativity, music or arts, appreciation beautiful things, be affectionate towards individuals, especially loved ones, bring peace and balance into relationships, enjoy material and sensual pleasures and indulge in moderation in the things that make you feel good. Remember libra to keep things in balance.
Saturday: The Day of Saturn
Language roots:
Saturday comes from Saturnius in Roman, Sabato in Italian, Saturn in Anglo-Saxon.
Saturday is ruled by Saturn, the planet of discipline, structure, and responsibility.
Named after the Roman god Saturn, or Cronos in ancient Greece, it is he who governs time, karma, and cycles of life and death.
Saturday carries an esoteric significance that invites reflection, accountability, structure and renewal. Saturn’s influence encourages us to focus on long-term commitments, organization, and personal growth through discipline.
In occult practices, Saturn is often associated with the element of earth and themes of boundaries, karma, and transformation. Saturday is an excellent day for clearing away clutter, completing unfinished tasks, or engaging in deep self-reflection. While its energy may feel heavy or restrictive, it offers valuable lessons in patience and perseverance.
In mythology. Saturn is a stern and powerful figure.
Representing discipline, boundaries, and the passage of time, Saturn’s influence can feel heavy, yet it is ultimately designed to teach profound life lessons.
Key aspects of Saturn include:
- Time and Cycles: Saturn rules over time, reminding us of its finite nature and urging us to use it wisely.
- Karma and Consequences: It governs the law of cause and effect, where our actions bear fruit over time.
- Structure and Boundaries: Saturn emphasizes the importance of rules, discipline, and order.
- Transformation Through Struggle: Challenges brought by Saturn lead to growth, resilience, and self-mastery.
To gain Saturn’s blessings, wear or use Black and dark blue items to symbolize Saturn’s grounding and protective qualities. Beneficial crystals to harness the energy are Onyx, which provides grounding and strength, and Obsidian which offers protection and aids in shadow work. Hematite will also enhance focus and balance energy.
Saturn is the Element of Earth and the energy is rooted in practicality, making Saturday a day to focus on tangible results and physical stability.
Rituals and other practices on Saturday can include karma cleansing, protection rituals or shadow work, as well as grounding activities to stabilize and balance any lighter energies.
In astrology it is connected to Capricorn and Aquarius, symbolizing ambition, responsibility, duty and innovative thought. In Tarot it is the World meaning completion- a full cycle. Something is ending and something is beginning, for example as in reincarnation. Energy is cyclical. The world is what Saturn will give you after all the struggle, hardships and discipline you have overcome and the negative karma you have burned off. The rewards of labor and success are now yours.
Things to watch out for: Overworking. Saturn’s discipline can lead individuals to become workaholics or lead to burnout. Make sure to still take rest when needed. Avoid seeing limitations in everything. See the possibilities that hard work and discipline can give you. Avoid being too rigid or perfect. An excessive focus on discipline and structure can stifle creativity or flexibility.
Things to take advantage of: Saturn is restriction and discipline. Use Saturday as a day to stick to your diet, exercise and get things done that you know you should do. It’s also a day to help others. Saturn rules over karma, so doing good deeds on Saturday can go a long way. Donate time to a homeless shelter, feed stray animals or help the elderly.
The days of the week are far more than convenient divisions of time; they are a reflection of the cosmic forces that shape our existence. Each day carries a unique vibration, offering opportunities for growth, self-discovery, and alignment with the universe. By understanding the energetic significance of these days, we can live more intentionally, harmonizing our actions with the natural rhythms of the cosmos. Whether through meditation, ritual, or simply mindful living, the ancient wisdom embedded in the week invites us to connect with the greater mysteries of life and find meaning in each passing day.
So what’s your favorite Day of the Week, and why? We’d love to hear about it in the comments below! Share this article!!!
Video version here:
Occult meanings of the Days of the Week
Interesting sources, additional info, courses, images, credits, attributions and other points of views here:
Balancing and Healing the Chakras through Yoga https://www.udemy.com/course/balancing-and-healing-the-chakras-through-yoga/?referralCode=12C81A148616B419AA06
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Elemental Energy for Success and Well Being https://www.udemy.com/course/elemental-energy-for-success-and-well-being/?referralCode=A680413E03BEAD96E744
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Links and References:
https://www.mooncratertycho.com/the-12-lunar-calendars-still-in-use-around-the-world/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Babylonian_calendar
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lunatic
http://www.homeoint.org/morrell/astrology/medical.htm
https://www.rmg.co.uk/sites/default/files/Calendars-from-around-the-world.pdf
https://www.astrojyotish.com/index.asp
https://ang.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dweligende_tungol
https://wordinfo.info/unit/3217
Pics:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lunar_calendar
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mene_(goddess)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Venus#/media/File:Venus_2_Approach_Image.jpg
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moonstone_(gemstone)#/media/File:Raw_Moonstone.jpg
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