August, the 8th month of the year, holds a special significance. Named after Augustus Caesar, the first Emperor of Rome, it has a rich history and symbolism. Originally known as Sextilis, the month was renamed Augustus in honor of the esteemed Emperor.
August brings different meanings depending on where you are in the world. In the Northern Hemisphere, it marks the transition from late summer to early fall, while in the Southern Hemisphere, it brings an end to winter.
As we delve deeper into the significance of August, we come across its association with the horse, a powerful symbol of victory, authority, and respect. Romans revered the horse as sacred, linking it to Mars, the God of battle. This connection to the horse reflects the triumphs and longevity that August represents.
Augustus Caesar, known for bringing peace to a conflicted area, left a significant legacy. His influence inspired growth, reform, and development in Rome. This makes August a month associated with civility, improvements, and overall personal and societal development.
August Birthstone: Peridot, Sardonyx & Spinel
August is adorned with three birthstones: Peridot, Sardonyx, and Spinel. Peridot, with its beautiful yellow-green color, is associated with mental and physical stimulation and renewal. It offers protection and helps in transforming negative emotions into positive ones.
Sardonyx, another birthstone of August, enhances strength, motivation, and reliability. It is a stone of luck and balance, bringing grounding energy and concentration.
Spinel, often mistaken for rubies and sapphires, symbolizes renewal, hope, success, and creativity. It is a fortunate stone for those born under the zodiac signs of Taurus and Scorpio. Spinel also has powerful healing properties, releasing toxins and improving energy and endurance.
August Zodiac Signs: Leo & Virgo
In August, we encounter two zodiac signs: Leo and Virgo. Leo, symbolized by the lion, radiates positivity, energy, and honesty. Leos are known for their regal nature and unwavering spirit.
Virgo, on the other hand, is characterized by practicality, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills. Virgos have a keen mind and offer reliable and modest advice.
August Holidays
August is filled with a variety of holidays and observances. From Children's Eye and Health Safety to National Water Quality, there are numerous opportunities to celebrate and raise awareness. Additionally, menu ideas can be inspired by Get Acquainted with Kiwifruit Month, Peach Month, and Sandwich Month.
August Flower: Gladiolus & Poppy
The flowers associated with August are gladiolus and poppy. Gladiolus, known for its unique shape, represents strength and remembrance. In both Western and Eastern customs, gladiolus were traditionally used at funerals to honor the deceased.
The poppy symbolizes rest, sleep, peace, and sometimes death. It has a rich cultural significance and appears in myths and stories around the world. In Persia, it is said that a poppy marks someone who died for true love.
August Month Number: 8
August's month number is 8. In numerology, the number 8 is considered sacred, as it resembles the symbol for infinity when turned on its side. It signifies peace, symmetry, and plenty. August 8th is a particularly significant day for decision-making and brings increased joy.
In Chinese culture, 8 is a lucky number, as it sounds like the Chinese term for prosperity. The 2008 Summer Olympics in China opened on August 8 at 8:08 pm (and 8 seconds). Eight is also associated with the zodiac sign Scorpio, the planet Saturn, and the Justice Card of the Tarot.
August Colors
The color that represents August is orange. It symbolizes joy, motivation, and determination. Orange combines the high energy of red with the joyful nature of yellow. This color promotes emotional recovery, compassion, and positive emotions.
August Symbol: Bear
According to the Native American Zodiac, the bear rules over August. Bears symbolize stability, reason, and nurturing. People born under this sign possess nurturing qualities and have huge hearts. Bears teach us the importance of self-care and guide us to find solitude for personal growth.
August Full Moon
The full moon of August is known as the Sturgeon Moon among the Algonquin Tribes. It signifies the abundance of fish in nearby lakes. Other names for the August Moon include Barley Moon, Green Corn Moon, Fruit Moon, and Grain Moon, all referring to the upcoming harvest season.
August Facts
Here are some interesting facts about August:
- Cinemax came to cable TV in 1980.
- The first census in the US was taken in 1790.
- The atomic bomb destroyed Hiroshima in 1945.
- Woodstock opened in New York State in 1969.
- Michael Phelps won eight gold medals in the Olympic Games in 2008.
August Quotes
"If the first week in August is unusually warm, the coming winter will be snowy and long." - Unknown "August, the summer's last messenger of misery, is a hallow actor." - Henry Rollins "Whilst August yet wears her golden crown, Ripening fields lush-bright with promise; Summer waxes long, then wanes, quietly passing her fading green glory on to riotous Autumn." - Michelle L. Thieme
August Birthdays
August is the birth month of many notable individuals, including Yves Saint Laurent, Louis Armstrong, Alfred Hitchcock, Julia Child, Sean Connery, and Mother Teresa.
Celebrate the significance of August and embrace the rich symbolism and meaning it holds. It is a month of growth, renewal, and the transition between seasons. Let August inspire you to strive for personal development and positive change.
