Mother’s Night (Mōdraniht): The Anglo-Saxon Midwinter Rite and Its Germanic Roots

Mother’s Night, or Mōdraniht, is one of the most mysterious midwinter observances of the early Germanic world. Recorded only once by the Anglo-Saxon monk Bede, it honoured the “Mothers” at the turning of the year. This article explores what Mother’s Night truly was, what evidence we have, how it connects to wider Germanic beliefs, and why it should not be mistaken for a Norse festival. Written with historical care and clear separation between evidence and modern practice.