Below is the complete text from the 1912 document with each German sentence followed by its English translation, alongside contextual explanations. This ensures the original phrasing is preserved while making the information accessible in English.
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“Zeichen zum Holzschlagen und Schwenden” (Signs for Woodcutting and Clearing)
Written by Michl Ober, transcribed by Josef Schmutzer on December 25, 1912.
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1. Schwendtage (Clearing and Thinning Days)
> “Schwendtage sind der 3. April, der 30. Juli und am Achazitag, besser noch, wenn selbe noch im abnehmenden Mond sind und an einem Frautag, diese Tage sind auch für Kugeln- und Schrotgießen gut.”
Translation: “Clearing days are April 3, July 30, and Achaz Day (June 22), better still if they fall during the waning moon and on a Frauentag. These days are also good for casting bullets and shot.”
Context:
These dates are optimal for clearing forests, thinning trees, and preventing regrowth. The waning moon is associated with reduced regenerative energy. Frauentage (Marian feast days) add a spiritual dimension to the work.
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2. Firm and Stable Wood (“Gleim”)
> “Das Holzschlagen, daß es fest und gleim bleibt, ist gut die ersten acht Tage nach dem Neumond im Dezember, wenn ein weiches Zeichen darauf fällt.”
Translation: “Cutting wood so that it remains firm and stable is best during the first eight days after the December new moon, especially when it falls under a soft sign.”
> “Krechtholz bzw. Machlholz, Buchen usw., zu schlagen, daß es gleim und fest wird, soll sein der Neumond und der Skorpion.”
Translation: “Tool wood (Krechtholz), furniture wood (Machlholz), and beechwood should be cut during the new moon under Scorpio for stability and firmness.”
Context:
Gleim wood (“like glued”) was sought for its resistance to shrinkage and deformation, crucial for furniture and tools. The specific astrological signs (soft signs or Scorpio) were believed to influence sap flow and wood structure.
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3. Decay-Resistant Wood
> “Holzschlagen, daß es nicht fault, soll sein die zwei letzten Tage im März im abnehmenden Fisch.”
Translation: “Cutting wood so that it does not rot should take place during the last two days of March, during the waning moon in Pisces.”
Context:
This timing reduces sap content, making the wood less attractive to pests and more resistant to decay. It was essential for long-term construction and storage uses.
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4. Non-Flammable Wood
> “Holzschlagen, daß es nicht verbrennt, ist nur ein Tag, der erste Tag im Monat März, noch besser nach Sonnenuntergang.”
Translation: “Cutting wood so that it does not burn is best on one day only: the first day of March, and even better after sunset.”
Context:
Anecdotal evidence from Alpine traditions supports this claim. Fire-resistant wood was highly valued for building huts and barns, especially in fire-prone areas.
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5. Shrinkage-Resistant Wood
> “Holzschlagen, daß es nicht schwind, soll sein der dritte Tag im Herbst. Herbstanfang am 24. September, wenn der Mond drei Tag alt ist und an einem Frautag, wo der Krebs darauffällt.”
Translation: “Cutting wood so that it does not shrink should take place on the third day of autumn, September 24, when the moon is three days old and it falls on a Frauentag with Cancer.”
Context:
Wood that resists shrinkage was used for flooring and structural beams. The timing aligns with lunar phases and astrological conditions to reduce dimensional changes.
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6. Firewood for Regrowth
> “Brennholz zu arbeiten, daß es gut nachwächst, soll sein im Oktober im ersten Viertel aufnehmenden Mond.”
Translation: “Working firewood to ensure good regrowth should take place in October during the first quarter of the waxing moon.”
Context:
This timing was believed to maximize the forest’s regenerative energy, ensuring sustainable firewood harvesting.
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7. Pest-Resistant Sawn Wood
> “Säghölzer sollen geschlagen werden im aufnehmenden Fisch, so werden die Bretter nicht wurmig, ebenso die Hölzer.”
Translation: “Sawn wood should be cut during the waxing moon in Pisces, so that the boards and timber are not infested with worms.”
Context:
The waxing moon in Pisces was thought to align with low sap flow, reducing the wood’s appeal to pests.
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8. Durable Bridge and Arch Wood
> “Zu Brücken und Archen soll man Holz schlagen im abnehmenden Fisch oder Krebs.”
Translation: “Wood for bridges and arches should be cut during the waning moon in Pisces or Cancer.”
Context:
This wood was used in high-moisture environments, such as Alpine bridges and arches, due to its resistance to decay and structural integrity.
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9. Non-Splitting Wood
> “Holz zu schlagen, daß es nicht kluftig wird und rissig oder aufgeht, soll geschehen am Tag vor dem Neumond im November.”
Translation: “Cutting wood so that it does not split or crack should be done the day before the November new moon.”
Context:
This wood was essential for furniture, carvings, and applications requiring stability.
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10. Lightweight and Heavy Wood
> “Holz zu schlagen, daß es gering wird, soll sein im Skorpion und im August, so der Mond einen Tag abgenommen hat; im Stier geschlagen, bleibt es schwer.”
Translation: “Cutting wood so that it becomes light should take place in Scorpio during August, when the moon has waned for one day; wood cut in Taurus remains heavy.”
Context:
These recommendations allowed foresters to adjust wood density for specific uses, such as tools or beams.
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11. Non-Tearing Wood
> “Holz zu schlagen, daß es nicht zerreißt, den 24. Juni zwischen elf und zwölf Uhr.”
Translation: “Cutting wood so that it does not tear should take place on June 24, between 11:00 and 12:00 noon.”
Context:
Midsummer’s Day was a significant time for forestry, with wood harvested during this hour prized for its stability.
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12. Tool and Furniture Wood
12. Tool and Furniture Wood
> “Krechtholz oder Machlholz soll geschlagen werden den 26. Februar im abnehmenden Mond, noch besser, wenn der Krebs darauf einfällt.”
Translation: “Tool wood (Krechtholz) or furniture wood (Machlholz) should be cut on February 26 during the waning moon, even better if Cancer coincides with this date.”
Context:
Tool and furniture wood needed to be particularly durable and stable. The timing aligns with astrological influences believed to enhance these properties. Immediate debarking was recommended to avoid pest infestations, especially bark beetles.
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Conclusion and Evidence from the Document
The 1912 document emphasizes that all these recommendations were based on experience, careful observation, and practical testing over generations. The phrase “Diese Zeichen sind alle bewiesen und ausprobiert” (These signs are all proven and tested) appears repeatedly, indicating a reliance on empirical, albeit anecdotal, evidence.
Key Sources of Evidence:
1. Generational Observations:
Practices were passed down orally and refined through trial and error. The document suggests that repeated success in achieving desired wood qualities validated the recommendations.
2. Anecdotal Reports:
Stories of fire-resistant huts, durable bridges, and pest-free wood align with these practices, serving as indirect evidence of their effectiveness.
3. Cultural and Religious Integration:
Timing aligned with Marian feast days (Frauentage) and astrological signs, reflecting a blend of spiritual observance and practical forestry.
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Final Thoughts
The “Zeichen zum Holzschlagen und Schwenden” represents a fascinating intersection of tradition, astrology, and practical forestry. Its reliance on lunar cycles and specific dates demonstrates an intricate understanding of natural rhythms and their effects on wood properties.
> Primary Source:
Ludwig Weinhold, Zeichen zum Holzschlagen und Schwenden, in: Tiroler Heimatblätter, Heft 1–3, 1963, p. 28.
Michl Ober, 1912 (transcribed by Josef Schmutzer).
Incorporation of TU Dresden Analysis on “Mondholz” with Quotes and Evaluation
The TU Dresden Institute of Forest Utilization and Forest Technology provides an extensive analysis of “Mondholz” (moon wood), critically evaluating the historical claims, scientific basis, and cultural significance of felling wood during specific lunar phases. The information integrates perspectives from forestry practices, scientific studies, and cultural traditions. Below, key sections are translated, quoted, and evaluated alongside the 1912 document by Michl Ober.
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Key Claims About Mondholz
What is “Mondholz”?
> “Unter ‘Mondholz’ bzw. ‘Mondphasenholz’ ist solches Holz zu verstehen, das bei einer bestimmten, als ‘günstig’ angesehenen Mondphase geerntet wird und dadurch eine Reihe außergewöhnlicher Holzeigenschaften besitzen soll.”
Translation: “‘Moon wood,’ or ‘moon phase wood,’ refers to wood harvested during a specific lunar phase considered ‘favorable,’ purportedly resulting in a range of extraordinary wood properties.”
Evaluation:
This aligns with the 1912 document, which claims that the moon’s influence governs wood properties, such as resistance to rot, stability, and fireproofing. Both sources emphasize a connection between lunar phases and wood quality, though TU Dresden challenges the generalization of these practices across regions and time periods.
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Claims About the Right Timing
> “Heute wird mehrheitlich dem abnehmenden Mond ein positiver Einfluss auf die Holzeigenschaften nachgesagt. Dies gilt auch für die meisten Natur- und Bauernregeln aus dem deutschsprachigen Raum.”
Translation: “Today, the waning moon is widely believed to have a positive influence on wood properties. This is also reflected in most natural and farming rules from German-speaking regions.”
Evaluation:
Both sources emphasize the importance of the waning moon. The 1912 document explicitly states that wood resistant to decay (nicht fault) and fire (nicht verbrennt) should be felled during specific phases of the waning moon. However, TU Dresden notes that the variability in historical forestry rules complicates universal application.
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Historical Origins
> “In einer umfangreichen Analyse von mitteleuropäischen Forstordnungen und anderem forstlichen Schrifttum konnte gezeigt werden, dass die Fällung von Holz nach Mondphasen im historischen forstlichen Schrifttum sehr wohl verankert ist.”
Translation: “An extensive analysis of Central European forestry regulations and other forestry literature shows that felling wood according to moon phases is indeed rooted in historical forestry practices.”
> “Häufig finden sich sogar gegensätzliche Aussagen und Regelungen, die auf Willkür hindeuten bzw. bei näherer Betrachtung durch örtliche Gegebenheiten wie Klima, geographische Lage, hoheitliche Interessen und vieles mehr zu erklären sind.”
Translation: “Contradictory statements and rules are often found, which suggest arbitrariness or, upon closer examination, can be explained by local conditions such as climate, geography, governmental interests, and more.”
Evaluation:
This insight highlights a crucial limitation in the 1912 document: while its rules may reflect practical observations within a specific cultural and environmental context, their applicability beyond that context is uncertain. TU Dresden’s research suggests that local adaptations likely influenced traditional moon-phase forestry practices.
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Scientific Challenges
> “Die natürliche Schwankungsbreite der Holzeigenschaften ist groß… Für die wichtigsten Holzeigenschaften liegen praxisrelevante Unterschiede vor, wenn die Mittelwerte der geprüften Eigenschaften um mindestens 10 % von denen einer Vergleichsstichprobe abweichen.”
Translation: “The natural variability of wood properties is significant… Practically relevant differences in wood properties exist when the mean values of tested properties deviate by at least 10% from those of a comparison sample.”
> “Viele uralte Holzbauten beweisen, dass Holz ein dauerhafter Baustoff ist… Beeindruckende Beispiele hierzu liefern die Stabkirchen in Skandinavien, die rustikalen Holzhäuser der Bergbauern in den Alpen oder die kunstvoll verzierten Pagoden und Paläste in Japan und China.”
Translation: “Many ancient wooden structures prove that wood is a durable building material… Impressive examples include stave churches in Scandinavia, rustic alpine farmhouses, and the artistically decorated pagodas and palaces of Japan and China.”
Evaluation:
While historical structures demonstrate the durability of wood, TU Dresden emphasizes that no direct evidence links these achievements to moon-phase harvesting. Instead, the longevity of such structures often stems from effective building techniques, environmental protection, and chemical preservation methods (e.g., lead, arsenic, mercury).
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Controversies and Marketing Issues
Cultural Identity vs. Marketing Hype
> “Der allgemeine Glaube an lunare Einflüsse und an die besonderen Vorzüge des ‘Mondholzes’ wird von herrschenden Zeitströmungen in besonderer Weise befördert.”
Translation: “The general belief in lunar influences and the special advantages of ‘moon wood’ is particularly promoted by prevailing cultural trends.”
> “Die Werbung mit den angeblichen Vorzügen von ‘Mondholz’ weckt Wünsche und berechtigte Erwartungen.”
Translation: “Advertising the alleged advantages of ‘moon wood’ raises desires and justified expectations.”
Evaluation:
Both the 1912 document and modern marketing of “Mondholz” emphasize its exceptional qualities. However, TU Dresden critiques the potential for misrepresentation. False claims about moon wood’s properties can lead to disappointment among buyers and harm the reputation of wood as a sustainable material.
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Practical Recommendations for Future Research
Scientific Rigour
> “Die Forschungen an ‘Mondholz’ müssen weitergeführt werden. An ‘Mondholz’ erzielte Forschungsergebnisse müssen reproduzierbar sein.”
Translation: “Research on ‘moon wood’ must continue. Research results on ‘moon wood’ must be reproducible.”
Clarity in Marketing
> “Erst auf der Basis reproduzierbarer und praxisrelevanter Unterschiede von ‘Mondholz’ zu normalem Holz ist Werbung mit den speziellen Eigenschaften von ‘Mondholz’ seriös und ein höherer Verkaufspreis gerechtfertigt.”
Translation: “Only based on reproducible and practically relevant differences between ‘moon wood’ and regular wood can advertising of the special properties of ‘moon wood’ be considered legitimate and a higher selling price justified.”
Evaluation:
This aligns with the 1912 document’s assertion that these practices are “proven and tested”. However, TU Dresden highlights the importance of modern, scientific validation to distinguish legitimate claims from myth.
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Conclusion: Reconciling Tradition with Modern Science
The analysis from TU Dresden provides a critical counterpoint to the 1912 document by Michl Ober. While traditional practices reflect centuries of observation and cultural integration, their scientific basis remains largely unverified. Notable insights include:
1. Historical Validity:
Both sources confirm that moon-phase woodcutting has deep roots in Central European forestry traditions.
2. Scientific Challenges:
The natural variability of wood properties complicates efforts to scientifically validate claims about moon wood.
3. Cultural and Commercial Impacts:
“Mondholz” represents a blend of cultural identity and marketing, underscoring the need for transparency in claims.
By integrating tradition with rigorous research, “Mondholz” can continue to inspire sustainable practices while upholding its cultural legacy.
> Primary Sources Referenced:
TU Dresden, Mondholz – Chair of Forest Utilization and Forest Technology, 2016.
Michl Ober, Zeichen zum Holzschlagen und Schwenden, 1912 (transcribed by Josef Schmutzer).
Section 3: Analysis and Translation of “Wann sollte ich Holz schlagen?”
This section delves into the detailed guidance on wood harvesting as presented in the article Wann sollte ich Holz schlagen?. The text, originally based on a 1912 document, blends tradition, astrological timing, and practical forestry knowledge. Below, each key point is summarized with the original German text and its English translation, followed by an analysis.
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1. General Seasonal Guidance
> “Fast alle Menschen, die mit Holzfällen und Holzverarbeitung zu tun haben, wissen, dass der Winter im allgemeinen die beste Zeit zur Holzgewinnung ist. Die Säfte sind abgestiegen, das Holz ‘arbeitet’ nach dem Schlagen weniger.”
Translation: “Almost everyone involved in woodcutting and woodworking knows that winter is generally the best time for harvesting wood. The sap has receded, and the wood ‘works’ less after being cut.”
Summary: Winter is emphasized as the ideal season for cutting wood due to lower sap levels, which minimizes shrinkage and movement post-harvest.
Evaluation: This aligns with modern scientific practices, where cutting during dormancy reduces water content and enhances stability.
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2. Schwendtage (Clearing Days)
> “Schwendtage sind der 3. April, der 30. Juli und der Achazitag, besser, wenn selbe noch im abnehmenden Mond oder an einem Frauentag.”
Translation: “Clearing days are April 3, July 30, and St. Achatius Day, especially if these fall during the waning moon or on a ‘Frauentag’ (Mary’s Day).”
Summary: These specific days are recommended for clearing forests or shrubs. Clearing on these dates is said to prevent regrowth of trees and shrubs.
Evaluation: The alignment with lunar phases and religious days suggests a cultural and spiritual rationale, underscoring the integration of environmental and symbolic elements in forestry.
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3. Lunar Influence on Wood Properties
> “Das Holzschlagen, daß es fest und gleim bleibt, ist gut die ersten acht Tage nach dem Neumond im Dezember, wenn ein weiches Zeichen darauf fällt.”
Translation: “Cutting wood so that it remains firm and glued is best during the first eight days after the new moon in December, if it falls under a soft zodiac sign.”
Summary: The timing of cutting under specific lunar phases and zodiac signs is believed to enhance the firmness and cohesiveness of the wood.
Evaluation: While scientific validation is limited, such practices reflect deep observational knowledge combined with astrological interpretation.
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4. Fire-Resistant Wood
> “Holzschlagen, daß es nicht brennt, ist nur ein Tag, der erste Tag im Monat März, noch besser nach Sonnenuntergang.”
Translation: “Cutting wood so it does not burn should be done only on the first day of March, preferably after sunset.”
Summary: March 1, particularly after sunset, is cited as the optimal time for harvesting fire-resistant wood.
Evaluation: While anecdotal evidence is provided, scientific backing for such claims is absent, making it a significant area for further research.
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5. Rot-Resistant Wood
> “Holzschlagen, daß es nicht fault, soll sein die zwei letzten Tage im März im abnehmenden Fisch.”
Translation: “Cutting wood so it does not rot should be done during the last two days of March under the waning Pisces moon.”
Summary: Specific lunar phases are believed to influence the decay resistance of wood.
Evaluation: Such practices likely originated from empirical observations of seasonal impacts on decay rather than lunar effects.
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6. Schwundfreies Holz (Non-Shrinking Wood)
> “Solches Holz wird am besten am St. Thomastag (21. Dezember) zwischen 11 und 12 Uhr geschlagen.”
Translation: “Such wood is best cut on St. Thomas Day (December 21) between 11 a.m. and 12 p.m.”
Summary: For applications requiring dimensional stability, cutting wood on specific dates like December 21 is advised.
Evaluation: The recommendation reflects seasonal timing but does not address modern scientific factors like drying methods.
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7. Brennholz (Firewood)
> “Brennholz zu arbeiten, daß es gut nachwächst, soll sein im Oktober im ersten Viertel aufnehmenden Mond.”
Translation: “Firewood, so that it grows back well, should be worked on in October during the first quarter of the waxing moon.”
Summary: Timing firewood harvesting with lunar phases is believed to encourage forest regeneration.
Evaluation: This practice intertwines ecological sustainability with traditional beliefs.
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8. Specialized Applications
Bridge and Boat Wood
> “Holz für Brücken, Schiffskähne und Flöße sollte bei abnehmendem Mond in einem Wasserzeichen (Fisch oder Krebs) geschlagen werden.”
Translation: “Wood for bridges, boats, and rafts should be cut during the waning moon under a water sign (Pisces or Cancer).”
Summary: Specific lunar phases and zodiac signs are recommended for wood meant to endure water exposure.
Evaluation: These practices align with the need for durable, rot-resistant materials in humid conditions.
Christmas Trees
> “Tannen, drei Tage vor dem elften Vollmond des Jahres geschlagen, behalten ihre Nadeln sehr lange Zeit.”
Translation: “Fir trees, cut three days before the eleventh full moon of the year, retain their needles for a very long time.”
Summary: Specific timing for cutting Christmas trees ensures prolonged freshness.
Evaluation: The observation likely reflects the influence of sap levels and ambient conditions on tree longevity.
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Conclusion
The article illustrates a complex interweaving of tradition, spirituality, and practical forestry knowledge. While some claims, such as lunar influence on wood properties, lack scientific corroboration, others align with ecological principles and empirical observations. Future research could explore these practices to validate their efficacy and relevance in modern forestry.
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