dark moon

Dark moon refers to the lunar phase when the moon is not visible from Earth, occurring just before the new moon.

In astronomical terms, it's the period when the moon lies between Earth and the sun, its illuminated side facing away from us.

Some use dark moon and new moon interchangeably, though others distinguish the dark moon as the day or two of complete invisibility before the first sliver appears.

In pagan and Wiccan traditions, the dark moon carries spiritual significance as a time for introspection, rest, or banishing rituals: She preferred to do shadow work during the dark moon.