Samhain, (pronounced Sow-en), also known as
The Festival of the Dead, is the primary Celtic festival. It is traditionally celebrated on either October 31st or November 1st, depending on one's tradition. Some traditions begin celebrating on October 30, for three full days. Other people choose to observe Samhain on the actual astrological cross-quarter date which varies slightly from year to year, but is usually around the end of the first week in November. During Samhain, the veil between the world of spirit and the world of mortals is at its thinnest. It is a time to focus on both our spiritual and physical ancestors, and honor them.
Samhain is considered the third, or meat, harvest.
Lughnasadh being the first, or grain harvest, and Mabon being the second, or fruits, harvest. There are many different traditions that have evolved through the ages in connection with the celebration of Samhain. The fact that even modern, uneducated paganism, secular culture associates witches, ghosts, candles, and graveyards with this time of year is a reflection of the ancient traditions and significance of this Sabbat. Often called "The Witches New Year", Samhain continues to have as much of a powerful influence in the lives of modern witches as it did
many centuries ago. |
