Samhain - pronounced "sa-wen" means "summer's end"

~Samhain~

October 31st in the Northern Hemisphere

April 30th in the southern Hemisphere

This ancient Celtic festival at the official start of winter was later Christianized as Halloween ~ a time when the dead were remembered.  There was always a sinister aspect to Samhain, because certain sacrifices had to be made in order to survive the coming cold weather.  Animals had to be slaughtered, and some say that human sacrifice took place to propitiate the spirits.  Sacrifice, however, is a corruption of nature worship, for life is hard enough as it is and all we have to do is show respect.

Barrow mounds, shrouded in mist, are particularly eerie places at Samhain.  Draw close, if you dare, and sit quietly.  Do you hear the strange, far-off noise of fairy music, or the sound of knocking?  Maybe the mound will open for you and unearthly light will stream over the barren fields.  After Samhain, the earth is given over to the powers of darkness and decay.  no crops or berries may be harvested after this time, because the Phooka, a malevolent Irish fairy, blights them.  The true meaning here, of course, is that death and decay have a place in the natural order, requiring due honor and respect lest they get out of hand.

Traditionally, this is the start of the story-telling season.  While the wind whistles around the eaves or the mist comes down outside, gather family or friends around your hearth ~ preferably with a real fire burning in it.  If you do not have an open hearth, substitute a collection of large, burning candles.  Sit round and speak of times gone by and people who have passed over to the other side.  Ask the Beloved Dead to be present, if you wish (but note that this is not a seance, and the Beloved Dead are invited, not summoned).  Laugh, share funny stories, feast, and drink.

(photography by me ~ Angelthread33@yahoo.com)

~The Goddess~

Cerridwen ~ is the Underworld goddess and the fairy Hag most associated with this time.  in her magic cauldron, she stirs a brew that confers inspiration and transformation.

Simmer up a hearty soup of root vegetables or pumpkin, to share with friends, then light a black candle and ask Cerridwen to guide you through the darkness into the light.  You will be both safe and wise.

Enjoy your time

Blessed Be