The Coming of Samhain
Wednesday, October 4th, 2006
I find myself smiling at the thought of the coming Wiccan Celebration. Samhain, it is, I must state my favorite holiday in the Wiccan Wheel of the Year. Ask me why, and I am not sure if I know the answer myself.
Samhain is celebrated on and around Old Hallows Eve, for all non Wiccans, this would be Halloween. Some traditions celebrate this day on the 1st of November, however neither is correct nor Incorrect.
Samhain is the night that we celebrate all that have passed before us, with a drink in my hand and a carved pumpkin at my side, I hail a toast to my departed mother, and her mother before and wish them well on their journey. With the veil between our worlds at its thinnest, this is the night that along with their departed freinds they can pull up a chair and sit awhile. It is as we Wiccans call it, The Spirit Night. Samhain along with Beltane are the only two holidays that we can call upon the spirits with ease, and which are said to be at this time journeying on their way to Summerland and pass through our time. To some this night is known as ‘The Day that does not exist’ due to the walls that hold the Spiritual and living world apart are dissolved. Skathach, the Celtic Warrior, Lowers her sword during the night.
This time is also known for the reflexion and meditation on death, as well as honoring ones ancestors whom have passed. We light candles in rememberance, set extra settings at the table, and pull up extra chairs around the fires to invite our loved ones back for the evening.
On this night I always bury an apple in the yard just outside my door for the spirits that are lost, or for those that have no relatives to honor them. The use of herbs to celebrate this time of year are always a major role in the Wiccan celebrations. Use Mugwort, Sage, Catnip and Mandrake.
We can also use this time to celebrate the Darker Magick of Wicca as we honor the Dark Mother and Father, no matter what religion we are, each of us should remember our families and loved ones that have passed. It is an age old tradition and one that honors those that we loved the dearest. Help them on their way by placing lit candles in your windows.
With a glass in my hand and a pumpkin lit I sit, wait and honor those gone…..
