SAMHAIN is believed to be a Celtic word which loosely translates to 'Summers End'. It marks the beginning of both the Celtic and Wiccan New Year. In the Christian calendar it is known as 'All Saints Day' or 'All Hallows Eve', this has been shortened in modern times to 'Halloween'. It is sometimes called 'The festival of Apples' or 'The Festival of the Dead'.
It is one of the two times in the year when the veil between this world and the next is at it's thinnest. A powerful time for divination and contacting the spirit realm. This is a time for honouring those that have passed on. Samhain is the only night when it was believed that spirits of the departed have the ability to visit relatives and loved ones. A place was set at the table in their honour, and to this day, some Pagans still reserve a place at the feast, or place a plate of food on the doorstep for any passing spirits to enjoy. All spirits must return to their resting place by the first crow of the Cockerel. Samhain is a time for reflection and a time of preparation for the oncoming winter.
It used to be the time when cattle that couldn't be over wintered were slaughtered, providing food in the lean times, the last of the harvest and seeds are gathered and a time when Wiccans bid farewell to the God as he passes into the underworld, planting the seed in the Goddess ready for his re-birth. This Sabbat is symbolised by The Triple Goddess, the cauldron, a bonfire and the Jack a Lantern.
Read about the other Sabbats
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