This holiday is considered the Witches New Year. It is also know as Novemeber's Eve, Feast of the Dead, and many other names. It represents one full turn of the seasonal year. This is also the last of the three harvest festivals (Sabbats). Halloween is celebrated on Oct.31, Samhain is recognized on Nov. 7 (all hallows eve). Both festivals stand for the same purpose. So do your rituals whichever day suits you best.
Samhain is a time of reflection, looking back over the last year, of coming to terms with the one phenomenon of life over which we have no control- Death. Celebrations to honor the Dead are done at this Ritual, along with speaking to those who have past. Divination is heighted on this night. The Pagan feel that on this night the veil between the physical & spiritual worlds is the weakest.
At Samhain we also say farewell to the God. This is tempory as he will be reborn to the Goddess at Yule.
Some Symbols of Samhain are Jacl O' Lantern, Balefire, Besom, Masks, Cauldrons, & Waning Moon. The Colors for Samhain are Black & Orange. Animals for Samhain are Bats, Cats, & Dogs. Finally the Stones for Samhain are Obidian, Onyx, & Carmelian. |
