Mabon
S.H. - 21st March
N.H. - 21st September
Mabon, the Autumn Equinox is also referred to as the "Witches Thanksgiving". This Sabbat marks the end of the second harvest.
Mabon is the name of the Welsh God of fertility, once again day and night are equal, the God prepares to leave the Goddess and enter the Underworld.
The Goddess nods in the weakening Sun, though fire burns within Her womb. She feels the presence of the God even as He wanes. It is at this time that the Goddess enters the Crone stage.
Nature declines, draws back its bounty, readying for Winter and its time of rest. The majority of crops are gathered at this time.
The harvest celebration includes helping out those in need through sharing the gifts of the Goddess and God. The Gods and their elemental aspects are honoured for their participation in each person's life, thus recognizing the interconnectedness of all things.
The singular focus of Mabon is that of passage. The dark months of the year are just around the corner, but there is hope and trust in the sacrifice of the God. He shows the way to new life through the Goddess, and this is the sacred message of Mabon.
Mabon Lore:
A traditional practice is to walk wild places and forests, gathering seed pods and dried plants. Some of these can be used to decorate the home; others saved for future herbal magick.
The foods of Mabon consist of the second harvest's gleanings, so grains, fruit and vegetables predominate, especially corn. Corn bread is a traditional fare, as are beans and baked squash.
