There is a place, a place I know
Where all the kindred spirits go,
Where you can hear the faerie song,
Where hopes and dreams still linger on.
The days are brightly filled with cheer
and merrily songs do fill the ear.
And as the old year passes by,
And time, it so does seem to fly,
Then I will know, the time has come
to honor those who’ve gone along.
Welcome to the longest night of the year, a magickal interval when the mundane laws of time and space are temporarily suspended, and the veil between the living and spirit worlds are their thinnest. It's a day made for divination, for communicating with those who have already passed. And of course, it's a day for honoring those already in the next life.
Samhain (pronounced sow-en) comes from Old Irish roughly meaning "summer's end," and marks the longest night of the year. During this time, Pagans all over the world reflect on death and rebirth, as this day means a return of light after a long, dark night. Many celebrate by creating altars meant to honor the dead, lighting candles and walking a labyrinth, reading the Tarot and other divination tools, and preparing a Dumb Supper.
This supper, also known as the Feast of the Dead (Gaelic: "Fleadh nan Mairbh"), was celebrated in Celtic countries by leaving food offerings on altars and doorsteps for the dead roaming the night. You might recognize a part of this in today's trick or treating! In some areas, this practice continues, both on altars and during Samhain night's dinner, where place offerings and extra chairs were made for any spirits that might come by for a visit.
Whether preparing your own Dumb Supper or simply having guests (human and spirit forms alike), you know we've got you covered with recipes and decorating ideas. Be sure to check out our fresh-from-the-pumpkin bread, braaaaains!, and our cocktails, including witches' brew and pumpkin pie martinis -- my personal favorite!
The ancient Celts also hollowed out turnips and carved to represent protective spirits, then lit from the inside to send ghosts on their ways. Again, you might recognize this custom in today's Jack o' Lanterns.
Of course, there are far too many Samhain customs to list in just one blog post. For more information, I reference you to my favorite WitchVox article: "You call it Hallowe'en... We call it Samhain." It is arguably one of the best compilations of current traditions compared to old customs I've read in a while.
No matter how you celebrate this Samhain, be sure to take a moment and reflect on those who have passed in your life. If you desire, light a candle to commemorate each one, and pay your respects to your ancestors, family members, friends, pets, and other deceased loved ones. Who knows, perhaps one may even pay you a visit... ;)
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