Guest Author - Melicia CrowSpirit
Samhain or All Hallows Eve marks the end of the year and the beginning of the next. Samhain is also what is called a cross quarter and is one of the eight Sabbats
It is the time of the dead because on October 31st, the veils between the worlds of the living and the of the dead are the thinnest. People talk to the dead to answer questions that they may have about the other side. It is a good time for you to let go of the weaknesses or bad habits that you might have picked up along the year.
They say that they crave the Jack-o-lanterns to ward off evil spirits and to stop them from entering your home. That is why they take their place on your front door steps. The trick-or-treaters in costumes have said to be dressed up so the spirits did not know who they were when they walked the earth.
There are a number of ways that you can celebrate Samhain. This is a good time to buy a new house broom. You can buy the beautiful mums and place around your home. You can place banners and wind socks around your home with pictures of witches and cats and brooms on them or just cut out little decorations of witches, brooms and cats. Some even make wreaths with pentagrams in them to place in their homes. I have heard of some people choosing Samhain to do some painting inside their homes. It is up to you what you do as far as what helps you get your mind in the mood for Samhain.
Symbolism of Samhain:
Third Harvest, the Dark Mysteries, and Rebirth through Death
Symbols of Samhain:
Gourds, Apples, Black Cats, Jack-O-Lanterns, Witches and Besoms
Herbs of Samhain:
Mugwort, Allspice, Rosemary, Catnip, Oak leaves, Sage and Straw
Foods of Samhain:
Turnips, Apples, Gourds, Nuts, Squash, Pomegranates, Apple Ciders, Beef, Pork, and Poultry
Incense of Samhain:
Mint and Nutmeg
Colors of Samhain:
Black, Orange, Red and Brown
Stones of Samhain:
All Black Stones, preferably jet or obsidian
This is the history of Samhain. I hope that this will help you on your way while you are looking for the history of Samhain. There are a few other articles that go along with this and it is the cost affective menu and a ritual.
