We have
come to very important point in the cycle of the seasons. Samhain
is the doorway to the sanctum sanctorum. Beyond this doorway lies the
deep cavern of the Earth Mother's womb, the creative abyss, from which
grows all that is intuitive and contemplative and natural on this earth.
For the
ancient Celtic peoples, it was the beginning of the new year, and a
huge ritual bonfire was used to burn away the images of the old year,
freeing the people from the fears and worries of the past.
On this
day, the world of our physical reality and the world of spirit reality
come together and communicate. This has given rise to Halloween, and
the masquerading as ghosts and goblins. In ancient days, the costumes
were actually the horns and skins of game animals, which were worn to
show respect for the life that had given itself so that the tribe might
survive.
Samhain
marks the end of a cycle. The seed now begins its time of gestation
in the rich dark earth.
Samhain
is generally observed around November 1, close
to
midway between
the Autumn Equinox and the Winter Solstice.
Astronomically
the true cross-quarter day
of Samhain now falls on November 7.
Read
more about
Samhain
View
the Earth's orbit around the Sun and this day's position on the
Earth Clock at Archaeoastronomy.com,
a fascinating site that takes you into the realm of our Earth's planetary rhythms.
Enjoy!
Artwork:
"In Autumn's Womb"
oil on canvas, 18 x 24
©1999 Mara Friedman New
Moon Vision