|
|
| The Sabbats
Because followers of earth-based paths honor nature, they have eight festivals, or Sabbats, that mark the year as it turns through its seasons. The following is basic information about these Sabbats. |
|
 |
October 31 -- November Eve -- Samhain
This is one of the most important and revered Sabbats in the year. Samhain marks the time when the souls of all who have died throughout the year pass over to the other side and all the souls of those who will be born in the next year come into our world. Its celebrations are oriented toward mourning and letting go of those who have died. Mythologically, this is the time when the Goddess mourns the slain God and She contemplates the coming birth of her child. The Goddess is honored in her Crone aspect. Samhain celebrates the death of the God. |
 |
December 21 -- Winter Solstice -- Yule
Mythologically, this is the time when the Goddess gives birth to the Sun God. Mother Bertha is the Crone who gives presents and steals bad children. Yule celebrates the birth/rebirth of the Sun God. |
 |
January 31 -- February Eve -- Imbolc
Imbolc is the time when winter is still on the land, but spring is coming. It is the time when it is very apparent that the days are lengthening and the time when dark, long nights end. Imbolc is usually the coldest time of the year, and is celebrated with a bonfire and blessing of tools. Mythologically, the Goddess has recovered from the birth of Her child. This is the time when the Goddess is renewed as Maiden after the birth of Her child. It is also the time of dedication and initiation. |
 |
March 21 -- Vernal Equinox -- Ostara
It is the day the God of light is defeated by His twin God of darkness (night conquers day). It is the time of the grain harvest (in some areas) and period of the highest energy within the animal kingdom. It is the time of the main harvest and the feast of grains, fruits, and vegetables. Many offer their first and best fruits to the Gods as thanks for fertility. It is celebrated with painting eggs. Mythologically, it celebrates the change from the Goddess half/dark half of year to God half/light half of year. The Sun God is growing fast and is vital and healthy. |
 |
April 30 -- May Eve -- Beltaine
Beltane is the second biggest holiday celebrated. It is a fertility festival and time of spring and the planting of crops. There is a chosen "May Queen" and "Green Man" and become the living representatives of the Goddess and God. It celebrates union, mating, and marriage of the Goddess and God. Beltane is frequently celebrated with a feast of spring plants, asparagus, new greens, and other early plants. Mythologically, the Goddess and God achieve puberty and become sexually aware. Beltane celebrates their wedding. The Goddess is changed from Maiden to Mother. |
 |
June 21 -- Summer Solstice -- Litha or Midsummer
Litha, also called Midsummer, is the longest day of the year. It is the time when crops and gardens are planted. Sometimes celebrated with a feast of strawberries and other fruits and greens. |
 |
July 31 -- August Eve -- Lughnasadh or Lammas
Mythologically, it is the time of the Death of the God. |
 |
September 21 -- Autumnal Equinox -- Mabon
This day sees light and dark in balance again, before the descent to the dark times. A harvest festival is held, thanking the Goddess for giving us enough sustenance to feed us through the winter. |