COLUMN: Samhain – A Time for Honouring Our Ancestors
As we approach Halloween, Helen Lilley of The Sacred Tree in Derry’s Craft Village explores the significance of Samhain and how it marks the transition between life and death.
Samhain, also known as Halloween, is an ancient Celtic festival marking the end of the harvest season. As we have almost turned full circle in the wheel of the year, it also marks the beginning of the dark part of the year – winter.
Originating in Ireland over 2,000 years ago, it was considered the Celtic New Year.
Samhain holds a deep spiritual significance, as it was believed that during this time, the veil between the living and the spirit world was at its thinnest, allowing the souls of the dead to visit. To honor and protect themselves from spirits, the Celts lit bonfires and wore costumes to ward off harmful entities similar to why we dress up for Halloween.
Samhain also symbolized the transition between life and death, reflecting the cycle of the seasons and the importance of honoring those that came before us. Over time, some Samhain traditions evolved and were integrated into today’s modern Halloween celebrations.
The symbols of Halloween include pumpkins, often carved as jack-o’-lanterns but as a child I remember hollowing out a turnip which took me nearly a week. These symbolize protection from spirits. Black cats, witches, and bats are associated with the supernatural also. Skeletons and ghosts represent the dead, while spiders, cobwebs, and full moons evoke mystery. These symbols reflect Halloween’s focus on death and the unknown.
To celebrate this festival at home you can honour the tradition by lighting candles or bonfires, symbolizing protection and the thinning of the veil. You could also create an altar to remember deceased loved ones by placing their photos or favorite items, offering food and drink. You can also create rituals of reflection, meditating on personal growth and the transition between seasons. Traditional Samhain feasts, featuring seasonal foods like apples, pumpkins, and nuts, can be enjoyed. Additionally, nature walks or harvest activities can also help you connect you to the earth’s cycle and we begin to take that deep breathe as we enter the winter months and when the sun is at it’s lowest point on our horizon.
We here at The Sacred Tree are holding two Samhain Gatherings on the 25th and 26th of October, featuring music food and prizes! If you fancy anymore info, send us a message.
Blessings Helen xx
The Sacred Tree, The Craft Village, Derry
