The Pagan Festival of Samhain - Past and Present
How Halloween Has its Origins in Paganism and How it Has Changed
Jan 17, 2009
Pronounced "sow-in", Samhain was originally a festival set within the cycle of agriculture for people to give their thanks for the harvest.
Derived from the Celtic word for first frost and meaning summer's end, the festival's roots are very different from our modern understanding of Halloween.
Samhain as the New Year
Samhain marked both the death of the old year and the beginning of the new. Late October/early November was the time when the harvest had been taken in and cattle that would not survive the coming winter were slaughtered and cured. This would feed the farmer and his family over the dark months ahead.
Samhain was also the time of year when our ancestors believed that the "veil" between our world and the world of the Otherword was at its thinnest. It was at Samhain that the spirits of the deceased could mingle with those of the living. This, more than any other element can be seen as the root of today's Halloween.
Samhain after the Coming of the Christians
Like many ancient Pagan festivals, Samhain was adopted in a changed version by Christians, becoming All Saints' Day, a day on which the souls of those who had been canonised over the past year were remembered and celebrated. This meant it became known as All Hallows Eve which gradually morphed into Halloween.
The date itself has changed throughout the years, ranging from the October 31st to November 5th.
Samhain Ceremonies
In Paganism, it is believed that the Gods are closest to the earth at this time of year. In the past, this resulted in animal sacrifices via a large fire - or bonfire.
The word "bonfire" is thought to come from the "bone fires" when animals which would not survive the winter were burnt in a ceremony for the Gods.
This practice developed over the following centuries well in to the early twentieth century, although in Britain it was combined with Guy Fawke's night on 5th November.
Samhain today
The pagan relationship with Samhain has changed over the centuries. Modern day pagans now use the festival as a time to reflect on the previous year and to use it as a spur to finish off any projects they may still have on the go.
This ranges from life changing decisions to decorating the spare bedroom.
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