Post by Amairgen on Oct 15, 2013 7:23:44 GMT -8
Halloween is associated with the Celtic celebration of Samhain from sunset on 31 October to sunset on 1 November. It marked the end of harvest and the begining of the dark time of the year. Cattle were brought down from the summer pastures and some were slaughtered for the winter. Special bonfires were lit and there were rituals involved that were deemed to have protective and cleansing powers.
During Samhain it was believed the veil between the material world and the afterlife thinned. At this time spirits or fairies (the Sí) could more easily enter and become active in the world. Feasts were had, at which the souls of dead kin were beckoned to attend and a place set at the table for them. However, the spirits or fairies could also cause harm, and needed to be propitiated or warded-off. In order to prevent recognition by a soul, people would don masks or costumes to disguise their identities.
NOTE: Samhain was celebrated from sunset on 31 October to sunset on 1 November, which is nearly halfway between the autumn equinox and the winter solstice. Here on UOTraditions we will observe Samhain (aka All Hallows Eve - Halloween) from October 26th to November 3rd. Protect yourselves and get spooky.
During Samhain it was believed the veil between the material world and the afterlife thinned. At this time spirits or fairies (the Sí) could more easily enter and become active in the world. Feasts were had, at which the souls of dead kin were beckoned to attend and a place set at the table for them. However, the spirits or fairies could also cause harm, and needed to be propitiated or warded-off. In order to prevent recognition by a soul, people would don masks or costumes to disguise their identities.
NOTE: Samhain was celebrated from sunset on 31 October to sunset on 1 November, which is nearly halfway between the autumn equinox and the winter solstice. Here on UOTraditions we will observe Samhain (aka All Hallows Eve - Halloween) from October 26th to November 3rd. Protect yourselves and get spooky.
