The Winter Quarter of Samhain

Samhain (pronounced Sow’en) begins 1st November to 31st January.

The Celtic year is often thought of as the life-progress of the soul. Starting with Winter in a time of darkness and cold it proceeds through the seasons of life to abundant maturity. Each season or quarter comes with its own special gifts and themes. Giving us the opportunity for spiritual insights, reflection and growth.

Many consider October 31st to be Samhain but in the Celtic tradition Samhain is a quarter unto itself and begins the day after lasting right through until January 31st.

This quarter correspondes to the human life cycle of old age. A time of wisdom, soul freedom and clarity. Along with Winter it brings the gifts of renewal and reflection. A time of year when the weather can often be at its bleakest. It gives the opportunity for the soul to rest and be led into the depths of introspection.

With the death of the old year, traditionally it’s a time of remembrance and closely associated with the ancestors. For this reason many pagans honour the ancestors specifically although not exclusivly at this time of year.

As you travel the lands of Winter, some of the themes and gifts are:

Restoration, renewal, introspection, wisdom, remembrance, death, destiny, fate, cycles, fullness, emptiness, enduring traditions, overcoming difficulty, directions.

Song of Samhain

I am the hallow-tide of all souls passing,
I am the bright releaser of all pain, 
I am the quickener of the fallen seed-case.
I am the glance of snow, the strike of rain,
I am the hollow of the winter twilight, 
I am the hearth-fire and  the welcome bread,
I am the curtained awning of t he pillow,
I am unending wisdoms golden thread. 

Caitlin Matthews