Samhain: This Year More Than Ever

People of many religious traditions turn to deities in times of stress and need. While faith may not always shield a follower from tragedy, it can provide a way to cope with the trauma, a way to survive the trial.

The past two months have been a testament to this concept. Religious people in the United States and throughout the world have responded to the events of September 11th by turning to their faith. Differences and disagreements have been set aside in the face of something much larger, forging the diverse groups that comprise America into a single, strong whole. We have drawn hope and healing from the strengths of the individuals.

One strength that has been untapped by many Americans is the holiday of Samhain, celebrated by Celts and Pagans. The echoes of this ancient tradition can be seen in popular Halloween celebrations today. Some people have suggested that Halloween be cancelled this year due to the September 11th tragedy, that we have seen enough real-life suffering and death, and that Halloween celebrations would simply be "tacky" or "tasteless." But Samhain has something to offer beyond the tricks and treats of Halloween.

Gaelic for "summer's end," Samhain is perhaps the most important holiday in the Celtic world. As is suggested by the name, it is a seasonal festival, the time of the final harvest. The end of summer, and the end of the Celtic year, it is a time to reflect upon the past, to see how you have reaped what was sown. It is also a time for looking to the future, for firmly resolving plans for the new year.

Beyond the harvest, the second aspect of Samhain is the root of what eventually became Halloween: the festival of the dead. This is the time of year when our world and the Otherworld are closest to each other. As such, this is the time for Celts to remember and honor the dead, both their ancestors and those who have died recently. Fires are lit to fill the night with light, and stories of courage and honor are told.

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