Michaelmas is a Christian feast day marking the autumnal equinox, in honor of Saint Michael the archangel. But the entire autumn season in England is often referred to as Michaelmas. The Feast of Michaelmas held in medieval times included fairs and feasting. Roast goose, prepared elaborately and decorated with feathers to look as if it was still alive after being cooked, was the traditional dish, and the saying goes, "Eat a goose at Michaelmas, and you will not want for money all year." The ...
In Buddhist thought, the entire week of the equinox is a bridge, a time when the dead travel between their far shore and our world, to be remembered on the equinox. In our own lives we can use this time to remember whom and what we've loved, and what we miss. Lay out five cards (or runes or oracle cards) in a row, focusing on the question "What should I remember from those who've gone before?" Position 1 - Reminds you of thoughts and ideas, things important to loved ones who've gone ...
Ostara is the Pagan sabbat that celebrates the spring equinox. It was named for the Teutonic goddess Eostra, which eventually led to the Christian holiday of Easter. The main themes of Ostara are rebirth and fertility. Symbols for Ostara include rabbits, flowers, and eggs. Eggs, a symbol of fertility, are sacred to both Pagans and Christians. They've been decorated at springtime since the days of ancient Egypt and Persia. In ancient Egypt and today in the Eastern Orthodox Church, eggs are ...
Today is Mabon, the second of three Pagan harvest festivals and one of two days in the year when the light and the dark are in balance. Also known as the Autumnal Equinox, Mabon is also the perfect time to do magic for balance. And which of us couldn't use more balance in our lives? For this simple spell, you will need: - a black candle - a white candle - a pile of black and white beads, rocks, or beans Jumble all the beads together, then sort them into two separate bowls, making sure you ...