Summer ends and Fall is to start, the dark increases as light departs. On this day the Sun and Moon share equal time from night to noon. Second-harvest yields are stored, and the seeds we’ve sown reap rewards. Circle round the Mabon right as day gives way to the night. Prepare for Winter’s long cold breath as Mother Earth slips into death. She waits for spring to be reborn when life once more the world adorns. Animals retreat to slumber, the leaves turn gold, and their days are numbered. Toward the south, the robins flock, on this Autumn Equinox. And so, it starts the Earth’s great rest, retreating into Mother’s breast. Yet warm and filled our souls will stay, cold and hunger held at bay. So, cover your heads and rekindle the hearth as we now await the Sun’s rebirth!
The great wheel turns and we begin another beautiful season. Mabon, the Autumn Equinox is tomorrow, Saturday September 23rd. Summer draws to an end and autumn begins in the Northern Hemisphere.
The autumnal equinox is one of only two dates in the year when day and night are equal length. It’s an energetic point of perfect balance, and as we enter into the darker seasons, we pause to prepare and to express gratitude for what we have. As the wheel turns and the seasons change it reminds us that we are also always changing.
In this blog. I want to share some of the history, traditions, symbols, and ways to celebrate the Magick of Mabon.
For those who may be newer to Paganism, I’ll start with the difference between magic and Magick. In Paganism, “Magick” refers to the ritualization of one’s spiritual intentions. The alternate spelling separates the spiritual practice from the fictional magic of fantasy novels and films. Magick is not about cultivating supernatural powers, but rather about aligning oneself with natural forces to manifest an intention. In Paganism, ritual techniques that change a person’s consciousness so that he or she may better perceive and participate in divine reality are regarded as Magick.
In every season of the great wheel there is Magick but Autumn is a powerful time of deep spiritual communication. Mabon, or the Autumn equinox, is a significant step into this season of transformation.
What is the Autumn Equinox?
The Autumal Equinox is when the Sun travels south over the celestial equator, this occurs between September 21 and September 23 in the Northern Hemisphere. As the Sun crosses the celestial equator heading northward on March 20 or March 21 the Southern Hemisphere experiences the equinox.
Why do we call it Mabon?
The name Mabon comes from the sun deity of the same name who was worshiped in the Celtic/Welsh religion. Mabon is also the name of the Celtic festival that celebrates the autum equinox and takes place when the summer heat gives way to the crisp air of autumn. This event is held every year as a part of the celebration which traces back to ancient times.
In Celtic/Welsh folklore, Mabon is the period when the God of Light was vanquished by the God of Darkness, which resulted in the lengthening of the night. Mabon is the son the Great Goddess of the Earth. After his birth, he was abducted for three days, which caused the light to go into hiding. This loss so grieved the Great Mother that the world became cold and dark. All the plants began to dry up and die and the animals took refuge in caves to shelter from the adverse weather. Mabon was found thanks to the wisdom and memory of the most ancient animals (the Blackbird, the Eagle, the Deer, the Owl and the Salmon).
The name Mabon was added to this day of celebration by Wiccan author Aidan Kelly in the 1970s. He researched many Greek, Hebrew, and Germanic myths looking for possible names they may have used to celebrate the Autumn Equinox. He eventually decided on the Welsh story of Mabon.
Many harvest and feast celebrations take place during the Autumn season, Many Pagans celebrate the Autumn Equinox, Druids celebrate Alban Elfed, Norse Pagans (Heathens) celebrate Winter Finding, Celtic Pagans celebrate the Feast of Avalon, Hellenic Pagans celebrate Boedromion, and Wiccans and many Witches celebrate Mabon.
For contemporary Druids, this is the celebration of Alban Elfed, which is a time of balance between the light and the dark. Many Asatru groups honor the fall equinox as Winter Nights, a festival sacred to Freyr.
The Witches’ Thanksgiving.
Since the Autumn Equinox represents the second harvest, it’s sometimes referred to as the Witches’ Thanksgiving. This is the time when fruits and vegetables are harvested, when autumn begins, and when Witches believe the Goddess moves from Mother to Crone. It’s a time to give thanks for all that has been provided to us.
Due to the obvious problematic history behind Thanksgiving, many modern Pagans choose to celebrate a day of gratitude and abundance with a feast on the Autumn Equinox instead.
For most Pegans this is a time of community and kinship. It’s can be a time to organize events or include a food drive as part of the festivities, to celebrate the bounty of the harvest and to share with the less fortunate.
Mabon is a time to give thanks for the things you have, and take time to reflect on the balance within your own life, honoring both the darkness and the light. It is a time of celebration, a time to express gratitude, complete projects, and honor the moment of balance.
You can celebrate this Sabbat by simultaneously appreciating your “harvests” Even if all you sought this year did not come to pass, so much did, and you need to take a moment to celebrate that, even the small harvests that you think aren’t significant. They’re still something that you carried from intention to manifestation with your passion, patience, and faith.
In terms of one’s life path, it is the season of reaping what one has sown; it is the time to look back at the goals and ambitions you set and reflect on how those hopes and aspirations have come to fruition. Recognize your efforts and reflect on the choices that led to results that may not have been in your best interest. Is there anything you might want to do differently the next time? It is not about what you did “wrong”, view it as an opportunity to learn more about yourself and the parts of your life that you seek to change. Like nature, you’re not perpetually in balance, nor are you supposed to be. At Mabon, you’re reminded that nature is only in balance twice a year, that you can observe your decisions without harsh judgment and in the quest for more profound and constantly evolving wisdom.
Always remember, the dark is another part of the light, not inherently wrong or evil. All life comes from the dark, the child from the womb, the plants from the soil, and spring from the winter. We all need to acknowledge and integrate the many levels of our being to be whole and live from that place of total acceptance and aliveness.
Ways to celebrate Mabon
Just like any other Sabbat, there is no right way or wrong way to celebrate. Belwo are some ideas;
- Making (drinking) wine 🙂
- Gathering dried herbs, plants, seeds and seed pods,
- Fall seed bombing,
- Walking in the woods,
- Scattering offerings in harvested fields,
- Offering libations (a drink poured out as an offering) to trees,
- Adorning burial sites with leaves, acorns, and pine cones to honor those who have passed over,
- A feast of gratitude,
- Bonfires,
- Redecorating your Alter for the season
- Begin a path of Shadow work
- Rituals,
- Spell Jars,
- Mabon gratitude jar,
- Mabon Tarot reading,
- Ancestor Remembrances
Symbols of Mabon
Mabon symbols are similar to the symbols we identify with Thanksgiving.
Vines such as ivy, dried seeds, baskets symbolizing the gathering of crops, pine cones, acorns, pumkins, squashes, gourds, grapes, wine, mid-autumn vegetables, breads, nuts, and pomegranates.
The Cornucopia also known as the Horn of Plenty is a sign of the prosperity that the harvest brings.
The apple is a symbol of healing, rejuvenation, regeneration, and completeness in addition to representing life and immortality. It is said to restore youth, add years to your life, and make you more beautiful.
The pagan belief is that the apple harbors a “secret.” If you cut an apple lengthwise, you will find that it has the shape of a pentagram and contains five seeds. It is a beloved representation of the Pagan spirituality . As a result, the five points also symbolize the elements of earth, air, fire, and water, with spirit at the top of the list.
Colors of Mabon
Dark Green represents growth, luck, fertility, vitality, and creativity. Green is nature’s natural ally, and is always looking to innovate, expand, and develop your ideas to life. It also amplifies prosperity.
Red signifies the changing leaves and the fiery energy of autumn. It symbolizes passion, courage, and the vibrant life force within nature.
Orange represents the warm glow of autumn and the abundance of the harvest season. It signifies enthusiasm, creativity, and the changing colors of falling leaves.yellow,
Yellow represents the golden hues of autumn, reflecting the sunlight that dances through the falling leaves. It symbolizes joy, optimism, and the abundant harvest.
Brown represents the earth and the grounding energy of Mabon. It signifies stability, security, and the fertile soil that nurtures the harvest.
Gold is often seen as a symbol of prosperity and abundance and used in rituals and practices to attract abundance, power, enlightenment.
Deep purple represents the mystery and magic of the season. It symbolizes transformation, spirituality, and the introspective nature of autumn.
White can be used as a good “default candle” if you’re short on resources. However, in color magick, it promotes serenity and peace and enhances personal strength and insight. White makes you feel clear-headed and resolute about your goal.
Crystals of Mabon
Citrine is often associated with abundance, prosperity, and the harvest. It is believed to attract success, wealth, and positive energy. Citrine can be used to enhance feelings of gratitude and bring a sunny, warm energy to your Mabon practices.
Carnelian is a crystal of vitality, motivation, and creativity. It is associated with the element of fire and can help ignite passion and enthusiasm during the autumn season. Carnelian can be used to tap into your inner strength and manifest your desires.
Amber carries the energy of warmth and protection. It is associated with the Sun and the element of fire. Amber is believed to bring joy, balance, and clarity. It can also be used to connect with ancestral wisdom and strengthen spiritual practices.
Smoky Quartz is a grounding and protective crystal. It can help release negative energies and promote a sense of stability and balance. Smoky Quartz can be used during Mabon to facilitate grounding, introspection, and the release of anything no longer serving you.
Moss Agate is associated with growth, fertility, and abundance. It can help connect you to the Earth’s energy and bring a sense of balance and stability. Moss Agate is often used to enhance gardening, nature-based practices, and connection with the cycles of the seasons.
Lapis Lazuli is a crystal of wisdom, truth, and spiritual growth. It can be used to enhance intuition, expand consciousness, and connect with higher realms of knowledge. Lapis Lazuli can support deep reflection and introspection during Mabon ritual.
Hematite is a very grounding and protective stone that helps to harmonize the mind, body, and spirit. It boosts self-esteem, willpower, and reliability, and will aid in removing self-imposed limitations.
Aventurine can help you to see all of the alternative possibilities in a situation and is particularly useful if you have trouble accepting these alternatives when presented by other people. It can help to calm anger and irritation and promote a feeling of general well-being.
Clear Quartz is possibly one of the single most powerful crystals. It a power stone that harmonizes and balances. Clear Quartz can also be used as a clensing stone and to amplify the power of other stones.
These are just some of the crystals associated with Mabon. Trust your intuition when choosing crystals and select ones that resonate with you personally. Place them on your altar, carry them with you, or use them during meditation to enhance your Mabon experiences and intentions.
Herbs and Oils of Mabon
Cinnamon is a warming spice associated with abundance, prosperity, and the comforting scents of autumn. It can be used in cooking, as a tea ingredient, or in potpourri to invoke the cozy and welcoming atmosphere of Mabon.
Frankincense is a resin often used in rituals for purification, spiritual connection, and enhancing the energy of sacred spaces. It can be burned as an incense or used in oil blends for rituals and meditation.
Myrrh is used to heal emotional wounds and brings spiritual balance into life after spiritual upheaval.
Rosemary is associated with remembrance, clarity, and protection. It can be used to honor ancestors and connect with their wisdom. Rosemary can also be used to enhance mental clarity and focus during Mabon rituals and meditations.
Sage is a powerful cleansing herb that can be used to purify the space and release negative energies. It is often burned as a sacred smoke during rituals or as a natural incense.
Cedarwood is used for protection, wisdom and strength. For centuries, cedar trees have been revered for their spiritual significance. Cedar is known as a powerful medicine in many cultures, celebrated for spiritual protection and its ability to heal and purify.
Clove is a dried, hard flower that has powerful, fiery energy, meaning that using it in spells will almost always aid in manifestation.
Jasmine aids in the process of emotional healing, facilitating the release of trauma and restoring balance. Its calming scent cultivates optimism and instills confidence, offering significant support for individuals recovering from emotional turmoil.
Juniper has ancient magical properties that include love/attraction, protection, good luck, increased visions, wisdom, prosperity, & clarity. Juniper has been used in blessing & purification rituals. It also symbolises luck and protection.
Chamomile is a calming and soothing herb that can be used to promote relaxation, balance, and harmony. It can be used in teas or herbal baths to enhance a sense of well-being during the autumn season.
Lavender is a versatile herb known for its calming and healing properties. It can be used to promote relaxation, balance emotions, and invite peaceful energies. Lavender can be used in sachets, oils, or herbal baths to enhance Mabon rituals and practices.
Flowers of Mabon
Sunflowers are vibrant and majestic flowers that symbolize joy, abundance, and the energy of the sun. They are often associated with harvest celebrations and the bountiful gifts of nature.
Marigolds, also known as Calendula, are bright and cheerful flowers associated with warmth, prosperity, protection, abundance, gratitude, and the harvest. It can be used in rituals to honour the bountiful harvest and to attract prosperity and good fortune.
Chrysanthemums are beautiful flowers that come in a variety of colours. They symbolize joy, longevity, and balance. In many cultures, they are associated with autumn festivals and used as offerings for ancestors.
Dahlias are stunning flowers that come in a wide range of colours, shapes, and sizes. They represent inner strength, creativity, and elegance. Dahlias are often used in Mabon floral arrangements to bring beauty and energy to the celebrations.
Goldenrod is a vibrant yellow flower associated with abundance, wealth, and good fortune. It is often used in Mabon rituals and decorations to attract prosperity and amplify positive energies. In European folklore it is Used to ward off negative energies, evil spirits, and provide spiritual protection
Asters are delicate flowers that bloom in various shades of purple, pink, and white. They are associated with love, intuition, and wisdom. Asters can be used in Mabon rituals to enhance spiritual connections and tap into inner guidance. Aster flowers were regarded as sacred by the early Greeks, who dedicated them to Hecate, the goddess of magic and witchcraft.
Black-Eyed Susans are cheerful wildflowers with yellow petals and a dark centre. They symbolize encouragement, protection, and motivation. Black-Eyed Susans can be incorporated into Mabon celebrations to bring a sense of optimism and empowerment.
Helenium flowers come in warm and vibrant colours, often shades of red, orange, and yellow. They are associated with strength, grounding, and transformation. Helenium can be used to evoke the energies of Mabon and connect with the changing season.
My Autumn Altar
Decorating my Altar to align with the Sabbats is a part of my tradition that helps to keep me balanced in my practice. Below I have shared a gallery of my Autumn Altar if folks would like to use it for ideas, however; just as there is no right or wrong way to practice there is no right or wrong way to set up your Altar. In future blogs we will discuss different traditions and types of Altars.
Mabon Blessing
The light and the dark are the same and length, They have equal time and equal strength. But soon the darkness will prevail, The light and warmth will begin to pale. Do not be afraid, do not dismay, For this is the rhythm of nature's way. Rejoice in the abundance that this year bears, Breath deep in the coolness and change in the air. Have gratitude and blessing, keep toll, May this shift of nature and enlighten your soul.
Cambria Black Hat Society 