The Spokes of the Wheel


The Wheel of the Year holds several purposes. Both theological and practical.

The story of the Wheel varies depending on the Tradition. The Wheel gives the accounts of the mythological events that repeat throughout the year as well as a vague "history" of the Gods and Goddesses involved within the pantheon. For those new to paganism, by "Tradition", denomination is meant, (i.e.: Wiccan, Celtic, Druid, Native American, etc.). On the more practical side, the Wheel trains us to be able to deal with death and the inevitability of re-birth that follows. Paganism teaches that death, is a natural function of the universe, a part of life; a dramatic change that is the beginning of a new experience, and something to be celebrated at the proper time not feared (this school of thought does not condone Suicide!) Through the ideas of Heaven and Hell, Christianity teaches a deep fear of death, and this, in turn, encourages our society's horror of death. We are always trying to find new and improved ways to beat death, but we will never succeed. It is sad that the modern culture portrays death as such a terrifying experience; we would certainly have less emotional pain and suffering in the world if death could be seen as what it is: a transformation, nothing more.

In this section you will find a interpretation of the upcoming quarter of the Wheel of the Year. Included will be mythological lore and some traditional practices for the celebration, along with some ideas for activities, recipes and decorations.


Mabon
Vernal/Fall Equinox