As the wheel of the year turns, we find ourselves approaching the magical time of Mabon, the fall equinox. Mabon is observed when the sun crosses the equator, occurring this year on September 23. It is a time of balance, reflection, and celebration, marking the second harvest in the Wheel of the Year, following the bountiful first harvests of August.
At the heart of Mabon's lore lies the enchanting tale of Mabon, the son of Modron, a great mother goddess of Celtic myth and folklore. Modron, whose name means "mother," is a symbol of the nurturing and life-giving aspects of the divine feminine. She represents the Earth itself, the womb from which all life emerges.
Mabon | The Divine Child
Mabon, also known as Mabon ap Modron, is a figure deeply rooted in Welsh and Celtic mythology. His name, "Mabon," means "son" in Welsh, emphasizing his role as the divine child. Mabon is associated with the autumnal equinox, a time of balance when day and night are equal length. He symbolizes the youthful energy and potential for growth that is inherent in this season.
Symbolism of Mabon
Mabon's story is rich in symbolism. He is often seen as a representation of the life force within all living beings, a reminder that even in the midst of autumn's decline, there is the promise of rebirth and renewal. As the eternal child, Mabon carries the wisdom of youth and the potential for new beginnings.
Imprisonment & Rescue
One of the most well-known aspects of Mabon's myth is his imprisonment. In ancient tales, Mabon is stolen from his mother, Modron, and is imprisoned in a fortress called Caer Loyw. Arthur and his knights embark on a quest to rescue Mabon, symbolizing the hero's journey and the eternal struggle between light and dark.
The Divine Hunt
Mabon is often associated with the divine hunt, a common motif in Celtic mythology. He is considered the protector of animals and the guardian of the wild. His presence in the autumn season signifies the time when hunting and gathering were essential for survival.
Modron | The Eternal Feminine
Modron, whose name means "mother" in Welsh, is a significant figure in Celtic mythology and is often depicted as a great mother goddess. She represents the Earth itself, the source of all life and abundance. Modron is both a nurturing and protective force, embodying the cycles of birth, life, and death.
The Divine Mother
Modron's role as the divine mother is central to her mythology. She is the source of all creation and the embodiment of the Earth's fertility. In her, we find the archetype of the nurturing, life-giving mother who sustains all living things.
Cyclic Wisdom
Modron's association with the cycles of nature highlights her role as a guardian of the seasons. She oversees the growth of crops, the birth of animals, and the changing of the seasons. Modron's wisdom is reflected in the cycles of life and the eternal dance of creation and destruction.
Goddess of Abundance
Modron is often invoked in rituals and celebrations related to fertility and abundance. She is the patroness of harvest festivals, where her blessings are sought to ensure a bountiful yield. Her presence is a reminder of the Earth's generosity and the interconnectedness of all living things.
Mabon Candle Lighting Ritual
To honor this sacred time and to recognize the blessings and bounty we've received, I invite you to perform a Mabon candle lighting ritual. You will need a Mabon candle, which has been lovingly imbued with essential oils of cedar, frankincense, and lemongrass, as well as a few additional elements to enhance the ritual's depth and meaning.
Prepare Your Sacred Space | Find a quiet, sacred space where you can be undisturbed. You may wish to decorate your space with autumn leaves, acorns, or other symbols of the season.
Candle Preparation | Before lighting your candle, take a moment to consecrate it. Hold it in your hands and visualize it becoming a vessel of light and intention. Imagine the energies of cedar, frankincense, and orange infusing the candle, filling it with their transformative and purifying qualities.
Center Yourself | Light your Mabon candle, and as the flame flickers to life, close your eyes and take a few deep breaths, centering yourself in the present moment. Feel the energies of the season surrounding you.
Invocation | Hold your hands over the candle, feeling its warmth and energy. As you do, say this incantation:
"On this sacred day of Mabon's embrace,
I kindle this light in a sacred space.
With gratitude in my heart, I take this time,
To honor the blessings of life, both yours and mine."
Reflect and Express Gratitude | Reflect on the blessings and abundance in your life. Think about the people, experiences, and moments that have enriched your journey this year. Feel the warmth of gratitude filling your heart.
Blessings and Intentions | When you are ready, ready aloud or in your heart the specific blessings you wish to acknowledge and thank the universe for. You may also set intentions for the coming season, focusing on growth, balance, and transformation.
Visualization and Meditation | Allow your candle to burn for a few moments, and visualize the light spreading positivity and abundance throughout your life. Imagine yourself in perfect harmony with the changing seasons, embracing the wisdom of Mabon and Modron during this sacred time.
Extinguish the Candle | When you feel complete, extinguish your candle and offer a final word of thanks. As you blow out the flame, visualize your intentions and gratitude being released into the universe, like a gentle breeze carrying your message.
May this Mabon candle lighting ritual, which pays homage to the sacred energies of this season, serve as a gateway to a deeper understanding of the profound symbolism embodied by Mabon and Modron. As the flame of your candle flickers with the essence of frankincense, orange, and cedar, may it illuminate not only the physical space but also the inner realms of your being. Through this ancient practice, may you find a sense of peace, a wellspring of gratitude, and a renewed spirit that resonates with the timeless wisdom of Mabon and the nurturing embrace of Modron. As we stand on the threshold of fall and winter, may their eternal presence guide us through the changing seasons of our lives.