The word "Mabon" is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /ˈmæbən/. The first syllable "mab" is pronounced with a short "a" sound followed by a "b" sound. The second syllable "on" is pronounced with a short "o" sound and a silent "n". "Mabon" is a term used in the modern pagan religion of Wicca and refers to an autumnal equinox festival celebrated around September 22nd. It is named after the Welsh mythological figure Mabon ap Modron.
Mabon is a noun that refers to a modern pagan festival, which forms a part of the pagan Wheel of the Year celebrations. With its origins rooted in Celtic and Wiccan traditions, Mabon is observed during the autumn equinox, usually around September 21st or 22nd in the northern hemisphere and March 21st or 22nd in the southern hemisphere. Derived from Welsh mythology, the name "Mabon" is named after the character Mabon ap Modron, a divine youth known for his heroic feats.
During Mabon, practitioners of pagan or earth-based spirituality celebrate the second harvest, marking the midpoint between the summer solstice and the winter solstice. This festival is characterized by giving thanks for the abundance of the harvest and honoring the balance between light and darkness as the days become shorter. It is a time to reflect on the cycles of nature and the changing seasons, while also acknowledging the need for balance and harmony in one's own life.
Mabon rituals often involve the gathering of fruits, grains, and vegetables, which are used to create altars or wreaths as offerings to deities or spirits. Other common practices include lighting candles, performing outdoor rituals, meditating on the significance of the equinox, and sharing communal feasts. Mabon provides an opportunity for pagans and Wiccans to connect with nature, express gratitude for the earth's abundance, and attune themselves to the changing energies of the season.
The word "Mabon" originated from Welsh mythology and is derived from the Welsh term "Mabon ap Modron". In Welsh, "Mabon" means "son", and "ap" signifies "son of", while "Modron" refers to a Celtic goddess associated with motherhood and the harvest. In the context of the modern pagan holiday, Mabon is the name given to the autumnal equinox celebration, which is derived from ancient Celtic traditions.