Autumnal equinox is a magical time of year when the sun crosses the celestial equator, marking the transition from summer to fall. It is a time of balance, when day and night are equal in length, and nature prepares for the dormant winter months ahead. During this magical time, the energy in the air feels different. There is a sense of transformation and a call to turn inward. The earth begins to shed its leaves and the colors of the foliage change to vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. It is a time of letting go, of releasing what no longer serves us, and making space for new beginnings.
The astrological climate during the autumnal equinox is also revealing. Around this time, the sun enters Libra. "Libra is the sign of beauty, harmony, and justice, so expect those to be big themes going into the fall," says astrologer Amelia Quint of the Midheaven. "How we relate to one another in all kinds of relationships—from the individual to the community level—will be in the cosmic spotlight."
Celebrate in ritual outside, around a bonfire, or among the forest, giving libation and thanks to whatever it is that you worship and blessing the food in its name before partaking. I recommend spending time reflecting on the first half of this astrological year March 20, 2023, the spring equinox and start of Aries season , says Pamplona, and journaling is a great way to do just that.
It is a time of letting go, of releasing what no longer serves us, and making space for new beginnings. Many cultures and spiritual traditions celebrate the autumnal equinox as a time of harvest and gratitude. It is a time to reflect on the abundance in our lives and give thanks for the blessings we have received.
Joseph Smith and the Magical Autumnal Equinox
Anyone who regularly interacts with Mormons over Mormon history knows that “most members of [The LDS Church] in the twenty-first century know nothing of Joseph’s magical practices” (>>). I have been studying Mormonism for about ten years, and the depth to which the early Joseph Smith was immersed in a worldview of invoking magic and controlling spirits continues to amaze me. One thing that I recently learned was the significance of the Autumnal equinox to Joseph Smith’s worldview.
D. Michael Quinn writes in Early Mormonism and the Magic World View, p.120-121:
Smith’s prayer “to commune with some kind of messenger” on 21 September 1823 occurred once the moon had reached its maximum fullness the previous day and just before the autumnal equinox. Th e 1665 edition of Scot’s works (upon which the “Jehovah, Jehovah, Jehovah” Smith parchment depended) specified, “And in the composition of any Circle for Magical feats, the fittest time is the brightest Moon-light” (Scot 1665b, 215). An occult book published in New York in 1800 also stated, “Dreams are most to be depended on by men at the full of the moon” (Beverly Gipsy 1800, 19). Because the full moon was the preferred time for treasure digging (Dorson 1946, 174; Granger 1977, 225; R. Walker 1984b, 443), it is probably no coincidence that, according to Martin Harris, Smith acted as treasure-seer earlier that night (J. A. Clark 1842, 225). In fact, his prayer “to commune with some kind of messenger” may have been in response to an unsuccessful group effort earlier that evening to locate a treasure in the hill. That Smith’s experience occurred at the autumnal equinox was also significant. Because the planetary hours of invocation began at sunrise which occurred at different times, Sibly’s Occult Sciences had specified that the equinox was the time when the planetary hours of invocation corresponded most closely with the common hours of the clock (1784, 174; also deVore 1947, 179). In the magic world view, the equinox was a time when the earth could be expected to experience the introduction of “broad cultural movements and religious ideas” (Brau 1980, 194, 107).
In this light, the visit of the angel Moroni took on unusual aspects. The angel had appeared on the night of the Autumnal equinox, between midnight and dawn–hours auspicious for a magical invocation. On the day of the equinox Joseph had subsequently made his four annual visits to the hill. When finally he retrieved the plates, it was the eve of the equinox, in the first hour after midnight. Accounts suggested he had been required to take with him that night a consort (his wife), to ride a black horse, and to dress in black–all lending a further magical tenor to the operation.
As a prelude to Halloween, I suggest that the LDS Church put on a pageant during the Autumnal equinox of the story of Joseph Smith’s angelic visitations and retrieval of the plates. Only, of course, if they are willing to include the magic.
Further Reading
- Chapter 5: The Treasure, from Inventing Mormonism: Tradition and the Historical Record, by H. Michael Marquardt and Wesley Walters
- Scrying for the Lord: Magic, Mysticism, and the Origins of the Book of Mormon, by Clay L. Chandler
- Events of faith seasoned with extra symbolism, by Jerry Johnston (a Mormon’s optimistic view of the connection)
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- Daniel Peterson affirms that Smith obtained the plates on September 22nd, the autumnal equinox
- Joseph Smith on Humility, Innocence and Truth
- Testimony Against Joseph Smith
“I recommend spending time reflecting on the first half of this astrological year (March 20, 2023, the spring equinox and start of Aries season),” says Pamplona, and journaling is a great way to do just that.
Rituals and ceremonies are performed to honor the changing seasons and connect with the earth's energy. Autumnal equinox magic is often associated with transformation and manifestation. It is believed that during this time, the veil between the physical and spiritual realms is thin, making it easier to connect with higher realms and receive messages from the divine. It is a time to set intentions and manifest our desires into reality. One way to tap into the autumnal equinox magic is through creating an altar or sacred space. This can be done by gathering items that represent the season such as fallen leaves, acorns, and pumpkins. Candles can be lit to represent the changing of the seasons and to invite warmth and light into our lives. Meditation and journaling are also powerful practices during this time. By taking time to go within, we can reflect on our goals and desires, and set clear intentions for the coming months. It is a time to release any fears or doubts that may be holding us back and trust in the abundance of the universe. Nature walks and outdoor activities are also encouraged during the autumnal equinox. Being in nature allows us to connect with the earth's energy and witness the beauty of the changing seasons. It is a time to slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures in life. In conclusion, autumnal equinox magic is a special time of year when we can tap into the energy of the changing seasons and connect with the earth's wisdom. It is a time of balance, transformation, and gratitude. By embracing the magic of the autumnal equinox, we can align ourselves with the cycles of nature and invite abundance and manifestation into our lives..
Reviews for "Exploring Native American Traditions of the Autumn Equinox"
1. Jane - 2 out of 5 stars - I was really disappointed with "Autumnal equlnox magic." The writing felt amateurish and the plot was predictable. I was hoping for a captivating story about magic during the autumn season, but it fell flat for me. The characters lacked depth and the dialogue felt forced. Overall, I found the book to be unengaging and I struggled to connect with the story.
2. Mark - 1 out of 5 stars - "Autumnal equlnox magic" was a complete waste of my time. The description had me excited for a magical fall adventure, but what I got was a dull and unimaginative story. The author failed to create a truly magical atmosphere and instead relied on clichés and overused tropes. The pacing was incredibly slow, and the plot lacked any real depth. I couldn't bring myself to care about the characters or their journey. I would not recommend this book to anyone looking for a satisfying read.
3. Sarah - 2 out of 5 stars - I had high hopes for "Autumnal equlnox magic," but unfortunately, it fell short of my expectations. The writing style was clunky and the plot felt contrived. The magical elements were poorly executed, and I found myself rolling my eyes at the predictability of it all. The characters were one-dimensional and lacked any real development. Overall, I was left feeling disappointed and underwhelmed by this book. There are much better options out there for fans of magical autumn tales.