Mabon: a rose by any other name…

Pop Wicca has a lot to answer for, but when we know better, we do better, right? 

Aiden Kelly picked the name ‘Mabon’ in the 1970’s and applied it to the Autumn Equinox because he thought it sounded cool. As a name for the equinox, it is a modern invention, not the name of an ancient festival. But should we get our knickers in a twist over it in 2025? 

Here’s why continuing to use it now we know it’s a furphy might be problematic: 

It’s historically inaccurate, but hey…

Other sabbat names like Lughnasadh and Beltane come from actual Celtic festivals—Mabon does not.

It’s arbitrary and made up

Aidan Kelly admitted he chose Mabon because it sounded good and filled a gap, not because of historical links. Cool story bro….

It potentially erases older and more culturally relevant names 

Some Wiccans and other pagans prefer terms like Alban Elfed (Light of the Water), or simply Autumn Equinox.

Using Mabon gives the impression of an ancient festival that never existed, overshadowing real harvest celebrations. I reckon this kicks a home goal if you’re trying to be more authentic in your Craft. Whatever ‘authentic’ means. But that’s another blog post ☺️

It’s confusing

Folks often assume Mabon is an ancient term, leading to misinformation.

Welsh folks might find its use frustrating, as Mabon ap Modron has no clear connection to equinox traditions.

It’s not a name connected with Autumn, harvest festivals, ancient anything to do with this time of year. (Kelly, mate, couldn’t you have chosen something a bit more relevant?)

So what? 

I’ve often thought this, so bloody what? But, if you as a witch, think words have power and what we do, and how we do it matters, then perhaps this is worth some further consideration. 

What’s in a name? Indeed – quite a lot.

Happy Autumn Equinox! 

*(Kelly, Aiden Inventing Witchcraft 2007)