The Silent Supper is traditionally held during Samhain. This time was believed to be when the veil between the physical world and the spirit world is at its thinnest.
Historical Background
The exact origins of the silent supper are hard to trace. However, we know Samhain was very much associated with the beginning of winter for our ancestors. Across the British Isles, beliefs surrounding the dead, spirits, and the oltherwords were very much part of the darker half of the year. We know from some documents that food was often left for wandering spirits and departed loved ones. In later traditions, a place at the table was set for the departed.
In Victorian times, silent suppers often included divination, particularly by young women hoping to discover who their future husband was going to be!
Holding your own Silent Supper.
You do not need to hold your Silent Supper on Samhain itself; do it at a time that suits you. You need to feel relaxed and not rushed.
Who are the ancestors?
Your ancestors can include:
Family, if that feels right for you. You don’t have to welcome anyone who was harmful.
Those who lived in the area where you are now living, or perhaps they are connected to areas that mean something to you.
The witches, healers, and seekers who walked a similar path to you.
Anyone who shaped you, whether by blood or by influence.
Creating the Atmosphere
When I hold a silent supper, I tend to use just candlelight; it creates a different kind of atmosphere, and I find connection easier. You could add
I tend to eat by candlelight only; I find it makes it more of an experience to eat in semi-darkness. Of course, you need to make sure your phone is silent and well away from you, and you are not going to be disturbed!
How you choose to start your silent supper is up to you. You may wish to give a reading, inviting your chosen ancestors to join. You may want to ring a bell or something to signal the start of your meal and later the end. I am looking forward to this year as I have recently brought some tiny antique bells which I most definitely will be using.
Throughout the meal, maintain the silence and allow everyone attending to reflect and commune with their ancestors. I can honestly say it also makes the food a lot more enjoyable eating in silence.
When everyone is finished eating, signal the end of the supper.
After the Meal
Take time after the meal to reflect on your experiences; if you are alone, you might want to write things down. If you have a few people with you, you may want to discuss your experiences.
After the meal is a good time for any Samhain rituals. I tend to write a message to a loved one, which is burned in a fire ritual at my hearth.
To conclude the whole evening, thank your ancestors for coming. Make sure any food or offerings that have been left over are disposed of respectfully
Samhain Foods.
When planning your silent supper, consider incorporating seasonal foods that resonate with autumn themes. Such as:
Seasonal Vegetables
Potatoes, Especially Jacket potatoes
Sausages (vegetarian for me!)
Pumpkin soup.
Remember this is your silent supper, so tailor it to you. You do not need to follow anything, just know what you are doing and when. Slowly, over the years, it will become your tradition, and maybe it will be handed down to future generations
I highly recommend the following books for recipe ideas.
The Witch’s Feast: A Kitchen Grimoire by Melissa Madara
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