winter solstice traditions
The Winter Solstice occurs exactly when the earth’s axial tilt is farthest away from the sun at its maximum of 23? 26′. [1]
Roman masters feasted with slaves, who were given the freedom to do and say what they liked (the medieval custom of all the inhabitants of the manor, including servants and lords alike, sitting down together for a great Christmas feast, came from this tradition). [2]
This beautiful illustrated book by Celtic and Arthurian folklorist John Matthews (Classic Celtic Fairy Tales, LJ 1/98) presents the history of modern Christmas rituals. [3]
Christmas is also referred to as Yule, which may have derived from the Norse word j?l, referring to the pre-Christian winter solstice festival. [4]
One delightful little book written in 1948, 4,000 Years of Christmas, puts its theory right up in the title. [5]
Solstice comes from the Latin words sol (sun) and sistere (standing still), and literally means sun standing still. [6]
At the Winter Solstice, we celebrate Children’s Day to honour our children and to bring warmth, light and cheerfulness into the dark time of the year. [2]
The December solstice has influenced the lives of many people over the centuries, particularly through art, literature, mythology and religion. [4]
The winter solstice is not only a pagan holiday or an alternative to Christmas, it’s a planetary event that impacts the world around us, both our cultural and religious traditions, our perceptions and our experiences. [6]
Worldwide, interpretation of the event has varied from culture to culture, but most cultures have held a recognition of rebirth, involving holidays, festivals, gatherings, rituals or other celebrations around that time. [7]
On this shortest day of the year, the sun is at its lowest and weakest, a pivot point from which the light will grow stronger and brighter. [2]
Yule is also known as Alban Arthan and was one of the “Lesser Sabbats” of the Wiccan year in a time when ancient believers celebrated the rebirth of the Sun God and days with more light. [4]
Note: click on a word meaning below to see its connections and related words. [1]
Astronomical events, which during ancient times controlled the mating of animals, sowing of crops and metering of winter reserves between harvests, show how various cultural mythologies and traditions have arisen. [7]
In the northern latitudes, midwinter’s day has been an important time for celebration throughout the ages. [2]
Sources:
[1] winter solstice: Definition from Answers.com
[2] Winter Solstice: The Unconquered Sun
[3] Amazon.com: The Winter Solstice: The Sacred Traditions of …
[4] December Solstice Traditions and Customs
[5] Solstice - Candlegrove’s Ancient Origins of the Holidays
[6] Rebirth and Wonder - Tonight’s Winter Solstice and traditions …
[7] Winter Solstice - Wikipedia