Sunday, December 21, 2008

Winter Solstice


Winter Solstice - the darkest, longest night of the year. From now on the Sun will start on its path closer to the Earth. The days will become gradually longer.


In ancient times, there was a celebration to welcome back the Sun and is recognized as the time when the Sun King, or the Oak King, is reborn.

For the Sun King (or the Oak King) lost His battle at Mid-Summer and went into the Underworld, capitulating to the Holly King who rules over the waning part of the year. They battled their eternal battle and, as every year from the beginning of time, the Sun King laid down his sword in defeat.

But on this day, the Winter Solstice, the Goddess prepares for His birth. The Sun King will return from the Underworld and so the Holly King waits for the new battle.

The Winter Solstice marks a time when the ancients gathered to feast and spread enough joy so that the Sun would truly want to return.

Here is a site for interesting information on the Winter Solstice and the celebration of Yule.

3 comments:

Grammy said...

Happy winter Solstice my friend. Stay warm. It was 5 degrees here this morning. But the sun is shining today.

Naturegirl said...

Happy Winter Solstice and may the Spirit of Christmas leaves its blessings on the hearts of you and yours! hugs NG

Grammy said...

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