December 2009

Today is the Solstice, aka the birthday of the sun (and umpteen sun gods). The Winter Solstice is the shortest day of the year, after which the days grow increasingly longer. This day was celebrated by the ritual lighting of fires, feasting, cleansing and purifying rituals, and chanting and singing to encourage the return of the sun. The word “Yule” is believed by some etymologists to be derived from the ancient Norse word for wheel, signifying the turning of the “wheel of the year.”

Many ancient Yule practices are still celebrated in one form or another- the Yule log, the “Christmas tree,” the tradition of caroling, the use of Holly and Mistletoe, even “jingle bells” are vestiges of ancient Yule customs.

Today, Yule is one of the principal Sabbats, or religious festivals, in Wiccan, Asatru, and other Neopagan practices. In Druidry, it is celebrated as “Ardan Arthan,” or “Light of Arthur,” after the legendary King.

See also:

The Origin of Christmas Symbols

Alban Arthan

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Today is a Holy Day for followers of the Asatru faith. The night before the winter solstice, (the longest night of the year) is marked by ceremonies in honor of the Goddess Freya, motherhood, and female ancestors. This pre-Christian observance is beginning of the traditional twelve night Yule cycle -later incorporated into Christian practice as the “Twelve Nights of Christmas.”

In Iran, the ancient Persian festival of Yalda Night, or the birthday of the sun, is still observed. Just as in many other cultures, lamps are lit and vigils are kept to provide strength to the newborn sun.

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The folks at the Druid Network have a great article on ethically celebrating the winter holidays (whether Yule, Alban Arthan, or Mother Night), and a great list of charities.

Worried about the commercialization of the Holidays? Even that is an ancient tradition… The Roman philosopher Seneca once griped:

“It is now the month of December, when the greatest part of the city is in a bustle. Loose reins are given to public dissipation; everywhere you may hear the sound of great preparations, as if there were some real difference between the days devoted to Saturn and those for transacting business..”

If you’re looking for ideas for a Twelfth Night celebration, check out this great resource from Waverly Fitzgerald’s School of the Seasons.

A Great recipe for twelfth night cake can be found here. Try it with Lambswool, a traditional Wassail.

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