SOL INVICTUS (The Invincible Sun)
History of ceremonies honoring the sun's life-giving cycle enriches the understanding of today's holiday traditions
Ancient worship: A history of midwinter celebrations...
Long ago, people worshiped the sun as a god. His cycles were watched and measured with great care because it was thought the quality of life on Earth changed dramatically according to his whims.
As the season changed and winter fell, survival became much harder for ancient man. Many would not live through a cold winter, when food became scarce. As the days shortened, they feared the sun would disappear completely and leave them helpless in the dark.
So they lighted fires and performed elaborate rituals to ensure the sun's return. They also feasted when the sun reversed its course, and days began to grow long again. Full Story
Related: religion, wicca, pagan
Ancient worship: A history of midwinter celebrations...
Long ago, people worshiped the sun as a god. His cycles were watched and measured with great care because it was thought the quality of life on Earth changed dramatically according to his whims.
As the season changed and winter fell, survival became much harder for ancient man. Many would not live through a cold winter, when food became scarce. As the days shortened, they feared the sun would disappear completely and leave them helpless in the dark.
So they lighted fires and performed elaborate rituals to ensure the sun's return. They also feasted when the sun reversed its course, and days began to grow long again. Full Story
Related: religion, wicca, pagan
posted at 4:29 PM
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