Winter Solstice is just of the holidays observed during December. It marks the beginning of Yule in the ancient world. Stonehenge and Newgrange in Ireland are both key spots for observing the solstice. There are many others although these two spots are king.
How the ancients knew the math and science to move huge stone into place remains a mystery to the scientific and anthropological communities. The British Isles are replete with pagan sites that marked various astrological events.
The ancients were afraid of the world around them. Winter was especially horrifying. Starvation, exposure, and illness were commonplace. Many of the religious customs were guards against the impending doom of winter and were put in place for protection until the harshness of winter subsided, the lambs were born and the greenery came back.
Holiday traditions like mistletoe, holly, evergreen garland, trees and yule logs came from the ancients. It’s easier to incorporate old traditions with new so they have carried on down through the ages. Today marks the beginning of a new year. Each day will get a little longer as the earth’s axis tilts back towards the sun little by little.
Some of our friends who drop by practice ancient earth centered religions. Happy Solstice to all those who observe this seasonal special day.
Special Winter Solstice Link shows the source of Stonehenge boulders as well as a brief film.
Newgrange, Ireland link and video
Feel Free to use this thread as an open thread. There really isn’t much to say about it.
