3d • General discussion
The Celtic Winter Solstice
known as Grianstad an Gheimhridh ("Sun Stop") or Meán Gheimhreadh("Midwinter"), marked the longest night and shortest day (around Dec 21st), symbolizing the rebirth of the sun and the triumph of light, a crucial turning point from deepest darkness to returning light, celebrated with traditions like bringing in holly for faeries and marking the start of deep rest and renewal before the new solar year.
Key Aspects:
- Turning Point: It was a liminal time, a significant shift from the dark half of the year to the growing light, signifying the "rebirth of the sun".
- Names: "Grianstad" (Sun Stop) highlights the moment the sun appears to stand still before rising again, and "Meán Gheimhreadh" marks midwinter.
- Significance: A time for deep rest, inner renewal, and planting seeds for future growth, following the major festival of Samhain.
- Folklore: Associated with the Holly King (ruler of the dark half) being defeated by the Oak King (ruler of the light half).
- Traditions: Bringing holly into homes for shelter for faeries (who would then bless the home) and decorating with evergreen boughs, linking to later Christmas customs.
- Astronomical Link: Celebrated at ancient sites like Newgrange in Ireland, where the solstice sun aligns with the passage tomb.
In the Celtic Calendar:
The Solstices (Winter & Summer) and Equinoxes (Spring & Autumn) were key turning points, alongside festivals like Samhain (Nov 1) and Imbolc (Feb 1). The Winter Solstice marked the peak of winter's darkness, with days slowly beginning to lengthen, promising renewed life.
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The Celtic Winter Solstice
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