Christmas Day

25th of December:

The date of Christmas was set around the winter solstice, a time when the pagan gods of Light were birthed, when nature entities, the Holly King and the Oak King battled in symbolic struggle of light and dark.  

Most myths hold beauty, magick and deep symbolism. They call us to contemplate meaning beyond the routine, to connect with each other, with the unseen, and often, they ask us to have fun.  

            The story of Christ’s birth is a myth that speaks of new beginnings, of astrology, the divinity of animals, innocence, hope and the birth of Light. The enduring symbols of Christmas derive from ancient pagan traditions, the wreath is the Wheel of the Year, the gift-giving comes from many traditions including the Roman Saturnalia and the Norse myth of Odin distributing gifts to children. The Christmas tree derives from ancient European traditions, the bringing of an evergreen into the home to heighten energy. The Egyptians decorated their homes with palm rushes to honour Ra. The holly and mistletoe motifs remain, representing the fertility of Earth.  

            As a witch, I hope to understand the meaning in all myths and bring them into my own story. I want to connect with others through traditions as ancient as time, to conjure depth and joy. This way I am reminded that we are one family in search of magick.  

Merry Christmas.  

With Love, Danae Moon: the SpellBox Witch and author of Becoming the Witch