In many cultures over aeons, moon and sun have been potent symbols of the Divine or Sacred Feminine and Masculine. All life on this planet arises from the interplay of these two celestials, more than any other.
Grianstad geimhreadh (as gaeilge) or in English, Winter Solstice, as the mid-point of Winter in Northern climes, is when the sun stops or appeared to, from the perspective of the ancients - hence the name ‘grian stad’ (sun-stop). This year, it occurs at 03.28 (clock-time) in éire, on Friday 22nd December.
Believing that the sun literally stopped its journey away from us at this time and then began its return, was pivotal in the construction of many ancient sacred sites - some more than 5,000 years old - and the creation of manifold rituals. After all, we cannot live without the sun’s light and warmth. So, while descent into darkness at Samhain is an important first step on the journey, return of sunlight was and still is, a cause for celebration.
Light is an enduring symbol of hope. A candle lit through the longest night to welcome back the sun, expresses this beautifully and is a simple way to connect with the stillness of mid-Winter. The Celtic day was timed from dusk to dusk and so, my candle will burn from dusk this evening (21st December) through the night on an east-facing window-sill, to welcome the sunrise tomorrow.
For me, the light of Christ or Christ-consciousness, celebrated the world over by christians at this time of year, equates perfectly with the Sacred or Divine Masculine, revered in so many cultures over such a long time-span.
Regardless of our belief system or how we embody this ever-changing energy, the cyclical dance goes on eternally. Within the swirling dance however, mid-Winter offers an opportunity to pause and reflect. If you can allow yourself ten minutes amidst all the seasonal busy-ness, the short audio below is an embodied guide to your own still-point.
While writing this piece, an image arose of sun courting moon anew at this time of year so that the Sacred Marriage of Celtic mythology can be consummated at grianstad samhradh (Summer Solstice), to ensure continued fertility of the land…
The Courtship
I cleaned the windows, wiped away dust
made a beautiful wreath to welcome the sun.
Now, in stillness of dark lit by moon
I wait for his light to arise and pierce through
touch her coldness, feel her depth
and bring warmth to the days
increasing their length.
Though she reigns for now 'til bealtaine time
he will coax her to sit by the light of his fire
and warm herself there, moving close to his side
at grian stad samhradh
becoming his bride.
© Áine Fortune 2023
Go raibh maith agat Áine ! 🙏. Grianstad Geimhreadh shona duit 💛✨