As December approaches every year, most countries in the world are agog with excitement about the end of the year festivities such as Hanukkah, Christmas and New Year celebrations. Everyone gets in a joyful mood and looks forward to happy times with friends and loved ones.
Right in the middle of December is a day some people may have missed but considered as a festival for others. December 21st is the winter solstice, that is, the only day in a year with the shortest hours of sunlight (day time) and the longest hours of night time.
Solstice means the beginning of a season and winter solstice is known to mark the official beginning of the coldest season in the northern hemisphere. This includes countries like Canada, US, Russia, Kenya, Australia, UK, Mali, France, Spain, India etc.
In the northern hemisphere according to geographers, the sun appears to standstill at the southern point of the equator and then journey its way to the north. This means the nights get longer (meaning more sleep time) and the days are shorter and colder.
History reveals that many cultures and ancient religions around the world have honoured the winter solstice by celebrating it. These cultures use December 21st to offer gratitude and gifts to loved ones and celebrate each other.
One of such cultures that I recently got to know about is the Yalda Night or Chelle Night celebrated annually by the Iranians and neighbouring countries. This Persian festival is in honour of the winter solstice where families and friends gather together, wine, dine, read poetry (hafez and shahnameh), telling stories and jokes all through the night.
The belief passed down by the Persians is that evil forces were strongest on the winter solstice and as such, people had to stay awake and together as a community to wade off such evil. As the sun rises, the celebration heightens with much singing and dancing welcoming the birth of light.
Foods commonly eaten during this ceremony include a wide variety of fruits and sweetmeats. It is believed that consuming fruits on winter solstice will ensure individual's health and well-being in the months to come.
I did not get to know about these interesting cultures until recently. I hope you find this article enlightening. What culture or tradition do you know is tied to the winter solstice? Feel free to share with us.
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