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Mithras and the Birth of Christ

Shared Stories of Light Across Seasons

Throughout history, myths and sacred narratives have woven themselves into the fabric of human understanding, carrying universal truths that transcend time, cultures, and geography. One such intriguing parallel exists between the story of Mithras, a god worshipped in the Roman Empire, and the Christmas story of the birth of the baby Jesus. While these stories reflect themes of light, renewal, and divine promise, they also invite us to consider how these messages resonate differently across the hemispheres.

Mithras, the god of light and truth in Mithraism, was said to have been born on December 25th—a date aligned with the Roman festival of Saturnalia and the winter solstice in the northern hemisphere. His birth, often depicted as emerging from a rock, symbolized divine creation and the eternal spark of life manifesting in the physical world. Shepherds witnessed this event, and Mithras was celebrated as a bringer of light and salvation.

Similarly, the Christmas story tells of Jesus’ miraculous birth in a humble stable, heralded by angels and visited by shepherds following the light of a guiding star. His arrival is celebrated as a moment of hope, rebirth, and divine love for humanity.

The overlapping imagery—a birth of divine light during the darkest time of the year—points to a shared archetypal longing for renewal. In the northern hemisphere, December is the season of winter solstice, where the return of the sun’s light signals the promise of growth and abundance to come. This cyclical rhythm mirrors the spiritual rebirth symbolized by both Mithras and Jesus.

But what about those of us in the southern hemisphere?

For us, December falls at the height of summer—a time of abundance, warmth, and growth. While we may not experience the literal darkness of winter, we are still attuned to the rhythms of life’s cycles. Summer reminds us of the fullness of life, the flowering of potential, and the ripeness of spiritual transformation. In this way, the stories of Mithras and Jesus take on a different hue, inviting us to celebrate the light we already carry within us rather than seeking light’s return.

Whether we are celebrating the return of light in the north or honoring its peak in the south, the deeper message remains the same: the light we seek is eternal, ever-renewing, and present within us. Both Mithras and Jesus embody the archetype of the light-bringer—the figure who illuminates paths of truth, transformation, and hope. These narratives transcend culture and hemisphere, reflecting a universal call to awaken, grow, and embody the Light in our lives.

As we gather this season—whether around fires to welcome the return of the sun or under bright skies to celebrate its fullness—let us remember that “the light” is not bound by time or place. It lives within us, connecting us to the rhythms of the earth and the timeless stories that guide our souls.

So whether you find yourself beneath snow-dusted skies or summer’s golden glow, may this season remind you of the power of renewal, the triumph of Light over darkness, and the eternal promise of love, hope and radiance.

Heart to Heart, Elizabeth

The Archetype of Christmas and Its Deeper Connections

Hello, beautiful Souls,

Today, I am talking about the deeper connections woven into Christmas traditions. Beyond the twinkling lights, festive feasts, and the joyous exchange of gifts lies rich customs with roots far beyond the familiar narratives. As a species, humans are intrinsically inclined to draw inspiration from diverse cultures and traditions, and the celebration of Christmas is no exception. In this exploration, we’ll unveil the ancient pagan origins seamlessly intertwined with our modern-day festivities.

The “Other” Elements of Christmas:

Imagine Christmas without the enchanting allure of kissing under the mistletoe, the melodic echoes of carolers, or the evergreen charm of decorated trees. Surprisingly, these cherished traditions originate in pagan celebrations predating Christmas’s Christian adaptation.

Gift-Giving:

  • Gift-giving, a hallmark of the holiday season, has its roots in ancient festivals where offerings were exchanged to symbolize goodwill and strengthen communal bonds. The act of giving has transcended time, evolving into a universal expression of love and generosity during the Christmas season.

Christmas Stockings:

  • Hanging stockings by the fireplace is a whimsical tradition that finds its roots in the tale of St. Nicholas, a Christian bishop who anonymously gifted gold to three impoverished sisters by dropping it down their chimney. This act of kindness evolved into the charming custom of hanging stockings, eagerly awaiting surprises from a benevolent giver.

The Image of Santa Claus:

  • The iconic figure of Santa Claus, with his rosy cheeks and snowy beard, can be traced back to various influences. The Norse god Odin, who rode a magical flying horse and gifted those who honoured him, and the Roman figure of Saturn, known for his generosity during Saturnalia’s festival, have left their mark on the jolly older man we know today.

Christmas Caroling:

  • The joyous practice of carolling goes back to ancient pagan celebrations, where communities would gather to sing and spread cheer during winter festivities. The songs may have changed, but the spirit of togetherness and shared merriment endures in this beloved Christmas tradition.

Decking the Halls and Decorating Trees:

  • Adorning homes with holly, evergreen boughs and beautifully decorated trees are timeless customs with earlier cultures. The Christmas tree is also symbolic of the age old Tree of Life. These practices symbolized the enduring spirit of life during harsh winters and were seamlessly integrated into the Christmas narrative, creating a visual feast that captivates the hearts of celebrants worldwide.

As we revel in the warmth of holiday traditions, it’s fascinating to recognize that the ancient practices are still part of Christmas. The customs we hold dear, from gift-giving to the festive imagery of Santa Claus, are steeped in the rich history of early nature-based celebrations. Embracing these deeper connections adds layers of meaning to our festivities, reminding us that tradition intertwines across time and space to create the beauty of human culture. 

Let’s celebrate the season and the shared heritage that unites us in joy and goodwill this Christmas.

Heart to Heart, Elizabeth

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