The History of Christmas

Lightkeeper · #1 (**permalink**) 22nd December 2007, 12:11 AM

Quote:

History of Christmas - Before Christ?

The middle of winter has long been a time of celebration around the world. Centuries before the arrival of the man called Jesus, early Europeans celebrated light and birth in the darkest days of winter. Many peoples rejoiced during the winter solstice, when the worst of the winter was behind them and they could look forward to longer days and extended hours of sunlight. In Scandinavia, the Norse celebrated Yule from December 21, the winter solstice, through January. In recognition of the return of the sun, fathers and sons would bring home large logs, which they would set on fire. The people would feast until the log burned out, which could take as many as 12 days. The Norse believed that each spark from the fire represented a new pig or calf that would be born during the coming year.

The end of December was a perfect time for celebration in most areas of Europe. At that time of year, most cattle were slaughtered so they would not have to be fed during the winter. For many, it was the only time of year when they had a supply of fresh meat. In addition, most wine and beer made during the year was finally fermented and ready for drinking.

In Germany, people honored the pagan god Oden during the mid-winter holiday. Germans were terrified of Oden, as they believed he made nocturnal flights through the sky to observe his people, and then decide who would prosper or perish. Because of his presence, many people chose to stay inside.

Saturnalia - In Rome, where winters were not as harsh as those in the far north, Saturnalia—a holiday in honor of Saturn, the god of agriculture—was celebrated. Beginning in the week leading up to the winter solstice and continuing for a full month, Saturnalia was a hedonistic time, when food and drink were plentiful and the normal Roman social order was turned upside down. For a month, slaves would become masters. Peasants were in command of the city. Business and schools were closed so that everyone could join in the fun.

Also around the time of the winter solstice, Romans observed Juvenalia, a feast honoring the children of Rome. In addition, members of the upper classes often celebrated the birthday of Mithra, the god of the unconquerable sun, on December 25. It was believed that Mithra, an infant god, was born of a rock. For some Romans, Mithra’s birthday was the most sacred day of the year. In the early years of Christianity, Easter was the main holiday; the birth of Jesus was not celebrated.

Christmas history before Christ

wwwdlhow27 · #2 (**permalink**) 12th January 2008, 03:23 AM

In 336, the first recorded celebration of Christmas on Dec. 25 took place in Rome. Church fathers designated December 25th, the birthday of the popular pagan God Mithras, as Jesus's official birth date. The celebration of the birth of Christ also took over the the pagan Winter solstice holiday, which like the birthday of the sun god Mithras, fell in late Decemember. From thereon, December 25th was to be observed at a holy mass, or "Christ's Mass".

ShyLady · #3 (**permalink**) 18th January 2008, 07:21 PM

when I found all of these things out for myself. I have been hearing for a long time that Christmas wasn't the real date for Christs birthday, but just never did feel it was very important and just felt I needed to show respect for His birthday and not listen to the stuff of people trying to mess up Christmas for all of us who wanted to. So I heard from Christian's everywhere as well.

Then, and it hasn't been very long at all, maybe not even a year, but many months ago I began to pay attention to exactly what I was reading. From people on forums and links to historical information. Also I was given books to read which had a lot of historical information as well, and it was like the blinders had been pulled off of my eyes and I could truely see what I was reading and was struk by a bit of shock. I couldn't believe I hadn't been paying attention when I heard things about Christmas not being Jesus' real birthday, and I hadn't even given it the attention it deserved at the time.

So many thing have had their own shock effects on me since my eyes seemed to see again after being blind for so long. At first I was too surprised and began to think maybe the information was just a lie, but then I finally had to accept it all as the truth. Now, I am so terrible at telling others in my own family about what I've learned, and I read everything I can find so that I can have the facts where I wont look to much like the fool whos trying to preach a new false religion. My brothers and sister find it all interesting, but I'm not sure what they do with the information, wheather or not they do like I did once and put it out of their heads as nothing for them to concern themselves with is anyones guess.

My children, who are 15, 18, and 20, and used to me trying to teach them things, listen to me much more enthusiastically than my other family does. For this I am totally greatful for. They love to throw the questions my way though and sometimes I need to go back and look up the answers for them. My girls are all very slow learner, like me, and it takes them time to get information into their heads. But they can learn and I'm the kinda person who believes you never stop learning till you die, here on earth that is.......

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