Christmas time is full of traditions and wonder. It is by far my favorite holiday. I love the lights, the smells, and the time of the year where making reference to Jesus in holiday music is still somewhat accepted.
It was interesting for me to learn that Christmas is a newer holiday only having been heard of around the 3rd century and had not gained true observance until sometime in the 4th century. It is believed to have been brought in by the Roman Church to bring the message of Christ into a pagan holiday that happened right around winter solstice.
In Egypt pagans believed the queen of heaven Isis (different regions have different names for her) bore a son around this time in late December. The day was referred to Yule Day (Yule meaning infant or child).
About this time of December was also believed to be the birthday of the sun-god (incarnation of god) Baal and the renewal of its course. In addition, the moon’s birthday was celebrated and also said to be worshiped on the 24th of December with the Arabians, and on the 25th with Saxons. Isaiah 1:10-15 God shares what He thinks of the traditions of this idol worship.
A festival of lights happened this time of year too. On the 25th of December in Rome was the Feast of Saturn, and Babylon had the Festival of Bacchus. During this time there was temporary emancipation of slaves, drunkenness and all sorts of perversion.
There is much speculation around the time of year Jesus Christ was born. It is unlikely He was on the 24th or 25th of December. In various pagan beliefs, there are deities of a father, son and mother. Somewhat represent of God as our Father, Jesus, and Jesus’ mother Mary. I believe this is perhaps why the Church of Rome entwined our Lord with pagan tradition.
Please visit my introductory blog: The History of Traditions
My next blog I will specifically address Christmas traditions.