Advent calls us to quiet our minds and hearts, inviting us to await the miracle of Christmas with wonder. It nudges us inward—into the sanctuary of our homes and the depths of our spirits. During this dark season, as the nights lengthen, we light candles. But why do we light them, and what does this illumination signify within us? Let’s explore the profound symbolism of Christmas and its deeper spiritual meaning.
The Roots of Christmas: Ancient Light in a New Tradition
Long before Christianity, the winter solstice was a time of celebration in many cultures. In Germanic traditions, the Yule festival honored the birth of the "sun child" Widar, symbolizing hope and renewal. Similarly, the Romans marked December 25 as the Birthday of the Unconquered Sun. When Christianity adopted this date to commemorate the birth of Jesus, it created a seamless bridge between ancient customs and the new faith, preserving the solstice's sacred significance.
The Winter Solstice: A Time of Stillness and Renewal
December ushers in the darkest days of the year. Amidst this quiet, the earth turns inward, resting as it prepares for renewal. This period—marked by the 12 holy nights—symbolizes a moment of stillness before the days gradually grow longer. It’s an opportunity for us, too, to turn inward, to listen and wait for the light to emerge within us.
Just as the earth anticipates the return of life, we too nurture our own "light seeds"—our dreams, ideas, and spiritual growth. Christmas becomes the celebration of this inner light, a moment to rekindle hope and connect with our higher selves.
The Dual Narratives of Christmas: The Two Christ Children
The familiar Gospel story of Jesus' birth in a humble stable, surrounded by shepherds and angels, is beautifully told in Luke. Meanwhile, the Gospel of Matthew recounts the journey of the three wise men, guided by a star to a royal child. These accounts reflect two distinct aspects of the Christ figure—one earthly and humble, the other transcendent and spiritual.
In esoteric traditions, a third concept emerges: the Light Being, a universal presence connecting humanity with divine consciousness. This "sun child" is the essence of renewal, mirroring the ancient Germanic traditions while pointing to our inner Christ—the divine light within each of us.
A Season of Light: The Mystery of Illumination
Christmas is synonymous with light—illuminated trees, glowing candles, and twinkling decorations. Yet, amidst the dazzling displays, the true light of Christmas is found in the heart. This inner light, born of stillness and self-awareness, raises our frequency and connects us to the divine source.
In a world often overwhelmed by stress and distraction, finding this inner light can be challenging. Yet the energies of love and light have grown stronger in recent times, making it easier for many to experience this spiritual birth. As we light candles during the Christmas season, we are symbolically kindling this inner flame—a reminder of the divine essence within us.
The Christmas Wish: Peace, Love, and Unity
Christmas begins with the holy night of December 25 and transitions through the 12 holy nights to the Epiphany. This sacred period offers a time for reflection, renewal, and the opportunity to align with the light within. As we celebrate, may we embrace the quiet moments, allowing the inner Christ child—radiant and luminous—to shine in our hearts.
We are all part of this divine light, interconnected and unified. This Christmas, may you find the peace and stillness to nurture this inner glow, becoming a beacon of love and unity in the world.