Another solstice is upon us and, as kin to the rest of Earth’s species, we feel at one with the cycling of the seasons on this gloriously beautiful planet that is our home.
Some Satanists might feel alienated by parts of the holiday hubbub promoting Christianity, yet obviously heathen trappings have long been the primary décor. It is worth recalling that the Christians stole this holiday from the pagans, pasting their pallid savior over more robust traditions. Jolly Santa Claus, who has come to signify wish fulfillment, is a combination of Dionysos and Silenus from Roman and Greek myths—and let us not forget that the Romans celebrated the orgiastic Saturnalia at this time of year.
In practice, the Nazarene has little place in the general public’s celebrations of this season, and we like it that way. Who wants to think of that mangy manger-baby on the way to his zombie destiny when it is far more delightful to simply celebrate the wonders of Nature with friends and family? Festive gatherings with sumptuous food and drink have historically been employed in the Northern Hemisphere at this time of year to mark the now lengthening days. The Winter’s chill is understood to be transitory, with the fecund Spring to come—certainly a proper reason to offer “Joy to all!”
So we encourage the ancient practice of celebrating the Yule holiday season by enjoying the richness of life and the company of people whom we cherish, as we will often be the only ones who know the origins of these festal traditions!
A “Superlative Solstice” to all Satanists and secularists around the globe!
Magus Peter H. Gilmore