Around the world, people celebrate the winter solstice
As days shorten and nights lengthen in December I am reminded of Hannah Szenes, a Hungarian poet and Jewish resistance fighter. In 1944 she penned “Darkness,” her final poem before execution in occupied Hungary:
“There are stars whose radiance is visible on earth, though they have long been extinct. There are people whose brilliance continues to light the world, even though they are no longer among the living. These lights are particularly bright when the night is dark, they light the way for humankind.”
The winter solstice’s shortest day and longest night is marked globally by observances and celebrations in the northern and southern hemispheres in December and June, respectively.
Chinese families share dumplings with friends and the poor, remembering their ancestors. Iranian families share watermelon, pomegranate, poetry, and stay awake past midnight. Indian families end the winter harvest with neighbors as they socialize, sing, and dance around bonfires.
Eastern European families share a bonfire in the village square with music, dance, and song to honor the sun. Western European families share food as the Yule log’s light turns night into day. Northern European daughters, crowned with lighted wreaths, serve coffee and baked goods to family and visitors.
Zuni and Hopi families in North America purify themselves by prayer as kachinas dance to awaken the sun and bless homes, animals, and plants. California Mission churches’ winter solstice alignment illuminates altars as families celebrate Jesus whose light overcomes the world’s darkness and whose followers are to reflect that light. Incan families of South America have processional dances, music, and share food.
Globally we seek light and shun darkness.
- Who are the extinct “stars” whose brilliance continues lighting your way?
- How can you be a “star” lighting the way for others?
- Who in your constellation encourages you to shine brightest for humankind?
Rev. Dr. Sybrant serves at Murray Hills Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). For more info, visit us at 15050 SW Weir Road, Beaverton. www.murrayhills.org | 503-524-5230
