Solstice Celebrations
There is never a bad time to dive into and celebrate humanity’s diversity, but now may very well be the best time. The Gregorian month of December highlights many of the occasions people around the world enjoy gathering together to eat, drink, and be merry. This informative reading list will introduce you to the solstice celebrations of many cultures, secular and religious.
"The Norton Anthology of World Religions," by Jack Miles, et al.
This anthology, edited by world-renowned scholars under the direction of Pulitzer Prize winner Jack Miles, offers a portable library of primary texts from the world's major religions.
"The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Hinduism," by Rasamandala Das.
On December 11, 2016, Hindus celebrated Gita Jayanti - the birth of their holy book the Bhagavad Gita. And December 15, 2016 was Dhanu Sankra, a day that marks the sun entering Dhanu. or Sagittarius.
"Buddhism: A Very Short Indtroduction," by Damien Keown.
Not technically in December, but on January 5, 2017, Buddhist celebrate Bhodi Day to commemorate the historical anniversary that Bhudda, Siddhartha Gautama, experienced enlightenment.
"The Winter Solstice: The Sacred Traditions of Christmas," by John Matthews.
Solstice celebrations are arguably where it all began, and many cultures have marked the occasion in different ways. Secular and cultural celebrants have also begun to adopt winter solstice celebrations as an alternative to religious holidays.
"Essential Judaism: A Complete Guide to Beliefs, Customs and Rituals," George Robinson.
December 24, 2016 to January 1, 2017 marks Hanukkah, or the Festival of Lights. It is a celebration of the victory of the Israelites (Maccabbees) over the ruler Antiochus.
"Christianity: The First Three Thousand Years," by Diarmaid MacCulloch.
Christmas is traditionally celebrated on December 25, 2016 and is the day Christians mark the birth of Jesus.
"Islam: Origins, Practices, Holy Texts, Sacred Persons, Sacred Places," by Matthew Gordon.
Sunset on December 11, 2016 to sunset on December 12, 2016 marked the observance Mawlid al-Nabi - the birth of the Islamic prophet Muhammad.
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