Winter Solstice Dec 21, 2009

Winter Solstice

 Winter Solstice, December 21, 2009, 12:47pm (EST)

The word “solstice” comes from the Latin “sol” meaning sun, and “sistere”, to stand still.

The Winter Solistice is the time when the Sun halts over the Tropic of Capricorn, for three days at the end of its tropical journey south, before recommencing its tropical journey north. 

The longest night of the year will begin on the eve of the 22nd of December.  It is the focus of religious and social festivities in all cultures, including the Christian celebration Christmas.

The solsticial period lasts three days as a rule, so when the Sun begins to rise earlier again after three days at its lowest ebb, it has been cause for jubilation since  prehistoric times, for it symbolizes the rebirth of the divine and glorious Spirit of Life.

Astrologically, the December Solstice marks the entry of the Sun into the Cardinal, Earth Sign of Capricorn, which is ruled by the planet Saturn.  Saturn symbolizes the importance of being in right relationship with time. 

Find out what is in store for you in the coming year.