As we pass through the winter solstice, I find a deep resonance with the symbolism of this time. The darkest night of the year marks a period of stillness, reflection, and ultimately, renewal. For me, this period is not just about marking the shortest day, but about honoring the natural cycle of the sun's journey and its rebirth.
The three days following the solstice, leading up to the 25th, hold special significance. The sun appears to stand still, symbolizing a moment of profound introspection and renewal. This period of stillness is a powerful reminder of the continuous cycle of creation and the divine energy that sustains us. On the 25th, I personally celebrate the renewal and rebirth of the sun – the divine light that shines upon the world and guides us toward a deeper understanding of life, love, and the sacred.
In the context of spiritual traditions, there are many ways to honor this time. In addition to movement practices like Surya Namaskar, sitting meditation is a beautiful way to align with the solstice's stillness. Practices such as silent meditation, focusing on the breath, or chanting mantras can help deepen the connection to the divine light within and around us. One such mantra is the Gayatri Mantra, which invokes the sun as the source of divine wisdom:
ॐ भूर् भुवः स्वः।तत् सवितुर्वरेण्यं।भर्गो देवस्य धीमहि।धियो यो नः प्रचोदयात्॥
(Om bhur bhuvah svah,Tat savitur varenyam,Bhargo devasya dhimahi,Dhiyo yo nah prachodayat.)
Here’s a word-by-word translation:
ॐ (Om): The universal sound, symbolizing the divine source.
भूर् (Bhur): The physical realm or Earth.
भुवः (Bhuvah): The mental realm, or the space between Earth and the heavens.
स्वः (Swah): The spiritual realm or heaven.
तत् (Tat): That (referring to the divine).
सवितुः (Savitur): The sun, the source of energy and life.
वरेण्यं (Varenyam): Adorable, most excellent.
भर्गः (Bhargo): Radiance, divine light.
देवस्य (Devasya): Of the divine or deity.
धीमहि (Dhimahi): We meditate upon.
धियः (Dhiyah): Intellects or minds.
यः (Yah): Who.
नः (Nah): Our.
प्रचोदयात् (Prachodayat): May inspire or guide.
When chanted in English, it reads:
"Om, Earth, space, and heaven. That divine sun, most excellent, we meditate upon. May its radiant light inspire and guide our minds."
Chanting this during the solstice is a powerful way to invite clarity, peace, and the light of wisdom. Reflective journaling or lighting a candle in gratitude for the sun’s return are also meaningful ways to celebrate this period of renewal. Whether through stillness or motion, these practices create a bridge between our inner and outer worlds, aligning us with the cycles of nature.
This time is also a reflection on how modern celebrations have become materialistic, overshadowing the deeper spiritual essence of the season. By reconnecting with the solstice and its true meaning, we can find a path to spiritual renewal and a deeper connection to the cycles of nature and the divine.
In the spirit of Sanatana Dharma, we are reminded of the eternal path that guides us toward understanding the deeper truths of the universe. This tradition teaches that by aligning ourselves with the cycles of nature, especially during this time of the solstice, we can tap into the infinite wisdom of the divine. Sanatana Dharma reflects a universal phenomenon: the worship of the sun as a sacred and life-giving force. Across cultures and spiritual traditions, the sun is revered as the source of light, energy, and divine wisdom. It emphasizes the importance of renewal, reflection, and connection to the light within ourselves, which is always present and available. This time is an invitation to deepen our understanding of love and wisdom and to celebrate the sacred light in all its forms, whether through meditation, prayer, or simply being present with loved ones.
No matter how you celebrate this time, I wish you a wonderful 25th of December. Whether it is Christmas, the birth of Christ, or the birth of the sun for a new year, may it bring you light, peace, and renewal. Let the light lead you toward an understanding of love, and take the time to celebrate that with your family and friends. Enjoy every minute of this blessed gift of creation and life that we have on the 25th. 🙏🏼❤️🕊
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