Astrology, Myth, and Christmas: How Light Triumphs Over Darkness

Photo by Birmingham Museums Trust on Unsplash

Let’s start with a riddle: Who is this man?

He was born around 4 BCE in a Roman-occupied land. Before his birth, a supernatural being announced his arrival, proclaiming him a miracle-working savior. By the time he reached his Saturn Return (ages 27-30), he handpicked disciples and began a ministry that challenged orthodoxy, made enemies, and inspired followers. He preached in parables, denounced materialism, and healed the sick. He even performed marvels like casting out demons.

When his enemies turned him over to Roman authorities, he was executed—but that wasn’t the end of his story. He reappeared to his disciples, who spread his teachings far and wide.

So, who is he?

If you said Jesus of Nazareth, think again. This is the story of Apollonius of Tyana, a Greek Neopythagorean philosopher.

Astoundingly similar to Jesus, Apollonius lived at the same time, and their followers often debated whose teacher was more divine. Much like the stories children tell to one-up each other, their legends grew over time. This dynamic reminds us that stories are malleable—they evolve, adapt, and reflect the values of their audience.

Christmas, the celebration of Jesus’ birth, is no exception. Its origins, symbols, and meaning have shifted across centuries, just like any great tale.

The Gospel According to the Stars

Astrology, humanity’s ancient cosmic guide, helps us navigate life’s seasons. Its origins may trace back to a wise cavewoman who noticed the moon’s phases mirrored her menstrual cycle—a discovery that revolutionized her control over pregnancy.

Astrology divides the year into four key markers: the two equinoxes (March 21 and September 22) and the two solstices (December 21 and June 21). These celestial events shape the zodiac and give us a cosmic calendar to plant, reap, and reflect.

The Winter Solstice, the longest night of the year, begins the sign of Capricorn—a time traditionally linked to survival fears. But rather than seeing darkness as an enemy, astrology frames it as a partner to light. The interplay of these forces mirrors the dance of a radiant goddess (night) and her newborn child of light (day).

As the goddess gives birth to her savior on the solstice, hope emerges from the darkness. This celestial metaphor invites us to birth our inner light during the year’s darkest days.

Why December 25?

The Christmas date we celebrate has roots in pagan traditions. Ancient Romans honored Saturnalia (December 17–23), a festival dedicated to Saturn, the god of time and karma. Around 45 BCE, Julius Caesar’s calendar reforms placed the solstice on December 25.

This date became a natural fit for many light-born gods, such as Apollo, Horus, and Mithras. By 274 CE, Emperor Aurelian established December 25 as the festival of Sol Invictus (the Unconquered Sun), a holiday cherished by Roman soldiers.

Centuries later, Church leaders adopted this already popular date to celebrate Jesus’ birth. The logic was simple: if the “highway” of December 25 was already built, why not use it? Thus, Christmas as we know it emerged nearly 400 years after Jesus’ birth.

Winter Blues and the Power of Light

As the days grow shorter, many of us experience the so-called winter blues or SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). The remedy? Light! Our ancestors knew this instinctively.

• Germanic tribes celebrated Yule with bonfires.
• Jews light Hanukkah candles, symbolizing hope and resilience.
• Iranians mark Yalda Shab-e Chelleh, a festival of light and renewal.

Even modern cities like Istanbul, where I teach frequently, illuminate streets with festive lights despite their non-Christian populations. Light brings joy, banishing the darkness that weighs on our spirits.

Today, this celebration of light often merges with consumer culture. Gift-giving, rooted in Saturnalia, now fuels holiday shopping sprees. But amidst this capitalist glow, consider embracing a more meaningful approach.

Make Your Christmas More Meaningful

This season, why not cap the amount spent on gifts? This forces creativity and connection, turning your holiday into a reflection of deeper values. Your Christmas tree, after all, is more than just decoration. It represents the Kabbalistic Tree of Life, a symbol of receiving and accepting.

Let’s transform this winter-blue season into a time of creativity, light, and hope. Instead of shopping therapy, try creative therapy: write a heartfelt letter, craft something by hand, or spend time truly connecting with loved ones.