Photo: from open sources
When will the longest night be in 2023 and why you need to make wishes at this time.
Every winter we look forward to the days finally starting to get longer and it getting dark later. This usually happens after the winter solstice – the shortest day of the year. What date is the winter equinox in 2023, what needs to be done at this time, what is prohibited, and why it is considered fateful – we tell you in the material.
What is the winter solstice and the exact date in 2023
The winter solstice is the day when the Sun occupies its lowest point relative to the earth’s horizon. Astronomers say that in 2023 the winter solstice will occur on December 22, 2023 at 05:27 Kyiv time (03:27 GMT).
The night from December 21 to 22 will be the longest of the year, and the day of December 22 will be the shortest, it will last only 7 hours.
Winter Solstice – the history of the holiday
The history of this holiday dates back to ancient times, when people lived in accordance with solar cycles. Our ancestors held the sun in special esteem: they understood that life on earth depended on sunlight and heat. Therefore, the day when the Sun began to give more warmth was regarded as the victory of light over darkness and the rebirth of new life.
The winter solstice among the Slavs and many other peoples was considered the beginning of the new year. On this day, our ancestors celebrated the Christmas of Kolyada – one of the main Slavic gods, Dazhbog, who embodied the Sun. To honor the deity and help the sun defeat darkness, they lit fires, rolled burning wheels, decorated houses with fir branches and baked ritual bread in the shape of the sun.
Winter solstice – traditions and signs
It is believed that the day of the winter solstice has very strong energy, so it is good for any endeavors – in your career, personal life. During this period you need:
- make new plans;
- throw away old things, put things in order – not only in the house, but also in your thoughts;
- let go of old grievances;
- make a wish.
There is a belief that a wish made on the day of the winter solstice will certainly come true.
You can also put up a Christmas tree on the winter solstice. As already mentioned, our ancestors decorated their houses with spruce branches so that evil spirits would bypass them.
It was believed that if there is frost on the trees on the winter solstice, it means there will be a rich harvest. What is the weather like on this day – the same on December 31st.
What not to do on the winter solstice
On the day of the winter solstice, you need to give up noisy celebrations, alcohol and heavy food. It’s better to spend the day at home, with your family.
You can’t be greedy at this time – if they ask for something, be sure to share it, but it’s better to try to pay off your debts before the winter solstice.
