In many ways, the Saturnalia Festival would have looked quite bizarre to the outsider. It was a brief time of equity when slaves were treated as ordinary citizens, and the black sheep of families were honored. Saturnalia was the high point of the Roman calendar from its roots as a more solemn practice for farmers to honor the gods to its height as a week-long mid-winter celebration where work was avoided for revelry and debauchery.Īt its peak, Saturnalia was a rowdy festival where the established social order was turned upside down. At that time, Spring was considered to take place on March 25th, and due to its associations with new life, growth, and birth, it was believed to be the date of conception. However, some historians think December 25th was chosen since it takes place nine months after the Spring Equinox. The Bible doesn’t give a specific date of birth for Jesus. It ultimately served as the foundation for Christmas, with many customs such as gift-giving, singing, and family gatherings. It is believed that this decision was driven by efforts to convert pagans in the empire to Christianity. The shift from Saturnalia to Christmas was a very deliberate one. In 313 AD, Constantine issued the Edict of Milan, which paved the way for Rome to become a Christian society. As a result, much of the Roman Empire celebrated Saturnalia, creating large areas with unified customs. Saturnalia is the predecessor to Christmas because many of its traditions were absorbed by Christians into the holiday.Īs Rome conquered most of Europe, they forced the assimilation of local festivals and holidays. It’s worth noting that some Roman texts suggest it began in the ancient past when Saturn reigned as king, and slavery didn’t exist. These traditions were later adopted by others, and the holiday was officially named Saturnalia. The belief was these practices would create favor from the gods, allowing farmers to be blessed with an abundant harvest. This corresponded with the Winter sowing season. It’s possible it evolved as an agricultural holiday that aligned with the Winter Solstice.įarmers practiced gift-giving rituals and sacrifices for gods during the middle of Winter. Saturnalia’s exact historical beginnings are unknown. It’s undeniable this holiday and how it was celebrated would change and evolve. It’s important to understand that much of the information about this festival spans about 500 years of written information and different Roman sources. Saturnalia was an epic and unruly Roman holiday that celebrated the Roman agricultural god Saturn.
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