![]() ![]() His name is derived from saeta which means seed and he is associated with the legendary Golden Age of Plenty, of which is commemorated at Saturnalia. In one of the myths, Saturn is a haggard wanderer who eventually is given the job of door guardian guarding Rome’s immense wealth. Saturn, also called Father Time and Seed-Sower, is the Roman god of agriculture, prosperity, time and fertility. Still, the themes of god/goddess worship, prosperity, feasting and gathering together were common throughout the continent and the world at Midwinter. You have to remember, the climate of Italy is much different than that of Norway, for instance. Where Northern Europeans were stocking away food and slaughtering livestock to survive the harsh winter, their Southern counterparts like the Romans were sowing seeds during the Winter. But a few gods were particularly present and powerful at this time for other reasons. Like their Northern European neighbors, the ancient Romans believed the spirits and gods were active during the Winter season and holidays like Saturnalia. These were typically sold during a Saturnalia market traditionally held during the holidays. The gag gifts were called sigillaria and were typically wax dolls and figurines made to resemble gods, mythical heroes, and even grotesque monsters. But more specifically gifts were given to children and gag gifts between friends. Gift-giving, still common during the Winter today, was incredibly prominent in ancient Rome as a Saturnalia tradition. According to Illes, cross-dressing was a common tradition and enlivened the atmosphere. In addition to the role reversals, large parties were had that involved orgies, fertility rites, gambling, and games of many kinds. And what revelry would be complete without drinking and feasting? Sources say traditional foods included roast boar, cakes, walnuts, honey, grapes, fermented fish, figs, apples and of course, wine. Much revelry was to be had at the ancient Saturnalia Festivals. Women could switch roles with the men and vice versa. For example, slaves were able to be the masters and masters turned into the slaves. The social norms on Saturnalia were lifted. This symbolized the freedom and liberation of the gods, people, and earth.Īn interesting Saturnalia tradition from ancient Rome consisted of allowing people to revel in a role reversal of sorts. The statue of Saturn’s feet, typically bound the rest of the year, were freed from their bindings during the festival. Author Judika Illes takes note of the similarities in appearance between the god Saturn and Saint Nick, both being depicted as older gentlemen with white beards. Offerings and sacrifices were made to both the god and his goddess in hopes of protecting the Winter-sown crops. Saturn, who would come to be associated with Father Time, and his consort Ops (Opis) were both worshiped on Saturnalia. Ancient Saturnalia Traditions: Role Reversals, Gag Gifts, Feasting, and Revelry Saturnalia was evocative of modern Christmas celebrations in that everyone in ancient Rome had off of work and participated in the excitement. ![]() What we know for sure is it that it was observed around Midwinter a.k.a. The actual dates vary but most scholars agree it was once celebrated between December 17th and the 23rd OR December 25th through the 31st, depending on the calendar that was used. The Saturnalia Festival is an ancient Roman holiday that mainly celebrated the Winter sowing season, as well as honored the god Saturn.
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