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by Mark Atwood (Author), Lara Atwood (Author)
Numerous ancient religions across the world venerated the sun as the greatest source of light and highest symbol of divinity.
Hundreds, if not thousands of ancient sites were built for the worship of the sun and were aligned to the sun's yearly transitions at the solstices and equinoxes-including the most famous in the world, such as the Great Pyramid of Egypt, Stonehenge, and the statues of Easter Island. These transitions of the sun were celebrated by numerous ancient peoples and billions still hold their religious celebrations on them today, such as at Christmas, which is held around the time of winter solstice.
But why were these dates so important to ancient people? After years of research, husband and wife team Mark and Lara Atwood found the answer. It wasn't simply to do with agriculture-the real answer was far more intriguing and profound. They discovered there had been a lost ancient Religion of the Sun that spread throughout the world in prehistory, which saw the journey to heaven and enlightenment written in the movements of the sun and stars. The solstices and equinoxes were its key times.
The ancient themes of death, rebirth, resurrection, and ascension were seen as expressed in the sun's annual progression from the darkness of winter to the light of summer. This is why they can be found repeated through the lives of many ancient deities, including Osiris and Jesus.
This book takes the reader on a journey through ancient sites, sacred texts, and traditions from around the world, to explore their symbolic spiritual meaning, with chapters on each solstice and equinox-forming a complete reference guide to these times of year. Also included are rituals that solo practitioners or those in a group can use to celebrate the solstices and equinoxes according to their culture, based on ancient traditions.
All this is presented in an easy-to-read, informative, and comprehensive way with hundreds of illustrations.
Whatever your spiritual path, this book may be of value, and is recommended for students of comparative religion, those interested in the possibility of lost civilizations in prehistory, and those looking to reconnect with pagan or indigenous spiritual traditions.
About the authors
Mark Atwood is an author who writes from over thirty years of dedicated spiritual practice and experience. His wife Lara Atwood is a prolific researcher who contributes her knowledge of history, ancient sites, and sacred texts.
