Bethlehem Star

 

 

 

On December 21, what is known as the “Christmas Star/Star of Bethlehem” will be most visible in the night sky.  The star was actually historical and noted by astronomers at that time, and some, now, think that it might have been a comet.  But here it comes and worth seeking out.

  A Roman historian, Josephus, a Roman Astrologist, in writing about Herod, wrote about the sight of this bright light in the sky.  Whether it was a comet, a planet that came very close to Earth, or a meteor or exploding star, is not known for sure, but it was a bright star-like object in the sky and it is written that it stayed visible for over a year, and also moved across the sky.  When we read or hear of the star of Bethlehem and the Magi that followed it, it makes sense that it took up to a year for the magi to arrive at Bethlehem.  A comet would have been a bright star-like light with a long tail.  It would, then, be actuality that it would seem that the light led the Magi to Bethlehem.  It would have been a spectacular sight and since there had been foretold of a bright star that would rise at the Messiah’s birth, the Kings would have sent out emissaries to seek out the end of that star’s travel, like we would follow a rainbow to find the pot of gold. 

I remember watching the night sky in 1996-1997 looking for Hale Bopp Comet.  The Bethlehem Star would have been much brighter, I think, and seen throughout the world. Astronomers said that the Bethlehem Star had to be way brighter than any seen in the sky before, brighter than a full moon, and that would have been a wonder indeed.  I am sure every color of people from around the world had stories about that brightest light every seen in the sky. 

I love the story of the wormhole and Star Woman.  It is not to do with the Bethlehem star, but it speaks to lights and holes that appear in the sky.  I am sure one would have been told to explain the brightest star of the time.

 

I am definitely going to be watching the night sky on December 21.  It is winter solstice, as well, and we often build fires and watch the sky during the night.  I have all the things necessary for having a fire that night.  Join me and we will, in spirit, be sharing the light.

©Carol Desjarlais 17.12.20

 

C's Star before decorating.