How to Know the Significance of Vernal Equinox
Few people in contemporary society know the significance of vernal equinox, but it holds considerable importance on the solar calendar. As the day when the sun crosses the equator, it marks the beginning of spring, when new life springs from the long sleep of winter. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Study the significance of the vernal equinox to ancient and pagan cultures. Many pre-Christian cultures placed great significance on equinox and celebrated it with a variety of rituals. Modern day Wiccans and other pagan faiths continue to uphold these traditions. They know their significance and the reasons behind them.
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Gauge the Christian holiday of Easter using the vernal equinox. Churches celebrate the resurrection of Christ on the first Sunday after the first full moon following vernal equinox. If you have a farmer's almanac, you can find the date and know when Easter will fall every year. Plus, understanding the associations of life and rebirth can explain how eggs and bunnies became integral to the celebration of Easter.
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Mark Vernal Equinox Day in Japan, a national holiday characterized by visiting one's family and paying homage to one's ancestors. You can observe it in other countries by visiting a local cemetery, inviting friends and family for dinner or taking a walk in the woods, on the beach or some other natural setting.
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Calculate the precise moment of vernal equinox from an astronomical standpoint. This is the instant at which the center of the sun appears directly above the equator. If you want help, you can find a list of vernal equinoxes online at the Hermetic website (see Resources below).
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Get a copy of a Persian or Iranian calendar. The vernal equinox marks the first day of their year and is observed by the celebration of Norouz. Kurds, Afghans and other peoples who once absorbed Persian influences, celebrate the holiday, too. Precise traditions vary, but most involve festive dishes and an acknowledgment that spring has returned.
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Tips & Warnings
When determining the date of Easter, note that Western churches do not apply the strict vernal equinox, but rather base their calculations on a set date, March 21. This distinction usually has little impact, but it can be tricky if the full moon falls on or around that date.
