Dionysus Exiguus was a member
of the Scythian monk community. He is known as the inventor of the Anno
Domini (AD) era (year of the Lord), which is used to number the years of both
the Gregorian and Julian calendars. However, what has probably been lost in
history is his major role in the reason why Christians celebrate Christmas!
Coming to Rome sometime between 500 AD
and 525 AD, Dionysus Exiguus arrived upon the time of the Solstice festival
celebrating the birthday of the sun. He witnessed all of Rome in celebration
and revelry. Wreaths of greenery were
hung on the doors of homes as emblems of the sun. Everyone exchanged gifts and debauchery
parties were everywhere.
Learning that
these practices in Rome were in honor of the ancient sun idol (Mithras),
Dionysus Exiguus was shocked and dismayed.
Reasoning that it was impossible to stand in the way of such, or
even change this so-called pagan holiday, he sought to change the meaning for
it by claiming it to be the celebration of the birth of the Messiah.
Thus, the celebration of Christmas was born.
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