Creating a nativity scene to reflect a Pagan's beliefs can represent his or her faith in a festive and spiritual display.
The Christian Nativity story is recreated every Christmas, with figurines representing the usual cast of characters in awe over the infant Jesus cradled in a bed of straw. It depicts the solemn yet uplifting circumstances of the birth, centered in an open barn. Pagans can adapt this theme to represent the birth of the Sun itself on Yule, the Winter Solstice, merely by changing that cast of characters.
Pagan Nativity Scene Backdrop
The traditional Nativity Scene is a beautiful story, reflecting the birth of the baby Jesus. As many people know, He was born in a manger by the Virgin Mary, due to the inn having no more rooms available. Mary and her husband Joseph traveled by donkey, seeking refuge from King Herod’s tyranny. They were visited by three kings baring gifts who were guided by a star and accompanied by their traveling animals. They gazed in awe, along with on-looking animal residents of the manger itself.
Since most Pagans revere Nature Herself as the basis to their beliefs, changing the backdrop from a traditional manger to bows of evergreen branches would make for a more fitting scenario. Use freshly cut branches, bind them with twine and assimilate a shelter from the harsh, winter elements. Bed the ground with soft, fallen leaves and mock snow to complete the winter scenario.
Magickal Creatures
Faeries, gnomes and elves, as well as nymphs, fauns, centaurs and many other benevolent, magickal woodland creatures can be represented in figurine form. These creatures should reflect the believer’s particular Pagan path. Be careful not to overload the diorama with characters, as the scene as a whole is meant to tell the story.
Animal Characters
Of course, the forest animals the magickal creatures reside with and care for should also be represented. These include rabbits, mice and deer, along with their predatory counterparts the wolves, foxes and wildcats. Add birds into the mix, such as wrens, cardinals, blue jays and goldfinches, as they, too, brave the winter. Remember to include non-migrating birds of prey, like hawks and owls. Hibernating creatures like bears can also be added into the mix, as they may wish to temporarily wake up for such a momentous occasion.
The Rebirth of the Sun
Of course, the scene would not be complete without a representation of the rebirth of the Sun. Sticking with the woodland theme while incorporating the beginning of the Oak King’s reign can easily be highlighted by painting an acorn with gold paint and bedding it in leaves. Position the magickal and natural woodland creatures around it, and perch birds in the evergreen canopy. A hawk with its wings fully spread can be topped in the center in an act of protection for the newly born Sun.
