Happy Anthesteria

The Anthesteria is one of my favorite ancient festivals. This year, the historical dates run from sundown tonight (the 22nd) through sundown on the 25th. May you experience all the joys and blessings of the season. Tonight is a good night to open a bottle of wine and make a generous sponde for Dionysos.

Blessèd, blessèd are those who know the mysteries of god.

Blessèd is [le] who hallows [ler] life in the worship of god, [le] whom the spirit of god possesseth, who is one with those who belong to the holy body of god.

Blessèd are the dancers and those who are purified, who dance on the hill in the holy dance of god. 

Blessèd are they who keep the rite of Kybele the Mother.

Blessèd are the thyrsus-bearers, those who wield in their hands the holy wand of god.

Blessèd are those who wear the crown of the ivy of god.

Blessèd, blessèd are they: Dionysos is their god!

Euripides, The Bacchae, trans. William Arrowsmith