The Holly King
Two different deities who couldn't exist without each other, their tale is unlike most in the spiritual kingdom.
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If you’ve ever met your doppelganger, then you know that you can’t exist without them. If you have listened to the first episode of Season 4 from Mythical Musings, The Podcast, then you’ve heard the tale of two Christmas spirits: St. Nick and Krampus. They are two spirits who no longer exist without each other when we celebrate this time of year.
The same goes for The Holly King and The Oak King, two deities from Anglo-Celtic folklore whose battle for love brings them between each other.
The Holly King rules from the Autumn Equinox throughout the Winter season, while his counterpart, the Oak King, rules the second half of the year (spring through summer).
Some say the Holly and Oak King are one-in-the-same deity. The Holly King represents the waning darkness while the Oak King represents the waxing times of light.
Many neo-pagans believe that this King is an Earth god who battles himself for the love of the goddess and for his own survival. Think of him as Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, if you will. Or, to stay connected with the holiday season, The Holly King is Krampus while the Oak King is good ol’ Santa Claus.
Regardless, the Holly King represents restoration and renewal. A common theme during this time of year. While he may not be a popular deity to honor within the pagan religions, in Celtic Paganism, this King is still worthy of attention.