An archaic term for Christmas, Yule was the
Germanic pagan winter solstice celebration. Traditionally,
Yule is the time when the dark half or the year surrenders
to the light half.
It is a rich part of Christmas history. The
Yule log is one of the Christmas traditions that were passed
down from the pagan celebrations to the Christian celebration
we know today. Christmas as we now know it is more faith based
and steeped in Christian beliefs.
Christmas traditions
of gift giving, the symbolism Christmas trees and Yule logs,
family get togethers and reflection and celebration of the
coming spring and “days of light” are all rooted
in pagan traditions.
As we celebrate our rich Christmas history it is important
to keep in mind not only where we have been, but where we are going. Each family celebrated Christmas in their own special way. |
