- vikkiVICIOUS
29
Yuletide Greetings! Part 2
I hope you enjoyed Part 1, here's Part 2!
Many of the popular "Christmas" traditions aren't Christian at all and you may be surprised to find out that most of the things you may do are actually Yuletide traditions!
The Evergreen Tree: More commonly known as a Christmas tree is actually a Pagan tradition. Evergreen trees, or branches from the trees were brought into the homes of the Germanic Pagan people as they represent everlasting life and were thought to help ensure that crops would grow well in the following year, helping the people survive. People's lives back in those times basically revolved around a good harvest, if plants didn't grow, the animals would die and so would the people as they would have no food so bringing Evergreen into the home was a very important tradition.
Mistletoe: This plant was classed as having magical properties by the Ancient Druids, they believed it was a healing and protecting plant that connected the skies and heavens to the Earth so was brought in the home to protect people during the harsh winter. The white berries are also a symbol of fertility and lovers kissed under the mistletoe to try and make sure they would have a good healthy family.
Holly: This spikey plant was brought into the home as it's prickly leaves were thought to warn off unwanted spirits, etc and protect the inhabitants of the house, newborn babies born in winter back then were blessed with water in which Holly berries and leaves had been soaked to protect the baby from harm.
More coming in Part 3!