Winter Traditions: Yule & Yule Logs
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Yule & the Yule Log Yule marks the rebirth of the suns power. It is yet another symbol of death and rebirth - going from the darkness into the light.
For many, Yule runs from before the Solstice until New Year's Day.
The word itself it thought to have links to the word 'wheel,' wheel of (or turning) of the year and is often associated with the Norse culture.
The burning of the Yule log most likely has connections to the same fire rituals as all the solstice traditions, in that fire is thought to have kept the year alive; the use of fire to beseech the year to stay alive.
When we hear the word 'Yule,' we generally think of a "Yule Log," a piece of wood decorated with evergreens, mostly holly and candles.
Holly was another ancient symbol for the Irish; it was thought to hold special properties, since it was "neither tree 'nor bush." A plant in a state of 'betweenness.' therefore thought to hold the power of magic. Speaking of logs - here's a lovely poem from Mother Goose that serves to teach children through the use of memorable rhyme, the best logs to burn in order to make a good fire during wintertime.
(making the fire)
Oak-logs will warm you well,
That are old and dry;
Logs of pine will sweetly smell
But the sparks will fly.
Birch-logs will burn too fast,
Chestnut scarce at all;
Hawthorn-logs are good to last -
Catch them in the fall.
Holly-logs will burn like wax,
You may burn them green;
Elm-logs like to smoldering flax,
No flame to be seen.
Beech-logs for winter time,
Yew-logs as well;
Green elder-logs it is a crime
For any man to sell.
Pear-logs and apple-logs,
They will scent your room,
Cherry-logs across the dogs
Smell like flower of the broom.
Ash-logs, smooth and grey,
Burn them green or old,
Buy up all that come your way -
Worth their weight in gold.
