yule

This sabbat marks the first day of winter, the longuest night of the year and therefore, the birth of a new Sun which will illuminate the earth for the next year. This celebration marks the birth of many pre-christian gods such as Dyonisos, Attis and Woden. As for christianism itself, the birth of Christ corresponds to this period.

   In almost every cultures and religions, the winter solstice marks the beginning of a period of festivities more or less long. It is understandable when we consider that our ancesters lived according to the rythm of the seasons and the length of the days. For them, that was the essential element that guided their lives. So basicaly, the coming of the winter solstice meant the beginning of a new solar cycle, longer and warmer days. That was good enough reason to celebrate. It was also the period of the year when no one had to work out in the fields and the farm work was minimum.

RITUAL

   In times alot farther from us, the sun worshipers would light gigantic bonfires to help ensure the rebirth of the sun. A world of darkness where nothing would grow was there biggest fear. Later, the birth of different gods was added to this tradition, and with time, the bonfires were replaced by the yule log we know today.

One plant associated with Yule is mistletoe, sacres plant of the druids. It seems that this tradition find its origins in ancient Greece where mistletoe represented Zeus' genitals and the white berries, drops of sperm. Mistletoe only grows on oak trees, which are dedicaded to Zeus. As for the tradition of decorating conifers, it dates back to the matriarchal times where the priestesses hung gifts for the gods as well as representations of the moon, the sun and the stars on the branches of the pines trees of there sanctuaries.

   In ancent times, the custom also wanted that gifts were exchanged during that period. During the Middle Ages, the festivities lasted about twelve days where as the roman festivities dedicaded to Saturn lasted about seven days.

One of the most interesting ways of celebrating Yule is to decorate a tree. Everything is allowed, although it is custom to put an accent on representations of the moon, the sun and the stars. Don't be afraid to use your imagination. You can include the decoration of the tree in your ritual and help everyone in the house participate. Yule is a time to rejoice. Peace on earth toall men and women of good will is a rede that unifies all religions and all nations.

THE GODS TO CELEBRATE OR INVOKE

Lucina:   Roman godess of the mysteries of the moon
Attis:   god of fertility
Dionysos:   Grec god of wine and libations
Woden:   Germanic god

HOW TO DECORATE YOUR ALTAR

   Some mistletoe an holly, conifer braches (fir, pine, spruce), candles representing Santa Clause, and nicely wraped presents will decorate your altar. The apropriate flowers are poinsetias and red and white roses. Actually, you can also use your basic christmas decorations.

SYMBOL AND CORRESPONDENCES

Incense:   cedar, pine, fir, rosemary.
Trees:   oak (for the log), conifers.
Flowers:   poinsettias, christmas cactus, red and white roses.
Colours:   gold, silver.
Candles:   green, red, white.
Stones:   tigre's eye, ruby.
Planet:   Jupiter
Tarot card:   Temperance
Influence:   moderation and temperance, balance, harmony, joy.