to go in to the woods to cut a tree down. After the tree had been felled, a nicely sized log was cut out of it, and the men would carry the log back to the home. This log was dubbed a Yule Log, and the Yule log was burned in the fireplace. The entire time the Yule log burned, the family would feast. Again, this was a Winter Solstice tradition rather than a specifically Christian tradition. Often, the Scandinavian Yule log might burn for a whole twelve days! Nowadays the Yule log is represented in the form of an iced log-shaped cake, and is associated with the Christian Christmas experience.
As the Yule log burned it sent sparks out of the hearth and as the sparks flew out of the fire place, the family would count the sparks, as they believed that each spark represented a farm animal that would be born on their property that year. These beliefs have little to do with Christmas beliefs and celebrations, but the Yule log is now firmly associated with Christmas in the minds of many.
Even the Christmas story is thought by some to have been influenced by a pagan myth. But despite that, the story itself and all the traditions which have come to be associated with it form a firm part of the Christmas experience of millions, both in the northern and southern hemispheres. So whether you celebrate Christmas in the snow, or on the beach, you’re likely to identify Christmas with Christmas trees, Yule logs, lots of food, and family time.
For Christmas Gift ideas, as well as information on Christmas recipes, Christmas ornaments, Christmas carols, and Christmas traditions, Christmas stockings, and more, Your Christmas Gift Idea has it all!
Pages: 1 2