Yule is also called the Winter Solstice (Winter Rite, Midwinter, and Alban Arthan), it celebrates the rebirth of the Sun God and honors the Horned God. On Yule we experience the longest night of the year. This is the time when the Sun turns from its fall into darkness back into gaining light. Although much of the winter harvest weather is still to come, we celebrate the coming light. From this day until MidSummer, the days will grow longer. This is the official first day of winter. This Sabbat falls between the dates listed above depending on when the Sun reaches its southern most point.
Yule is derived from the Anglo-Saxon Yula, which means Wheel of the Year. Yule is a fire festival, and an old tradition many Pagans still observe in this season is bringing in the Yule Log, wishing on it, and lighting it from the remains of last year's log. Once, the Yule log had been the center of the celebration. It was lighted on the eve of the solstice and must be kept burning for twelve hours, for good luck. Holly wreathes, mistletoe, and special holiday deserts are also a tradition.
It is a time to look on the past year's achievements and to celebrate with family and friends.
HERBS:
Holly, Mistletoe, Rosemary, Oak, Pine cones.
INCENSE:
Bayberry, Pine, Cedar, Rosemary, Juniper.
COLOR:
Red, Green, White, Silver, Gold.
DECORATIONS:
Yule log (oak or pine), Mistletoe, Wreaths, Strings of dried flowers and cinnamon sticks, Apples, Oranges, Yule tree.
FOOD:
Nuts, Apples, Oranges, Caraway nuts, Mulled wine, Roast turkey.
My Links
© 1997 silverphoenix@cybergal.com
