Many modern scholars, anthropologists, and historians indicate that mid winter or Winter Solstice celebrations date back to at least 2400 BCE and have been an important part in indigenous European traditions and cultures since that at least that time. (They speculate such traditions reach far deeper in time based on root word linguistics and such) These traditions differed slightly from location to location but had common characteristics. The reconstruction of the native ancestral faith the celebration known as Yule (it is unlikely that such celebrations were called by this name in earlier times) is really a culmination of traditions and practices from many different branches of the same ancient tree.
I consider Yule Tide the most important Holiday within our faith. It is a time of reflection and connection. Many of the customs that I grew up with celebrating Christmas actually began as winter solstice rites (Yule trees, caroling, Yule logs, mistletoe, and others). Perhaps most the most important aspect of this seasonal celebration has to do with the importance of bonding with family. During this 12 day period, we honor many Gods and Goddesses. In our faith we believe that they, as well as the spirits of the earth and of our ancestors all join us for these celebrations. Together we form the spirit of our future generations and so they too are also with us.
The first night of Yule and the last night are the most important ones to me and the ones I will talk about specifically although each night has its own significance and activities.
The first celebration of Yule is Mothers Night. This is a night that is sacred to the Ancestral Mothers. The line of women that stretch from the first woman to the last and includes Mother Earth. We recognize women of strength and courage. We recognize those who bear life. Mothers Night happens the night before the solstice. This is the time a new year is born. The sun is renewed and long winter nights begin to grow longer. Celebrations this night center around the lady of the house symbolically cleaning and seasonally decorating the home. She invites both the living and the dead to join the party and bestows blessings and gifts upon family and friends. Earlier tonight I opened the house to neighbors provided hot drinks and gave out homemade cold remedies. Later the family through the yule log on the fire and I will tend the flame until the sun comes up. A nightlong vigil. A time to connect to the spirit of the mothers and offer joint blessings for our future.
During the night we will be visited by the Yule Tide Lads. These little guys are an adopted Icelandic custom. They are mischievous elves that bring gifts in exchange for food and shelter. They tear through the house, throw food out of the cupboards and make a racket while they are here. We never know what they are going to break. They are a little chaotic but we welcome them anyway. So over twelve days each night they bring a gift. Like a board game or clothes or something needed.
Anyway, that is a quick sum up. Ill tell about new years when we get to it.
Hail the Mothers! Much love to you mom!!
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