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The modern word Yule descends from the Germanic 'Yula', meaning 'wheel' of the year or sun. Yule occurs in the dead of winter, on the Winter Solstice (generally around December 21) when the world has reached its darkest time. And in the midst of this darkness springs hope, light, and flame. It is said that the darkest hour is just before dawn and the holiday of Yule acknowledges and counts on this as the world awaits the rebirth of the sun. Dates vary Yuletide, but it is generally thought to last about twelve days after the actual solstice.
Yule is the holiday dedicated to the birth of the Sun God, who is the son of the god who died the year before. The Christian holiday of Christmas is not much different. Both holidays celebrate the birth of God's son and both holidays have many of the same customs. Of course, as with anything there are differences. For example, as written by the Anglo-Saxon chronicler Bede, the first night of the fest was entitled "Mothernights" and dedicated to Frigga and the disir (fore-mothers). This implies that the celebration of the goddess was every bit as important as the celebration of the return of the god. However, the similarities are so strong that Martin Luther and John Calvin both hated the celebration and spoke out strongly against it. The Purtians would not even acknowledge that the holiday existed and the celebration of Christmas was actually illegal in Boston at one time.
To the Celtic peoples, Yule was the time when the Oak King defeated the Holly King. In the Celtic custom, the Holly King represents death and darkness while the Oak King stands for rebirth and life. Hence, with the Oak King returned to power light shall become prevalent and life return to the earth. It is a time of joy and hope. Yule is a holiday meant to uplift spirits weary from winter and a time to appreciate the wonders that will come with the spring.
Yule is a time for hope, joy, and celebration. And like Christmas it has become a time of caring and gift. It is a time to forget differences and come together in peace.
May the deity/concept of your choice bless you this Yule.
A different type of Yule log, and perhaps one more suitable for modern practitioners would be the type that is used as a base to hold three candles. Find a smaller branch of oak or pine, and flatten one side so it sets upright. Drill three holes in the top side to hold red, green, and white (season), green, gold, and black (the Sun God), or white, red, and black (the Great Goddess). Continue to decorate with greenery, red and gold bows, rosebuds, cloves, and dust with flour.
SHARE THE LIGHT
(The First Noel)
CHORUS: Share the light, share the light!
Share the light, share the Light!
All paths are one on this holy night!
On this Winter holiday, let us stop and recall
That this season is holy to one and to all.
Unto some a Son is born, unto us comes a Sun,
And we know, if they don't that all paths are one.
Be it Chanukah or Yule, Christmas time or Solstice night,
All celebrate the eternal light.
Lighted tree or burning log, Or eight candle flames.
All gods are one god, whatever their names.
MOON OF SILVER
(We Three Kings)
CHORUS: Oh, Moon of Silver, Sun of Gold,
Gentle Lady, Lord so bold!
Guide us ever, failing never,
Lead us in ways of old.
Maiden, Mother, Ancient Crone,
Queen of Heaven on your throne,
Praise we sing Thee, Love we bring Thee,
For all that you have shown.
Lord of Darkness, Lord of Light,
Gentle Brother, King of Might,
Praise we sing thee, Love we bring Thee
On this Solstice night.
GOD REST YE MERRY, PAGANFOLK
(God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen)
God rest ye merry, paganfolk,
Let nothing you dismay.
Remember that the Sun returns
Upon this Solstice day.
The growing dark is ending now
And Spring is on its way.
Oh, tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy!
Oh, tidings of comfort and joy.
The Goddess rest ye merry, too,
And keep you safe from harm.
Remember that we live within
The circle of Her arms,
And may Her love give years to come
A very special charm.
Oh, tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy!
Oh, tidings of comfort and joy!
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