Christmas tradition

Fair day, all.

As November draws to a close, I have received many requests for information regarding the Christmas season and the Witch's tradition related to that holiday. I am pleased to note that so many of you have done a great deal of research regarding Pagan traditions and delighted I am, for some of you have discovered the parallels between Christianity and Paganism. In fact, some of the older Pagan traditions are the basis for Christian traditions.

The Christmas tree is one such parallel. Pagans have long been devoted to trees. The evergreen in particular is symbolic of eternal life. In olden times it was honored by being decorated; though, never cut down. In modern times Christians rush to purchase the trees that have been cut down for the specific pupose of decorating one's home. Thankfully, laws were eventually passed to protect those in the wild and they are now grown on tree farms for the purpose.

Another parallel is the Yule Log. Christians use it as a decoration for tables and mantles while the Yule Log has long been decorated and burned by Pagans for the purpose of fertility spells and spells of protection. The ashes are preserved for rites during the following Yule season. The Yule Log is generally cut from a yew tree (Pagan tradition) for 'tis thought that Yule derives from the word yew. Chrisitans will use any type of tree for their Yule Log.

Then there is the Yule animal; the boar pig. Whole roast pig is a Pagan tradition and in these modern times Christians are more apt to settle for a pork roast or ham.

Another parallel is the Twelve Days of Christmas (Twelve Nights for Witches). 'Tis a time when Christians and Witches alike celebrate and give gifts. Witches give traditional gifts and indulge in devination, spell-casting, and majic rituals. 'Tis during this time when the thin veil between realms becomes thin or non-existant and Spirits slip across to join with the living devoted to them (such as a loved one who has passed over).

All over the world the Christmas season is celebrated in many fashions for a variety of reasons. 'Tis considered a time for dancing, feasting, singing and gift-giving. Though many of the old traditions have been set aside, or forgotten, by some, the true spirit of Christmas still holds true for the faithful. For Chrisitans 'tis the time to celebrate the birth of the Christ Child, sent to die for their sins. Other faiths have similar celebrations related to their particular God and Savior, and the same is true of Witches who celebrate in the name of their Deities.

What matters most here is that all faiths are free to worship and celebrate in their own fashion, and no one should castigate another for his/her choice of belief. But each of us is charged with remembering the true reason and meaning for the season. While merry-making is an acceptable practice, let it no' take the place of of that which is far and away more important and meaningful.