WE NEVER KNEW..
Have you ever stolen a kiss under the mistletoe? This traditional Christmas plant has long held a place of veneration in the ceremonies and traditions of our European ancestors.
Mistletoe is plant which often attaches itself to the bark of its host tree's upper branches. As a result, ancient Celtic Druids believed that because it was the plant rooted closest to heaven it was a holy plant. Its evergreen leaves symbolized Spring's return. In Scandinavian lands it was considered a symbol of peace, under which warring factions (or spouses) could declare truce. Early Winter solstice traditions often emphasized mistletoe's symbolism of fertility and promise of a return to times of plenty.
Ancient Greeks used mistletoe as a symbol of fertility and long life in their wedding ceremonies. In the middle ages it was hung from ceilings across Europe to ward off evil spirits. In more recent victorian times there were a number of Christmas traditions where young single men and women would kiss under balls of mistletoe to ensure that they would marry in the year to come.
So give a nod to history by grabbing some mistletoe, finding someone you love, and sealing a promise with a kiss.
And may we all live in peace!
P.S. If you have real mistletoe, keep it away from children and pets. The white berries are poisonous!
|