Do you burn a Yule log?

Question

How many out there follow the wonderful tradition of burning a yule log each year?

And what does it signify to you?

Answer 1

I do...I burn a birch log. The original Yule Log Ceremony was a festival celebrating the sun during the winter solstice, which occurs close to the time we celebrate Christmas today. It's not originally a Christmas tradition, it was "borrowed" from pagan traditions just like most Christian traditions. I'm guessing you already know that from your user name though LOL

I also have a small ritual of sorts with my friends of different faiths and make it so it's not a "religious" event.

Answer 2

I do not. According to the historian Professor Hislop, the Christmas tree celebration actually harks back to the time of Nimrod some 4,000 years ago: “Now the Yule Log is the dead stock of Nimrod, deified as the sun-god, but cut down by his enemies; the Christmas-tree is Nimrod redivivus—the slain god come to life again.”—The Two Babylons, pages 97, 98.

By burning the pagan yule log, Nimrod’s death was anciently observed on December 24. Then on the 25th, the presence of an evergreen tree depicted the belief of his worshipers that “god Nimrod” had been changed into divine or to immortality. Furthermore, while Christendom is filled to overflowing with such heathen lip service to its professed Leader, it is empty of all the virtues he required of his true followers.

The yule log was annually burned at the December festival by the Scandinavians.Sun worshipers believed that the unburned wood of a yule log had magic powers, that bonfires could give the sun-god strength and bring him back to life, that houses decorated with evergreens would scare away demons, that holly was to be worshiped as a promise of the sun’s return, and that sprigs of mistletoe could bring good luck if worn as charms.

Regarding the choice of December 25 as the date for celebrating Christmas, the above-quoted encyclopedia says: “This was the day which had been dedicated in pagan Rome to the feast of the sun god and had been called Birthday of the Unconquered Sun.” In connection with Christmas customs, we read: “Gift-giving, the Yule log, and mistletoe, are Christianized versions of ancient Roman, Germanic, and Celtic lore.” They are rooted in paganism.

Answer 3

Not much opportunity here in Florida. But I do make a decadent chocolate Yule log cake that is a family tradition and favorite.

Answer 4

We don't burn a yule log but we do burn wood in the wood stove to heat the house.

Answer 5

What's a yule log?

Answer 6

I would if I had a place that I could burn it in without the fire depatment coming and putting it out as a fire hazard.
And getting a ticket for polluting the air.So I'll just have to settle for something with a pine scent to it.

Answer 7

Kinda hard to right in the city....probably burn down the tenement.

Answer 8

I use the ones from the drugstore that have colors...is that what youre referring to? theyre just pretty and warm..

Answer 9

As a Wiccan, YES!

Answer 10

I sure wish I could but I have no fireplace..