What does "the ancient Yule-tide carol" mean in Deck the Halls?

Question

It is supposed to be an original Welch song

Answer 1

Deck the Halls With Boughs of Holly is an old English song referring to the pre-Christian celebrations that took place at that time of year - Pagan in origin. Greenery was used for decoration, and a large log (the Yule log) was dragged in and burned. The ancient Yule tide Carol would be a song celebrating these events. I don't know if it refers to a particular carol but there are plenty around with that sort of theme. The Boar's Head Carol is one such, although it does have links with Christianity. Hope this helps.

Answer 2

Here is Nos Galan

an ancient Welch Yuletide Carol
which celebrates Yule - the new year...
predating christianity in Wales

and an english translation


I'r helbulus oer yw'r biliau
Sydd yn dyfod yn y Gwyliau,
Gwrando bregeth mewn un pennill,
Byth na waria fwy na'th ennill

To the troubled cold (i.e. chilling) are the bills
Which come during the holidays;
Listening to a sermon in one verse;
Spending more than you earn.
(I don't think I did this verse very well. s,ww)

Oer yw'r eira ar Eryi,
Er fod gwrthban gwlanen arni,
Oer yw'r bobol na ofalan',
Gwrdd a'u gilydd ar Nos Galan,

Cold is the snow on Snowdon,
Although it wears a woolen blanket,
Cold are the people who don't take care
To meet each other on New Year's Eve.


the source I read noted that this is an ancient folk song, that allow (encourages) many additional verses, made up by singers.