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- The tradition of using holly, ivy, and evergreen plants during Christmas dates back to ancient pagan rituals, symbolising eternal life and the resilience of nature through winter. These symbols were later incorporated into Christian celebrations, with holly representing the crown of thorns worn by Jesus and ivy signifying resurrection.
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Dec 20, 2016 · Holly and Ivy are often linked together at Christmas; this goes back much further, to the idea of the holly (male) and ivy (female) being burnt together at the pagan festival of Beltane. Ivy, like holly, is an important evergreen edible plant species in UK woodland.
- Ancient-Origins
Dec 23, 2015 · Holly and Ivy are often linked together at Christmas; this goes back much further, to the idea of the holly (male) and ivy (female) being burnt together at the pagan festival of...
- Peter Glaves
Today, holly and ivy are still used in our celebration of modern Christmas. They are often used in the creation of Christmas wreaths, boughs and other trimmings. While belief in their mystical powers may have dissipated, nonetheless they remain beautiful decorations for the holiday home.
"The Holly and the Ivy" is a traditional British folk Christmas carol, listed as number 514 in the Roud Folk Song Index. The song can be traced only as far as the early nineteenth century, but the lyrics reflect an association between holly and Christmas dating at least as far as medieval times.
- Ancient Origins of The Tradition of Using Evergreen Plants in Winter
- Symbolism of Holly, Ivy, and Evergreen Plants
- Modern Celebrations
- Specific Cultural Practices
- Folklore and Customs
Pagan Traditions
The origins of using holly, ivy, and evergreen plants at Christmas time go back to ancient pagan traditions. The Celts, Romans, Druids, and other early societies used these plants during their mid-winter festivals as a symbol of everlasting life. The Romans, for instance, celebrated the festival of Saturnalia, dedicated to the god Saturn. During this time, they adorned their homes and temples with green boughs. Similarly, the Druidsconsidered holly and ivy as sacred plants, using them in thei...
Adapting Pagan Symbols for Christian Festivals
When Christianity spread across Europe, many of these pagan traditions were adapted to fit Christian beliefs. Early Christians decorated their homes with holly as it was believed to protect them from evil spirits and witches’ spells. The sharp edges of holly leaves came to symbolise the crown of thorns worn by Jesus, while the red berries represented his blood.
Holly
Holly has played a pivotal role in Christmas celebrations for centuries due to its strong Christian symbolism. As mentioned earlier, the holly plant’s pointed leaves are seen as a symbol of the crown of thorns Jesus wore during his crucifixion, and the red berries are symbols of the drops of blood that were shed.
Ivy
Ivy has been associated with Christmas since ancient times, too. It represents eternal life, resurrection, and rebirth. In traditional English celebrations, ivy was only used outside and was considered bad luck if brought into the home, a belief that differed significantly from the use of holly.
Evergreen Plants
Evergreen plants, such as pine, spruce, and fir, are frequently used as Christmas trees. The practice of bringing a Christmas tree into the home and decorating it has been popular since the 16th century. The evergreen tree, which retains its green foliage throughout the year, symbolises eternal life, the promise of spring, and the endurance of life through the winter months.
Even today, holly, ivy, and other evergreen plants continue to be a fundamental part of Christmas celebrations around the world. They are used in wreaths, garlands, and other decorations, and the tradition of setting up and decorating a Christmas tree has become a cherished ritual in many families.
European Traditions
In many European cultures, holly, ivy, and evergreen plants have specific roles and symbolism. In Germany, for instance, evergreen trees were traditionally decorated with apples and candles, which were later replaced by Christmas lights.
American Traditions
In the United States, the use of evergreens during Christmas time was popularised in the 19th century, mainly influenced by Germantraditions. The Christmas tree became a staple of American Christmas celebrations, often decorated with homemade ornaments and popcorn strings in the early days.
The Holly King and the Oak King
In Celtic mythology, the Holly King and the Oak King are part of an enduring legend. The Holly King rules over the waning half of the year, from midsummer to midwinter, while the Oak King rules the waxing half. During the winter solstice, the Oak King defeats the Holly King, heralding the return of longer days. This story further emphasises the association of holly with the winter season.
The Tradition of Kissing Under the Mistletoe
Mistletoe, another evergreen used in Christmas celebrations, has a unique custom associated with it. The tradition of kissing under the mistletoecomes from a Norse myth. It was believed that those who kissed under the mistletoe would receive good luck and protection from harm. Today, a sprig of mistletoe is often hung in homes during Christmas, and those who find themselves underneath it are expected to share a kiss.
Christmas Wreaths
Christmas wreaths, made from evergreens, holly, and ivy, have a special meaning. The circular shape of the wreathsymbolises eternal life, a theme consistent with the symbolism of evergreens. Wreaths are commonly hung on front doors as a sign of welcome and to celebrate the spirit of Christmas. These additional details show how deep and rich the tradition of using holly, ivy, and evergreen plants during Christmas truly is. From the ancient world to modern times, these plants have been imbued w...
This is related in the Christmas carol, ‘The Holly and the Ivy’. Yet even this is an echo of a pre-Christian celebration. A boy in a suit of holly leaves and a girl in ivy, paraded around the village.
Dec 18, 2015 · One of the best-loved of Christmas carols, “The Holly and the Ivy” has a gentle tune to flatter girlish soprano voices and an easy chorus for the rest of the crowd. It also packs a range of ...
