Pagan origins and traditional uses of holly, mistletoe and the yule log.

Origin of Mistletoe

Mistletoe is traditionally hung in a doorway where if two people enter the doorway at the same time they must kiss. This custom originate among ancient pagans, according to Herbert W. Armstrong, and was used at the festival of the winter solstice because mistletoe was considered as sacred to the sun and was presumed to have healing powers. Kissing under the mistletoe was a custom of celebration on this night of winter solstice where people engaged in drunken parties to celebrate the death of the "old sun" and the birth of the "new sun" or winter solstice (Armstrong, 1).

Origin of Holly Berries

Holly berries were traditionally considered as sacred to the sun God ​(Armstrong, 1).

Origin of Christmas Wreaths

Christmas wreaths as stated by Frederick J. Haskins in the book "Answers to Questions" can be traced to pagan customs of decorating buildings and places of worship at a feast which took place at the same time as Christmas. (Armstrong, 1).

Origin of The Yule Log

The Yule log was originally called the "sun log" and was a sacred symbol to the sun-god. ​(Armstrong, 1).

Origin of Christmas-Part 1

Go to Origin of Christmas Part 1

References:

1. Armstrong, Herbert W. (1952, 1972, 1974 edition)  The Plain Truth About Christmas. http://www.coghomeschool.org/site/cog_archives/booklets/PTXMAS.htm