What Is the Burning Mistletoe Legend?
Along with holly and the fir tree, mistletoe is one of the plants most associated with Christmastime. Many of us know it as the plant under which we can steal a kiss from a loved one. This is associated with fertility, something particularly important at winter time. However, kissing under the mistletoe is only one festive tradition associated with this plant. Another less well-known tradition is to burn mistletoe around Christmastime. This symbolic act has spiritual importance to various cultures, especially those of northern Europe. For many, it is associated with good luck, protection of the home and love.
At oneHOWTO, we ask what is the burning mistletoe legend? We look at the meaning of burning mistletoe at Christmas, as well as when you should do it yourself.
What is the mistletoe legend?
The mistletoe legend originates in Norse mythology, where it is linked to the death and resurrection of Balder, the god of light. According to the story, Balder was killed by an arrow made of mistletoe, the only plant that could harm him. After his death, the gods declared mistletoe a symbol of love and peace, leading to the tradition of kissing under it.
However, there are other legends and practices associated with this plant. One of the most important to certain northern cultures is the burning of mistletoe at Christmastime.
Why do you burn mistletoe at Christmas?
The custom of burning mistletoe is deeply rooted in European and North American traditions, although it is not as common a practice as it once was. The roots of the mistletoe legend lie in Celtic culture and Norse mythology, both of which see mistletoe as a sacred plant. The practice is was a ritual created to attract love, protection and luck. It is still fundamental in regions with more Celtic or Norse influence and also in those that follow deep-rooted pagan traditions.
The burning of the mistletoe plant has great symbolism. The mistletoe itself is considered to be an amulet capable of absorbing bad energies in the home. Placing it as an ornament during Christmas was done to protect your home and its inhabitants. If it is an amulet which can absorb negative energies, burning mistletoe is a ritualistic way to release them. While you may not believe the mistletoe is physically capable of doing so, many people choose to burn the mistletoe at the end of the festive season and the beginning of the New Year.
Some cultures that perform the ritual believe that not burning mistletoe can cause energy to stagnate or even attract bad luck. So if you want to join in this purification rite, don't forget to burn your mistletoe once the festivities are over. We explain more about when to burn mistletoe in the next section.
If you want to think of a way to have more fun during the festive period, check out our article sharing the best Christmas riddles with answers.
When do I burn mistletoe?
Mistletoe is one of the most symbolic plants of Christmas. In addition to its decorative use during this time, this plant is related to ancestral rites that aim to attract luck, protection and love. Among these traditions, the custom of burning mistletoe stands out.
In Europe, this tradition usually takes place on 13th December, coinciding with Saint Lucia's day. However, in some countries such as Spain, it is more common to do it after Kings' Day on 6th January. This is as a symbol of closing the Christmas holidays and beginning the New Year. Some also do it later at the beginning of Candlemas on 2nd February.
Any of these dates is suitable to carry out this burning mistletoe ritual. The main objective is to renew the spirit which can often be depleted during Christmas and give way to a new cycle with a positive beginning.
How to burn mistletoe
If you decide to follow this ritual, here is a step-by-step guide on how to burn mistletoe properly:
- Choose a well-ventilated location, such as a patio or garden. If this is not possible, try burning the mistletoe using a fireproof container or in a fireplace.
- Perform the ritual with your family. Gathering around the burning of mistletoe will allow you to spend time together and strengthen your union.
- Before burning the mistletoe, give thanks for all the good things you have achieved in the year that is coming to an end. Express all the wishes you have for starting this new cycle.
- Now you can light the mistletoe with the help of a match or lighter. Let it burn completely and above all pay attention while burning to avoid any accidents.
As you can see, it is a very simple ritual in which you only have to control where you burn the mistletoe to avoid any danger. Always remember to make a controlled fire in designated spaces or suitable containers.
What if I forgot to burn the mistletoe?
If you put away all your Christmas decorations and forget to burn the mistletoe, you don't need to worry. While tradition dictates that you should burn the mistletoe once the Christmas holiday period is over and suggests some specific dates to do so, remember that you can burn it at any time. The idea is really to close the cycle of the year and begin the new one with a positive spirit.
If you cannot burn it, another option is to bury it in a special place. Some people believe more in this alternative, as it is a symbol of returning the plant to the earth, a gesture that also serves to close the energy cycle of the mistletoe.
Now that you know the mistletoe legend, you may want to learn more about how Christmas is celebrated in the USA.
If you want to read similar articles to What Is the Burning Mistletoe Legend?, we recommend you visit our Festivities & Celebrations category.
