Christmas traditions derived from Slavic customs are often misunderstood and, as it were, distorted. It is similar with the well-known mistletoe. The most popular connection with it today is not exactly what was long believed. This tradition has been slightly changed. What is she really like? What action will make fate favorable for the whole year?
Kissing a loved one under the mistletoe is an extremely well-known superstition. We can even find it in movies – this plant has become a symbol of love. It can help with this feeling, but it is not originally its only property. This symbol has been reduced to one task, and in fact, according to ancient beliefs, it can provide us with much more.
The ritual of hanging mistletoe from the ceiling comes from the Celts. In the British Isles, they used it during magical rituals celebrated on the occasion of the winter solstice (December 21). At that time, the following were mentioned, among others: ghosts, because it was believed that the border between the real world and the afterlife was the thinnest. Mistletoe was used in numerous rituals, mainly it was perceived as a symbol of fertility.
The Slavs also saw the magical properties of mistletoe. According to them this plant was supposed to bring good energy, protect the house from evil spirits and ensure abundance. For this purpose, it and other trees were hung from the ceiling. Currently, only part of the ritual has been preserved, and mistletoe is not associated as a protective plant but as a love-attracting plant.
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Kissing under the mistletoe is one of the superstitions, but contrary to appearances, we do not have to kiss our beloved or the person with whom we are infatuated and with whom we want to be in a relationship. This ritual with mistletoe in its original version actually talked about a kiss, but this one a kiss could take the form of a gentle kiss on the cheek with family members or friends. What’s more, it could even be a warm hug with friends. This was supposed to bring good luck in the coming year. However, we must also be careful that this superstition does not bring us bad luck – If we avoid a kiss or a hug, fate will not necessarily be favorable to us, and bad luck will enter the path of love.
When the holidays are over and we collect the mistletoe, it is not worth throwing it away. According to Slavic superstitions, we should dry it and keep it until next year, thanks to which we will ensure up to 12 months of prosperity and happiness. These rituals are not difficult, nor do they provide any guarantees, but they are certainly worth performing – after all, it is good to help happiness.
