The practice of burning a Yule log dates at least from the early Druidic tradition to celebrate light and the return of the sun from its southern-most position. Used in Celtic, Tutonic, and many other cultures, a massive log is cut months in advance and allowed to season. Surrounded by many superstitions, the Yule log has been, at various times, associated with destroying all hatred and misunderstandings, promoting good fellowship, warding off lightning and evil spirits, and bestowing of gifts to children. Never allowed to burn completely, it was hoped that the log would last 12 days, and a section of the log is saved to light the Yule log the following year thus assuring continuity.
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