Under the Misteltoe

Subject: Under the Misteltoe Thu Nov 06, 2008 3:09 pm

Under the Misteltoe wasn't always a place to be kissed.

In Roman times, this white-berried plant was more a symbol of peace than romance.

When people warring with each other met beneath a mistletoe covered tree, they would throw down their weapons, at least temporarily.
Later on, in England and Scandinavia, the plant was hung over entryways, anyone passing under it was supposed to come in peace and would receive a friendly greeting, such as a kiss.
Todays romantic custom of kissing under the mistletoe was probably derived from this.
And part of the fun, according to tradition is that you can't refuse a kiss from anyone who catches you there!

Subject: Re: Under the Misteltoe Thu Nov 06, 2008 3:09 pm

Mistletoe was used by Druid priests 200 years before the birth of Christ in their winter celebrations. They revered the plant since it had no roots yet remained green during the cold months of winter.

The ancient Celtics believed mistletoe to have magical healing powers and used it as an antidote for poison, infertility, and to ward of evil spirits. The plant was also seen as a symbol of peace, and it is said that among Romans, enemies who met under mistletoe would lay down their weapons and embrace.

Scandanavians associated the plant with Frigga, their goddess of love, and it may be from this that we derive the custom of kissing under the mistletoe. Those who kissed under the mistletoe had the promise of happiness and good luck in the following year.