Kissing under the mistletoe is a beloved holiday tradition for many people around the world. Despite how common it is, very few people know about the story behind this tradition. To help you out, here’s a brief discussion on everything that you need to know about why people kiss under mistletoes.
What is Mistletoe?
Mistletoe is a semi-parasitic evergreen shrub that attaches itself to branches of trees and derives its nutrients from the host tree. It grows in clusters, with small, waxy, white berries and leathery leaves. Different species of mistletoe are found in temperate and tropical regions across the world, but the European mistletoe is the most widely known species.
Although mistletoe is sometimes thought of as a Christmas tradition, its use as a festive symbol predates Christianity. In ancient times, the mistletoe was considered a sacred plant due to its ability to stay green and bear fruit during winter. It was associated with peace, love, fertility, and even immortality.
Mistletoe has long been used as a symbol of love and friendship. In some countries, it is a tradition to hang a sprig of mistletoe in the doorway during the Christmas season. When two people pass under the mistletoe, they are expected to share a kiss. This is thought to bring good luck and ensure prosperity in the coming year.
In addition to its traditional use in Christmas celebrations, mistletoe has also been used medicinally for centuries. The berries and leaves of the plant contain compounds that have been used to treat a variety of ailments, including high blood pressure, arthritis, and fever.
Why Do People Kiss Under Mistletoes?
The tradition of kissing under the mistletoe is one that has been around for many centuries, and it is widely celebrated around the world during the festive season. But why do people kiss under the mistletoe?
The origins of this tradition can be traced back to the ancient Norse people. According to Norse mythology, mistletoe was considered a magical plant that had the power to bring peace between enemies. It was believed that if two adversaries hung a branch of mistletoe above their heads and exchanged a kiss, their differences would be resolved and they would be reconciled.
In the Christian tradition, mistletoe was seen as a symbol of love and peace. This is because Jesus was said to have been born under a branch of mistletoe, and it was seen as a reminder of the love and peace of the nativity story.
Today, the tradition of kissing under the mistletoe is seen as a way of spreading love and goodwill during the holiday season. Many people believe that if they kiss under the mistletoe they will be blessed with good luck and fortune. For some, it is a way of expressing their feelings for someone special, while for others it is simply a romantic and festive gesture.
Conclusion
Whatever the reason, it is clear that the tradition of kissing under the mistletoe has been around for centuries, and it is something that will continue to be shared and enjoyed by many people around the world.
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