The word Yule is of scandinavian origin, and the Yule Log is the domestic counter part of the communal Yule bonfire. Normally made of oak, though sometimes made of ash, the log was originally dedicated to Thor, the norse god of courage and fire. It was his job to dispel the cold and dark of the harsh northern winters and bring the warmth of the sun back to the people. The Yule Log, therefore, was burned in sympathetic magick, hoping to inspire the god to share his blessings and bring back the sun. Decorated with ivy, ribbons and evergreens, the Yule Log was then blessed with holy water, ale or wine to bring forth manifestation. The Yule Log was lit with a piece of last year's log to close the cycle of the seasons, from one Yule to the next. Never allowed to burn completely, pieces were saved as a charm against misfortune over the coming months.