Christmas is one of the most joyous and awaited festivals around the world. The day is celebrated with sheer happiness and utmost love by people regardless of their religion. It is the day of giving and receiving love, laughter, gifts, and creating cherished memories with near and dear ones. There are many things that are essential in decorating spaces for Christmas, and one such element is the Christmas Tree. What did you ever ask question, what does the Christmas tree symbolize?
As the festival of Diwali is incomplete without flickering oil lamps, Holi without the splash of vibrant colours, Raksha Bandhan without the pious Rakhi. Similarly, the festival of Christmas is incomplete without a Christmas tree and Christmas gifts. Christmas tree-- an evergreen pine, spruce, or decorated with lights and glittery ornaments with a bright star shining at the top.
But, have you ever wondered why the Christmas tree is an essential part of Christmas festivities? Is it the glittery flash of the tinsel garland? Is it the refreshing piney smell permeating through the room? Or, is the significance?
.If you are curious to know the symbolism of the Christmas tree, then we’ll advise you to prepare for yourself a hot cup of tea or brewing coffee, set up the blaze in a fire mantle, get cozy in a chair and settle down. Because Christmas tree holds different meanings for different people and across cultures.
Spiritual Meaning of a Christmas Tree
In Christianity, Christmas tree is symbolic of birth and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The tree’s branches and shrubs are viewed as an emblem of immortality and are said to symbolize the crown of thorns worn by Christ on the cross. Also, every decoration used to adorn the Christmas tree is believed to have a special significance. And spiritually, our qualities are also said to be ornaments; for instance, peace, love, kindness, joy, goodness, Faithfulness, gentleness, etc. Though, people choose the ornaments for decorating as per their choice. The stated Christmas tree spiritual meaning is followed by all Christians, which is why they give utmost importance and work hard in decorating the Christmas tree. Decorating the tree gives the whole family a cherishable time and every year, all the members come together to adorn the tree with various ornaments and make wishes for a healthy and joyful life.
Commonly, people use a shining star as Christmas tree topper. But why? People are of the opinion that the star guided the wise men to Jesus Child in Bethlem. Angel is also used as tree toppers because it is said it was the angel who announced Christ’s birth.
What Christmas Tree Toppers Stand For?
- The bells hanging at the side of the tree branches represent the joy and happiness of this day.
- The candy cane-shaped, like shepherd’s crook, represents God’s shepherd.
- The wreath is an epitome of true love.
Christmas Tree Meaning and Symbolism in History, Myth, and Lore
Many ancient cultures have their own meanings and significance attached to the Xmas tree, and if you are curious about the Christmas tree meaning in various religions and cultures, refer to the points below.
1. Greeks: The coniferous pine was sacred to Attis, the Greek God for flora-- the world of vegetation. In the Greek tradition, pine was furnished with silver adornments, and bells and offerings were placed under the tree as sacrifices to the deities.
2.Romans: Evergreen trees are held as solar symbolism in Roman culture. The trees were a testimony of light to the Romans. They celebrated the festival of Saturnalia to honor Saturn-- the God of agriculture. To mark the occasion, Roman people decorated their homes and temples with evergreen boughs.
3. Teutonic (Celtic): Trees of firs and pines were embellished gold torcs and pieces of jewellery. It was done with the notion of paying tribute to the deities of life, to assure a good harvest.
4. Japanese and Chinese: Pine and cypress trees are sacred in these two cultures as well as associated with the meaning of immortality, longevity. The wood from these trees is used to built holy structures altars, temples, Shinto Kami structures. Additionally, in these traditions, pine and cypress are assumed to possess the force of life which was felt at these holy structures built.
5. Germans: Germany is credited to start the tradition of decorating the interiors with Christmas trees, as we know. And, it is a widely held belief that Martin Luther, first added illuminated candles to the tree.
Capping Words
Hence, the meaning of the Christmas tree is deeply rooted in Ancient history, tradition, and culture. Much more than for beauty and refreshing piney scent, Christmas tree is adored for its holy importance.
As an enthusiast with a profound understanding of Christmas traditions and symbolism, let's delve into the rich tapestry of concepts mentioned in the article, shedding light on the evidence and knowledge that underpins the significance of the Christmas tree.
Christmas Tree Symbolism:
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Religious Significance:
- The Christmas tree holds profound symbolism in Christianity, representing the birth and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
- The branches and shrubs of the tree are seen as emblems of immortality, symbolizing the crown of thorns worn by Christ on the cross.
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Spiritual Meaning:
- Ornaments decorating the Christmas tree are believed to have special significance, representing qualities such as peace, love, kindness, joy, and faithfulness.
- Each decoration is considered an ornament of spiritual value.
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Family Tradition:
- Decorating the Christmas tree is a cherished family tradition that brings members together to adorn the tree with various ornaments, fostering a sense of unity and joy.
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Christmas Tree Toppers:
- The star commonly used as a Christmas tree topper is thought to symbolize the star that guided the wise men to Jesus in Bethlehem.
- Angels are also used as tree toppers, recalling the angel's announcement of Christ's birth.
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Symbolic Ornaments:
- Bells hanging on the tree branches represent the joy and happiness associated with Christmas.
- Candy cane-shaped ornaments symbolize God's shepherd, and wreaths epitomize true love.
Historical and Cultural Significance:
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Ancient Greek Tradition:
- In Greek culture, the coniferous pine, decorated with silver adornments, was sacred to Attis, the God of flora.
- Bells and offerings were placed under the tree as sacrifices to the deities.
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Roman Symbolism:
- Evergreen trees were regarded as solar symbols in Roman culture, symbolizing light.
- The festival of Saturnalia involved decorating homes and temples with evergreen boughs to honor Saturn, the God of agriculture.
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Teutonic (Celtic) Traditions:
- Trees of firs and pines were adorned with gold torcs and jewelry in the Celtic tradition to pay tribute to deities and ensure a good harvest.
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Japanese and Chinese Beliefs:
- Pine and cypress trees in Japanese and Chinese cultures symbolize immortality and longevity.
- The wood from these trees is used to build holy structures, and the trees are associated with the force of life.
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German Tradition:
- Germany is credited with starting the tradition of decorating Christmas trees, with Martin Luther being attributed to adding illuminated candles to the tree.
In conclusion, the Christmas tree's meaning is deeply rooted in religious beliefs, family traditions, and diverse historical and cultural contexts, making it a symbol of unity, joy, and spiritual significance across the globe.
