When I noticed how many sellers make use of the various festivals in order to increase their sales, I was appalled. Some brands have no connection whatsoever to the festival. Therefore, I felt that there was a need to remind ourselves about the true meaning of why we have the festivals in the first place. While we celebrate with friends and family, let’s not forget the religious significance, before we begin stressing about decor, shopping, gifting, elaborate spreads, etc.
Christmas is celebrated all over the world. Preparations for rum cakes begin two months in advance, trees and decorations are purchased, gift shopping goes on the rise, etc. But, did you know that Easter is more important than Christmas? The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ are more important than his birthday because the former marks Jesus’ sacrifice for us. Many of us have forgotten that amid the glitz and glam of Christmas.
Nevertheless, I will be writing about Easter soon. For now, let’s remind ourselves about the true meaning of Christmas and what everything associated with it represents.
Christmas (according to us Christians) is the celebration of the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. The word ‘Christmas’ means the ‘mass of Jesus Christ’. A mass service is a gathering of people who pray to God, Jesus and Mother Mary. The mass service includes the celebration of the Holy Eucharist.
The Christmas mass is generally held at midnight because it is believed that Jesus was born at midnight. Of course, in many places, due to safety issues, the midnight mass takes place as early as 19:00 hours on the 24th of December. There are various theories about why Christmas is celebrated on the 25th of December, every year. Read more about them here.
The true meaning of Christmas is LOVE. Christmas reminds us of Jesus Christ who loves us. Therefore, we must try to give up thinking only about ourselves and bring happiness to those around us. Christmas is when we should spend quality time with our loved ones. Instead of stressing ourselves over expensive gifts, I’m sure our kids will love it if we gift them with our precious time, don’t you think?
A project to do as a family: We, generally, spend Advent doing simple Christmas projects like painting pine cones or making greeting cards for friends. One time we created a family tree for Jesus. This included the 59 forefathers of Jesus. You can do many other activities to teach your kids the true meaning of Christmas.
WHAT COLOURS ARE USED DURING CHRISTMAS AND WHY?
Red depicts the blood of Jesus. White represents the purity of Jesus. Green symbolizes nature which is an important part of our existence. The colours silver and gold represent the most valuable blessings we receive in life.
Christmas decorations are either hung on the tree or placed around the house. Have you ever wondered why certain items are used as decorations during Christmas? Below you will see what they represent.
The Christmas bow, and its red colour, symbolize the eternal bonds of goodwill that bind us and our loved ones together.
Tinsel streamers and decorative lights both represent the starry night sky when Jesus was born. Before electricity, to light up the Christmas tree, tinsel was used to reflect the flickering of the candle lights. Now, we adorn our trees with decorative lights along with tinsel and decorative bulbs.
It is believed that St. Boniface, in the 8th century, used the triangular shape of the fir tree to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, Holy Spirit) as a single unified entity. The pure green colour of the royal and respectful fir tree remains intact all year round, thereby representing the everlasting hope of mankind.
God loves us and sent His only begotten son to save us from our sins. Gifts are reminders that we should always be thankful to God for giving us a precious gift – His son Jesus. In the spirit of Christmas, we should also try and help the poor and needy.
The star of Bethlehem was the heavenly sign of the arrival of Jesus, as God had promised. The star reminds us that God fulfilled his promise by sending a Saviour to the world.
A candy cane represents the shepherd’s crook. The crook on the staff helps the shepherd to care for his sheep and bring back strayed ones to the flock. Therefore, the candy cane is a reminder that God will always bring us back if we go astray. It also reminds us to take care of our brothers and sisters.
The candle symbolizes Jesus Christ who is the light of the world. The candle reminds us how Jesus pulls us out from the darkness (the clutches of the devil) and sends us into the light (the hands of God).
Bells would be used to call people to church when there were no watches or calendars. Therefore, a bell represents a call to worship or moral awakening.
A Christmas wreath symbolizes the endless love for God. In addition to this, it symbolizes how true love has no beginning and no end.
Santa Claus (St. Nicholas) was a kind and loving man who helped those in need. His effigy symbolizes the joy of giving during the Christmas season.
The sharp holly leaves represent the crown of thorns worn by Jesus. The red berries represent the blood of Jesus shed for us.
The angels gave the good news to the shepherds, about the birth of our Saviour, by singing ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to people of goodwill’.
The Nativity Scene is the official term for what we commonly refer to as the Christmas Crib. It is built to represent the humble birth of Jesus Christ, who was born in a stable and placed in a manger. The crib exhibits the Holy Family (his parents with Him), the shepherds (the first humble visitors), the animals that surrounded Him, the angels who announced His birth and the star (that guided the three kings to the stable in which Jesus was born).
No one knows when the three wise men followed the star and visited Jesus. But, the three kings, along with their expensive gifts (which are an addition to the Christmas Crib) represent the legendary and historical journey that was made to visit the Son of God.
Carol means ‘to sing happily’. Carols are festive songs which were sung in Europe thousands of years ago. They became more associated with Christmas and the nativity only in the late Middle Ages.
I’m sure many of you have come across the song ‘The 12 Days of Christmas’. Click on the link to know the real meaning of this song. Do you have a favourite Christmas Carol? Tell us in the comments below. You can listen to some of them here.
We all throw or attend Christmas parties year after year. But, what is the real idea of getting together with family and friends? No, it is not to eat, drink and dance. Christmas is a time to get together with loved ones and share the love, peace and joy of Christmas. Families and close friends come together to pray and give thanks to our Creator for sending His only son to save us. This is the time to forgive those you’ve had misunderstandings with and make peace with them.
So, while you celebrate Christmas this year, do remember what Christmas truly means. Perhaps you could donate something to those less fortunate or do something good without expecting anything in return. Whatever it is, don’t forget the true meaning of Christmas. God bless you!
Did this post increase your knowledge about the true meaning of Christmas? Let me know in the comments below.
This write up is compiled by my mom and myself for the love of Christmas!
This post is a part of ‘Feeling Festive Blog Hop’ hosted by Manali Desai and Sukaina Majeed under #EveryConversationMatters
Feature image by George Dolgikh
70 Comments
thanks a lot dear Cyndy for the well written very informative article on the real Meaning christmas. it appeals to all persons irrespective of various religious beliefs. the true msg of Christmas is that of love peace and joy. Happy christmas to you .
To you too, Jyothi!
your blog post reminded me about the interview of javed akhtar where 25th is celebrated as christmas and I am defeitely getting more and more curious about the festivals connected to the pagon . Do you know about it?
Nope, not sure if I’m aware of those festivals.
Thank you so much, Cindy, for sharing such a wealth of knowledge around Christmas. I’m sure, many, including myself, are only learning most things around this popular festival, after reading your post.
What a mesmerizing tale of Christmas. It reminded me of school days when we used to use all these things to decorate our Chaple. To bring a smile on some other’s face s the greatest gift on any festival.
This post beautifully captures the essence of Christmas! It’s such a refreshing reminder to pause amidst all the festivities and reconnect with the deeper meaning behind it all—the love, kindness, and joy we share with others. Thank you for bringing to light the significance of each decoration and tradition. It’s inspiring to think about making this season more meaningful.
Such a descriptive post it is! Thanks for writing about the significance of colours and elements that are used for Christmas decor. I love the spirit of Christmas, decoration and celebration. As someone living in Europe, lights for Christmas have already been set up.
Wow that’s awesome!
Well, I learned alot about Christmas from this. The pictures add an extra thrill to the post. Its great to know little things about festivals that have been lost in the flashiness of marketing and branding and other fancy customs.
I remember coming across this post earlier. We often celebrate festivals beyond our own without even being aware of the traditions or the symbolism. Thanks for sharing such an informative post, Cindy.
I have been taught by nuns in school so I knew most of these but learned a few more things. Thank you for sharing such an informative post.
What an absolutely lovely post that brings out the true meaning of Christmas. I didn’t know that Easter was much important. Thanks for sharing this
This is a much needed blog to share with everyone. Festivals are more about pomp and show these days
I like Christmas though I’m not a religious person. There’s a lot of cheer in the Christmas air.
I have always loved Christmas as much as i love Diwali because both have lights , decorations , good food and family.
It is wonderful that you have shared the true meaning of Christmas and the Christmas tree ornaments and decorations. It adds so much value to the festival when you know the why behind the what.
True, Preeti!
Thanks Cindy. I never thought of looking up the meaning of the decoration items used for christmas. This post was an eye-opener in that sense.
Your post makes for such meaningful reading, Cindy. I did know much about Christmas, but the way you have explained the significance of all the Christmas ornaments is lovely. I have always loved the Christmas feel, and your post just made it even more special for me. Thank you. Love your post!
Thank you, Deepti!
Loved reading this post Cindy. Having studied in a convent school ( and yes, attended mass too!) I thought I had a fair understanding of the significance of the symbols of Christmas. But you have opened up a much wider world, specially about the carol 12 days of Christmas. I do agree with you that mass commercialization has taken us away from the true significance of our festivals and the rituals associated with them.
Your blog took me down my memory lane where as a child I enjoyed Christmas more than any other festival because there is no noise of crackers and musical instruments. Studying in a convent, I sat for long hours in the Church absorbing it’s calm. I experienced that peace once again today after reading your blog.
Thank you, Aparna!
This post of yours is loaded with so much information about Christmas. Thank you for enlightening me, Cindy !
You have highlighted the symbolic significance so well. I am seeing the family tree for the first time. It’s nice to have goodies for positive vibes.
Thank you, Ambica!
I agree with what you said, marketing trends indeed deceive the real essence of celebritions. I know Easter and Christmas, but I did not know Easter is more important than Christmas. Also, the decor motifs, they are easily available in market, but the real significance of each could be learned only through your post. Good one. 🙌
Thank you, Nilshree!
It is very important to learn the real meaning of any festival You’re post brought many things out that one might have not known about Christmas.
Such a nice post to remind all that the true essence and meaning for Christmas is love. These days it’s all just about posting pictures and decorations and people have forgotten why the festival is truly celebrated.
This post has certainly increased my knowledge about the true meaning of Christmas, décor and party. Wow, I have been celebrating Christmas for so many years, never realizing fully about the finer details. I’ll share this post with my friends and family now.
Thank you Rahul.
The core meaning of each festival should be known and it can happen through posts like this. I cam to know many points about the decor and its link with Christmas.
Christmas is the season of love togetherness and spending quality time together. Great to read about Christmas and it’s true meaning.
This is so nicely explained Cindy. I didn’t know about some of these. Festivals are so important to celebrate and spread the joy.
Wow that’s such a nice post with learning more about the festival 😊 we can now answer to our kids about the celebration
This was a beautiful Read Cindy. I Too believe in celebrating the essence of every festival. We ensure that we imbibe the same values to our children as well. Christmas is more about spending time with family for us.
Wow! This is such a fascinating and interesting post! The Christmas decor items and their meaning as well as the significance of colours was new to me. Thanks for this enlightening post!
The true meaning of Christmas is love, absolutely. Season of giving. Btw do u know, we Muslims believe in Jesus & Mary? In fact one chapter of Quran is named on MARYAm (mary)
Yes I do. I was brought up among Muslims in the Gulf. We have quite a few common beliefs.
Thanks for sharing this amazing facts about Christmas decor and party. I am not aware of all these. I enjoyed reading this article
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said “one is not a muslim untill he believes in prophet Jesus”
Our scriptures share so many teachings and as a mother raising two kids which lacks the essence of unity greatly, i try to inculcate only one thought in my kids. “through humanity we unite”
Good thought! We should all believe in humanity.
Just a few days ago I was discussing with my husband that I want to know about real meaning of Christmas, and here you are with a wonderful post. Lot of information. Merry Christmas
God answers our questions in many ways.
Such a beautiful post with a meaningful msg. Indeed nowdays festivals have become an another occasion to eat, drink, party and gifts and many of us really forget the true meaning of celebration. Thanks a lot to aunty and you for sharing this important aspect of Christmas celebration.
Loved reading all about my favourite festival. There is so much to be Merry about and enjoy . This was such a positive post.
I love Christmas as I completed my education in Convent school I had the great experience to be part of this festival.
Every festival has a significance that has nothing to do with the commercialism around it. Loved how you explained Christmas and everything related to it! It is s festival of joys.
There are so many takeaways for me. I had zero knowledge of these amazing facts behind Christmas. And it’s so much fun to share some of these with Vaidik.
This is so good to know Cindy, I didn’t know the meaning of all the decor items. I like making my own ornaments too.
So crisply explained in detail. I never knew these significance. Thanks for such a hearty read.
Wow Cindy… thanks for explaining the meaning of Christmas and the decor…. i had no idea about most of the things n this was insightful and I am gonna talk about it to my kids too. I’ve attended mid night mass once with my friend way back in school days n its really awesome.
Very good post about the true meaning of Christmas, decor and party. Highly informative and nicely written. Keep up the good work. Wishing you a merry Christmas in advance. May God bless you.
For any festival to celebrate in its true sense, it is very important to understand the meaning behind the rituals. I wasn’t aware of the these details about Christmas. I am very happy that you wrote on this topic. Usually, we share craft idea, recipes, decoration but all that make sense when we know why we are doing what we are doing.
Cannot blame you when some of us Christians only forget the true meaning of Christmas!
So lovely thanks for explaining the real meaning behind the Christmas rituals. I love this festival
I didn’t know most of the things related to christmas. These are really detailed! Thanks for explaining!
Wow! I didn’t know these things about Christmas! This was a beautiful read! Thank you for sharing all about it.. ❤️
Wow !! It was a good read.
I really dint had the complete knowledge about the festival but I use celebrate it with full swing. I m so happy to read full blog about it.
Glad to know about the real meaning of Christmas celebrations. Christmas is all about celebrating the birth of jesus christ as a Savior. Great thoughts.
The real meaning of Christmas, and the meaning of different traditions, have indeed got buried beneath the sweeping commercialization. Nice of you to highlight the real meaning of Christmas.
So true Cindy, many of us, especially non-Christians, never really think of the actual significance behind the celebrations- we just celebrate it with the trinkets that we see outwardly!
Yeah for you guys it’s like how we celebrate Eid just for the mutton biryani and Diwali to light crackers hehe… But yes learning about the true meaning of different festivals is a good thing I realized…
This is a lovely article. My Catholic friend has been telling me this for years but reading the symbolism just makes it more real. Very informative.
Thanks Ambica. Do send it to her. She may love to read it.
I love Christmas as I completed my education in Convent school I had the great experience to be part of this festival.. I loved reading about everything so detailed…
This is such an informative post. I didn’t know about all this. Thanks for sharing!
I was totally unaware of all these meanings. Really enjoyed reading the whole post. Thanks dear for sharing ❤️.
Nicely explained. For me festivals and occassions like birthdays also means sharing what we have with others. The heartfelt blessings we receive add to joy of the occasion.