The meaning of the Christmas tree was attributed by Saint Boniface around the 8th century, who chose the pine as a symbol of eternal life. This tree, having evergreen leaves, lives both in winter As in summer, it is considered a "tree of life," associated with hope and renewal. Since then, the Christmas tree has become a fundamental element in the celebration of Christmas or Easter, along with the Advent wreath, the Nativity scene, and the Nativity scene.
A Christian symbol
The Christmas tree has a strong religious link with Christianity. On the one hand, it is associated with the tree of paradise which Adam and Eve ate, introducing original sin. On the other hand, it also announces the arrival of the Messiah, who represents the true tree of life , which erases sin and brings reconciliation. Thus, this Christian symbol establishes a connection between the Old and New Testaments, with the promise of salvation through Christ.
The Christmas Tree and the Advent Wreath
The Christmas tree is, along with the Advent wreath, one of the most significant traditions of Christmas. Both are elements that invite us to reflect on the arrival of Christ and the spiritual meaning of this holiday.
The decorative elements of Christmas trees are usually: a star or an angel at the top; colored balls and lights. Other elements are tinsel, garlands, bows, and various ornaments.
Gifts
At the foot of the tree, also known in Latin American countries as the "Christmas pine," Christmas gifts are often left as a symbol of love and generosity toward loved ones. It's customary to leave them before Christmas Day, December 24th, to symbolize the anticipation and anticipation of the celebration.
From a Christian perspective, the gifts on the tree are a reminder of the offerings that the Three Wise Men brought to baby Jesus: gold, myrrh and incense.
Prayer to pray as a family on the Third Sunday of Advent
Christmas tree decoration
The Christmas tree is not only significant for its shape and origin, but also for the elements with which it is decorated. Each of them has a symbolism.
- The star : Traditionally placed at the top of the tree, it represents the faith that must guide the life of the Christian, remembering the star of Bethlehem that guided the Three Wise Men to the birth of Jesus.
- The Spheres : It seems that at first Saint Boniface decorated the tree with apples, representing temptations with them. Today, it is customary to place balls or spheres (in some regions also called backstage o chirimbolos), which symbolize the gifts of God to men.
- Links :These ornaments represent the union of families and loved ones around gifts that are intended to be given and received. They remind us of the bonds of love and solidarity that are strengthened during Christmas.
- Lights :In the early days, candles were used to symbolize the light of Christ. Today, LED lights continue to represent the light that illuminates the darkness.
Meaning of Christmas tree colors
The color green The tree is a symbol of life and hope, while the top of the tree, which rises towards the sky, represents the heavenly heights, pointing towards divinity and connection with the spiritual world.
Evolution
The tradition of decorating the tree began in Scandinavia and Germany in the 16th and 17th centuries, and spread to other European countries and later to the rest of the world.
Nowadays, Christmas trees can be found in a variety of forms: from natural trees, such as pines and firs, to artificial ones, which are usually made of synthetic or plastic materials and emulate a real tree.
When is the Christmas tree put up?
The truth is that there is no exact date for putting up the Christmas tree. Each family has its own custom. It also depends on the country and, in some cases, on the religion that is professed.
In the Catholic faith, it is suggested to put up the tree on December 8, coinciding with the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.
For some families in Mexico, Central and South America it is customary to put it on December 16, a day that coincides with the beginning of the traditional Posadas, which in Ecuador and Colombia are known as Christmas Novenas or Strenna Novenas.
In Spain it is customary to put up the tree on December 1, a date that coincides with the beginning of the Advent Calendar.
Other countries in Northern Europe, such as Sweden and Norway, decorate the tree on December 13, which is the day on which Saint Lucia is commemorated. She is believed to bring light and hope; and she is in charge of bringing gifts for girls and boys. It is the equivalent of what we know as Santa Claus or Santa Claus in the West.
The meaning of the Christmas tree is that of a powerful symbol that, beyond its decorative beauty, invites us to reflect on faith, life and hope. It is a reminder of the importance of the ties with our loved ones. Merry Christmas!
Update: November 2024
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