Përgatiti për Diellin, Alfons Grishaj
With Christmas being right around the corner, I came across a book that shared the meaningful symbols of these holy days. I would like to share this with you.
Symbol of the Christmas Tree
Because it stays green all through the year, the evergreen tree is symbolic of the eternal life offered to Christians through faith in Christ. The treetop points heavenward. A star signifies the special star that guided the wise man to Bethlehem.
Lights represent Christ, the light of the world. Gifts beneath the tree are representative of God’s gift of his only begotten son, who brings hope, love, joy and peace.
Saint Nicholas …
Santa Claus
The concept of the American Santa Claus originated with St. Nicholas, who was born in Asia Minor about 270 AD. He was known as a kind, benevolent man and made a saint because of his generosity. In honor of St. Nicholas, December 6 became the traditional day in Europe for the exchange of Christmas gifts and the beginning of the holiday season. Dutch immigrants to the United States brought with them their version of the gift-giving St. Nicholas, known as “Sinter Klass.” Americans, unaccustomed to the Dutch pronunciation, turned this into “Santa Claus,” who is beloved as a symbol of Christmas by children of all ages.
The Star of Bethlehem
Because of its prominence in the Nativity story, the star of Bethlehem is one of the most powerful symbols of Christianity. On Christmas Eve, the Star, shining brightly in the heavens, guided the wise men to the lowly manger where Christ child was born. Matthew 2:2 reads, “ For we have seen his star in the East and have come to worship him.”
Legend of the Icicle
When Christ the Savior was born that first Christmas Eve, the heavenly angels cried in joyful adoration. Their tears of happiness gently fell to earth that crisp winter night, forming icicles on the edges of the stable and nearby evergreens. These tiny pendants of ice twinkled in the radiant starlight. To this day, icicle decorations are often used on Christmas trees as reminders of the joy celebrated over the birth of Christ the King.
Legend of the Christmas Bells
According to early legend, bells rang throughout the world announcing the birth of Christ. The ringing of bells during the joyous holiday season still adds delightful accompaniment to favorite carols and is a significant part of the Christmas celebration. High in the towers, suspended between heaven and earth, church bells have called the faithful to worship for centuries.
Symbol of the Wreath
The Christmas wreath has decorated many doors with a fresh greenery. Wreaths are often made of evergreens, including holly, mistletoe, pine and fir. Because they are green and bear fruit in the winter when other plants appear lifeless and bare, evergreens signify God’s immortality and everlasting life. The wreath’s circular shape reminds us of the circles of life, family and love.
Legend of the Holly
The bright red and green of holly make it a natural symbol of rebirth. Legends regarding this plant abound. According to one legend, holly branches bearing white berries were woven into Christ’s crown of thorns. Since the blood of Christ stained the berries, they grow red on the holly branch to this day. Holly has also come to stand for peace and joy.
Legend of the Christmas Stocking
According to legend, a father was unable to provide his three daughters with a dowry. Hearing of their misfortune and wishing to help, St. Nicholas dropped three bags of gold coins down the chimney. The coins fell into each of the daughters’ stockings, which were hanging by the fire to dry, providing a sufficient dowry. Since then, stocking hung by the fireplace are a traditional part of Christmas gift giving.