Evergreen firs have long been associated with Christmas because of their durability and resilience. They also saw it as a sign of eternal life in heaven, which would protect them from both disease and evil spirits.
Not only did angels arrive in the skies over Bethlehem to proclaim Jesus’ birth, but they also visited Joseph and Mary. As a nod to their heavenly appearance, angels are traditionally displayed atop Christmas trees.
As an alternative to an angel, a star may be placed at the top of the Christmas tree to symbolise the star that shone in the sky above Bethlehem on Christmas night.
Ringing bells has long been associated with banishing bad spirits. The bells on the Christmas tree represent the angelic host praising God upon hearing the news of Jesus’ birth.
The lowly shepherds were the first to worship Christ, and this is commemorated by the shape of the candy cane: a crook made of red and white stripes. Jesus is often commonly referred to as the “Good Shepherd.” In this interpretation, the white might stand for Jesus’ innocence and the crimson for his blood or sacrifice.
The thorny leaves of the holly tree are thought to represent the crown of thorns that Jesus wore. The blood-red berries symbolise his death.
A fruit basket symbolises plenty in the form of food and serves as a gentle reminder to share what we have with those in need.
A pine cone is a symbol of motherhood, fertility, longevity, and fruitfulness.
In the home, the heart is a sign of unconditional love and family unity.
The Holy Spirit is symbolised by the dove, a bird also associated with happiness and pleasure. A nesting bird is a symbol of trust in one’s humble abode.
Good fortune is sometimes associated with the frog because of the amphibian’s forward motion, which serves as a reminder to keep striving.
The tradition of serving tea to guests is a sign of warmth and hospitality.
Another custom is to place a pickle ornament anywhere in the tree. They say whomever discovers it will be blessed with good fortune for a whole year.
One of the four seasonal plants, mistletoe is a parasitic plant. It’s a parasite that thrives on the dead leaves of deciduous trees, and it does so every fall. That’s why it got to be a sign of perpetual life and prosperity.
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