Why Do We Do That? Christmas Traditions & Their Roots

Most Christmas traditions have nothing whatsoever to do with Jesus, so why are they part of the celebration of his birthday? Most of these practices have their origins in Paganism and winter celebrations predating Christianity. They were assimilated by the church as it sought to convert Europe to Christianity. What do those Pagan traditions symbolize, then? Well, I'll tell you.

Decorating the Tree & Decking the Halls

The evergreen tree is a symbol of the Earth's vitality. These beauties remain green year-round, even when the world is covered in snow. It is a reminder, when all seems cold is dead, that life goes on and that spring will return. This is why evergreen trees are decorated at the Winter Solstice, known as Yule to modern Pagans like me. This is why red and green are traditional Christmas colors, because as everyone knows, the evergreen plant holly has green leaves and red berries. According to Wikipedia, it provides shelter to birds during the frosts, which sweetened the hollyberries, and so it was believed to shelter fairies as well. According to About.com, holly was a part of many holiday rituals, including the story of the Oak King and Holly King which was acted out. Holly stood out in winter because of its bright colors. It's prickly leaves became associated with Jesus' crown of thorns, hence its significance to Christian Christmas celebration.

Star atop the Tree

The pentagram, a five-pointed star, represents Earth, Air, Fire, Water, and Spirit-- the elements of Life--to Pagans. Stars have always been an important part of Pagan belief, including astrology. They are significant to Christmas now because of the star that guided the Wisemen, or Maji, to visit the Christ child. I wear a pentacle around my neck for protection, and the star atop my tree is meant to protect my home. To my Christian home, it is a reminder of the Nativity Story.

Festival of Lights