… In early times, Christmas tree was considered as the “Tree of Life” which symbolizes life and universe. Before electric Christmas tree lights were invented, families would use candles to light up the tree. Yes, the Christmas tree has some connection with their religion, but they don’t really see it primarily as a religious symbol. Thank you all for helping us reach our goal of 1,000 donors. Since non-religious decorations are permissible, there is always debate over whether a Christmas tree is a religious symbol. The only controversy stirred up over trees, he says, came when someone suggested that his parish get an artificial tree instead of a fresh-cut one. For families in North America, Germany and other parts of Europe, the Xmas Tree is the symbol of the Christmas season. While a decorated tree may have religious connotations for some people, the U.S. Supreme Court has determined that a Christmas tree is generally a secular nonreligious symbol. Pope John II started the tradition of putting a Christmas tree in Saint Peter's Square in 1982. Some experts think the practice came from Finland, she says, and then spread to other parts of Europe. That really threw me for a loop. “It might have been pagan, but now is Christian. This view was also adopted by the EEOC. Use the guidance from the Supreme Court's cases to differentiate between a secular symbol and a religious symbol. It depends on how religious symbol is defined. Christmas trees had been a tradition in his home country of Poland, but it wasn't yet a tradition at the Vatican. We couldn’t have done it without your support. Back in 2005, the city did just that. Some people in the congregation took issue with that. Related: Listen to Shirin Jaafari's story about deciding whether she wanted to buy her own Christmas tree. The same is true with a Christmas tree. A green, thriving tree in the dead of winter reminded people of hope and new life. The fact that we need to ask this question indicates the object is not self-explanatory. That doesn’t cause me any distress.”. The same is true with a Christmas tree. Watch Queue Queue It has long been believed that seeing a cardinal out your window is a symbol of good luck, or even a loved one who has passed away paying a visit. It has long been believed that seeing a cardinal out your window is a symbol of good luck, or even a loved one who has passed away paying a visit. PRX is a 501(c)(3) organization recognized by the IRS: #263347402. However, in many ways, the symbol of the Christmas tree seems surprising for the story of Christmas. What a person thinks a symbol represents is what that symbol is in ones own mind. All of Christmas has been profanely secularized, but it is not the use of the tree that is to blame. They played a symbolic part because they stayed green and alive when other plants appeared dead and bare. Originally derived from pagan religious celebrations in Europe, the Christmas Tree was adopted by Christianity but never entirely at home in it. The Christmas tree is a religious symbol, one designed to turn men’s thoughts to God in a manner of human devising. Thank you all for helping us reach our goal of 1,000 donors. We couldn’t have done it without your support! They represented everlasting life and hope for the return of spring. Is the Christmas tree a religious symbol? Sign up for our daily newsletter TOP OF THE WORLD and get the big stories we’re tracking delivered to your inbox every weekday morning. But historically speaking, Noonan says there is evidence of Christmas trees from at least the early 1500s in Germany. Thus, the Court found that a Christmas tree, by itself, is not a religious symbol; although Christmas trees once carried religious connotations, “ [t]oday they typify the secular celebration of Christmas,” the Court provided. But is it a religious symbol? Because of Jesus Christ, we can have ever lasting life (see 3 Nephi 5:13), so we can choose to see the ever green tree as a natural symbol of Him and His gift to us. This video is unavailable. At Christmas 2000, the city manager of Eugene OR ordered that Christmas trees could not be erected on city properties because he considered them Christian religious symbols. In short, although Christmas trees are a beloved custom in much of the English-speaking world, they are not necessary to the celebration of the holiday and are not nearly as symbolic of the holiday as the crèche. Although civic buildings tend to veto religious expressions of the holidays, Los Angeles City Hall has put on display a Christmas tree and a menorah. Christmas tree in Bethlehem, behind it Church of the Nativity, 2014. A 22-year tradition in Georgia is no more — and all because the governing board of a non-profit believes a Christmas tree is a religious symbol. The earliest legend of the origin of a fir tree becoming a Christian symbol dates back to 723 AD, involving Saint Boniface as he was evangelizing Germany. The origin of the Christmas Tree is not something everyone agrees on, but here are many of the roots that water the age-old tradition. The Christmas tree has become a symbol of the spirit of Christmas in many countries and many, if not all, our homes. The Egyptians also brought trees into their homes on December 25th to worship their pagan messiah Baal?Tamar. But the evergreen tree naturally fits in with Christianity. A CHRISTMAS TREE (ASHERAH) NEAR THE OBELISK AT VATICAN CITY: THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE, BUT IT WON'T BE POPULAR . More broadly, she says she thinks about what it means to be a Christian. Christmas trees can be brought into a school and decorated because a court has ruled the Christmas tree is a secular object, much like the Jewish menorah. In one swipe, he managed to take down the entire oak tree, to the crowd's astonishment. Some people -- and some courts -- believe that Christmas trees are now a secular expression of holiday festivities. Christmas Trees. However, starting year 700, the pagan tree was replaced by a fir tree which was considered a symbol of Christianity. What a person thinks a symbol represents is what that symbol is in ones own mind. Davuluri says, as a Hindu, she doesn’t attach any real religious meaning to the Christmas tree. Christmas tree as a symbol. Christmas has been celebrated as a Christian holiday dating back to A.D. 336.But it has also become an international phenomenon whose widespread popularity supersedes both its religious and pagan origins.. Did you know that, while 70% of the planet’s population is not Christian, nearly 80% of the world’s countries observe Christmas traditions in one form or another? It was Pope John Paul II who first had a Christmas tree put up at the Vatican in 1982. A Christmas tree is a CULTURAL symbol of a religious holiday. And there are numerous such symbols in Christianity that serves the purpose. “When I see a Christmas tree, it’s all about the festivity,” says Jyothi Davuluri of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts. It is neutral. Every morning, the editorial team at public radio’s international news show The World meets to plan what they'll cover that day. The thing about Christmas trees is, if you look at their long history, there’s a great deal of religious significance attached to them. This is a question we can’t answer for you. "That became a symbol of Christ — being triangular in shape it represents the trinity — and from there came the idea that the tree should be a symbol of Christ and new life," Dr Wilson said. In 2004 John Paul II called it a symbol of Christ, saying the green life of the tree in … What led Christians to adopt this custom? To learn more, review our Cookie Policy. For families in North America, Germany and other parts of Europe, the Xmas Tree is the symbol of the Christmas season. However, it has been an annual tradition there ever since. The World is a public radio program that crosses borders and time zones to bring home the stories that matter. But if a religious symbol of a holiday is considered a tangible object intrinsically attached to that holiday, and without which the holiday wouldn’t be the same, then no, because the celebration of … If it means anything to which religious significance can be attached, then yes, because many Christians have attached religious significance to the Christmas tree (e.g., the Tree of Life, both in Eden and on Calvary). We use cookies to understand how you use our site and to improve your experience. I certainly don't want to raise my children to celebrate pagan traditions. Bretzke spent time in Rome during the 1980s, and he says the nativity was a more important Christian symbol during the Christmas season. The celebration of life, family and unity for some is recognized through worship and for others through expression and idealism. Folk religion is all those beliefs and practices that exist alongside of the official religion,” Noonan says. While Christmas trees are traditionally associated with Christian symbolism, their modern use is largely secular. … What is the story behind the Vatican Christmas Tree? Other stories claim that the addition of a cardinal to your Christmas tree will bring cheer, … Christmas trees are a decoration that Christians incorporated into their celebration of the holiday over the centuries. When she looks at a fully decorated tree like this one, Rasmussan says the first things that she thinks about are indeed religious: “The birth of Jesus, going to church [on Christmas morning].". Like Halloween, we are looking at symbols which are aspects of the architecture of the BEAST SYSTEM, but are not equipped to properly interpret the meanings known to the initiated. If it means anything to which religious significance can be attached, then yes, because many Christians have attached religious significance to the Christmas tree (e.g., the Tree of Life, both in Eden and on Calvary). Today the Christmas Tree can be a completely secular symbol of Christmas celebrations. It depends on how religious symbol is defined. Christians justified the custom on religious grounds by explaining that the evergreen tree can symbolize eternal life. Once your community displays a religious symbol, then there is a good chance your community will need to allow other requested religious symbols to avoid a claim of religious discrimination. The beautiful red feathers have earned the cardinal the title of the Christmas bird. CHRISTMAS TREE: In the early 700’s, Saint Boniface, who converted the German people to Christianity, demolished the Oak of Thor, the mighty sacred tree worshipped by the Saxons. And she has a Christmas tree at home too. In Mundelein’s case, the advice from village attorney Marino, who has served in that part-time capacity for nearly 45 years, appears soundly based on U.S. Supreme Court precedents and the court’s distinction between secular symbols, such as the Christmas tree, and religious symbols, such as the Christian creche or the Jewish menorah. The Christmas tree symbolizes the spirit of the Christmas season and, to Christians, the everlasting life and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. I am having a hard time explaining why a christmas tree makes me feel like a phoney. The most popular symbol of Christmas, except perhaps for Santa Claus, may also be the least Christian: the Christmas Tree. This year, however, I'm having doubts. Christmas Tree. Christmas trees can be brought into a school and decorated because a court has ruled the Christmas tree is a secular object, much like the Jewish menorah. Not until the Renaissance are there clear records of trees being used as a symbol of Christmas—beginning in Latvia in 1510 and Strasbourg in 1521. Christmas trees did begin as a pagan tradition as early as the fourth century C.E., according to ABC News. I was brought up with this,” Rasmussan says while gazing at the giant Christmas tree. However, starting year 700, the pagan tree was replaced by a fir tree which was considered a symbol of Christianity. Christmas tree as a symbol. A Christmas tree is a CULTURAL symbol of a religious holiday. A Christmas tree is not a Christian religious symbol, so its presence in a public building without a menorah or representation of another faith does not automatically create a religious inequality. But he's still a fan of the Christmas tree. 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Like Halloween, we are looking at symbols which are aspects of the architecture of the BEAST SYSTEM, but are not equipped to properly interpret the meanings known to the initiated. They represented everlasting life and hope for the return of spring. Yes, the Christmas tree has some connection with their religion, but they don’t really see it primarily as a religious symbol. The first mention in history of fir trees used in Christmas celebrations was in 12th century Germany. Therefore, since the Christmas tree does not represent a religious symbol to any particular religion, as religious symbols are defined, supports the reason we often see the tree displayed in public places during a particular holiday season. The Christmas tree is the most visible and frequent symbol for Christmas. People got annoyed. The story you just read is freely available and accessible to everyone because readers like you support The World financially. For others, a Christmas tree is a common symbol of Christmas with as much significance as Santa Claus. “I do see it as religious, but not in what we call a theological sense, but in a folk religious sense. Behind the fallen tree was a baby fir tree. But she says she still has one at her home with presents underneath it for the kids. Most people usually set up their own Christmas tree a month or weeks before the Christmas day. The following text is drawn from our featured Christmas book and is also available for free as audio.. Lighted trees were certainly used in various pagan religious celebrations throughout history, but contrary to popular belief, there does not appear to be any direct link between the pagan rituals and the Christmas tree. Legend claims that the cardinal was given the red feathers as a symbol of Christ’s blood. It represents the star that appeared in the sky when Jesus Christ was born. Many Christians say something similar. However, the parallels with Jesus as a sign of hope and light are clear, he says. “It reminds me of when I was younger. And when asked if they saw religious meaning in the 80-plus-foot-tall tree, most of them said, not really. They played a symbolic part because they stayed green and alive when other plants appeared dead and bare. A Christmas Symbol. While it is still a symbol of Christianity to some, to others it is simply part of December celebrations. They were made from heavy fabric, often decorated and with fancy frills around the edges, and were used either on the floor, or on tables, and went under the trees and their stands - rather than 'around' them. Long time ago, the evergreens were worshiped as symbols of immortality in pagan cultures, and used for warding off the evil spirits. He felt that their presence would violate the principle of separation of church and state . Christmas trees had been a tradition in his home country of Poland, but it wasn't yet a tradition at the Vatican. So, you really appreciate those trees that are evergreen.”, “They remind you that winter is not going to last forever, and they cheer everything up.”. The star is one of the most recognizable symbols of the holiday. As we come together to observe the holidays many of us enjoy the festivities of Christmas and its many traditions. Even today in many traditionally Catholic countries, far more emphasis is placed on the much older Christian custom of erecting Nativity scenes, a tradition attributed to St. Francis of Assisi (1181-1226). “However, the Romans, during Saturnalia brought in leafy greens and boughs and decorated their homes. There are some who also argue that menorahs can be interpreted as a nondemoninational symbol of light and hope. “I may not have the [same] religious background, but I still see Christmas trees as such a nice, festive thing and I want to continue for my kids,” Davuluri says with a smile. Read more: Christmas trees, to deck the halls I have a rather eclectic Christmas tree. Roman festivals used a decorated evergreen tree to celebrate the winter time. The beautiful red feathers have earned the cardinal the title of the Christmas bird. THE … Your donation directly supported the critical reporting you rely on, the consistent reporting you believe in, and the deep reporting you want to ensure survives. Noonan says there is one popular legend about Martin Luther coming up with the idea after gazing through an evergreen tree at night and seeing the stars twinkling through its branches. Christmas trees are a decoration that Christians incorporated into their celebration of the holiday over the centuries. Aside from Christmas trees, gift exchanging, Christmas greetings sent through cards and the inevitable presence of Santa Claus, Singaporeans have recently acquired a taste for imported mince pies and Christmas puddings to add … Such common choices for tree toppers as stars … It’s got lots of lights and generic holiday ornaments. Tradition holds that a fir tree was growing in the roots of the oak, and Boniface claimed the tree as a symbol of Christ. One exception at the Boston marketplace is Karen Rasmussan, in town from Denmark to visit her daughter. Learn more about Christmas trees, including their history. It's curious that Christians latch on to it as … From its roots grew a fir tree which Boniface took as a sign of the Christian faith. If it means anything to which religious significance can be attached, then yes, because many Christians have attached religious significance to the Christmas tree (e.g., the Tree of Life, both in Eden and on Calvary). A CHRISTMAS TREE (ASHERAH) NEAR THE OBELISK AT VATICAN CITY: THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE, BUT IT WON'T BE POPULAR . And that is one reason why the early Catholic Church decided to adopt the winter solstice as the birthday of Jesus many centuries ago. A Christmas tree is not a Christian religious symbol, so its presence in a public building without a menorah or representation of another faith does not automatically create a religious inequality. Christians justified the custom on religious grounds by explaining that the evergreen tree can symbolize eternal life. In 2004 John Paul II called it a symbol of Christ, saying the green life of the tree in in winter … The Christmas tree at Faneuil Hall marketplace in downtown Boston is from Long Island, New York. Other stories claim that the addition of a cardinal to your Christmas tree will bring cheer, … Want to see what's on deck? Numerous rites and rituals associated with Christmas which have been handed down through the ages have been adopted by Asians and Singaporeans in an odd mixture. The lights and decorations on the tree represent the wonder and glory associated with the birth and resurrection of Jesus. The Christmas tree is one symbol that predates the celebration of Christmas. By continuing to use our site, you accept our use of cookies and Privacy Policy. The Christmas Tree a Symbol of Pagan Baal Worship;Hundreds of years prior to Christ's birth pagan Romans cut down evergreen trees and brought them into their homes for their December 25th worship of Baal?Berith. Some of our editorial board members begged to differ. The history of the Christmas Tree is not something everyone agrees on, but here are many of the roots that water the age-old tradition. Yes, the Christmas tree has some connection with their religion, but they don’t really see it primarily as a religious symbol. Christmas symbols in my own house make me feel gross.. my wife, who grew up Christian, wants a Christmas tree. There’s nothing overtly religious about the giant Christmas tree at Faneuil Hall Marketplace in downtown Boston. The first mention in history of fir trees used in Christmas celebrations was in 12th century Germany. Even if one granted the very dubious assertion that Christmas trees have no associations whatever with paganism, they would still be forbidden in the worship of the church of Christ because “He commanded them not” (Leviticus 10:1). There is also evidence of pre-Christian pagans in Europe who worshipped trees, “and worshipping their deities within groves.”, Noonan says the functional side of all this is compelling too. Needless to say, the people readily accepted Boniface’s message, and the tree would serve as a reminder of the mighty God who was humbly born into the world as a man on Christmas day. But if a religious symbol of a holiday is considered a tangible object intrinsically attached to that holiday, and without which the holiday wouldn’t be the same, then no, because the celebration of Christmas does not require Christmas trees. Interestingly enough, the Bible begins with a tree and ends with a tree, and the Savior of the world dies on a tree. Mundelein officials won't place a Hanukkah menorah or other religious symbols near the Christmas tree that's decorated each winter in Kracklauer Park. The annual “Light Up Dunwoody” Christmas event has been canceled and now moved from Dunwoody, GA — located a short distance north east of Atlanta. A village attorney in Illinois had to weigh Supreme Court precedent when he concluded a Christmas tree in a public park was a secular symbol, according to ABA Legal Fact Check. Kerry Noonan is an expert in folklore and mythology at Champlain College in Burlington, Vermont. Responsible for this change was Saint Boniface, who converted the Germans to Christianity. The intention was to remove any potentially offensive religious connotations contained in the name “Christmas tree.”. “It is not a religious symbol. From its roots grew a fir tree which Boniface took as a sign of the Christian faith. A fir tree was used in mystery plays as the so-called "paradise" tree. Legend claims that the cardinal was given the red feathers as a symbol of Christ’s blood. In the Bible, the cross upon which Jesus was crucified is often referred to as a tree. Unfortunately, we don’t always give it a religious meaning. Many people say, not really. A very serious Christian friend told me that the Christmas tree originated as a symbol of pagan idolatry. However, it has been an annual tradition there ever since. They did not become widespread in the English-speaking world until German relatives of the British royal family brought the custom to Great Britain in the 18th and 19th centuries. I tried to get some insight from people in r/athiesm , but I truly believe these people are culturally ok with christmas since most of them grew up with christmas. A Christmas tree, to Christians, the pagan tree was used mystery! Been an annual tradition there ever since is all those beliefs and that. Meaning to the mankind Christmas festivities tree makes me feel gross.. wife! And state actually Jesus Christ was born: the Christmas tree put up at the Vatican Supreme 's... Which symbolizes life and sacrifice of Jesus not all, our homes, '' Wilson. And Privacy Policy we can ’ t have done it without your support to. 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