Learning About the Origin of the Christmas Tree


Christmas is the time of year when Christians celebrate the birth of Christ, and it is a tradition as old as time. The name Christmas actually comes from the early English phrase Christes Masse, which means the Mass of Christ. Although there were competing groups who felt that Jesus birth and his ascendancy into divinity may have been on two different occasions, it was settled to be on the 25 of December, which is the day that Christmas is celebrated on year round now.

The Christmas tree is one of the most important aspects to Christmas, as it is the tree that we set up on Christmas Eve, decorate with our families, and set presents underneath. It is the tree that we admire when it is all lit up and covered in decorations and which makes us remember Christ and how he died for our sins.

The Origin of the Christmas Tree

The origin of the Christmas tree takes place far, far ago, with likely origins in European pre-Christian pagan cultures. Since the origin of the Christmas tree, the Christmas tree has gained an extensive history and has become a popular sight during the winter season in numerous cultures.

In Northern Europe the Vikings considered the evergreen tree as being a symbol and remainder that the darkness and cold of winter would end and that the green of spring would return, and it is for this reason that the evergreen became the customary choice for a Christmas tree.

As well in regards to the origin of the Christmas tree, there have been many legends surrounding the lore of it. For instance in one story in particular, Saint Boniface, who was an English monk, came upon a group of pagans who had gathered around an oak tree and were preparing to sacrifice a child, and in order to stop the sacrifice and be able to save the child, the Saint flattened the tree with a blow of his fist.

A small fir then apparently sprang up in its place, and Saint Boniface told the pagans that this was the Tree of Life and that it represented the life of Christ.

There are many other stories similar to this relating to the origin of the Christmas tree, and there is really no one correct answer because everyone has their own opinions and beliefs. The most important thing, regardless of where you believe the origin of the Christmas tree came from, is to realize its importance and the significance of the Christmas holiday altogether, because this is what really matters.