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The Real Meaning Behind Christmas Decorations

How they symbolize the birth of Jesus Christ

Ivy Robinson

Dec 21, 2017

Texas A&M University

2030

The Real Meaning Behind Christmas Decorations

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Every Christmas holiday season we decorate with traditional items to get us in the holiday spirit.

The more decorations the merrier, right?

As fun as it is to shop for gifts, place ornaments upon the tree, and sip hot cocoa till our hearts' content, we can be quick to lose sight of the true meaning of Christmas- the birth of Jesus Christ.

In fact, the birth of baby Jesus is the heart of the Christmas story and the reason for many of our Christmas traditions.

Here are the significant meanings behind 8 common Christmas traditions and decorations.

1. The Christmas Tree

A symbol of hope and everlasting life. Christmas trees are evergreen

meaning they retain their leaves throughout the year. Some also believe the upward-pointing needles on the tree symbolize "man's connection with God."

2. The Star

Many of us place a star on top of our Christmas tree. This star represents the Star of Bethlehem which shined above the manger where baby Jesus was born. This star guided the Wise Men to the birthplace.

3. Christmas Wreath

4. Poinsettias

The star-shaped leaves of Poinsettias are also representative of the Star of Bethlehem.

5. Holly

The sharp points on holly leaves are believed to symbolize the crown of thorns worn by Jesus during his crucifixion.

6. Colors of Christmas

Red symbolizes the blood shed by Christ when he was crucified and died to save our sins. Green represents eternal life of Christ.

7. Gifts

Wise Men brought baby Jesus gifts of frankincense, gold, and myrrh. This is why we exchange gifts with our loved ones today. It is believed that there were three wise men based on the giving of three gifts, even thought the Bible does not specify.

8. Candy Canes

Candy canes symbolize a shepherd's hook. These hooks were used to "guide lambs back into their fold". This reminds us of the story in the bible where an Angel of the Lord appeared over the shepherds' fields and told them of the birth of Christ. Many also believe the shape of candy canes look like a "J" to represent Jesus Christ.

It is my hope that we remember the true meaning of Christmas this holiday season and for many years to come.

Merry CHRISTmas dear friends!

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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.

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Recommended for you

The Real Meaning Behind Christmas Decorations

How they symbolize the birth of Jesus Christ

1. The Christmas Tree

2. The Star

3. Christmas Wreath4. Poinsettias

5. Holly

6. Colors of Christmas

7. Gifts

8. Candy Canes

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There are plenty of obstacles that come when taking care of kids, but it's a very rewarding experience.

1. You get excited when the parents purchase season passes to the pool.

2. You've become friends with the stay-at-home moms in town.

3. You get a chance to eat "kid foods" again.

4. You've traded in your cute purse for a large tote bag.

5. You have at least one car seat in your backseat.

6. Their nap time is your happy time.

7. Lunch time can be a disaster.

8. You have to play the same board games repeatedly.

9. You catch yourself using the same lines your parents once told you.

10. Your "mom-mode" kicks in at times.

11. Your heart melts a little when they do something cute.

You'll never find any souvenirs with your name on it

1. You know you are up next when the teacher pauses while taking attendance

2. When “I’m going to do my very best to make sure I know all your names” is said, it may or may be an empty promise

3. “Wow! That sounds so cool! Where is your family from?”

4. You dread when people ask you to repeat your name over and over because it “sounds so cool when you say it”

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8. “What’s your name?” “It’s [name]” “I’m sorry, what was it again?”

9. You’ve pretty much seen every misspelling and heard every mispronunciation of your name throughout your life

10. When you find another person with an “ethnic” sounding name, you both get excited

11. Despite the struggles, your name is pretty unique… just like you

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6. “Geez, you are obsessed with your flag. We get it, you’re Puerto Rican.”

7. “Why are you so loud?”

8. “So does your family know English?”

9. “Oh my god, Puerto Ricans are so spicy.”

10. “So did you eat a lot of tacos?”

11. “Are you Mexican?”

Love hard, every day, and never be ashamed.

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4. Poinsettias

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