Christmas reflections, Part 2: Trees

Decorating Christmas trees almost certainly has its roots in pagan traditions. For example, one element of the Roman festival of Saturnalia, predating Christianity by several centuries, was decorating houses with evergreen plants during the winter solstice. Interestingly, Saturnalia also included a relaxing of social norms (people could be more carefree) and a reversal of social roles (masters would serve their servants).

In the Norse and Germanic cultures, the Vikings and other north Europeans would decorate evergreen trees during their Yule celebrations. The trees represented life and renewal, while the ornaments symbolised good fortune and prosperity. It was also common to burn the Yule log, which represented the return of the sun’s warmth and light in the months ahead. The Celts similarly used evergreen branches as symbols of hope and the promise of spring.

The tradition of putting lights on Christmas trees is usually ascribed to the medieval German Protestant reformer Martin Luther, who used candles to mimic the stars that shone through the canopy of a pine forest. In China, it is bamboo rather than firs and pines that take centre stage, especially around Chinese New Year where it is crafted into decorations, symbolising good luck, prosperity and longevity.

Apart from the story of the Christmas tree lights, there really is no direct link between Christmas trees and Christianity. Other religions have much more obvious associations. Buddha sat under a Bodhi tree meditating until he attained enlightenment. And in Islam, Muhammad is reported to have said that planting trees or sowing seeds, which may provide food for birds, animals or people, is a charitable gift (Sadaqah).

I’m glad that we have embraced the tradition of choosing and decorating a Christmas tree each year. For me, it reinforces our connection to and respect for nature. And of course it brings light and beauty into our home. In the end though, it is more about the time of year that the tree represents, especially the time we get to spend with family. It is love that makes Christmas magic.