Christmas traditions - versie 2

There are a lot of stories about Christmas but what is Christmas really about?

Every year we celebrate Christmas at the end of December but do we know what we really celebrate? Some people believe that Santa comes down the chimney and then puts gifts under the tree. Why do we even put a decorated tree in our houses with Christmas? Christians believe that we should remember the birth of Jesus Christ, The Son of God who came to earth. But what is the true story of Christmas?

The Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus

<>    <><>     <><>    <> The original idea was that we should remember the birth of Jesus Christ. Christmas was first celebrated in Egypt two hundred years AD. The exact date could not be picked because there were no clear indications given in the Bible. The first celebration was on May 20 but later it has been celebrated on other dates and times of the year. At present, we celebrate Christmas on December 25. One thing did remain and that was the reason behind the celebration :  the birth of Jesus Christ. Christians call Him their Saviour and the Son of God. They believe Jesus came to earth to save them from their sin and eternity in hell.[1]

When did Santa Claus came in the picture? Santa Claus is derived from the Dutch holiday called ‘Sinterklaas’.  Sinterklaas was the nickname of Saint Nicholas who was born 280 years AD. The legend tells that Saint Nicholas gave away all his possessions and wealth and then went in to the country to help the poor and the sick. The holiday is celebrated at December 6, the day that Nicholas died. In 1773 a New York newspaper first mentioned the Dutch holiday where the Dutch ‘celebrated’ Nicholas’ day of death with gifts and sweets. The Americans adopted the holiday and Sinterklaas became Santa Claus. [2]

Christmas presents

 

<> Santa Claus puts Christmas gifts under the decorated tree but why do we even put a tree in our house? Ancient people decorated their houses with the trees and plants that stayed green in the winter. They had a special meaning to the ancient peoples. Some people even believed that those trees and plants would protect them from witches, ghosts and even from illness. The first time people really put a tree in their houses was in the 16th century in Germany. From then people put a decorated Christmas tree in their houses. [3]

Sociability

Christmas is a holiday that has been celebrated for a very long time. The most famous Christmas traditions are Santa Claus and the Christmas tree which we put in to our houses each year. Both stories have been told for a very long time but they are not a part of the original Christmas story. The original idea behind Christmas is the birthday of Jesus Christ so it is a Christian holiday. The Christians believe that Jesus came to earth to save them from their sin and an eternity in hell. One thing is for sure: Christmas is a holiday to be thankful no matter what you believe. Be thankful for the presents, your family and friends, be thankful for a Saviour or be thankful for nature and its beauty!

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[1] New advent. (2009). Caltholic encyclopedia. Geraadpleegd op 15 december 2011, van: http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/03724b.htm 

[2]History. (z.d.). The Legend of St. Nicholas.  Geraadpleegd op 15 december 2011, van: http://www.history.com/topics/santa-claus

[3] History. (z.d). History of Christmas Trees. Geraadpleegd op 15 december 2011, van:

http://www.history.com/topics/history-of-christmas-trees