The Story Behind the Christmas Tree: More Than Just a Decoration
At Masons Home Decor, we love celebrating the festive season by helping families create beautiful memories with our Christmas trees. However, there’s a deeper meaning behind this beloved tradition, and it’s one that often gets lost amidst the decorations, gatherings, and gift exchanges. Today, we share the story of the Christmas tree and why it symbolises more than just holiday cheer. Let’s reflect on its history and remember the real reason we celebrate Christmas.
The Christmas Tree: A Symbol of Faith
The Christmas tree tradition has roots in ancient Europe, where evergreen trees symbolised life and hope during the harsh winter months. According to an aritcle in the Catholic News (Singapore) the story of the Christmas tree as we know it today originated from Saint Boniface, an 8th-century English Benedictine monk. Saint Boniface dedicated his life to converting the Germanic tribes, who worshipped pagan gods. One winter, he famously cut down a sacred oak tree worshipped by the tribes. As the oak fell, it revealed a small fir tree behind it. Boniface pointed to the fir and said:
“This little tree shall be your holy tree instead. See how it points up to heaven. Let this be called the tree of the Christ-child; gather around it in your homes and let it witness not deeds of violence, but acts of love and kindness. Its evergreen leaves are a symbol of God’s eternal love for us.”
Moved by his words and actions, he started to inspire the conversion of many tribes over time. Many accepted Christ and were baptised. By the 1800s, German immigrants brought this custom along with them as they moved to England and America. From there, the popularity of the Christmas tree started to spread.
Christmas Lights: Shining the Light of Christ
It is also said that the origins of Christmas tree decorating dated back to the 16th century when Martin Luther was walking through the woods. He was mesmerised by the stars shining through the evergreen trees. Christmas tree string lights originated from this fine night, as he attempted to replicate the beauty he witnessed by lighting candles by his tree at his home, symbolising Christ as the Light of the World.
The Star: Symbols of the Christmas Story
The Christmas tree star topper symbolises the Star of Bethlehem, which guided the wise men to the birthplace of Jesus. It invites us to come before Him with gifts of love and gratitude, just as the wiremen did.
Christmas Baubles and Bells: More Than Just Decorations
The custom of hanging ornaments on Christmas trees began in the Middle Ages, when people adorned “paradise trees” with apples to represent the Garden of Eden. By the 1800s, German artisans started crafting delicate glass baubles in shades of red, green, gold, and silver. Each color held symbolic meaning: red stood for the blood of Christ, green symbolized eternal life, gold represented His royal status, and silver signified purity.
Christmas bells, historically used to call people for prayer or mark significant events, now serve as a reminder to pause and reflect on the true essence of Christmas, encouraging us to remember the miracle of Christ’s birth amidst the festive season.
Pine Cones and Poinsettias: Nature’s Christmas Symbols
Pine cones are a symbol of new life, carrying seeds within them, much like the hope of new life that Jesus brought to humanity. The poinsettia, known as the Flower of the Holy Night in Mexico, represents the Star of Bethlehem. Its bright red leaves remind us of the star that shone so brightly, guiding the way to Christ.
A Message for the Season
As you gather to decorate your Christmas tree, remember it’s more than just lights and ornaments – it’s about celebrating the gift of Jesus Christ, who brought hope, love, and salvation to the world.
At Masons Home Decor, we believe that our Christmas trees bring joy and warmth to your home, but more importantly, serve as a reminder of the true meaning of the season. The evergreen symbolises Christ’s everlasting love, while the star or angel represents the Star of Bethlehem guiding us to His light.
This Christmas, let’s cherish the tree not just as a decoration, but as a symbol of togetherness and the spirit of giving. Whether you choose a real tree from elsewhere or a hyper-realistic tree from Masons, we hope it becomes a source of joy, laughter, and memories for your family.
Happy decorating, and Merry Christmas from Masons Home Decor!
God Bless You 🙂
