In
the Western world, the birthday of Jesus Christ has been celebrated on December
25th since AD 354, replacing an earlier date of January 6th. The Christians had
by then appropriated many pagan festivals and traditions of the season, that
were practiced in many parts of the Middle East and Europe, as a means of
stamping them out.
There
were mid-winter festivals in ancient Babylon and Egypt, and Germanic fertility
festivals also took place at this time. The birth of the ancient sun-god Attis
in Phrygia was celebrated on December 25th, as was the birth of the Persian
sun-god, Mithras. The Romans celebrated Saturnalia, a festival dedicated to
Saturn, the god of peace and plenty, that ran from the 17th to
24th
of December. Public gathering places were decorated with flowers, gifts and
candles were exchanged and the population, slaves and masters alike, celebrated
the occasion with great enthusiasm.
In
Scandinavia, a period of festivities known as Yule contributed another impetus
to celebration, as opposed to spirituality. As Winter ended the growing season,
the opportunity of enjoying the Summer's bounty encouraged much feasting and
merriment.
The
Celtic culture of the British Isles revered all green plants, but particularly
mistletoe and holly. These were important symbols of fertility and were used
for decorating their homes and altars.
New
Christmas customs appeared in the Middle Ages. The most prominent contribution
was the carol, which by the 14th century had become associated with the
religious observance of the birth of Christ.
In
Italy, a tradition developed for re-enacting the birth of Christ and the
construction of scenes of the nativity. This is said to have been introduced by
Saint Francis as part of his efforts to bring spiritual knowledge to the laity.
Saints
Days have also contributed to our Christmas celebrations. A prominent figure in
today's Christmas is Saint Nicholas who for centuries has been honored on
December 6th. He was one of the forerunners of Santa Claus.
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