Christmas is one of the most important holidays in the English speaking
world. There are many Christmas traditions in these countries. The traditions
are both religious and secular in nature. Here is a short guide to the most
common Christmas traditions. What does the word 'Christmas' mean? The word
Christmas is taken from 'Christ's Mass' or, in the original Latin, Cristes
maesse. Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus on this day. Is Christmas only
a religious holiday? Certainly, for practicing Christians around the world,
Christmas is one the most important holiday of the year. However, in modern
times, traditional Christmas festivities have become much less related to the
Christ story. Examples of these other traditions include: Santa Claus, Rudolf
the Red Nose Reindeer and others. Why is Christmas so important? There are two
reasons: 1. There are approximately 1.8 billion Christians in a total world
population of 5.5 billion, making it the largest religion worldwide. 2. And,
some think more importantly, Christmas is the most important shopping event of
the year. It is claimed that up to 70 percent of many merchants' annual revenue
is made during the Christmas season. It is interesting to note that this emphasis
on spending is relatively modern. Christmas was a relatively quiet holiday in
the USA until the 1860s.
Why do people give gifts on Christmas day? This tradition most probably is based on the story of the three wise men (the Magi) giving gifts of gold, incense and myrrh following the birth of Jesus. However, it is important to note that gift giving has only become popular in the last 100 years as figures such as Santa Claus have come to be more important, and emphasis has been shifted to giving gifts to children.
Why do people give gifts on Christmas day? This tradition most probably is based on the story of the three wise men (the Magi) giving gifts of gold, incense and myrrh following the birth of Jesus. However, it is important to note that gift giving has only become popular in the last 100 years as figures such as Santa Claus have come to be more important, and emphasis has been shifted to giving gifts to children.
Why is there a Christmas
tree? This tradition was begun in Germany. German immigrants moving to
England and the USA brought this popular tradition with them and it
has since become a much loved tradition for all. It has other stories even.. Where
does the Nativity
Scene come from? The Nativity Scene is accredited to Saint Francis of
Assissi in order to teach people about the Christmas story. Nativity Scenes are
popular around the world, especially in Naples, Italy that is famous for its
beautiful Nativity Scenes. Is Santa Claus
really St. Nicholas? Modern day Santa Claus has very little to do with St.
Nicholas, though there are certainly similarities in the style of dressing.
Today, Santa Claus is
all about the presents, whereas St. Nicholas was a Catholic saint. Apparently,
the story 'Twas the
Night before Christmas' has a lot to do with changing "St.
Nick" into modern day Santa Claus.
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