At Christmas time every year, “in the air, there’s a feeling of Christmas”. It is also a time of deeper reflection on the truth of Christmas. Some of these truths have been symbolically represented in various objects like stars, bells, Christmas trees etc. The tree typically chosen to be a Christmas tree is usually a pine, fir or spruce tree from the conifer division. In Goa, before the advent of artificial trees, a branch or the whole tree in situ, of the Casuarina genus, has been traditionally used. It is called Whistling Pine, Common Ironwood, Beefwood, Bull-oak and “Christmas tree”.

The symbolism has been considered both, negatively and positively. In the former, it has been associated with idolatrous practices making use of objects as God. In the Celtic regions, druids propagated the belief that the trees were sacred and magical. Vikings on the other hand thought of these trees as belonging to their sun god Baldr and they were then emulated by the Romans. If like in ancient times, more than mere symbolism was attributed to a tree, it would certainly be considered illogical. But there are also many examples  for the evergreen trees to be seen in a positive light. The trees which maintained their foliage even in the middle of winter, were a sort of inspiration during the cold and bleak season. It seemed to represent steadfastness in the face of the challenge of winter. It was also believed to represent eternal life. Standing tall in the harsh winters, remaining upright, seemingly reaching for the sky, for Heaven, for God, could represent those who attempt to stand up to the vagaries of life, the temptation of sin, to being cold, harsh and frozen-hearted in a materialistic world. They would hopefully realize that there has been one, the Christ, who has been truly perfect. He was the One who stood tall, being perfect till His last breath, impaled on the wood of a tree. The Christmas tree like the cross, with its main solid, trunk reaching vertically out, could stand for endeavouring relentlessly for God; the branches which fan out in all directions, like the arms of the cross, representing reaching out to fellow people.

A Christmas tree is not left bare but is beautifully decorated with a variety of things. The Germans and Livonians  are considered to be the first to have the tradition of decorated trees from the fifteenth century.  Martin Luther is considered to be the first to decorate the Christmas tree with candles after seeing stars twinkling through the pine tree branches. The star is a reminder of the Star of Bethlehem. Today, candles have been replaced with electric lights. The adornment of the tree is similar to people dressing and creating materials to clothe and provide for themselves, their loved ones and those in need. The decorations then become so symbolic of all the good things in life placed upon us by God, making our life colourful, happy and joyful. Collectively taking part in decorating the tree increases the joy and reminds us to decorate each other with love, kindness and all the things necessary for a meaningful life.

If we have not done so already, may we realize the eternal meaning of the symbols and celebrations so that we may better know the goodness of God. May we be grateful to our God and saviour for the gift of mercy and grace and not be lost in the neo-idolatry of materialistic celebrations. 

Merry Christmas!