The Lore Behind Christmas Trees 12/12

Strings of colorful lights deck houses while the weather only gets colder as we approach Christmas. Everywhere you look, many people are preparing for this holiday in elation, as they adorn their homes with inflatables, wreaths, and last but not least, a Christmas tree. Out of the many decorations that symbolize the coming of Christmas, the Christmas tree is a universal one that no celebrator can do without. But why is this so, and what exactly is the significance of having a tree in your home?

At least once in your lifetime, it doesn’t matter if it was in person, or through a screen, you have probably seen what a Christmas tree looks like. Christmas trees are typically put up alongside ornaments that hang off of its branches. These ornaments can be in a variety of shapes and sizes, and with the addition of lights, tinsel, and a bright star placed atop, these trees often illuminate, and bring comfort to Christmas lovers around the world. There are many theories and ideologies when it comes to the reason behind these bright trees. Some say that it represents how there will always be light in a dark world, some have more literal takes, while others claim that it is to have a place to put their presents. A popular interpretation, according to religious belief, is that Christmas trees symbolize the birth and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is a plausible explanation seeing how the celebration of Christmas itself can also be traced to the birth of Christ when looking from a religious point of view; however, many claim that Christmas trees have no ties to religion. Of course, I can’t say whether or not any of these beliefs are correct or wrong as I am no Christmas tree expert myself, but it can be said that all of these differing beliefs are equally valid since personal interpretation plays a huge role in what is “the truth”.

Since we can’t say for sure why they exist, the least that can be done is mention how important they are to the culture of Christmas. According to the American Christmas Tree Association, around 94 million households had a Christmas tree put up for the holidays. That is around three-fourths of households in America, and in the same year according to the National Retail Federation, the average American spent around $200 on decorations(in general). That is a lot of money, as well as a lot of homes who take Christmas tree decorating very seriously. In addition, these decorations use up a lot of electricity seeing how they are kept on for a long period of the day. So if you’re planning on putting up a Christmas tree soon, or have already done so, make sure to check the status of your family’s wallet. 

Needless to say, Christmas trees are very important as not only are there many meaningful interpretations of them, but the sight of gifts underneath them are simply heartwarming to not only children waking up from their light slumber, but also to the parents who get to see their reaction. These trees are a way for families to bond over the festive season, and share memories together while they’re busy decorating them and opening presents. So perhaps the true meaning behind Christmas trees is to make the holidays more enjoyable and memorable to those who celebrate Christmas, but that’s just my theory. See for yourself which theory you believe in while you’re celebrating the holidays. And if you don’t usually partake in these types of celebrations, this could be the year that you start. Of course, make sure you exercise precautions so that you don’t fall trying to reach heights you physically can’t.