Christmas 2024: Why is it celebrated on 25th December?

Christmas 2024: Have you ever wondered why Christmas happens on December 25th despite the fact that it is one of the most widely observed holidays worldwide? Although many people are aware that it is the day Christians commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ, there are more complicated reasons why this date was chosen. The history of this day is intriguing, ranging from historical decisions made by the early church to ancient customs. Let's look at how Christmas was observed on December 25th and discover some unexpected facts in the process.

History of Christmas

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The exact date of Jesus Christ's birth is not mentioned in the Bible. No particular month or day is mentioned. It's really ambiguous. This implies that the early Christians did not observe Christmas and his death and resurrection (Easter). As a theological text, the Bible focuses more on its teachings. But it wasn't until centuries later that December 25 was selected as the official date for the commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ.

However, it was not because of any explicit biblical allusion; instead, it was because it falls on the Roman winter solstice holiday. Because ancient Rome had a distinct calendar, December 25 was the winter solstice. Romans celebrated the end of winter and the sun's rebirth on this day, which they called dies natalis solis invicti or the "birthday of the Invincible Sun."

This day is unique because the sun's "rebirth" occurs as the days lengthen following the winter solstice. It's possible that early Christians selected December 25 to coincide with this festival of light and the sun's "rebirth," effectively representing Jesus as the "light of the world." In John 8:12, Jesus Christ described himself as the world's light.

Significance of Christmas

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For Christians, Christmas has great religious and cultural importance. It honours the birth of Jesus Christ, who is said to have come to earth to save people. His teachings placed a strong focus on sacrifice, love, and compassion. Christians hold that the birth of Jesus changed the world, bringing happiness and hope in place of greed and evil. Christmas is also a time to commemorate the sacrifices made by Jesus, especially his crucifixion and resurrection. Carol singing, religious services, and prayers are used to celebrate these occasions.

Regional celebration of Christmas

Christmas customs vary by location. The Giant Lantern Festival, for example, is held in the Philippines and has exquisitely illuminated lanterns that represent the Star of Bethlehem. This celebration takes place in San Fernando, which is often referred to as the Philippines' Christmas capital. Christmas's three colors¡ªred, gold, and green¡ªhave particular significance. Green is for eternal life, gold for the gifts of the Three Wise Men, and red for the blood of Christ. Christmas is not only a religious holiday. It's a time for contemplation, love, and family. It encourages individuals to spread joy, contribute liberally, and value the sense of community. Christmas continues to brighten the lives of millions of people worldwide, whether via its cultural customs, historical importance, or festive celebrations. As we commemorate this time of love and optimism, let's not forget its fundamental message: one of harmony, kindness, and benevolence.

Importance of Christmas

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From commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ to strengthening family ties, giving gifts, and cooking meals together, Christmas happiness is vivacious and contagious. Additionally, it is a day to honor and consider the teachings of Jesus Christ. Christmas is a widely observed holiday in many cultures throughout the world.

What are the traditions of Christmas?

Globally, Christmas customs differ, but they all centre around the ideas of happiness, community, and giving. Among the most common traditions are:

Decorating Christmas Trees: Since Roman festivals, people have decorated fir trees. It became well-known in the UK under Queen Victoria's rule after Prince Albert brought a tree to Windsor Castle from Germany.

Santa Claus: Based on the legend of St. Nicholas, Santa Claus has come to represent Christmas. Children get gifts from Santa, a custom commemorated with joyful surprises and Secret Santa activities.

Caroling: One of the most cherished traditions is singing Christmas songs. Carols like "Silent Night" and "Jingle Bells" are saved for this joyous time of year, even though they are sung all year round.

Christmas stockings and wreaths: Wreaths stand for honor and triumph, and stockings have a sweet backstory. Coins that fell down a chimney and landed in stockings drying by the fireplace are thought to have been dropped by St. Nicholas.

Foliage and mistletoe: Druids worship mistletoe as a sign of vigour and life. Another popular ornament is evergreen vegetation, which symbolizes the triumph of light over evil.

Dinner parties and family get-togethers: In many nations, special feasts like roast turkey, ham, pies, and Christmas sweets are popular, and families gather to enjoy them.

Lighting decorations and candles: To create a cosy and joyous ambience, homes, streets, and public areas are decked out with candles, wreaths, and sparkling lights.

Scenes of nativity: In order to portray the birth of Jesus, many people erect nativity displays that include images of Mary, Joseph, the infant Jesus, shepherds, and the Wise Men.

Mass at midnight: Attending a church service at midnight is a meaningful method for many Christians to recognize the religious meaning of lights for Christmas: A festive ambience is produced by adorning streets and residences with sparkling lights. There are competitions and light displays in many areas.

Christmas markets: Handmade goods, festive meals, and holiday entertainment are available at Christmas markets that spring up all over the world of Christmas.

Why is Christmas celebrated on 25th December every year?

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Roman Festival of Sol Invictus: In Roman culture, December 25 was already a big day. Sol Invictus, or "The Unconquered Sun," was a celebration commemorating the winter solstice. The sun was believed to have been reborn during this period, signifying hope and rebirth. In an attempt to Christianize well-known Roman holidays, early Christians could have compared Jesus' birth to the sun during this period.

Winter Solstice: The winter solstice, which falls around December 21 or 22, was seen as a sign of light triumphing over darkness in the majority of ancient nations. It's possible that early Christians decided to commemorate the "light of the world"¡ªJesus Christ¡ªon December 25.

Connection to Pagan rituals: During the winter, a number of different pagan rituals honored gods connected to light and the sun. In an era when such pagan practices were common, Christianity could incorporate these pre-existing rituals and aid in the spread of the gospel by embracing December 25.

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