The Christmas Tree Origin

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Though many people around the world do not celebrate Christmas, some still decorate with the use of a Christmas tree. Christmas trees are generally pine, fir, or spruce or a fake replica of them. They have their various reasons, such as it is a festive season of fun, lights, and laughter, and the tree is a perfect combination of that. But what is the Christmas Tree Origin, the History of the Christmas Tree, so to speak?

As each year passes by and more persons are joining the group of putting up Christmas trees, have you ever stopped to think about its history like the real significance, who and where it started, and why? We have noticed the trend and was curious to find out where it all began. As you read on, you will get a taste of some interesting historical facts that will leave you seeing the Christmas tree from a different angle than you do now.

History Of The Christmas Tree

Where did the tradition of the Christmas tree come from and its Significance?

Christmas tree origin is interesting as they date back to the early German history of the 19th century, where they would bring them in their homes and decorate with items such as tinsel, apple, and roses made of paper. As the winter season would approach each year, the feel and beauty of the green trees had a great significance as it symbolized hope that the winter will soon be out. The green trees helped to create an atmosphere of peace and happiness. Also, the evergreen trees and ornaments were a symbolic item for many as they believed it would help to ward off evil spirits, witches, and illnesses. On December 21 or 22, the shortest day and longest night was a negative factor for the early people. With the evergreen symbols placed in their homes, they were hopeful the sun god would shine again and push away the cold temperatures.

As the years went by, and the tradition of the Christmas tree started to spread, there were different forms of decorations used to complement it. During the 1800s, the first set of Christmas trees came to the west (United States) and decorated with items such as garlands, baubles, candy cane, and tinsel. These decorations, however, weren’t enough, and as scientists invented electricity, so was the idea of Christmas lights. In addition to the traditional decorating items, many people started using Christmas lights with a star placed atop the tree. What is the significance of the star? It reminds Christians and other believers that a star was as a guide for the wise men who were searching for Jesus in Bethlehem.

Compared to what we see today and the tradition of choosing a tree, early times saw people searching for trees based on their desires. Many of us want a tree now based on size, color, or height. However, in ancient times, a tree had to have specific features before a family would add it to their home. The care for size was not an option.

What does the Bible say about the Christmas Tree?

Many Christians are against the idea of putting up a Christmas tree based on the real history of its origin. They link the whole notion to paganism and the need to worship idols and not the True and Living God. However, researchers have scoured the Bible to find whether it is okay or a sin to use a Christmas tree at Christmas. One primary Bible passage that many people seem to struggle with is Jeremiah 10:1-25, which quotes:

“Hear the word that the Lord speaks to you, O house of Israel. Thus says the Lord: “Learn not the way of the nations, nor be dismayed at the signs of the heavens because the nations are dismayed at them, for the customs of the peoples are vanity. A tree from the forest is cut down and worked with an ax by the hands of a craftsman. They decorate it with silver and gold; they fasten it with hammer and nails so that it cannot move. Their idols are like scarecrows in a cucumber field, and they cannot speak; they have to be carried, for they cannot walk. Do not be afraid of them, for they cannot do evil, neither is it in them to do good.”

Jeremiah 10:1-25

Many people are of the perception that God is saying the act is wrong as it links to the uncivilized behavior of persons carving images or idols to put in their homes. On the other hand, others have the belief that God is saying it is okay to use Christmas trees but not to focus on the traditions of the heathens to use craven images but to make Christ be the center of the season. What are your thoughts on this? Another interesting passage is Leviticus 23:40, which says:  

“And you shall take on the first day the fruit of splendid trees, branches of palm trees and boughs of leafy trees and willows of the brook, and you shall rejoice before the Lord your God seven days.”

Leviticus 23:40

This scripture is a symbolic one for many as they claim it indicates leafy trees are a significant part of worship to Almighty God. But, amidst everything and the different interpretations of Biblical scriptures and passages, the true meaning of Christmas for Christians is to have the birth of Christ as the sole focus.

Christmas trees are now grown in all 50 states in the US and are a significant part of most American households. They decorate it with different items and only see it as a great way to complement the festive season. The Christmas tree origin is a rich one and dates back to hundreds of years ago. The Christmas tree is also not only a part of the Christian tradition as many major cities and towns across the globe have traditional lighting ceremonies each year. Have you ever seen the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree in New York? Well, imagine a giant tree adorned with over 25,000 different Christmas lights and decorations. Whatever your reasons for the tree, we are sure it mainly a traditional thing! 

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