The warm embrace of the cold winter season, the aroma of freshly baked cookies, the exciting sight of presents under the Christmas tree and the stimulating spectacle of bright colors – these are just some of the exhilarating sensations we experience every Christmas. Another noteworthy scene is the influx of lush greeneries that come in different forms.
From real and artificial Christmas trees to live Christmas plants scattered in your home, these greeneries not only help bring out the Christmas spirit but they also represent significant symbolisms derived from past traditions. Here are some of the most common greeneries we see every Christmas and the beliefs and customs they represent.
Yew Trees – These trees belong to the evergreen family and symbolize one’s everlasting life with the Lord.
Fir Trees – Most commonly used as Christmas trees, fir trees also represent everlasting life with God because of their deep green color. These are often recreated as artificial trees, which most households use during the holidays.
Holly – The Holly is a popular ornament that livens up any home. This prickly green plant highlighted by its red berries symbolizes Jesus Christ’s crown of thorns. The berries signify the drops of blood caused by the thorns.
Ivy – Because it needs to cling on to something for support, the Ivy is a reminder to every Christian that we need God in order to grow.
Laurel – Laurels resemble a wreath and worn on the head by ancient Greeks as a crown of glory. This greenery represents success, and in the Christian context, God’s victory over the Devil.
Christmas Wreath –Coming from the old English word “writhen” which means to twist, the wreath consists of evergreens in circular form. It is said to have come from the tradition of Advent Wreath that symbolize the four weeks of Advent.
Mistletoe – Mistletoes have been associated with a lot of beliefs. The Greeks believed it had mystical powers and later in the Middle Ages, it was thought to ward off evil spirits. They were also used to keep witches away. The custom of kissing under the mistletoe used to be associated with primitive marriage rites. Now, exchanging a kiss under the mistletoe is an anticipation of happiness and long life as well as a promise to marry for couples in love.
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