By Lorris Chevalier
The Christmas tree, now a ubiquitous feature of festive celebrations, has roots in both pagan and Christian traditions. It embodies a profound Christian paradox: through its pagan origins and transformation via the legend of Saint Boniface, the tree reflects the same duality as the cross itself—a symbol of death and salvation. Its evergreen nature calls us to reflect on life, resurrection, and hope.
Origins and Possible Biblical Sources
The symbolism of an evergreen tree, such as the fir, is deeply ingrained in human history. While the Bible does not explicitly mention a Christmas tree, passages such as Jeremiah 10:3-4 describe pagan practices of decorating trees—though in their original context, these were condemned.
Alternatively, evergreen trees may evoke more positive biblical imagery: the Tree of Life in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 2:9), symbolising immortality and resurrection, or Isaiah 11:1, which speaks of a “shoot springing from the stump of Jesse,” symbolising the messianic lineage of Christ. The evergreen nature of the fir tree resonates with the Christian promise of eternal life, triumphing over the barrenness of winter—a metaphor for death.
Saint Boniface and the Triumph Over Paganism
The legend of Saint Boniface, an Anglo-Saxon missionary in the 8th century, plays a central role in the symbolic history of the Christmas tree. According to the story, Boniface cut down a sacred oak dedicated to the pagan god Thor in Germany to demonstrate the superiority of Christianity. In its place, a young fir tree supposedly grew, symbolising faith and eternal life through Christ.
This tale reflects Christianity’s transformative approach to pagan symbols. The fir tree, which replaced the pagan oak, became a tree of light and hope, much like the cross, which transformed from a tool of execution into a symbol of salvation.
The First Medieval Appearances of the Christmas Tree
The tradition of the Christmas tree in a specifically Christian context can be traced back to the Middle Ages. In Alsace, the earliest documented mention of a decorated fir tree dates back to 1521, although similar practices likely existed earlier.
The symbolic use of trees, however, was already present in medieval mystery plays. In the 14th century, Paradise Trees, adorned with apples and communion wafers, were used in theatrical performances on Christmas Eve to represent the Tree of Knowledge in the Garden of Eden. These trees, blending pagan and Christian imagery, are considered direct precursors to the modern Christmas tree.
The Christmas Tree as a Paradox of Christianity
Like the cross—simultaneously an instrument of death and a symbol of redemption—the Christmas tree embodies a Christian paradox. Originating in pagan tradition, it was reimagined by Christianity as a symbol of resurrection and victory over spiritual death.
In winter, when the natural world appears lifeless, the evergreen tree stands as a testament to life’s persistence. This duality mirrors Christianity’s core message: the crucifixion of Christ, the darkest moment in human history, is also the foundation of hope and salvation. The Christmas tree, like the cross, became a tool of evangelism, showing that even symbols born of paganism can be transformed to reflect divine truth.
A Call to Life and Hope
The enduring nature of the evergreen tree reinforces its symbolism as a call to life. It is a tangible representation of light conquering darkness, and life overcoming death. Modern decorations, especially lights, amplify this symbolism, reflecting Christ as the Light of the World who illuminates a spiritually darkened world.
Dates and Evolution in Medieval Tradition
Although the modern concept of a Christmas tree emerged later, similar traditions appeared in the medieval period:
- 13th century: Saint Francis of Assisi popularised live nativity scenes, and symbolic trees began to feature in religious celebrations.
- 14th-15th centuries: Craft guilds in Central Europe erected trees in public spaces or churches, decorating them with apples to symbolise the Fall and redemption.
- 1521: The first written record of a “Christmas tree” appears in the town of Sélestat in Alsace.
These traditions illustrate the gradual evolution of a tree that celebrated not only Christmas but also the eternal hope of life in Christ.
The Christmas tree is a powerful embodiment of the Christian paradox, transforming what was once pagan into a profound expression of faith and hope. Its evergreen nature proclaims the victory of life over death, of light over darkness, and of Christ over sin.
It invites reflection on the mysteries of the Incarnation and Resurrection while uniting generations through a tradition that transcends cultural and temporal boundaries. Rooted in history, the Christmas tree continues to flourish as a joyful, universal proclamation of the Christian faith.
Dr Lorris Chevalier, who has a Ph.D. in medieval literature, is a historical advisor for movies, including The Last Duel and Napoleon.
Top Image: Selestat-Saint-Georges Church © B. Salmanski – ADT
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