The Christmas Tree tradition as we now know it began in 16th century (the region what is now) Germany when Christians brought decorated trees into their homes. It is said that Martin Luther, the Protestant Reformist, was awestruck by the sight of the stars twinkling among the evergreens while walking home one evening while writing a sermon, so he erected a tree in his home and wired its branches with lighted candles.
The first decorated tree on record in America was displayed in the 1830's by the Pennsylvania Germans, who had community trees as early as1747; but, even as late as 1840, Christmas Trees were seen as pagan symbols by most Americans, and therefore not accepted.
Perhaps this pagan perception by settlers outside of the Pennsylvania Dutch / Pennsylvania German settlements was rooted in the pre-Christian traditions from which the Christmas Tree was born. Modern people decorate their homes with pine, spruce, and fir trees during the holidays, while people in the ancient world, before Christianity, placed special attention upon green plants and trees during the winter months. Evergreen trees were believed in many countries to keep away evil spirits, witches, and ghosts; therefore, evergreen boughs were hung above doors and windows.
Evergreens are also found in the cultural traditions and celebrations of numerous ancient peoples at the time of Winter Solstice, including the ancient Egyptians, Romans, Celts, and Vikings. Winter Solstice marks the longest night, and shortest day, each year as the sun returns and daylight gradually increases each day building toward Spring Equinox. These ancient cultures held evergreens as symbols of the sun, as strength, and the return of life.
No matter where the Christmas Tree first took root, one thing is clear; the holiday season is a time to celebrate life, light, and love in the world.
Peace and Joy.
by Gretchen Swank; 12/24/2022
Resources: Dy, Glory. Does the Christmas Tree Have Pagan Origins? Christianity.com.
https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.christianity.com/wiki/holidays/what-is-the-origin-of-the-christmas-tree.html%3amp=1
History.com. (12/8/2021). History of Christmas Trees. History.com.
https://google.com/amp/topics/christmas/history-of-christmas-trees
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