Tradition of the Christmas tree
The history and tradition of the Christmas tree
The Christmas tree is originally a symbol of fertility. It is not clear when it was used as a Christmas tree. The Germans probably had a tree that was always green in their yard before the Christianization around the winter solstice (the Yule festival). Because of this pagan origin, the Roman Catholic Church tried to keep the Christmas tree out of Christianity for a long time.
At the beginning of the 16th century, Luther declared the Christmas tree to be a symbol of the birth of Jesus Christ. Initially, the tree was only in churches. It was not until the end of the 19th century that Christmas trees were also brought into the home.
According to Luther, the Christmas tree is reminiscent of the tree in paradise. The balls in the Christmas tree are the fruits that Adam and Eve ate. The top represents the star that showed the way to the birthplace of Jesus. Sometimes, instead of a top, a star is used at the top of the Christmas tree.
Initially, the nativity scene had the place of honor in the home for Catholics. It was only since 1982 that there has also been a Christmas tree in the Vatican. Because of the prohibition of images among the Protestants, they preferred not to have a nativity scene in their homes. That is why the Christmas tree became increasingly popular among this group. Christmas trees are decorated with garlands, angel hair, Christmas balls and candles. For fire safety, special Christmas tree lighting with small electric lights was introduced.