The History of the Christmas Tree

       
          Yesterday, while disassembling my family Christmas tree, my little brother asked, "Why do we even have a Christmas tree?". I honestly had no idea either, so I was encouraged to do a bit of research on the history of the odd tradition.
           The Christian story of the Christmas tree began almost a thousand years ago in Germany, and a Christian prophet, St. Boniface. It is said that while St. Boniface traveled across Germany converting the native peoples to Christianity, he came upon a group of pagans worshiping an oak tree. Enraged, St. Boniface cut down the oak tree, and in its place, a fir tree grew up from the ground. St. Boniface associated the fir tree as a symbol of Christian faith, and Christianity's triumph over paganism.
           Only, after doing a bit ymore research, I discovered that the history of bringing evergreen trees inside one's home and decorating it began long before St. Boniface. In fact, ancient Pagan cultures used to bring evergreen trees into their homes and temples during the month of December in celebration for the winter solstice. The Pagans believed the evergreen trees to have magical powers, seeing as they were the only plants able to survive winter. The Roman Pagans are said to have decorated their evergreens with metals, candles and replicas of their god in celebration of their winter festival, the Saturnalia, which lasted until a few days after the winter solstice.
            Although the history of the Christmas tree is twisted and uncertain, no one can deny the beauty of the odd tradition. Modern day Christmas trees are beautiful with their vast array of lights, ornaments, and tinsel. I know in our home, as soon as the Christmas tree is assembled, a joyful mood seems to take the entire house; the wonderful evergreen smell, the twinkle of the lights, and the handmade ornaments create a cheerful holiday atmosphere.