Christmas Traditions Explained

What does the word 'Christmas' mean?

The word Christmas is taken from 'Christ's Mass' or, in the original Latin, Cristes maesse. Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus on this day.

Is Christmas only a religious holiday?

Certainly, for practicing Christians around the world, Christmas is one the most important holiday of the year. However, in modern times traditional Christmas festivities have become much less related to the Christ story. Examples of these other traditions include: Santa Claus, Rudolf the Red Nose Reindeer and others.

Why is Christmas so important?

There are two reasons:
There are approximately 1.8 billion Christians in a total world population of 5.5 billion, making it the largest religion worldwide.

And, some think more importantly, Christmas is the most important shopping event of the year. It is claimed that up to 70 percent of many merchants' annual revenue is made during the Christmas season.It is interesting to note that this emphasis on spending is relatively modern. Christmas was a relatively quiet holiday in the USA until the 1860s.

Why do people give gifts on Christmas day?

This tradition most probably is based on the story of the three wise men (the Magi) giving gifts of gold, incense and myrrh following the birth of Jesus.
However, it is important to note that gift giving has only become popular in the last 100 years as figures such as Santa Claus have come to be more important, and emphasis has been shifted to giving gifts to children.

Why is there a Christmas Tree?

This tradition was begun in Germany. German immigrants moving to England and the USA brought this popular tradition with them and it has since become a much loved tradition for all.


A. What does the word 'Christmas' mean?
1. Christ's Mass
2. Many Christians
3. Birth of Jesus

B. Is Christmas only a religious holiday?
1. Yes, it is strictly a religious holiday.
2. No, it is based on religious traditions, but there are also other traditions.
3. No, it is strictly a non-religious fun holiday.

C. Which is NOT a reason for Christmas' popularity?
1. It is celebrated by one of the largest religions worldwide.
2. It is an important holiday for business.
3. It is a traditional exam period at universities.

D: Why do people give gifts on Christmas day?
1. Christ suggested it.
2. The tradition was probably based on the story of the three wise men.
3. Rudolf the Red-nosed Reindeer started the tradition.

E. Why is there a Christmas Tree?
1. It is a tradition introduced by the American Indians.
2. The pilgrims brought the tradition with them from England.
3. It is a tradition begun in Germany.

Key

A 1, B 2, C 3, D 2, E3