Is Christmas Celebration a Pagan Practice?

During every holiday season, the question of the "pagan" origins of Christmas traditions resurfaces in various discussions. 

While it is understandable to hear such claims from skeptics and non-believers, it is surprising when these views are held by those who identify themselves as Christians. 

This blog post is aimed at those Christian sects that label certain Christmas traditions as pagan practices. I will focus on three main aspects often criticized as pagan: Christmas carols, gift giving, and the Christmas tree.

Is Christmas Carol a Pagan Practice?

Absolutely not. The birth of Jesus was celebrated with the world's first Christmas carol, performed by none other than a heavenly host of angels. As documented in the Gospel of Luke: 

"Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests'" (Luke 2:13-14, NIV). 

The angels initiated this wondrous event, and it was nothing short of heavenly. There is no evidence to suggest that this practice has pagan roots. 

In fact, it began as a divine celebration, complete with angelic beings and a guiding star.

Is Christmas Tree a Pagan Practice?

Contrary to some views, the Christmas tree is not a pagan symbol. There is no historical evidence that the act of children running to a tree to collect presents once a year has any roots in pagan worship. 

Critics often misinterpret Jeremiah 10:3, which discusses the carving and decorating of wooden idols, as evidence against Christmas trees. In reality, Jeremiah's criticism was aimed at the idol worship prevalent at the time, which involved carving images out of wood and adorning them with silver and gold. This practice is a far cry from setting up a Christmas tree as a symbol of joy and celebration. 

Furthermore, the Bible is replete with references to trees as metaphors for life and faithfulness, such as the "tree of life" in Genesis and Revelation, and the comparison of a righteous man to a tree planted by streams of water in Psalm 1. 

It is essential to understand that the tree, especially as represented by the cross of Jesus Christ, is a symbol of life and salvation, not a pagan idol.

Is Giving Gifts During Christmas a Pagan Practice?

No, giving gifts is not a pagan tradition either. In fact, the act of giving gifts during Christmas is rooted in the ultimate gift that God gave to humanity: Jesus Christ. The Bible says, 

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16, NIV). 

The gift-giving tradition is a symbolic reminder of this incredible gift and bears no relation to any pagan practices.

How Should We Celebrate Christmas?

How one chooses to celebrate Christmas is a personal decision, as long as the true meaning of the holiday—Jesus Christ's birth—is not lost. 

Even comedic interpretations of Christmas, like those seen in Rowan Atkinson's Mr. Bean series, are welcomed as long as they are within societal norms and do not degrade the spirit of the holiday. 

In summary, the core aspects of the Christmas celebration—caroling, Christmas trees, and gift-giving—have no roots in paganism when examined closely. 

It is essential for Christians to be informed about these issues to address criticisms effectively and to celebrate Christmas in a way that truly honors the birth of the Savior.