Did you know that Christmas, as it’s celebrated today, hasn’t always been part of the believer's tradition? In fact, Christmas was outright illegal in parts of the world until 1836, largely due to its widely recognized pagan origins. Early believers knew December 25th was not the day of Y’shu’ah’s (Jesus’) birth but rather a day for honoring pagan gods such as Tammuz, Mithras, and the Roman sun deity Sol Invictus. Despite these roots, many today celebrate Christmas without questioning its origins or its alignment with Scripture.
To understand the true origins of Christmas, it’s crucial to delve into its connections with ancient pagan traditions, gods, and rituals that were celebrated long before the birth of Y’shu’ah (Jesus). Modern Christmas celebrations are a mix of Christian themes with traditions drawn from festivals such as Saturnalia, Yule, and other winter solstice observances, which included pagan symbols like evergreen trees, wreaths, and lights. Exploring these origins helps us understand the depth of these customs and why believers seeking a biblically aligned worship might consider alternatives.
But the question remains: What does Elohim (God) say about mixing pagan customs with His worship? Can good intentions justify continuing traditions He has explicitly forbidden? This is more than just a theological debate; it’s a call to examine how we honor Y’shu’ah HaMashiach (Jesus Christ) in spirit and truth. Let’s explore the historical, symbolic, and scriptural aspects of Christmas to understand what it means to worship Elohim as He desires. The Historical and Pagan Roots of Christmas
1. The Pagan Origins of December 25th
Historical Context
December 25th has long been associated with pagan worship. In ancient Rome, this date marked the celebration of Saturnalia, a festival honoring Saturn, the god of agriculture. Later, the Roman cult of Mithras, a sun god, adopted December 25th as the “Birthday of the Unconquered Sun” (Dies Natalis Solis Invicti). These festivals were characterized by revelry, gift-giving, and feasting—all of which have carried over into modern Christmas traditions.
Biblical Contrasts
While pagan festivals celebrated the sun, the Scriptures point us to worship the Creator, not His creation:
Deuteronomy 4:19:
“And take heed, lest you lift your eyes to heaven, and when you see the sun, the moon, and the stars, all the host of heaven, you feel driven to worship them.”
Y’shu’ah’s birth is never associated with a specific date in Scripture, nor does the Bible command us to observe it. Instead, we are told to focus on His life, death, and resurrection.
The date December 25th has no biblical connection to Y’shu’ah HaMashiach’s birth but aligns with ancient pagan celebrations that predate Christianity.
Babylonian Influence:
Tammuz, the reincarnated son of Nimrod and Semiramis, was said to be born on December 25. Tammuz was worshiped as a fertility deity and sun god.
His birth was celebrated with rituals involving evergreen trees, feasting, and exchanging gifts.
Roman Paganism: Saturnalia: The Roman Festival of Excess
Saturnalia, a Roman festival in honor of Saturn, the god of agriculture and wealth, greatly influenced Christmas traditions.
Timing and Customs: Celebrated from December 17 to December 23, Saturnalia marked a time of revelry, gift-giving, and feasting. During Saturnalia, social norms were overturned—slaves were given temporary freedom, and gambling, otherwise frowned upon, was permitted. Houses were decorated with greenery, and people adorned their homes with evergreen boughs, lights, and garlands.
Influence on Christmas: Many Saturnalian customs found their way into Christmas celebrations. The concept of feasting, gift exchanges, and decorating with greenery mirrors Saturnalia’s practices. Early Christian leaders in Rome sought to provide a Christian alternative to this popular festival, leading to the adoption of some customs and their adaptation to celebrate Y’shu’ah’s birth.
Pagan Connection: Saturn, as a deity, represented not only agriculture but also wealth and abundance, central to the celebrations in his honor. This aspect of abundance and feasting carries forward into Christmas traditions, where indulgence is a prominent feature.
In the Roman Empire, December 25th was the culmination of Saturnalia, a festival honoring Saturn, the god of agriculture. The celebrations were marked by debauchery, gift-giving, and feasting.
Sol Invictus and the Cult of the Unconquered Sun Dies Natalis Solis Invicti ("The Birthday of the Unconquered Sun") celebrated the sun god Mithras. Early Christians, under Roman influence, adopted the date to gain converts, blending sun worship with Christianity.
The Roman holiday of Sol Invictus (“The Unconquered Sun”) was celebrated on December 25, marking the winter solstice and the perceived rebirth of the sun.
Emperor Aurelian’s Establishment: In 274 AD, Emperor Aurelian established Sol Invictus as an official state religion, celebrating December 25 as the birthday of the sun god. This date symbolized the lengthening of daylight following the shortest day of the year, representing the victory of light over darkness.
Christian Adaptation: When Christianity spread throughout the Roman Empire, early church leaders sought to repurpose this popular date for a Christian observance. Instead of abolishing the holiday, they rebranded it to commemorate Y’shu’ah’s birth, creating a Christian alternative. This adaptation allowed for an easier transition for pagans converting to Christianity.
Pagan Roots: The worship of the sun as a deity was a common practice in many ancient cultures. December 25 was a powerful symbol of renewal and light, and the sun god was associated with life-giving power. Repurposing this day into a celebration of Y’shu’ah’s birth was a strategic but controversial decision, merging Christian beliefs with long-standing pagan symbolism.
Rebranding by the Church:
In 336 CE, Emperor Constantine declared December 25th as the official date for Y’shu’ah’s birth to replace pagan solstice celebrations. However, the Bible offers no support for this date.
2. Pagan Symbols in Christmas
Each major symbol of Christmas reveals its pagan origins:
Christmas Symbols with Pagan Origins
Various symbols and practices associated with Christmas today can be traced back to ancient pagan rituals rather than the Bible.
Evergreen Trees: The Christmas Tree
The Christmas tree is one of the most recognizable symbols of the season, yet its roots are deeply pagan. Evergreen trees were used in ancient fertility rituals and as symbols of life during winter solstices.
Jeremiah 10:2-4:
“Thus says Yahuah: ‘Do not learn the way of the Gentiles... For the customs of the peoples are futile; for one cuts a tree from the forest... They decorate it with silver and gold.’”
Jeremiah 10:2-4 condemns the practice of cutting down trees, decorating them with silver and gold, and setting them upright. This aligns with ancient customs where evergreen trees symbolized fertility and eternal life in Babylonian and Norse traditions.
Yule Log: The festival of Yule, originating from Norse and Germanic paganism, was a celebration of the winter solstice, marked by elaborate feasting, sacrifices, and rituals honoring gods like Odin and Thor.
Yule Traditions: During Yule, pagans would bring evergreen boughs, holly, and mistletoe into their homes as symbols of life and protection. The Yule log, often decorated and burned to honor the gods, symbolized the return of the sun’s warmth. Evergreens, symbols of life enduring through the harsh winter, played a central role in Yule.
Odin’s Influence on Santa Claus: Odin, the chief Norse god, was believed to fly through the sky on his eight-legged horse, Sleipnir, during the Yule season, visiting people’s homes. This myth is thought to have influenced later depictions of Santa Claus, including his association with reindeer and gift-giving.
Connection to Christmas: The Yule log, holly, and mistletoe became incorporated into Christmas celebrations as symbols of warmth, protection, and life. The Christmas tree is thought to stem from this practice of bringing evergreens indoors to celebrate enduring life through the coldest months.
In Norse mythology, the Yule log symbolized the death and rebirth of the sun. Today’s burning of the Yule log continues this tradition, representing Nimrod’s death and Tammuz’s rebirth.
Santa Claus: Santa Claus, a beloved figure of modern Christmas, has deep historical roots that blend various traditions, myths, and cultural adaptations. His origins trace back to ancient Norse mythology and the veneration of Saint Nicholas, eventually evolving into the iconic figure known today.
Rooted in the Norse god Odin, who was depicted riding a horse through the skies during Yule. Later, Catholic traditions of St. Nicholas merged with pagan folklore, transforming into the modern Santa Claus.
Norse Roots: Odin and Yule
In Norse mythology, Odin, the Allfather, played a significant role in the winter festival known as Yule. During this time, Odin was believed to ride his eight-legged horse, Sleipnir, across the night sky. He was often depicted as a wise, bearded figure wearing a cloak and hat, bearing a striking resemblance to the modern Santa Claus. Children would leave offerings of food for Sleipnir, hoping Odin would bless them with gifts in return—a tradition that echoes Santa's practice of leaving gifts for children who prepare stockings or treats for him and his reindeer.
Odin’s association with wisdom, gifts, and his spectral wintertime journeys contributed foundational elements to the Santa Claus legend, particularly the image of a benevolent, sky-traveling figure who rewards good behavior.
The Christian Influence: St. Nicholas
The figure of St. Nicholas of Myra (4th century CE), a Christian bishop known for his generosity, compassion, and miraculous deeds, became another cornerstone of the Santa Claus tradition. St. Nicholas was renowned for secretly giving gifts, such as providing dowries for impoverished girls to save them from slavery or prostitution. His feast day, December 6, became a time for gift-giving, particularly in Europe, where he was widely venerated.
As Christianity spread, St. Nicholas's legacy merged with local traditions, including those from pre-Christian pagan festivals like Yule. His reputation for kindness and generosity laid the groundwork for Santa Claus's role as a gift-bringer.
Medieval Folklore and Fusion with Pagan Elements
The merging of St. Nicholas and pagan traditions occurred most prominently in medieval Europe. Figures such as the Dutch "Sinterklaas" emerged, retaining elements of both St. Nicholas and earlier folklore. Sinterklaas, like Odin, was portrayed as a bearded man who traveled the skies, rewarding good children with gifts and punishing the naughty.
Sinterklaas traditions were brought to the Americas by Dutch settlers, where they evolved further under the influence of other European customs.
Coca-Cola and Modern Santa Claus
The modern image of Santa Claus as a jolly, red-suited man with a white beard owes much to 19th and 20th-century American culture. The 1823 poem "A Visit from St. Nicholas" (commonly known as "The Night Before Christmas") by Clement Clarke Moore solidified many modern attributes of Santa Claus, such as his sleigh pulled by reindeer and his chimney-based gift delivery.
The 20th century saw further refinement of Santa's image, particularly through Coca-Cola's advertising campaigns in the 1930s. Illustrator Haddon Sundblom depicted Santa as the cheerful, plump figure recognizable today, cementing his appearance in popular culture.
Conclusion
Santa Claus is a composite character, born from the interweaving of Norse mythology, Christian sainthood, and medieval folklore, with significant contributions from 19th and 20th-century storytelling and marketing. His transformation reflects a blend of spiritual, cultural, and commercial influences, making him a global symbol of generosity, joy, and the festive spirit. Ultimately the truth is: Santa Claus is a fabricated figure rooted in Norse mythology, Christian sainthood, and medieval folklore, later shaped by 19th and 20th-century marketing. He embodies a mix of pagan traditions, false teachings, and cultural myths. Sadly, this figure perpetuates a culture where adults normalize deception, teaching their children to believe in a lie under the guise of joy and festivity, rather than upholding truth and integrity.
Mistletoe and Holly:
In Druidic and Norse traditions, holly and mistletoe were revered as sacred plants. Mistletoe, especially, was used in fertility rituals, and holly symbolized protection. These elements, now associated with Christmas décor, hold no biblical significance but were adopted from ancient superstitions.
Both were sacred in Druidic and Roman traditions, representing fertility and protection. Their use in Christmas celebrations continues the symbolism of pagan fertility rituals.
Gift-Giving and Feasting
These traditions also trace back to Saturnalia and other pagan festivals, where gifts were exchanged, and lavish feasts were held. Though giving gifts is not inherently wrong, the association with pagan practices raises the question: Are we honoring Elohim or conforming to the world’s ways?
Romans 12:2: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
While this passage does not explicitly mention Christmas, it describes practices eerily similar to modern tree decorations, drawing attention to Elohim’s disapproval of adopting pagan customs in worship.
“That is not what it means to me”
A statement like "That is not what it means to me" reflects a subjective approach to interpreting Scripture, but biblical interpretation must be grounded in context and the intent of the original text, rather than personal preferences or feelings. Scripture was divinely inspired and written within specific historical, cultural, and theological contexts, with intended meanings that guide us in understanding God’s truth.
When we interpret the Bible based on "what it means to me," we risk distorting or misapplying its message. Consider 2 Peter 1:20-21, which says, "No prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation... men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit." This passage reminds us that Scripture’s meaning is not subjective but is grounded in the intention of the Holy Spirit who inspired it.
Furthermore, Jesus consistently referred to Scripture, not as a flexible document to be molded to personal interpretations, but as a foundational and authoritative source of truth (Matthew 4:4, John 17:17). Proverbs 3:5-6 also urges us to “lean not on your own understanding,” but to trust in the truth that God has revealed.
The Council of Nicaea and the Formal Adoption of December 25
The Council of Nicaea in 325 AD played a significant role in formalizing Christmas on December 25, further separating Christian practices from their Jewish roots and aligning them with Roman customs.
Christianizing Pagan Festivals: By adopting December 25 as the birth of Y’shu’ah, the church sought to Christianize a popular pagan date, making it easier for pagans to adopt Christianity without abandoning their beloved celebrations.
Anti-Jewish Sentiment: The early church, seeking to distance itself from Jewish customs, rejected the biblical festivals like Passover in favor of fixed Roman dates. The Hebrew calendar was replaced with a solar calendar, further disconnecting Christian observances from their original, biblically rooted timing.
Shift from Passover: This formalization distanced Y’shu’ah’s birth from Passover, which symbolized redemption and deliverance. Instead of aligning with a biblically ordained festival, Christmas was positioned within the framework of Roman paganism.
Scriptural Warnings Against Mixing Worship
Throughout Scripture, Elohim warns His people against incorporating pagan practices into their worship. These warnings emphasize pure worship focused solely on Him, without the influence of surrounding cultures.
Deuteronomy 12:30-31: “Take heed… that you do not inquire after their gods, saying, ‘How did these nations serve their gods? I also will do likewise.’ You shall not worship the LORD your God in that way.” Here, Elohim commands Israel not to adopt the religious practices of other nations.
2 Corinthians 6:14-17: Paul teaches, “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers… What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols?” Paul’s message reinforces the importance of avoiding spiritual compromise by adopting pagan practices.
Ephesians 5:11: “Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.” Believers are called to avoid and expose practices that contradict God’s holiness.
The Biblical Account of Messiah’s Birth
1. Scriptural Clues About the Timing
The Bible does not specify the date of Y’shu’ah’s birth, but it provides important clues about the season:
Shepherds in the Field (Luke 2:8):
Shepherds watched their flocks by night, which was common during lambing season in spring (March-April) or fall (September-October), not winter.
The Census (Luke 2:1-3):
A Roman census requiring travel would have been unlikely in the dead of winter, further indicating that Y’shu’ah was not born in December.
2. Timing of John the Baptist’s Birth
The timing of John’s birth offers insight into Y’shu’ah’s birth:
Priestly Division of Abijah (Luke 1:5):
Zechariah, John’s father, served in the division of Abijah, which ministered in late May to early June (1 Chronicles 24:10). Elizabeth conceived shortly thereafter.
Six Months Later:
Luke 1:26-36 states Y’shu’ah was conceived six months after John. This places Y’shu’ah’s birth in September or October, likely during the fall Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot).
Biblical Warnings Against Pagan Practices, The Scriptural Mandate: Worship in Spirit and Truth, Elohim’s Instructions Against Mixing Practices
The Torah is explicit about avoiding syncretism—the blending of true worship with pagan customs:
Deuteronomy 12:30-31:
“Take heed to yourself that you are not ensnared to follow them... You shall not worship Yahuah your Elohim in that way.”
Elohim is holy, and He calls His people to worship Him as He commands, not as we see fit. Even if the intentions behind Christmas are good, Elohim cares about obedience over tradition:
1 Samuel 15:22:
“Has Yahuah as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of Yahuah? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice.”
Y’shu’ah’s Example
Y’shu’ah never celebrated His own birth, nor did He instruct His disciples to do so. Instead, He observed the appointed feasts outlined in the Torah, such as Passover and Sukkot. His life exemplified a commitment to honoring Elohim’s commands, not human traditions.
John 4:23-24:
“But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him.”
The Word of Elohim strongly cautions against adopting pagan customs in worship:
Deuteronomy 12:4, 31:
"You shall not worship the LORD your God in that way... for every abomination to the LORD which He hates they have done to their gods."
Jeremiah 10:2-4:
"Do not learn the way of the nations... for one cuts a tree from the forest, decorates it with silver and gold."
Isaiah 57:5:
"Burning with lust under every green tree..." This refers to fertility worship, central to pagan rituals.
Matthew 15:9:
Y’shu’ah rebukes vain worship based on human traditions: "In vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men."
Theological Concerns with Christmas
1. Syncretism
Mixing pagan customs with biblical worship dilutes the purity of faith. 2 Corinthians 6:17 calls believers to separation: "Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord."
2. Intent vs. Obedience
While good intentions may justify traditions for some, Elohim values obedience over sacrifice:
Nadab and Abihu offered "strange fire" before Elohim (Leviticus 10:1-3), resulting in their judgment.
1 Samuel 15:22 reminds us: "To obey is better than sacrifice."
A Call to Return to Biblical Worship
Reflecting on Intentions
Many celebrate Christmas with good intentions, focusing on family, joy, and the birth of Y’shu’ah. But good intentions cannot override Elohim’s commands. As believers, we are called to examine the origins and meanings of our practices and align them with His Word.
Hosea 4:6:
“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you.”Returning to Elohim’s Appointed Times
Rather than adopting traditions with pagan roots, consider observing the biblical feasts. These appointed times—such as Passover, Shavuot, and Sukkot—point directly to Y’shu’ah and His redemptive work.
Leviticus 23:2:
“Speak to the children of Yisra’el, and say to them: ‘The feasts of Yahuah, which you shall proclaim to be holy convocations, these are My feasts.’”
These feasts not only honor Elohim but also teach profound truths about His plan of redemption. The Call to Return to Biblical Feasts
For believers seeking to align their worship with Scripture, returning to biblical observances offers a way to honor Y’shu’ah in a manner free from pagan influence.
Passover as a Foreshadowing of Redemption: Passover, a biblically commanded feast, aligns directly with Y’shu’ah’s sacrifice, marking the deliverance from sin and death. Observing Passover provides a way to remember His sacrifice within the framework Elohim established, without adopting non-biblical customs.
Feast of Tabernacles: Celebrated in the fall, the Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot) symbolizes God’s dwelling with His people. Many scholars believe that Y’shu’ah’s birth likely took place during this feast, not in winter, as it reflects themes of dwelling, Emmanuel ("God with us"), and joy.
Biblical Framework for Worship: Observing these feasts allows believers to commemorate Y’shu’ah’s life, sacrifice, and ultimate return without the mixture of pagan elements, honoring Elohim in the way He commanded.
Steps for Believers to Align Their Worship
Seek the Truth:
Research the historical and biblical roots of Christmas. Learn why Elohim’s Word repeatedly warns against mixing pagan practices with His worship.
Embrace Biblical Holy Days:
Replace Christmas with the Feasts of Elohim outlined in Leviticus 23, such as Passover, Shavuot, and Sukkot, which honor Y’shu’ah in alignment with Scripture.
Focus on Messiah Daily:
Y’shu’ah’s birth, life, death, and resurrection can be celebrated every day, free from the influence of pagan traditions.
Educate Others with Grace:
Educate yourself so you can then educate others. Share these truths humbly, encouraging others to examine their traditions in light of Scripture.
Worshiping in Spirit and Truth
Christmas, while widely celebrated as a holiday honoring Y’shu’ah HaMashiach, reveals a troubling truth when its origins and practices are examined. Its roots lie in pagan traditions that conflict with Elohim’s Word—traditions that He explicitly commands His people to reject. The symbols, dates, and customs point not to the biblical Messiah but to idolatrous practices adopted from the nations.
Elohim has called His people to be set apart, to worship Him in purity, and to reject the traditions of the world that compromise His holiness:
2 Corinthians 6:17:
“Come out from among them and be separate, says Yahuah. Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you.”
This is not about legalism but about obedience born out of love and reverence for our Creator. Y’shu’ah HaMashiach Himself declared, "Elohim is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth" (John 4:24). True worship cannot coexist with practices rooted in falsehood and idolatry.
Instead of clinging to man-made traditions, let us embrace the biblical holy days Elohim has given us—appointed times that honor Him and reveal His plan for redemption. As believers, we have an opportunity to reflect on how we honor Y’shu’ah and to align our worship with the truth of His Word.
Elohim’s call is clear: "Be holy, for I am holy" (1 Peter 1:16). Will you answer the call to worship Him in spirit and truth, rejecting the ways of the nations, and choosing obedience over convenience?
Tanakh References and Allusions
Jeremiah 10:2-4 – Rejecting pagan customs.
Deuteronomy 12:30-31 – Avoiding syncretism.
Isaiah 42:8 – Elohim will not share His glory with idols.
Hosea 4:6 – The consequences of rejecting knowledge.
1 Samuel 15:22 – Obedience over sacrifice.
Cross-References in the Brit Chadashah (New Testament)
John 4:23-24 – Worshiping in spirit and truth.
Romans 12:2 – Not conforming to the world.
2 Corinthians 6:17 – Separation from unclean practices.
Matthew 5:17-19 – Y’shu’ah’s fulfillment of the Torah.
Colossians 2:8 – Avoiding traditions of men.
An Invitation to Reflect
We are not called to follow tradition blindly but to seek Elohim’s truth with open hearts and minds. This exploration of Christmas challenges us to reevaluate our worship and align it with Scripture. The question is not whether we can justify our practices but whether they truly honor Yahuah. Will you take the step to worship Him in spirit and truth?A Call to Worship in Spirit and Truth
Understanding the pagan origins of Christmas illuminates how these ancient festivals and customs have blended with Christian observances over the centuries. By recognizing these roots, believers have the opportunity to consider the importance of worship that aligns with Scripture, free from practices that originated in idolatry. Returning to the biblical feasts offers a pure and powerful way to honor Y’shu’ah, centering worship on truth and holiness as instructed by Elohim. In short, to truly grasp and apply God’s Word, we need to prioritize its intended meaning over personal interpretation, studying it prayerfully and carefully to ensure that our beliefs align with the truth God has given us.
This approach reflects Y’shu’ah’s own teaching in John 4:24, “God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” For those seeking to align their worship with biblical commands, focusing on the Feasts of the Lord provides an untainted, scripturally rooted framework for remembering and celebrating Elohim’s redemption through Y’shu’ah.
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