The popular song "The Twelve Days of Christmas" is usually seen as simply a nonsense song for children with secular origins. However, some have suggested that it is a song of Christian instruction with hidden references to the basic teachings of the Christian Faith. So based on a little research we've compiled the following that might make you think differently the next time you hear this tune:
The First Day of Christmas:
One partridge in a pear tree is Jesus Christ. Celebrate His birthday!
The Second Day of Christmas:
Two turtles doves are the Old and New Testament together that tell the story of God to the world.
The Third Day of Christmas:
Three french hens stand for faith, hope and love. (1Cor. 13:13)
The Fourth Day of Christmas:
Four calling birds are the four gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Proclaim the Good News!
The Fifth Day of Christmas:
Five golden rings recall the first five books of the Old Testament--the Torah. These give us the history of God's grace.
The Sixth Day of Christmas:
Six geese-a-laying stands for the six days of creation. (Genesis 1)
The Seventh Day of Christmas:
Seven swans-a-swimming remind us of the seven gifts of the Spirit--prophesy, serving, teaching, exhortation, giving, leadership, compassion. (Romans 12:6-8)
The Eighth Day of Christmas:
Eight maids-a-milking can help us think of the eight Beatitudes. (Matthew 5:3-10)
The Ninth Day of Christmas
Nine ladies dancing reminds us of the Fruit of the Spirit. (Galatians 5:22)
The Tenth Day of Christmas
Ten Lords-a-leaping stands for the ten commandments. (Exodus 20:1-17)
The Eleventh Day of Christmas
Eleven pipers piping are the faithful eleven disciples.
The Twelfth Day of Christmas
Twelve drummers drumming is symbolic of the twelve points in the Apostles Creed.
Blessings for the remainder of your Advent and Merry Christmas!
