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Elaina.C 講師のコラム

Christmas Colors: Red and Green... WHY??

2016年12月9日

Christmas is celebrated worldwide on 25 December each year. A lot of countries have different traditions and some people don't acknowledge the religious side of it anymore, but some things seem to be the same all over. Using the colors red and green.

Why red??

In many parts of Europe during the middle ages, Paradise plays were performed, often on Christmas Eve. They told Bible stories to people who couldn't read. The 'Paradise Tree' in the garden of Eden in the play was normally a pine tree with red apples tied to it.

An early use of red at Christmas were the apples on the paradise tree. They represented the fall of Adam in the plays. Today, several states/countries still hold Christmas plays, but now to celebrate the birth of Jesus.

Red is also the color of Holly berries, which is said to represent the blood of Jesus when he died on the cross.

Red is also the color of Bishop's robes. These would have been worn by St. Nicholas and then also became Santa's uniform!!

Why green??

Evergreen plants, like Holly, Ivy, and Mistletoe have been used for thousands of years to decorate and brighten up buildings during the long dark winters. They also reminded people that spring would come and that winter wouldn't last forever!!

The Romans would exchange evergreen branches during January as a sign of good luck. The ancient Egyptians used to bring palm branches into their houses during the mid-winter festivals.

Now the most common uses of green at Christmas are Christmas Trees. 

See more at http://www.whychristmas.com/customs/colors-of-christmas.shtml

Have a great day!!

Elaina.C :)

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