LETTERS: SYMBOLISM OF '12 DAYS' EXPLAINED

To the editor:

In response to Jeffrey Jackson's Dec. 14 column, I'd like to share the true meaning of "The 12 Days of Christmas," which just happens to overflow in rich symbolism of Christianity.

Yes, our society has secularized much of Christmas, but please take time to absorb the true meaning of a carol calling us to celebrate Christ's true love to each of us.

And during the 12 days from Dec. 25 to Jan. 6, please come downtown and celebrate the children's artwork depicting the song and its symbolism.

In the 16th century, England proclaimed an official state church, and any other religious teaching was strictly forbidden. For the next three centuries, those who refused to join the state church developed creative ways to teach children their beliefs. A popular methods was through lyrics and song.

"The 12 Days of Christmas" is overflowing with rich spiritual significance. There are secret Christian symbols concealed in the song. It could also be freely sung without ever using God's name, because "my true love" refers to God. Even the repetitive pattern represents a special meaning. As the verses repeat over and over, so God's ongoing gifts and blessings continue to flow into the lives of his followers.

1. The partridge was known as a valiant bird, willing to fight to death in order to defend its young, which is a symbol of Christ willing to die for us. The pear tree represents the cross.

2. Jewish families used turtledoves as an offering to God. Mary and Joseph offered a sacrifice of two turtledoves when Jesus was 40 days old.

3. Only the rich could afford French hens. These costly birds represent the gifts of the wise men: gold, frankincense and myrrh.

4. Four calling birds remind us of the four gospels calling out with loud voices of Jesus' life and teaching. They call others to faith in Jesus as their savior.

5. The first five books of the Old Testament, which are treated with great respect and considered to be worth more than gold, are represented by the gold rings.

6. Six geese a-laying: Eggs symbolize new life, and six eggs represent the six days of creation when God, by his word, brought forth life.

7. The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit are represented by the seven swans a-swimming. Just as baby swans grow from ugly ducklings into beautiful swans, so do God's children grow and change from the work of the Holy Spirit.

8. Eight maids a-milking represent the eight teachings of Christ given in the Sermon on the Mount.

9. The nine fruits of the Spirit as mentioned in Galatians are symbolized in nine ladies dancing. Just as ladies dance joyfully, so we can rejoice over the life-changing fruit of the Holy Spirit.

10. The Ten Commandments are represented in the 10 lords a-leaping, with lords being rulers to be obeyed.

11. Eleven pipers piping: There were 11 disciples who remained faithful to Christ. They joyfully followed Jesus, called others to follow him and piped a tune of great joy: the salvation message.

12. Twelve drummers drumming represent the 12 vital Christian beliefs of the Apostle's Creed.

In 567 A.D., the Council of Tours declared the 12 days between Christmas and Jan. 6 to be a festive period. Jan. 6 is the Feast of the Epiphany to celebrate the day of the presentation of the Christ child to the wise men. It also reminds us that Jesus is the Savior for all mankind.

GRACE PARRY

Cape Girardeau