History of the Christmas Wreath

The history of the Christmas wreath dates back to the ancient cultures of the Persian Empire. During that era, Christmas wreaths were considered to be the symbol of importance and success. These wreaths were much smaller in size than what is seen today. The small sized Christmas wreaths were known as "diadems" which people used as headbands.

Wreaths were usually handmade and symbolized pride and victory. Flowers, branches, laurels, threads and evergreen twigs were used to make beautiful handmade wreaths. They were often used in auspicious occasions such as weddings. It was around 776 BC when Greeks started using laurel wreaths as crowns awarded to athletes who came first in Olympics. In ancient Rome, wreaths were worn by military heroes and kings. Wreaths have been closely linked to Christianity. The Holy Bible links Christmas wreaths with joy, honor and victory. In Christianity, the Christmas wreath stands for a circle that has no beginning and end. Hence, it is treated as a symbol of God's eternity. Christmas wreaths made of evergreen leaves and branches symbolize God's love and mercy upon us. Green color symbolizes hope and new life.

The Advent Wreath:

Set on the branches of the wreath are four candles: three purple candles and one pink candle. In the center of the wreath sits a white candle. As a whole, these candles represent the coming of the light of Christ into the world.

On the first Sunday of Advent, the first purple candle is lit. This candle is typically called the "Prophecy Candle" in remembrance of the prophets, primarily Isaiah, who foretold the birth of Christ. This candle represents hope or expectation in anticipation of the coming Messiah.

Each week on Sunday, an additional candle is lit. On the second Sunday of Advent, the second purple candle is lit. This candle typically represents love. Some traditions call this the "Bethlehem Candle," symbolizing Christ's manger.

On the third Sunday of Advent the pink, or rose-colored candle is lit. This pink candle is customarily called the "Shepherds Candle" and it represents joy.

The fourth and last purple candle, oftentimes called the "Angels Candle," represents peace and is lit on the fourth Sunday of Advent.

On Christmas Eve, the white center candle is traditionally lit. This candle is called the "Christ Candle" and represents the life of Christ that has come into the world. The color white represents purity. Christ is the sinless, spotless, pure Savior. Also, those who receive Christ as Savior are washed of their sins and made whiter than snow.

The evergreen Christmas wreath gives a special feeling to our homes, once they are decorated during Christmas holidays. The leaves of the Christmas wreath symbolize life during and throughout the tough winter. Over the years, Christmas wreaths are used as significant decorative pieces for Christmas.

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