Modern Hill Woman

Twelve Days

of Christmas

You may think “The Twelve Days of Christmas” is little more than a silly repetitive carol, but there is actually a hidden meaning behind it. From 1558 until 1829, Roman Catholics in England could not openly practice their faith. During that era, a poem was written in a secret code, known only to members of the church. It was set to music and could be sung in public without risk of persecution.

The 12 days of Christmas signifies the time between the birth of Christ (Dec. 25) and the arrival of the three wisemen (Jan. 6). Twelvetide was considered holy, with daily church services and as a time of rededication.

The song lists a group of increasingly wonderful gifts with hidden symbolism in each.

1. A partridge in a pear tree represents Jesus. A partridge is the only bird that will die to protect its young.

2. Two turtle doves are the Old and New Testament, which holds the complete story of the Christian faith.

3. Three French hens symbolize faith, hope, and love.

4. Four calling birds are the four gospels-Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

5. Five gold rings are the first five books of the Old Testament, also known as the Torah.

6. Six geese a-laying represents each day of creation.

7. Seven swans a-swimming is code for the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: wisdom, knowledge, counsel, fortitude, understanding, piety, and fear of the Lord.

8. Eight maids a-milking are the eight beatitudes that Jesus spoke of in the Sermon on the Mount; “blessed are” the poor in spirit, those who mourn, the meek, those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, the merciful, the pure in heart, the peacemakers, and the persecuted for righteousness’ sake.

9. Nine ladies dancing are the gifts known as the fruits of the Holy Spirit which are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

10. Ten lords a-leaping were the Ten Commandments.

11. Eleven Pipers piping represents the disciples. After Judas betrayed Jesus, there were only 11 men left to spread the gospel.

12. Twelve drummers drumming are the 12 points of doctrine in the Apostles’ Creed or basic fundamental Christian beliefs.

And a partridge in a pear tree!