Symbolism Behind Christmas Colours - Red, Green & Gold

As soon as we think of Christmas, three significant things that pop into our mind are the Xmas tree, decorations and gifts. But is there anything common between these three? It’s the presence of the colours red, green and even gold. Well, the origins go way back and the colours have roots in Christianity. In this article, we delve into the reasons behind our homes illuminating with red, green and golden- come Christmas time.

Red: The Colour of Passion and Sacrifice

Red, one of the most prominent Christmas colours, has deep historical significance. Its association with Xmas can be traced back to ancient Christian traditions. The red robes worn by bishops during religious ceremonies represent the blood of Christ and the passion of the martyrs. It also serves as a visual reminder of the sacrifice central to the Christian narrative.

Holly Berries and Santa Claus: The vibrant red of holly berries is said to symbolise the blood of Christ. Additionally, the modern depiction of Santa Claus in a red suit became iconic, thanks to the influence of the Coca-Cola Company's marketing campaigns in the 1930s. Santa Uncle's red attire is now a universal symbol of festive cheer, especially among kids.

Warmth and Celebration: The colour red is also associated with warmth and energy, making it a fitting choice for Christmas. Its high involvement in decorations, ornaments and apparel adds a lively and celebratory touch to the holiday season.

Green: A Symbol of Life, Renewal & Evergreen Tradition

The use of green during Christmas is evergreen and deeply rooted in the tradition of decorating trees. Evergreen plants like mistletoe and holly are quite visible during Christmas time and represent Christ’s life and eternal nature. In pagan times, these outdoor plants were a powerful reminder that nature kept growing, even through the cold times. They were even believed to have protective and healing properties, adding an extra layer of significance.

Connection to Nature: Green is a colour associated with nature, growth and the renewal of life. Amid winter, when much of the natural world lies dormant, the vibrant green of Christmas decorations serves as a symbol of life's persistence even in the coldest season.

Gold: Everything Elegance, Wealth and the Guiding Star

Another colour that dominates the holiday season is golden. Gold has a strong biblical connection, often associated with wealth, kingship, and divinity. In the Christmas story, the Wise Men or Magi presented gifts of gold to the infant Jesus, symbolising his royal status and the recognition of his divine nature.

Glowing Light and Warmth: Gold, with its warm and radiant quality, adds a touch of opulence to Christmas decor. Whether in the form of ornaments, tinsel or lights, gold represents the glow of warmth and the spiritual light that Christmas brings into our lives.

Guiding Star of Bethlehem: The Star of Bethlehem, said to have guided the Wise Men to the birthplace of Jesus, is often depicted as a golden star. The usage of gold in Christmas decor pays homage to this guiding star, emphasising its role in leading the way to hope, salvation, and the birth of the saviour.