Christmas Wreaths

Wreaths are decorative displays that can be found in homes and businesses throughout the year; however, for many, wreaths are a seasonal decoration, and the holiday most often connected with wreaths is Christmas. Although they have become a holiday tradition, many do not know the long history and assorted meanings associated with wreaths.

The word wreath comes from the word writhen that was an old English word meaning “to writhe” or “to twist”. It is believed that wreaths date back to the Persian Empire, ancient Egypt, ancient Greece, and the Roman Empire. The idea of hanging wreaths was not necessarily done as a home décor idea. Wreaths were often hung on doors as a sign of victory and/ or to signify status in society. Julius Caesar often wore a twisted laurel wreath as a symbol of his importance; but, many believe he was also a little vain and wore them because he was going bald!

Perhaps the most well-known use of wreaths comes in connection with Christmas and with Christianity. The circular shape of the wreath is said to symbolize eternity and the unending love of God. In the late 16^th century, the use of wreaths during Yule was adopted by Christians and became a custom in the form of an Advent wreath. An Advent wreath was traditionally made of evergreen branches, holly, and red berries. Each of those parts had a significant meaning of its own. The evergreen branches stood for eternal life…ever green. The red berries and the thorny leaves of the holly represented the crown of thorns worn by Christ and His blood shed while wearing it. An Advent wreath was meant to hold 4 candles: 3 purple and one rose. The candles stand for hope, peace, joy (rose), and love, and are placed in the wreath one at a time, one each of the four Sundays that run up to Christmas. Sometimes a fifth candle, which is white, is added to the center. It represents Christ and is lit on Christmas Eve.