Christmas Tree Wreaths
Christmas wreaths have long been a part of Christmas tradition although their history dates back to early Germanic times. During the depths of winter, early Germanic people gathered wreaths made of evergreen and lit fires in hope for the new coming spring warmth. During the 16th century the wreath was adopted by Christians and came to promote the symbolism of the birth of Christ. In the celebration of Christmas, the wreath symbolizes Gods eternity and mercy in the holiday season. The Christmas wreath is shaped in a circle to show the infinity of Gods spirit, there is no beginning and there is no end. Today, Christmas wreaths decorate household doors at Christmas time to bring a joy to the seasonal holiday. Evergreen plants such as holly, ivy and pine have long been the material making up Christmas wreaths although artificial Christmas wreaths are also available and have an authentic real look.
Decorated Christmas wreaths are as much a part of the holiday season as is the Christmas tree. Typically the Christmas wreath is not decorated with glass bulbs but rather with ribbon, holly berry, pine cones and juniper berries. Decorated Christmas wreaths are used to symbolize the season of Christmas and are part of some of the most powerful imagery during the Christmas season. Perhaps more solemn than the Christmas tree, Christmas wreaths take their place as revered symbols in the Christian belief of Christmas.
During the Christmas season, wreaths find their way to represent more than the traditional Christmas message; they also have been adopted in the secular aspect of Christmas as well. Shopping malls, municipalities, churches and households alike all display the Christmas wreath as a symbol. Whether that symbol be deeply religious or more secular the wreath has ingrained itself as much a part of Christmas as any thing else—but no other Christmas tradition carries with it such deep meaning and history as the Christmas wreath. From its beginnings as in ancient Rome to its current use as a historical and traditional Christmas symbol, the wreath brings powerful imagery with its festive meaning.