Why Our Family Doesn’t Celebrate Pagan Christmas

In our family, we've taken a different approach to Christmas, one that may seem unconventional to many. I want to share with you why we don't celebrate what is commonly known as "pagan Christmas" and how this decision shapes our family traditions.

The Significance of Traditions

We all grow up with certain traditions, especially those ingrained in us since childhood. However, it's essential to question and understand the origins and meanings of these traditions. This is what led our family to rethink how we celebrate Christmas.

The Birth of Christ: A Different Date

Contrary to popular belief, Christ wasn’t born on December 25th. A closer look at the Bible, specifically Revelation 12:1-2 (KJV), hints at a different date. It reads: 

"And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars: And she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered."

This description aligns with astronomical phenomena that occurred around September 11th in the year 3 BC, as verified by astronomical software. Of course, I don’t know if this is an absolute fact, but it is very interesting and something to think about.

The Pagan Roots of Christmas

Christmas, as it is commonly celebrated today, can trace its origins back to a variety of pagan traditions. One of these is the Roman Saturnalia, a festival that honored Saturn, the god of agriculture. This festival was characterized by joyous merrymaking and the exchange of gifts.

Another influence comes from the Winter Solstice celebrations of ancient Babylonia, which were conducted to commemorate the year's shortest day, a period often associated with numerous superstitions and rituals.

Additionally, the traditions of the Druids, known for their enigmatic rituals and deep respect for nature, have significantly shaped the customs we now associate with modern Christmas.

These pagan traditions were later adopted by the Roman Catholic Church as a means to make Christianity more appealing to pagans.

Biblical Teachings on Traditions

The Bible, particularly in the Old Testament, warns against following man-made traditions. Jeremiah 10:1-5 (KJV) cautions us:

"Learn not the way of the heathen... For the customs of the people are vain: for one cutteth a tree out of the forest... They deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers, that it move not.”

It is important to heed what God says to us in His Word.

Our Family’s Christmas

So, how do we spend Christmas? It's simple. We enjoy our favorite foods and focus on the story of Christ's birth. We often watch an animation or movie about it, which helps our daughter understand the story better, and gives us a chance to discuss it with her.

We believe in honesty with our child. So, we don't perpetuate myths like Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy, or the Easter Bunny. Instead, we explain these figures as fictional.

Our home doesn't have a Christmas tree, we don't sing Christmas carols, and we don't exchange gifts. We do, however, appreciate the post-Christmas sales!

A Personal Reflection, Not a Directive

I'm not here to dictate how you should celebrate. But I do encourage you to think about the impact of these traditions, especially if you have children.

As parents, our job is to teach and protect our children, helping them understand God's will. It's about making informed choices that align with our faith and values.