On The Seventh Day of Christmas
My True
Love Gave To Me
Seven Swans A Swimming
(The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit (wisdom, understanding, counsel, strength, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord)
Six Geese A Laying
Five Golden Rings
Four Calling Birds
Three French Hens
Two Turtledoves
And A Partridge In A Pear Tree
Almost everyone is familiar with the song without being aware of the symbolism and legends associated with each of the days.The 12 Days of Christmas actually begin at sundown on Christmas day (December 25) and proceed evening/day until the morning of January 6 or Epiphany which marks the celebration of the arrival of the Three Kings with their gifts for the Christ Child in the Church Calendar. This is the official period of Christmastide.
By legend each of the 12 days has a liturgical meaning used to teach children, the illiterate, and those not allowed to practice their faith openly due to religious persecution.
Thus the "first day" is Jesus the gift of salvation; Day 2 is the Old and New Testament; Day 3 Faith, Hope and Charity; Day 4 The Four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John); Day 5 is the Torah, the first five books of the Old Testament. Day 6The six days of creation described in Genesis
And by popular request: Hugh Jackman
2 comments:
This has really been quite fascinating. And it's been a pleasure to view Mr. Jackman, too!
Gee, Hugh has a good voice!
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