TEMPLETES DESIGN: Symbols Of The Season

Celebrate with us as we experience the meaning of the symbols we are surrounded by.

The origin of birth flowers such as the Paper White/Narcissus is dated back to the Roman Empire, yet celebrated in December by the birth of Christ. All over the World people give Birth Month Flowers as gifts to celebrate special occasions or events. Flowers, such as the Narcissus, are always given to celebrate the birth of a new baby alongside the birth of Jesus. Knowing the flowers which are associated with the December Birth Flower and their meaning adds to the significance of the flowers. The special events where it would be appropriate to give the December Birth Flower, the Narcissus are as follows: Month of December Flowers, the Narcissus or Holly, to celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah and New Year's Eve.

Wreaths have been symbolically used for centuries. The circle shaped wreath is for eternity or eternal life. As the circle has no beginning and no end, so does human life.

The leaves and fruits which are combined to make a wreath are symbolic of the strength of life. A wreath always contains the leaves of evergreens which can withstand the cold and freezing weather. This symbolises courage and strength which humans should cultivate in order to overcome all the hardships of life. The shape of the wreath also symbolises the crown of thorns which was put on Jesus' head, the resurrection and eternal life. The berries and other fruits symbolise wealth and prosperity.

Stars are one of the most well known symbols of Christmas. Stars at Christmas time represent the biblical Star of Bethlehem which was a beacon of reckoning for the wise men to follow, in order to come worship the child Jesus, the little King of the Jews. When we see stars at Christmas time, they remind us of that special star that showed foreign dignitaries where Jesus was.

Red traditionally represents the sacrifice of blood that Jesus shed while hanging on the cross. Green represents the evergreen, ie. eternal life. Holly is included with the evergreens, and even had special significance because of the red berries it has. At one time holly was considered a holy plant: green for eternal life, and red for the blood of Christ. We believe in the meaning of these symbols.