The History Behind The 12 Birds In The 12 Days Of Christmas Explained

A well-known feature of the beloved Christmas classic 12 Days of Christmas is its ever-expanding list of gift suggestions. But the carol’s assortment of birds, which includes partridges, geese, and swans, may be its most peculiar feature. So why does this Christmas song include so many different kinds of feathery friends?

Here’s the short response in case you’re pressed for time: The abundance of birds stands in for the lavish presents that sincere lovers would offer to one another during the joyous wooing customs of Christmas in mediaeval Europe. Let’s get into the specifics now.

The History and Significance of the Twelve Days of Christmas

The Christmas season is referenced by the 12 days.

Many of us sing the famous song “The 12 Days of Christmas” throughout the holiday season, but what do those 12 days really mean? The song does not allude to the 12 days leading up to Christmas, unlike what many people think.

The time between Christmas Day and the Feast of Epiphany, which is observed on January 6, is what it really symbolises. The Christmas season or Christmastide are other names for this time frame.

Every gift is an auspicious sign for the next year.

Every one of the song’s twelve days is linked to a present from a genuine love. These presents are symbolic benefits for the next year rather than just random items. For instance, it is stated that Jesus Christ and his love for mankind are represented by the partridge on the pear tree.

The three French hens stand for the theological qualities of faith, hope, and charity, while the two turtle doves represent the Old and New Testaments of the Bible.

The four calling birds that follow are often understood to be the four Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. The Pentateuch, or first five books of the Old Testament, is believed to be represented by the five golden rings.

The list continues with seven swans swimming to symbolise the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit and six geese laying to symbolise the six days of creation.

It is stated that nine women dancing represents the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit, while eight maids a-milking represent the eight Beatitudes. Eleven pipers playing represents the eleven obedient apostles, while ten lords a-leaping depict the Ten Commandments.

Last but not least, it is stated that the twelve points of the Apostles’ Creed are represented by the twelve drummers.

A valued and symbolic gift were birds.

Within the historical setting of the song, birds were prized possessions and regarded as opulent presents. Birds were often presented as gifts to demonstrate wealth and position throughout the 16th century, when the song is said to have first appeared.

Furthermore, birds had symbolic connotations and were associated with many civilizations.

For instance, the turtle dove symbolised love and loyalty, while the partridge stood for protection. French chickens were linked to wealth and plenty and were regarded as a delicacy. Generally speaking, people connected birds with spirituality, freedom, and beauty.

In addition to showcasing the giver’s riches and generosity, the song’s use of birds as presents also has deeper metaphorical implications. The singing and the gifts were given on a deeper level of symbolism when each bird stood for a certain virtue or benefit.

The Background of Christmas Traditions and Courtship Rituals

Holiday presents and courting activities

In the past, the holidays were a time for young men and women to participate in wooing customs in addition to commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ. Giving and receiving presents as a means of expressing love and devotion was one common custom.

These presents often have deeper, symbolic connotations. Couples would, for instance, reach into a bowl of burning raisins and attempt to take them out without being burnt in the game “snapdragon.” The purpose of this audacious endeavour was to attract the attention of possible suitors and demonstrate courage.

Birds as ornate presents from dapper suitors

Gentlemen suitors would go to tremendous efforts to win over their love interests in the Victorian period. Giving lavish and expensive presents, especially around the Christmas season, was one method they accomplished this.

Birds were prized greatly and considered a prestige and wealth symbol, particularly exotic species. A partridge on a pear tree, for example, was seen as an ostentatious and opulent present. It showed the suitor’s generosity and his capacity to support his sweetheart.

Additional ostentatious Christmas gifts

Aside from birds, other expensive presents were also given and received over the Christmas season. Rich suitors would often give their sweetheart expensive jewellery, such pearl necklaces and diamond rings.

These lavish presents served as a show of wealth and social standing in addition to being a method to show affection. Wonderfully produced artwork, rich wines, and opulent apparel were among the other gifts that were highly sought for.

Christmas gift-giving was a popular method for suitors to show their future mates how much they loved and cared for them. During the period of passion and wooing, gentlemen would do whatever it took to win their beloved’s hearts.

Even though the presents may have changed, the spirit of this custom—expressing love and devotion over the holiday season—remains the same. It is still observed today.

Each Bird’s Significance in the Song Partridge

The song “12 Days of Christmas” begins with a mention of the partridge. Given that partridges are renowned for being prepared to give their lives in order to defend their young, it represents Jesus Christ. Christ’s sacrifice for mankind is symbolised by this.

Doves of turtles

The Old and New Testaments of the Bible are symbolised by the two turtle doves in the hymn. They stand for the value of religion and the precepts of both Christianity and Judaism.

Hens from France

The three theological virtues—faith, hope, and love—are represented by the three French chickens. These qualities are thought to be necessary for living a moral and satisfying life.

Birds chirping

The song’s four calling birds alludes to four distinct bird species, however exact meanings will depend on interpretation. The four Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—are represented by these birds. Every Gospel presents a different perspective on the teachings and life of Jesus Christ.

Gold ear ring

The song refers to five gold rings, which are believed to symbolise the Pentateuch, or Torah, the first five books of the Old Testament. Since these books contain God’s commandments and teachings, they are very important in both Judaism and Christianity.

Ducks laying

The book of Genesis describes creation in six days, which is symbolised by the six geese a-laying. God created the world in six days, adding to it each day until people were formed on the sixth day.

Swans plunging into the water

The song’s seven swans swimming symbolises the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: knowledge, piety, wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, and fear of the Lord. It is said that certain talents are given to people to aid in their spiritual development.

Even though different people may interpret the song’s birds differently, all of them have symbolic meaning in Christianity. The religious lessons and values connected to the holiday season are recalled via the song “12 Days of Christmas.”

The 12 Days of Christmas’s Durable Popularity

One classic holiday song that has lasted the test of time is “The 12 Days of Christmas.” It has become a global Christmas classic because to its upbeat melody and humorous lyrics. What, however, is it about this song that has endured so long in popularity?

A cheerful tune

People of all ages may enjoy and laugh along with the upbeat song “The 12 Days of Christmas.” Carolers love to sing along to this song because of its upbeat vibe and repeating pattern, which makes it a great choice for holiday performances.

As the song goes on, the excitement and anticipation increase as each lyric presents a fresh surprise.

The song’s wacky lyrics, which conjure up images in listeners’ minds, such as “five golden rings” and “a partridge in a pear tree.” It seems sense that people want to sing along and daydream about getting these lavish presents.

enjoyable to sing

In addition to being enjoyable, singing the 12 Days of Christmas offers a chance for people to bond and make enduring memories. The song creates a happy and festive environment that unites people, whether they are singing together with family and friends around the Christmas tree or joining a group of neighbours who are carolers.

Even those who are not musically inclined may easily participate in the song because of its repetitious nature. Regardless of vocal ability, everyone may participate in this song. Singing the 12 Days of Christmas together fosters a feeling of cohesion and festive mood.

A reminder of the roots of Christmas

The song “12 Days of Christmas” reminds us of the history of the Christmas season, even if it may only appear like a fun and jovial tune. The song was initially performed as a counting song in the eighteenth century in England, with each gift standing for a different religious symbol.

It served as a means for people to commemorate and celebrate the Christmas birth of Jesus Christ.

People from all walks of life still sing and enjoy the 12 Days of Christmas today. It prompts contemplation of the virtues of kindness, love, and joy and serves as a reminder of the actual purpose of Christmas.

Thus, the next time you hear yourself singing the Twelve Days of Christmas, pause to consider why this well-loved holiday song is still so popular. It is evidence of the potency of music and its capacity to unite people in joy.

Final Thoughts

Therefore, although the lengthy list of birds in the traditional 12 Days of Christmas may appear confusing to modern ears, it really refers to extremely ancient Christmas customs. Every bird was specifically selected to symbolize the lavish presents that passionate suitors would bestow upon their beloveds during the joyous medieval Yuletide festivities.

We continue to sing the song as a lighthearted reminder of the holiday’s beginnings, despite the fact that courting customs have evolved over time.