Why do you give yourself presents at Christmas?
Whether you celebrate a traditional Christian Christmas or not - that there are gifts for Christmas is a matter of course for many people. Giving presents under the Christmas tree on Christmas Eve is considered by many to be the highlight of Christmas and a particularly popular custom. Perhaps you have already asked yourself how this tradition came about in the first place: Why do you actually give yourself presents at Christmas?
Giving presents at Christmas is an old custom
- The custom of giving was already known in pre-Christian times. There were gifts for the Celtic festival of the winter solstice, and gifts were distributed to slaves and servants during the Roman Saturnalia. Like other elements of pre-Christian festivals, giving was probably adopted into Christian Christmas customs.
- Giving is one of the few universal acts that have been practiced by people around the world for many centuries. It is used to maintain and strengthen relationships.
- Psychologists interpret giving as the basis of a peaceful society based on a principle of give and take.
- Whoever gives a present to another person shows them goodwill and appreciation.
God gives gifts to people
- The custom of giving also has religious roots. Many consider the birth of Jesus to be the greatest gift of all: God gives the world his beloved Son. Out of joy at this divine gift, they also look at each other Christmas to give presents, this idea is said to go back to Martin Luther. The joy of the birth of Jesus is passed on to other people through giving.
- At Christmas in particular, gifts symbolize gratitude, joy, help and solidarity. Doing good to other people, giving good to other people: This is how the Christian values of charity, kindness and generosity are expressed.
- The custom of Christmas giving is also related to the Three Wise Men in the Christmas story. They show respect and appreciation to the newborn child of God by bringing him precious gifts to the manger.
Why do you give yourself something for Christmas?
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No Christmas without Santa Claus, Nicholas and Co.
- More recently, new traditions have emerged around Christmas giving. Among other things, from the customs of St. Nicholas, who gives presents to children on his special day in December. He is considered a benefactor and giver of generous gifts, he is also called the "saint who gives". His role model may have partly influenced the creation of the most popular Christmas symbol, Santa Claus.
- In Christian circles, Santa Claus is often not that popular, being equated less with kindness and generosity than with consumption and commerce.
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