by Wayne Leon Learmond

Created on: December 29, 2010   Last Updated: February 10, 2012

If one really wanted to know the 'true meaning' of Christmas then one would have some idea about the history of Christmas and how Christmas came about. It may surprise many to know that Christ was not actually born on Christmas Day at all. In fact, if one looks at all the biblical records very carefully, Christ's birth date is unknown. One has to remember that the word 'Christmas' is a blending of two words, Christ and Mas {mas meaning celebration.}

Why then do Christians of all denominations celebrate Christ's birthday on 25th December? And furthermore, what is the true meaning of Christmas anyway? Only the Church of Armenia do not celebrate Christ's birth on the 25th of December - yet all the other Christian faiths do. It is believed that the Epiphany, was somehow grouped together with the Birth of Christ {the Epiphany being one of the earliest feasts of the Christian Church - which is celebrated on the 6th of January.}

This celebration recognised the Manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles, by remembering the visit of the Magi {the three kings or wise men.} to Bethlehem, we remember the gifts that were given in honour of Christ and in celebration of His Birth. The Birth of Christ represented a 'New Beginning', if you will, for mankind. In fact Christ, was the new Adam, who would take away all of our sins -  and save us from the jaws of Satan.

The true meaning of Christ's Birth was that of giving and receiving of gifts. It meant peace on earth, goodwill to all mankind and great joy. This was the true meaning of the Birth of Christ and not the commercialization we see now. Not the greed, the envy, the selfishness and bitterness. Not the want want want, but the true meaning of Christ's coming has been overlooked. Indeed, it has, in many respects, been forgotten.

But what of Santa Claus and where does he fit into the theme of Christmas? The original Santa Claus {St. Nicholas} was from Turkey - or Myra, as it was known then. He was a 4th century bishop who was a champion among the needy and children. Within St Nicholas we find two exponents of Christmas that is of paramount importance - giving to others and helping the less fortunate. This is the basis - the foundation if you will - of Christmas and what it means.

Because of his wisdom and sensitivity, there were many groups that adopted St Nicholas as their Patron Saint. Groups such as, children, sailors and even thieves prayed to the 'compassionate saint' for guidance. Indeed even whole countries adopted Saint

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