Ah, Christmas! Happiest time of the year, where people show their best side and magic happens. Where we eat more than we should and spend more than we have for gifts we don’t want
When we think about Christmas, we automatically think about Christmas gifts, the best and most anticipated of the year.
Have you ever wondered where the tradition of receiving gifts at Christmas came from? We went back and discovered some interesting things for you
Three Wise Man
The first theory of Christmas gifts begins in the early days of Christianity, with the birth of Jesus and the lives of the 3 wise men, each with their own gift.
On December 25th, the birth of Jesus, each wise man took a gift for him. Which already explains the first theory of Christmas gifts
Over the centuries, the Bible and Christianity have spread the idea of giving as a celebration of love and generosity.
Saint Nicholas or Claus
Saint Nicholas, also known as Santa Claus, is another figure central to the tradition of gift-giving. The story goes back to a fourth century bishop who helped children, orphans and the less fortunate.
The legend of Saint Nicholas evolved into the modern-day Santa Claus, who brings gifts to children on Christmas Eve.The association of gift-giving with Saint Nicholas has contributed to the widespread custom of exchanging presents during the Christmas season, especially in Western cultures.
Evolution and Consolidation of Tradition:
The tradition of giving Christmas presents has evolved and consolidated over time through various cultural influences and historical developments. Here are some key factors contributing to the establishment of this practice:
a. Cultural Blending
With Christianity spreading throughout the world, the tradition of giving gifts at Christmas has become common. People from different religions and cultures ended up absorbing the concept
b. Influence of Literature and Media
Another very important factor in the dissemination of tradition was the media.
Films, series, cartoons and an entire entertainment industry that spread Christmas and its concept across the planet
c. Commercialization
Christmas itself was a spreading factor with its great promotions and discounts, encouraging purchasing and gift-giving
In the end, Christmas has become something so big and so solid in consumption patterns that we tend to forget and get lost in its history, leaving only the joy of being presented.