NEW YORK, NY — While the Christian observance of Christmas evolved centuries after the Nativity, the flora popularly associated with the holiday—from poinsettias to lilies—draw deeply on ancient biblical symbolism, according to experts studying theological and artistic history. These plants, and the fragrant resins mentioned in Scripture, transition from mere aesthetic decorations into powerful reminders of purity, hope, sacrifice, and eternal life, connecting modern holiday décor to enduring spiritual narratives.
The Bible presents a rich tapestry of botanical imagery, frequently employing flowers, trees, and spices to convey profound spiritual concepts such as renewal, righteousness, and humility. Over time, Christian devotional practices integrated these biblical types with specific plants, lending layered significance to the flowers commonly used today during the December season.
Unpacking the Symbolic Meanings of Christmas Flora
Many plants hold a symbolic history that bridges the Nativity story with the overarching Christian message of redemption. These meanings are often theological, artistic, or derived from centuries of meditative tradition:
Lilies: Purity and Divine Provision
Lilies, frequently referenced in Scripture (Matthew 6:28–29, Song of Solomon 2:1–2), symbolize purity, holiness, and dependence on God. Jesus utilized the simplicity and elegance of the lily to teach lessons on faith, emphasizing God’s care for creation. In connection with Christmas, the white lily traditionally represents the purity and obedience of the Virgin Mary, often appearing in Nativity and Annunciation art to underscore the miraculous and holy nature of Christ’s birth.
Roses: Love, Joy, and Messianic Promise
Biblical prophecies, like Isaiah 35:1 (“The wilderness… shall blossom as the rose”), utilize the rose to signify restoration, joy, and messianic hope. Historically, the image of a rose blooming unexpectedly in winter became a central metaphor for Christ’s arrival into a cold world. Traditionally known as the “mystic rose,” the flower’s red color later symbolized Christ’s future sacrifice, while white varieties affirmed his sinlessness, effectively connecting the joy of Christmas to the full narrative of salvation.
Poinsettias: The Humble Offering
Although the poinsettia is not mentioned in the Bible, its contemporary meaning aligns with core Christian tenets. Stemming from Mexican folklore, the plant’s vibrant red leaves, often compared to blood, symbolize sacrifice, while its star-like structure echoes the Star of Bethlehem. The plant’s origin story—where simple weeds offered by a poor child miraculously transformed—reinforces the biblical principle that God regards humble offerings given with faith.
Evergreens: Life Unchanging
In the Old Testament (e.g., Psalm 1:3; Jeremiah 17:7–8), evergreen trees symbolized endurance, spiritual vitality, and faithfulness due to their ability to remain vibrant throughout the winter. Appropriated through the centuries, evergreen wreaths and the Christmas tree itself became enduring symbols of eternal life offered through Jesus Christ, reminding adherents that God’s promises are constant, even during seasons of spiritual darkness.
Prophetic Gifts and Atonement
Two of the most significant plant-based materials referenced in the Nativity story are the gifts of Frankincense and Myrrh (Matthew 2:11). These sacred resins provide deep prophetic context: Frankincense, used in worship, symbolizes Christ’s holiness and divine presence. Myrrh, utilized for anointing and embalming, foreshadows his suffering and sacrifice. Together, they establish that the infant in the manger was destined to simultaneously serve as King and sacrificial Savior.
Other elements, like the Hyssop plant, used for purification rituals to apply sacrificial blood (Exodus 12:22), symbolically link Christ’s birth to his redemptive mission, demonstrating that the full scope of Christian faith connects the cradle to the cross.
Understanding these long-held associations enhances the emotional and devotional depth of decorating for the holiday season. The inclusion of these storied plants invites observers to reflect not just on beauty, but on the enduring scriptural themes that underpin the Christmas observance.