The story behind christmas

The Story Behind Christmas

Christmas is celebrated all over the world as the remembrance of the birth of Jesus Christ. In the Christian calendar, it marks the beginning of the Christmas season, which lasts for twelve days. While many people celebrate Christmas with joy, questions are often raised about its origin, especially the date—December 25. Understanding the background helps us separate historical practices from spiritual truth.

What Does “Christmas” Mean?

The word Christmas comes from “Christo-Mass.”

• In Latin, Mass means a gathering of people for worship.

• In Greek, Christos means Christ.

• In English, Mass refers to a large assembly.

So, Christmas simply means people gathering together to celebrate Christ.

When Did Christmas Begin?

The first recorded celebration of Christmas on December 25 took place in 336 AD. However, the Bible does not give the exact date of Jesus’ birth. It is only known that He was born during the winter season, sometime between late November and February. December 25 was later chosen as a day to remember His birth.

The Roman Sun Festival and Objections

December 25 was originally a major festival day in the Roman Empire, dedicated to the sun god. Many ancient religions—Babylonian, Egyptian, Indus Valley, and others—considered the sun divine. Because of this, some people opposed celebrating Christmas on that day.

However, the Bible makes it clear that the sun is not a god. Though Jesus is called the “Sun of Righteousness” (Malachi 4:2), this is symbolic. The sun only reflects physical light, while Jesus Himself is the true source of spiritual light.

Light: A Biblical Perspective

Jesus said, “I am the light of the world.” This means He shines by His own power, like the sun.
But when He told His followers, “You are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14), He meant they reflect His light, like the moon reflects the sun. Christians do not have their own light; they shine only through Christ.

Christianity teaches one God, and no created thing—sun, stars, or planets—is divine.

Sunday and Roman Influence

The Romans named the first day of the week Sunday (Sun-day) because it was dedicated to sun worship. Even today, the name remains, though its meaning has changed for Christians, who gather on that day to worship the risen Christ.

Emperor Constantine and Christianity

In 312 AD, Roman Emperor Constantine reportedly had a vision of a cross with the words “In this sign conquer.” After marking his soldiers with the cross symbol, he won a major battle. In 313 AD, Constantine declared Christianity a recognized religion. Soon after, large numbers of Romans converted to Christianity.

However, people were deeply attached to their yearly festivals. Instead of eliminating celebrations, Christian leaders chose to give them a new meaning—celebrating the birth of Christ instead of the sun god.

The Jewish Connection: Hanukkah

December 25 also closely aligns with the Jewish festival of Hanukkah, which commemorates the cleansing and rededication of the Jerusalem Temple after it was defiled in 167 BC by Antiochus Epiphanes. Judas Maccabeus led a successful revolt, restored the Temple, and the festival became known as the Festival of Lights.

Hanukkah begins on Kislev 25 (roughly December) and lasts eight days. Light is central to the celebration—making it meaningful that Jesus, the true Light, is remembered during the same season.

Jesus Himself cleansed the Temple twice during His ministry, showing His passion for holiness and restoration.

Conclusion

The Bible does not command Christians to celebrate Jesus’ birthday, nor does it forbid it. Setting aside one day in a year to remember the birth of Christ is not wrong, as long as the focus remains on Jesus Himself, not on pagan ideas or empty traditions.

Christmas, when understood rightly, is not about sun worship or borrowed customs—it is about celebrating the coming of the true Light into the world and asking an important question:

Is Christ only born in history—or is He born and growing in our hearts today?