Ancient Christmas Symbol Meanings + Creative Ways to Use Them This Season
Discover the deeper stories behind your favorite ancient Christmas symbols—and learn how to bring them to life in meaningful, modern ways.
The Christmas season is filled with imagery we know by heart: glowing trees, shining stars, fragrant wreaths, and warm candlelight. But many of these symbols have ancient origins and powerful meanings that often get lost in the hustle of the holidays.
Understanding what Christmas symbols truly represent can help you create more intentional décor, memorable family rituals, and traditions that feel deeply connected to your roots.
This guide explores the origins and meanings behind the symbols featured in our popular Christmas Symbols Infographic (free download below)—plus creative ideas for incorporating each one into your celebrations this year.
1. The Christmas Tree: A Symbol of Life and Hope
Origins
Long before it became the centerpiece of Christmas décor, the evergreen tree was used in ancient winter solstice rituals in Europe—especially in Germany. Evergreens represented enduring life during the darkest and coldest time of year.
Meaning
- Eternal life
- Renewal
- Strength and resilience
- Hope in the darkness
Common Uses Today
Holiday décor, ornaments, outdoor lighting, family photo backdrops.
Creative Ways to Use It
- Ancestry Tree: Decorate with ornaments that represent family stories, cultures, or heritage symbols.
- “Year in Review” Tree: Add ornaments that symbolize a memory from the past year.
- Nature-Inspired Tree: Use dried oranges, rosemary, pinecones, and handmade items for a simple, meaningful aesthetic.
2. The Star of Bethlehem: A Symbol of Guidance & Clarity
Origins
The star appears in the Christian nativity story, guiding the Magi to the birthplace of Jesus. But the symbolism of stars guiding travelers goes back thousands of years before that.
Meaning
- Guidance
- Direction
- Inspiration
- Miracles
- Spiritual clarity
Common Uses Today
Tree toppers, garlands, holiday cards, window décor, wrapping accents.
Creative Ways to Use It
- Guiding Star Intention: Write a goal, hope, or guiding word for next year and hang it near the star on your tree.
- Star-Shaped Keepsake Ornaments: Create star ornaments using salt dough or air-dry clay.
- Lighted Star Walkway: Place star lanterns or luminaries to welcome holiday guests.
3. The Wreath: A Symbol of Eternal Connection
Origins
Wreaths were used in ancient Rome and Greece to honor leaders and celebrate victories. In winter traditions, evergreens symbolized endurance and protection.
Meaning
- Eternal life
- Unity
- The cyclical nature of the seasons
- Protection
Common Uses Today
Front doors, mantles, Advent wreaths, indoor or outdoor greenery.
Creative Ways to Use It
- Cultural Heritage Wreath: Choose botanicals with cultural meaning—holly for protection, rosemary for remembrance, eucalyptus for renewal.
- Family Contribution Wreath: Each person adds an ornament, ribbon, or symbol that reflects their year.
- Mini-Wreath Garland: Display small wreaths vertically for a unique wall piece.
4. Santa Claus: A Symbol of Generosity & Joy
Origins
Santa blends several influences:
St. Nicholas (4th-century saint known for generosity)
Sinterklaas (Dutch tradition)
Odin (Norse god who rode an eight-legged horse during Yule)
Father Christmas (English folklore)
Meaning
- Kindness
- Giving
- Festive spirit
- Goodwill
Common Uses Today
Ornaments, figurines, holiday cards, gift packaging, storytelling traditions.
Creative Ways to Use It
- Acts of Kindness Countdown: Replace advent candies with simple kind actions.
- Vintage Santa Theme: Use retro Santa art for décor, gift tags, and stockings.
- Santa Story Night: Read one global Santa or gift-bringer tale each evening.
5. Candle: A Symbol of Light, Warmth & Memory
Origins
Candles play a central role in winter traditions around the world—Yule fires, Jewish Hanukkah, early Christian Christmas services, and Victorian décor.
Meaning
- Light in the darkness
- Hope
- Remembrance
- Spiritual warmth
Common Uses Today
Advent candles, window candles, dinner table décor, seasonal scents.
Creative Ways to Use It
- Memory Candle Tradition: Light a candle for loved ones who’ve passed.
- Candlelit Story Hour: Turn off screens and read seasonal stories by candlelight.
Symbolic Scents:
- Pine = renewal
- Cinnamon = comfort
- Clove = protection
- Orange = joy
6. Angel: A Symbol of Guidance & Protection
Origins
The angel is a central figure in nativity traditions, often shown declaring “good news.” Across cultures, angels have long symbolized guardianship and divine connection.
Meaning
- Protection
- Peace
- Hope
- Guidance
Common Uses Today
Tree toppers, ornaments, nativity sets, mantel displays, greeting cards.
Creative Ways to Use It
- Angel Blessing Ornaments: Family members write blessings for one another and place them inside an angel ornament.
- Angel Wing Photo Corner: Create a photography spot with wing props or prints.
- Angel-Themed Cookies & Crafts: Make angel-shaped decorations or treats with children.
Bringing It All Together: Creating a Meaningful Holiday Season
When you understand the stories behind these beloved symbols, your holiday décor becomes more than decoration—it becomes a celebration of culture, memory, and connection.
Try choosing a symbol as a theme for your season:
✨ Light (candle, star)
🌿 Renewal (tree, wreath)
🎁 Generosity (Santa)
💫 Protection & peace (angel)
This can guide your décor, activities, gift-giving, and even your holiday mindset.
Final Thoughts
Christmas symbols carry centuries of stories—stories of hope, family, resilience, and light overcoming darkness. When you incorporate their meaning into your holiday traditions, you create rituals that feel more personal and more connected to your heritage.
Wishing you a season filled with meaning, beauty, and symbols that speak to your heart. Download our free Christmas symbol infographic as a reminder!
