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Why the Evergreen Tree Became the Iconic Symbol of Christmas

During Christmas, every object carries profound meaning, and the evergreen tree stands as a powerful symbol of resilience in harsh conditions. Beyond this, the evergreen tree holds additional significance. Let’s explore more in the following article.

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16 November, 2025

During Christmas, every object holds profound meaning, and the evergreen tree stands as a symbol of resilient life amidst harsh conditions. Beyond this, the evergreen tree carries many other significant meanings. Let’s explore further in the following article.

In the harsh winter weather, while other trees stand bare and lifeless, only the evergreen tree remains lush and vibrant. Thus, Christmas, a major holiday in Christianity, commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and marks the end of a long, arduous year. The evergreen tree is always chosen as a symbol of renewed energy and the boundless love God has for humanity.

No one knows the exact origin of the tradition of displaying evergreen trees during Christmas, but it’s an indispensable part of the holiday.

The most popular story dates back to 722 when Saint Boniface, a German apostle, encountered a pagan group about to sacrifice a child under an old oak tree in Geismar. He angrily felled the oak tree to stop them. Then, from that spot, an evergreen tree sprouted, said to symbolize the authority of God.

Further reading: When is Christmas 2025, and what day of the week? The meaning and origins of Christmas

Another heartwarming tale of Christmas love tells of a poor woodcutter who, on his way home one cold Christmas night, found a starving, shivering child. Despite his own poverty, he took the child home and offered a warm meal. The next morning, before leaving, the child broke a willow branch and said, “Each year on this day, may gifts fill the branches, and may this good branch remain as a token of my gratitude.” As soon as the child left, the branch transformed into a small tree. Then the woodcutter realized he had hosted an angel of God.

Another unverified version of the evergreen tree’s origin involves Saint Martin Luther, who, while walking in the forest one winter night, was captivated by the fresh green branches dusted with a thin layer of shimmering snow. Upon returning home, he decided to set up a small tree and decorate it with Christmas candles. And so, the Christmas tree tradition began.

Further reading: The symbols of Christmas (Noel)

Even in the harshest winter, while other trees stand bare, the evergreen tree remains lush and strong. Thus, it symbolizes eternal life and resilience in all circumstances.

Legend has it that the evergreen tree was the species Adam and Eve carried with them when they left the Garden of Eden, to remind themselves of their mistake in eating the forbidden fruit and to await their return to God’s loving embrace.

The tradition of placing a star atop the evergreen tree dates back to the 14th century. It commemorates the star that guided the Three Wise Men from the East to Bethlehem to worship Jesus Christ, a testament to God’s boundless love for humanity.

Further reading: 20 simple and impressive ways to decorate a Christmas tree