Jesus' birth, the events around it, and the festivities the celebrate those events.

learn more… | top users | synonyms

8
votes
1answer
138 views

When did Christmas (the birth of Christ) first begin as a Christian celebration?

I remember hearing something about a true Saint Nicholas who maybe helped poor children or something, but to be honest, I really don't know much about when Christmas began to be celebrated by ...
11
votes
4answers
211 views

On which date was Christ born?

Most Christians celebrate the birth of Christ (Christmas) on December 25. But was this really the day of Christ's birth? What was the actual date of Christ's birth?
11
votes
2answers
235 views

What is the origin of the Christmas tree and is it accepted in all Christian traditions?

What is the origin of the Christmas tree and is it accepted in all Christian traditions? I'm certainly not aware of a "Christmas" tree appearing in the Christmas story, so I'm curious when it was ...
18
votes
3answers
241 views

In which year was Christ born?

This question is a spin-off from On which date was Christ born? There are differing views on the birth year of Christ, which also affect the dating of the resurrection (as we know Jesus's age on ...
10
votes
3answers
185 views

Christmas on December 25th

Why was December 25th chosen as the day to celebrate Jesus' birth?
10
votes
2answers
165 views

Who were the “wise men from the east” (Magi) spoken of in Matthew 2?

I have heard a few ideas about who the wise men from the east were who came to Jesus at his birth (or shortly thereafter) and offered gifts. What are the best theories on this and what evidence is ...
7
votes
2answers
122 views

Is there any tradition that informs us of the possible age of Mary on Christmas day?

I have heard that the legal age of marriage was quite young in Jewish culture at the time of Christ. I believe a young girls at the age of twelve could marry. However, I find it difficult to imagine ...
4
votes
1answer
140 views

Why do some traditions *not* celebrate Christmas or Easter in any official fashion?

Following-up to these previous questions, why do some traditions not celebrate the birth and death (or, more accurately, His resurrection) of Christ as "official" church "events"? I understand that ...