Christmas
Christmas
Christmas (IPA: /ˈkrɪsməs/), from the Old English Cristes mæsse meaning "Christ's Mass", is an annual festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, observed primarily on December 25 as a religious and cultural celebration among billions of people around the world.
Etymology
The word Christmas originates from the term Cristes mæsse, an early English phrase that means "Mass of Christ." The term mass is derived from the Latin word missa, which is the celebration of the Eucharist, a rite considered the highest form of prayer in various Christian denominations.
Observance
Christmas is a public holiday in many of the world's nations, celebrated religiously by a majority of Christians, as well as culturally by many non-Christians. It forms an integral part of the holiday season centered around it.
Traditions
Christmas traditions vary from country to country. However, common elements include the display of Nativity scenes, Christmas trees, and the exchange of gifts. Other common traditions include caroling, Christmas dinner, and attending church services.
Related Terms
- Advent: The period of preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
- Epiphany: A Christian feast day that celebrates the revelation of God incarnate as Jesus Christ.
- Yule: A festival observed by the historical Germanic peoples, later undergoing Christianized reformulation resulting in the now better-known Christmastide.
- Boxing Day: A holiday celebrated the day after Christmas Day, thus being the second day of Christmastide.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Christmas
- Wikipedia's article - Christmas
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