The Twelve Days of Christmas

​Description: From a partridge in a pear tree to 12 drummers drumming, uncover the mystery and history of The Twelve Days of Christmas.

Introduction

The Twelve Days of Christmas is one of the most popular songs of the festive season, yet its origins and potential hidden meaning runs deeper – and attracts intriguing speculation.

Could this seemingly innocent song have served a hidden purpose for Roman Catholics persecuted during the Tudor era? Let’s look into this classic song’s enduring appeal and uncover its possible secret meaning.

Origins of The Twelve Days of Christmas

The earliest known version of The Twelve Days of Christmas appeared in Mirth Without Mischief, a children’s book published in London in 1780. This edition presented the song as a memory-and-forfeit game, where participants recited the increasingly lengthy verses correctly to avoid a penalty. The format, with its repeating and expanding list of gifts, made it an excellent tool for entertainment and learning.

The original lyrics are largely consistent with the modern version, though slight regional variations exist. However its format, in blending song and game, may reflect oral traditions dating back even earlier than the 18th century. Certainly, its playful structure and familiar imagery – “a partridge in a pear tree,” “five gold rings,” and so on – have cemented its place as a Christmas staple and enchanted generations.

The hidden meaning theory: a closer look

A popular claim suggests The Twelve Days of Christmas was more than a festive ditty. According to this theory, the song was used by Roman Catholics in England during periods of religious persecution to secretly teach core doctrines of faith. Each gift allegedly symbolises an element of Catholic theology, such as the partridge in a pear tree representing Christ, or the ten lords a-leaping symbolising the Ten Commandments.

Historians have doubts, among these are:

1. the lack of evidence from the Tudor era supporting the theory

2. the earliest known version significantly post-dating the height of Roman Catholic persecution in England

3. the actual teachings themselves, as linked to the hidden meanings, aren’t exclusive to Roman Catholicism and wouldn’t have needed concealment.

While the hidden meaning interpretation makes for an engaging story, it’s more likely to be a later invention than an authentic historical reality.

The 12 gifts and their alleged symbolism

Even though the hidden meaning theory is dubious, exploring its claims provides insight into the song’s mystique.

Here is a list of the gifts and their supposed religious symbolism (some versions vary):

1. A partridge in a pear tree: Jesus Christ, with the partridge symbolising self-sacrifice (as the bird is known to feign injury and potentially sacrifice itself for its young)

2. Two turtle-doves: the Old and New Testaments

3. Three French hens: faith, hope, and charity – the theological virtues

4. Four calling birds (originally, collie birds, Old English for coal or black, and a name for blackbirds): the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John)

5. Five gold rings (referring to ring-necked birds, such as pheasants, rather than finger rings): the first five books of the Old Testament (known as the Pentateuch or Torah)

6. Six geese a-laying: the six days of creation

7. Seven swans a-swimming: the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit (based on Isaiah 11.2)

8. Eight maids a-milking: the eight Beatitudes (Matthew 5.1-12)

9. Nine ladies dancing: the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control)

10. Ten lords a-leaping: the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:2-17 and Deuteronomy 5:6-21)

11. Eleven pipers piping: the eleven faithful apostles (i.e. excluding Judas Iscariot)

12. Twelve drummers drumming: the twelve points of doctrine in the Apostles’ Creed (1 Timothy 3:16 and Philippians 2:6-11 outline the major points).

Whether or not these meanings were intended, they add a layer of richness to the song’s imagery and may enhance its appeal for those interested in spiritual connections.

Why does The Twelve Days of Christmas endure?

1. Memory game fun: the song’s cumulative nature engages people of all ages, encouraging participation and play

2. Timeless imagery: the evocative gifts – birds, rings, maids, and drummers – paint a vivid picture of abundance and celebration

3. Cultural adaptation: modern adaptations in music, television, and literature ensure the song remains popular and relevant

4. Speculative mystery: whether it’s the hidden meaning theory or other interpretations, the song’s perceived depth keeps it intriguing.

Expanding the appeal: the real 12 days of Christmas

The Twelve Days of Christmas is not just a song; it’s also a liturgical season. Spanning from Christmas Day to Epiphany (6 January), the twelve days celebrate the revelation of Christ to the world. This tradition is observed in various Christian denominations and includes significant feast days, such as St. Stephen’s Day (26 December) and the Feast of the Holy Innocents (28 December).

This connection to broader Christian traditions enhances the song’s resonance, linking festive joy with spiritual reflection.

Conclusion

The Twelve Days of Christmas remains a cornerstone of holiday festivities, blending whimsy, tradition, and perhaps even a touch of mystery. Whether viewed as a playful song, a covert catechism, or a delightful seasonal game, the song’s charm is undeniable. Its enduring legacy invites everyone to sing, reflect, and celebrate, making it a true gift of the Christmas season.