Advent day 11; Why do we give presents? 

See advent day ten here

Christmas is a time for giving, and each year we all buy presents for loved ones and friends but why? 

The origins of gift giving has its roots in Pagan rituals which were held in Winter (which is one of the reasons why Christmas is held in December too) The obvious place to look at gift giving is in the story of Jesus' birth. The three wise men gave gifts to Jesus and us giving gifts remind us of that. Many Christians will only give three gifts to honour the wise men - although I doubt that they give Gold, Frankincense and myrrh - I feel as if the latter two are hard to come by these days. Present giving also symbolises the birth of Jesus - God gave us the ultimate gift with his birth so many want to honour this with presents. 

In Early modern Europe gift gifting has its roots in Christmas begging. Poor men would go house to house and try and get money from wealthy homeowners ... worth a try I guess?!

By the 19th Century Santa Claus/Saint Nicholas was around and children began to believe he was the gift giver. Saint Nicholas was a 4th century saint who was known for his generosity - including giving gifts to poor children. Hence the Santa Claus title ... but you'll find out more about him later in my Advent calendar!

Victorians played a 'spider web' game where each member of the family would be assigned a colour then a room would have criss-crossed yarn in, the aim was to find your colour which would lead you to a present ... what a lovely idea!

In the 1820's adverts for Christmas began in newspapers. By 1867 Macy's stayed opened until midnight on Christmas eve - the first time this ever happened - to allow shoppers to get everything they needed. 

In the US and UK people open presents on the 25th of December but other countries open them later, the latest being 6th January in countries such as Mexico. 

So next time you receive a present ... think of the wise men and how they've really helped you out with their idea to bring gifts for Jesus. And if you want a unique idea play the Victorian spider web game! 

What's the best present you've ever received? 

Rosie x