Nativity scenes during Christmas are seen everywhere, churches, homes, and public places. The birth of Jesus Christ is the main theme of Christmas and can be seen in these displays. However, did you ever think about where this tradition comes from and became an important part of the Christmas celebration? We will learn about the history and the importance of the native scene and how it has evolved over the centuries.
The Origin of The Nativity Scene
Crèche, the tradition of the nativity scene, first emerged in the early 13th century and is believed to have been created by Saint Francis of Assisi. Saint Francis’s goal was to share the knowledge about Jesus’s birth and make people understand the importance of it. He accomplished it by setting up a lively nativity scene that included real animals and people portraying Mary, Joseph, and the Shepherds. Saint Francis wanted to show people how simple and humble Christ’s birth was. People’s beliefs strengthened in him as the nativity scene was portrayed in a very real way. The first nativity scene was so powerful that people got motivated to replicate it and share the knowledge all across the world.
How did Nativity spread?
After Saint Francis created the lively nativity scene, it spread across Europe. There were many other versions created using statues or sculptures instead of real humans by the monasteries and churches. This nativity scene was usually created during the Christmas time to spread the significance of Christ’s birth and people could worship easily. Many people started to celebrate this at home by hiring artisans to create a unique set that would depict the Birth of Jesus. Wood, clay, and terracotta were mainly used to create the nativity scene. From generation to generation, it was passed and people still celebrate it and praise the Lord Jesus.
What is the role of Art and Culture?
Many artists like Giottio, and Fra Angelico started painting the nativity scenes which was widely appreciated by the Christian communities. They brought their own culture and artistic sides to the paintings depicting the nativity which made it very special. The painting helped to popularize the significance of the nativity amongst people and it became a very important part of the Christmas season. In Poland, the nativity scenes reflect the local customs and it is called szopka nativity. The nativity is inspired by the local architecture which includes miniature buildings which are very colourful. Local farmers, musicians, and animals were included in the nativity of Latin America as well as the elements of everyday life which made the nativity scene even more wonderful.
Evolving of the Nativity Scene
These days, it has evolved very much and can be seen celebrated differently in every part of the world. There are grand displays in the public as well as small home set-ups in people’s homes. This practice reminds people of how their lord was born and they praise him every year. Modern-day celebrations include decorating the nativity scene with ceramic, glass, and even recycled materials.
Organizations set up a nativity scene where all the people of the community come to see the story of Jesus Christ’s birth. There is a wide variety of costumes, makeup, and animals and sometimes they even use a real baby to portray the birth of Jesus Christ. This helps the people to unite together and celebrate the festival with togetherness and understand the true meaning of Christmas.
Also read: 12 Unique Christmas Traditions Around the World
What does Nativity symbolize?
The nativity scene is filled with symbolism as all the characters have an important meaning and they are all part of the Christmas spirit. Faith is symbolized by Mary and Joseph as they are completely devoted to god and are obedient to god’s plan. The shepherd represented the joy because they received God’s message. Jesus was recognized as the king by The Magi, also known as the wise men. The centre of attention is of course the baby Jesus as his birth gave hope to God’s devotees and this serves as a reminder of love from God. The nativity is more than just a decoration, it showcases the actual meaning of Christmas which is bringing peace, love, and harmony to the people.
Nativity scenes around the globe
All parts of the world have different ways to celebrate and remember the birth of Jesus Christ by creating nativity scenes. The tradition of Presepe in Italy is very famous for creating the life-sized nativity scene which also includes additional scenes from the daily life of the local people in Bethlehem. The main part of the Christmas celebration in Spain is the Belen where many families set up their nativity scenes and it includes dozens of figures. Filipino culture is very much celebrated by the people of Mexico as they take joy in setting up the nativity scene which also includes their culture. Local materials like bamboo and shells are often used to decorate the scenes. In the United States, people set up their own nativity, and also communities host public nativity scene programs so that everyone can join together and experience goosebumps by watching the act. This shows how creative every country is and how this remains a beloved part of the Christmas Holiday season.
Conclusion
As the older generations keep passing the love and harmony to the youth the celebration keeps going. Christmas is celebrated with love and harmony and brings together everyone to praise the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ. Even if it’s a small setup or a grand celebration, it reminds everyone to have faith, hope, and joy in whatever god brings them.
FAQ
1. What is a nativity scene?
The nativity scene is a celebration where people enact the birth of Jesus Christ and real actors play the roles of Mary, Joseph, The Shepherds, and The Magi. Even real animals are used to make it more lively.
2. Who Introduced the Nativity scene first?
Saint Francis of Assisi introduced the nativity scene to share knowledge about the birth of Jesus Christ during the 13th century.
3. What is the significance of the Nativity scene?
The Nativity scene shows that it is important to have love and harmony amongst people and bring peace and joy to everyone’s life, which is also the true meaning of Christmas.
