Book Review: The Twelve Days of Christmas: A Carol Catechism

The original purpose of the song, "The Twelve Days of Christmas," is shrouded in mystery. The author states that the song is neither a singing catechism for an oppressed British Catholic population nor a rebellious reaction to Puritan rule in England, as is commonly believed. Whatever the true purpose of the song, there is no doubt that various symbols have been associated with numerous aspects within the seemingly absurd song.

In this book, the author reflects on these various symbols and associates them with various biblical passages. The author then goes on to relay the lessons to be learned by each of these passages. For instance, the phrase "my true love" is a hidden symbol for the bridegroom that is Jesus Christ. Thus, all of the gifts described in the song are given from Jesus Christ. Furthermore, each gift itself is a symbol. For example, the "partridge in a pear tree" is the gift that Jesus Christ gave to the world by his ultimate sacrifice.

This book will be enjoyed by those interested in symbols and hidden meanings behind these symbols. Also, those of the Christian faith will find comfort and a renewed sense of faith by the realization that these symbols have been preserved through time. Thus, even the most seemingly absurd and non-secular Christmas carols are imbedded with mnemonic symbolism.

Sample from book:

Embedded in our Christmas celebrations and treasury of Christmas carols is one carol that seems rather silly and only related to Christmas because of the gift-giving. The carol also seems archaic to modern ears because we don't have maids milking or lords leaping in today's society.

Legend has it that in England those of the Roman Catholic persuasion were forbidden from practicing and teaching their faith. This carol, then, became a "singing catechism" for the Catholic British. I will express my doubts about this because it seems, as the gifts are explained to me, that there is nothing that Christians of all stripes and persuasions would not "believe, teach, or confess." Why one group should have to go into hiding to confess beliefs that the opposition also accepted seems rather peculiar. Had there been mention of the pope or saints or Mary, then I would understand.

A possibility could be the Puritan rule in England which forbad the celebration of Christmas because of the drunkenness and rowdiness that had become a part of Christmas. Here again I express my doubts, because singing is a very public activity and would get anybody in trouble in that time period.

The copyright of the article Book Review: The Twelve Days of Christmas: A Carol Catechism in Lutheranism is owned by Tami Brady. Permission to republish Book Review: The Twelve Days of Christmas: A Carol Catechism in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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