Advent: The Meaning Behind Christmas

December 1, 2019

• Topical

Disclaimer: Advent is more than just chocolate… With Christmas fast-approaching and our Advent Calendars at the ready, we thought it would be interesting to share some history on this Christian tradition. 

The History 

The word “Advent” itself derives from the Latin word “Adventus” which means “Coming”. It is commonly used in relation to the preparation period before the January feast of Epiphany. Traditionally Christians spent forty days in penance, prayer and fasting in preparation for the celebration. Today, Advent lasts for four Sundays leading up to Christmas and we characterise it by its commercialised variations, commonly appearing in chocolate form. 

The first two Sundays in Advent look forward to Christ’s Second Coming, centralising on the idea of anticipation. The last two Sundays look backwards to Christ’s first coming and thus focus on the theme of remembrance. Advent is intended to be a period of reflection, based upon the themes of Hope, Preparation, Joy and Love. Marking the end of the Christian year, this time is a moment where we can reflect on the past twelve months and be thankful for what we have.  

How is Advent celebrated now?

Another way that we celebrate Advent is with the use of candles, wreaths and or calendars. Candles were commonly used and attached to an Advent wreath to represent “the Light that come into the world” with Christ. The wreath itself, traditionally made with evergreens, signifies continuous life and you can often see it hanging on people’s front doors. (There are some fun workshops where you can make your own wreath!) 

This was a period that people in the past associated with fasting, however we have given it a complete reinterpretation.  Chocolate filled calendars are designed to be opened each day from the 1st to the 25th December. Beyond the classic Cadbury calendar, you can now purchase Harry Potter, cheese, stationary, beauty and slime filled advent calendars. 

The advent calender is a firm staple in the Western celebration of Christmas and we can’t wait to open ours!