Secret Behind "12 Days of Christmas" - Video

Did you know there was, for nearly three hundred years, a secret meaning behind "The Twelve Days of Christmas"?

From 1558 until 1829, Roman Catholics in England were not permitted to practice their faith openly. Someone during that era wrote this carol as a catechism song for young Catholics.

It has two levels of meaning: the surface meaning plus a hidden meaning known only to members of their church.

Each element in the carol has a code word for a religious reality which the children could remember.

The Partridge in a Pear Tree represents Jesus Christ Who laid down His life for us, just as the Partridge is the only bird who will lay down her life for her nest.

Two Turtle Doves represent the Old Testament and the New Testament.

Three French Doves represent Faith, Hope, and Charity (Love).

Four Calling Doves represent the Four Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

The Five Golden Rings represent the first five books (Penetuch and Torah) of the Old Testament. (This is shared by Christians, Muslims, and Jews.)

Six Geese a-laying represent the Six Days of Creation.

Seven Swans a-swimming represent the seven gifts of The Holy Spirit: Prophesy, Serving, Teaching, Exhortation, Contribution, Leadership and Mercy.

Eight Maids a-milking represent the Eight Beatitudes taught by Jesus.

Nine Ladies Dancing represent the Nine Fruit of the Holy Spirit: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self-Control.

Ten Lords a-leaping are, of course, The Ten Commandments!

Eleven Pipers Piping represent the ELEVEN faithful Disciples - remember, Judas was NOT faithful.

Twelve Drummers Drumming sybolizes the Twelve Points of Belief in the Apostles' Creed.

And you thought it was just a silly song! Kristi Watts thought so, too, until Author Ace Collins taught her the truth!

2011 April Lorier Perspective