(paraphrased from Ace Collins' book – Stories Behind the Best Loved Songs of Christmas)
For the British Empire, the early sixteenth century brought in change – King Henry VIII wanted an annulment from his marriage (which was refused by the Catholic church). So, he took over as Supreme Head of the Church of England, separating it from Roman papal authority, and forbid by law the practice of Catholicism. Any Catholic, no matter adult or child who spoke or wrote of their faith was arrested and tried – often even put to death.
As in the early days of Christianity in Rome, Catholics in England went “underground” - holding secret masses. No signs of their faith could be revealed which posed a problem – how to teach children. If they were not able to write anything down, how were they going to pass on doctrine? Secret codes were made up and passed along – one being the most successful codes ever invented by this movement. A Christmas carol was written that on the surface seemed silly & nonsensical. In fact, this strange song was so much fun to sing it even made its way into pubs, concert halls, and even the royal palace. No one suspected the real meaning behind these words. Through the years, many theories and explanations have been voiced – the most popular being these are gifts from a young man in love.
In reality, the twelve days are simply the mark of time between Dec.25 (Christ's birth) to Jan 6 (Epiphany-the celebration of the wise men bearing gifts). And, the real secret code was in meaning of the gifts. Each Catholic singer understood that this song was about pure and true love which only comes from God.
Partridge in a Pear Tree The anchor to the faith is Christ's death and resurrection. Thus, verse one bore repeating (over & over) with each new one. To protect her defenseless chicks, a mother partridge will lure her enemies away.. Just as she sacrifices herself for them, so does Christ for man. The pear tree symbolizes the cross. Together, gift #1 represents the ultimate gift given by God – His son, born on Christmas Day, and later sacrificing himself on the cross.
Two Turtle Doves Symbols of truth and peace, doves were used to represent God's truth in both the old and new testaments.
Three French Hens In the sixteenth century, these were very expensive and served only in homes of the wealthiest – food 'fit for a king'. Thusly, when Catholic children sang of 3 French hens, they knew that these represented the very expensive gifts brought to Christ the King by the wise men – gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
Four Calling Birds These represent the four gospels – Matthew, Mark, Luke & John
Five Golden Rings The Pentateuch or 'Torah' (the first 5 books of the Old Testament) are reminders to us of man's sinful nature. Only Christ, not the law, can reconcile us to God.
Six Geese A-Laying Even today, the egg is a symbol of new life. So, the six geese laying eggs represents God creating, in six days, new life out of a void.
Seven Swans A-Swimming Swans are considered one of the most graceful and beautiful birds in England. In Romans 12:6-8, Paul speaks of the seven 'gifts of the Holy Spirit'. Thus, when we walk with God, these gifts (prophesy, service, teaching, encouraging, giving, leadership & mercy) will move in and out of lives just as gracefully and easily as the swan moves across the water.
Eight Maids A-Milking The lowest job in England at the time was the man or woman who had to work cattle or in a barn. This meant, they had little worth to their masters. Yet, Christ came to serve everyone – regardless of status, race, color or creed. His message in Matt 5:3-10, known as The Beatitudes, clearly tells of eight blessings offered to all (the poor in spirit, those who mourn, the meek, the hungry, the merciful, the pure of heart, the peacemaker, and the righteous).
Nine Ladies Dancing Symbolizes the real joy and rewards of following Christ. Our lives will show the nine Fruits of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, & self-control) when we give ourselves to Him.
Ten Lords A-Leaping Lords were supposed to be honorable men – thus these were used to symbolize the Ten Commandments given by God through Moses.
Eleven Pipers Piping These were the eleven apostles (12 minus Judas) who took the message of Christ to the world.
Twelve Drummers Drumming Represents The Apostles Creed - a statement of faith – the basis of what Christian churches believe. There are twelve elements to it:
I believe in God the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth,
and in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord -
who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary,
suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried.
The third day, he arose from the dead. He ascended into heaven and
sitteth at the right hand of God the Father Almighty.
From thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Holy Catholic church,
the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and, life everlasting.
Amen
