The tree of salvation

The beautifully decorated Christmas tree reminds us of how the world works, the seed symbolising the Creator and the branches, the world of men, says Rajyogi Brahmakumar Nikunj Ji

The month of December has come, bringing along with it all the joys of Christmas. Though it is known to all of us that the festival of Christmas is celebrated as the day of the advent of Christ into this world, yet it also symbolises a very deep significant spiritual truth of life. This festival is celebrated worldwide by all the Christians with lot of zeal and enthusiasm. On this occasion, no matter how far they are scattered, families come together, decorate the tree and exchange gifts and sweets. Celebrated on December 25, which is one of the coldest and the darkest days of the year, yet it brings with it warmth, love and joy for all, irrespective of their religion. According to some historians, the 25th day of the month of December was considered one of the most sacred days and celebrated as the “return of sun” by Druids. The reason being that upto this day the days became shorter and people were afraid that if the process went on, a time would come when total darkness would prevail. Thus when the days started becoming longer after December 25, humanity was assured that light was coming back. Perhaps it is for this reason that this particular day is considered a big day in many religions. 

Another significant feature of this festival is the putting up of the Christmas tree in every household. It is decorated with colourful lights, stars and gifts and on top of the it is a shining star. In Bhagvad Gita, the tree of world is described as an inverted one. While the seed lives above and it continuous to grow and spread downwards. The stars and the flowers on the Christmas tree actually connote the main actors of this world drama. The creator of the tree — The Seed, appears in the beginning to give life to the tree, disappearing in between like the seed of a botanical tree, and then again re-appearing when the tree has reached its full growth, and about to die, in order to start the new tree.

Analogically, the seed of the  human world is the Almighty himself who is called, the Creator. He is an invisible, indivisible and infinitesimal sentient point of light who plays his role in the mid-period —    between the beginning and the end of the world. This is perhaps the reason why a shining star is shown at the top of the christmas tree whereas other stars in the tree are symbolic of souls who play their respective roles as main actors in the world.  The Christmas tree is also decorated with lights, laden with fruits and gifts placed under it which implies that in the new world or the paradise created by God, everything is plentiful.

For almost all the children, Christmas means waiting for Santa Claus to bring gifts for them. Isn’t it?  Santa Claus is shown as an old silver-bearded man clad in white and red, carrying a bag full of gifts on his shoulder. Myth is that he gives gifts to only those children who remain good and well-behaved during the year.

Similarly, all of us human souls are the immortal children of supreme Almighty, who too brings for us the gifts of health, wealth, happiness, love, peace and joy, provided we behave like good kids.

So, let us celebrate Christmas with the knowledge of its new background and qualify ourselves to get the best of gifts from Santa Claus. Merry Christmas and a  Happy New Year!