here are many theories based on facts and speculation of what the 12 days of Christmas mean. The 12 days of Christmas is often mistakenly thought of as the 12 days leading up to Christmas. In fact, it means the 12 days from Christmas until the start of Epiphany. Epiphany is often described as the time in which the wise men presented gifts to newborn Jesus. Although some cultures celebrate Christmas on December 25th, they will exchange gifts on January 6th (Epiphany). Some cultures give gifts for each of the 12 days of Christmas.There are theories that speculate that during religious war in Europe in the 1500's, Christians hid basic Christian beliefs in song, such as in "The Twelve Days of Christmas," to teach Christianity but avoid being persecuted. There is no evidence proving or disproving that the song contains such characteristics.
Some theories suggest that each gift means the following:
A partridge in a pear tree: Jesus Christ
Two turtle doves: The Old and New Testaments
Three French Hens: The Three Theological Virtues- faith, hope, and love
Four calling (or "collie") birds: The 4 gospels- Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John
Five gold(en) rings: The first five books of the Old Testament, known as the Torah- Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy
Six geese a-laying: The six days of creation
Seven swans a-swimming: The 7 gifts of the Holy Spirit- prophecy, ministry, teaching, exhortation, giving, leading, and compassion
Eight maids a-milking: The eight Beatitudes- blessed are the poor in spirit, those who mourn, the meek, those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, the merciful, the pure of heart, the peacemakers, those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake
Nine ladies dancing: The nine fruit of the Holy Spirit- love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control
Ten lords a-leaping: The Ten Commandments
Eleven pipers piping: the faithful apostles
Twelve drummers drumming: The twelve points in the Apostle's Creed
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