Advent is a sacred and reflective season within the Christian liturgical calendar. It spans the four Sundays leading up to Christmas, beginning on the Sunday nearest to November 30, which is the feast day of Saint Andrew the Apostle. The word “Advent” comes from the Latin “adventus,” meaning “coming” or “arrival.” In essence, it is a time of spiritual preparation, reflection, and anticipation for the coming of Christ—both in the historical context of His birth in Bethlehem and His promised return.
Throughout the ages, the Church has embraced rich symbols and traditions to help believers engage deeply with the meaning of Advent. These symbols serve not only as visual and tactile expressions of faith but also as educational tools that pass on theological truths. Each element—whether it is the lighting of a candle or the hanging of a wreath—offers an opportunity to reflect on hope, peace, joy, and love, the key themes of this holy season.
Understanding the symbols of Advent allows us to participate more fully in this time of waiting and expectation. Rather than rushing through December in a flurry of commercial activity, the symbols help us slow down, pray, and refocus our hearts on what truly matters: the coming of Jesus Christ. These symbols are especially prominent in both liturgical services and personal Advent Devotionals, and they have become central to both public worship and private spiritual practice.
In this comprehensive article, we will explore the most meaningful symbols of Advent. These include the Advent wreath, the candles, the color purple, the Christmas tree, the Jesse Tree, the Chrismon Tree, the manger scene (or Nativity), and the star. Each one holds a unique message and has a deep historical and biblical foundation. As we uncover the roots and meanings behind these symbols, we open our hearts to the full spiritual richness of the Advent season.
Whether you are a lifelong believer, a new Christian, or someone simply curious about the faith traditions tied to Christmas, this guide will deepen your understanding and enrich your observance. Let us begin by exploring the most iconic and widely used symbol of Advent: the Advent wreath.
What Is The Most Meaningful Symbol Of Advent?
1. The Advent Wreath
The Advent wreath is a circular garland made of evergreen branches. It holds four or five candles and is traditionally used to mark the four Sundays leading up to Christmas. The circle symbolizes eternity and the everlasting love of God. The use of evergreen reflects the eternal life promised through Jesus Christ.
Each candle represents one of the four themes of Advent: Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love. A fifth candle, the Christ Candle, is often placed in the center and lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. Lighting a new candle each week builds anticipation and brings families and congregations together in devotion and prayer.
2. The Advent Candles
There are usually three purple candles, one pink candle, and sometimes a white candle. The first candle (purple) symbolizes Hope and is known as the “Prophet’s Candle.” The second candle (purple) stands for Peace and is called the “Bethlehem Candle.” The third candle (pink) represents Joy and is the “Shepherd’s Candle.” The fourth candle (purple) represents Love and is called the “Angel’s Candle.” The optional fifth candle (white) is the “Christ Candle,” symbolizing the purity and light of Jesus.
These candles illuminate the progression from darkness to light, reminding us that Christ is the Light of the World. As we light each one, we move closer to His coming, both historically and spiritually.
3. The Color Purple
The color purple is deeply associated with Advent and is used in altar cloths, vestments, and candle selections. Purple signifies both royalty and penitence. It reminds believers that Advent is not only about waiting for a King but also about preparing our hearts through prayer, repentance, and reflection.
Some churches have begun using dark blue instead of purple to distinguish Advent from Lent, but the message remains the same: this is a time of deep spiritual contemplation.
4. The Jesse Tree
The Jesse Tree is a visual representation of Jesus’ genealogy. Based on Isaiah 11:1—”A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit”—the tree traces the spiritual lineage of Christ through symbols and stories from the Old Testament.
Each day of Advent, a new symbol is added to the tree, often accompanied by scripture and a devotional reading. This tradition helps families and individuals connect the Old Testament promises with their fulfillment in Jesus.
5. The Nativity Scene (Crèche)
One of the most recognizable symbols of Advent and Christmas is the nativity scene, which depicts the birth of Christ in a stable in Bethlehem. Introduced by St. Francis of Assisi in the 13th century, the crèche typically includes Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus, shepherds, angels, animals, and the Magi.
Displaying and reflecting on the nativity scene helps believers remember the humble circumstances of Jesus’ birth and the profound theological truth that God became flesh and dwelt among us.
6. The Star
The Star of Bethlehem guided the Magi to the birthplace of Jesus. It symbolizes divine guidance, revelation, and the fulfillment of prophecy. Often placed atop Christmas trees or featured in church décor, the star reminds us that God still leads those who seek Him with sincere hearts.
The star also speaks to the idea that the light of Christ dispels the darkness of the world, offering direction, clarity, and hope to all people.
7. The Christmas Tree
Although the Christmas tree is often associated with the secular celebration of the season, its roots are deeply symbolic. Evergreens represent eternal life and endurance through trials. When decorated with Christian symbols such as angels, stars, and crosses, the tree becomes a visual proclamation of the Gospel.
In some traditions, the “Chrismon Tree” is used in churches and homes. It features white and gold ornaments that represent various aspects of Christ’s life and ministry, such as the Alpha and Omega, the Lamb, the Cross, and the Fish.
The Spiritual Message Behind Each Symbol
Each Advent symbol tells a part of the salvation story. They are not mere decorations but sacred tools for spiritual formation. The wreath invites us to gather in sacred rhythm; the candles illuminate our hearts; the colors remind us to repent and rejoice; the trees, stars, and scenes retell the greatest story ever told. These symbols point beyond themselves to Christ, anchoring our hearts in the reason for the season.
These symbols are especially meaningful when integrated into daily Advent Devotionals. They help structure prayer, reflection, and scripture reading, enabling individuals and families to immerse themselves in the true essence of the season.
Conclusion
The symbols of Advent are more than traditions or rituals; they are spiritual signposts guiding us toward the manger and the Messiah. They teach us to wait, to hope, to prepare, and to rejoice. In a world that often rushes past Advent in the race to celebrate Christmas, these symbols call us to slow down, look deeper, and prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ—not only as a baby in a manger but as the Lord of all creation.
By embracing these symbols with reverence and understanding, we enter into the fullness of the Advent journey. May this sacred season lead you into a deeper awareness of God’s promises, a greater longing for His presence, and a more joyful celebration of His arrival. Let every wreath lit, candle burned, and symbol displayed be a reflection of your worship, your anticipation, and your love for the Savior who comes.
Related topics: