It is the twelfth month, but December means ten. At the winter solstice, the sun is the most distant in the southern sky, creating the shortest day. So we create our own lights (once candles) and stand evergreens inside. Carolers sing to the Son, as they once did the sun. December 17th was the same date as the Roman Saturnalia. December 17-25, was called Yule, then, Christmas.
The mistletoe hung throughout Celtic Europe in December, a symbol of eternal life and an invitation for contact. Romans sent each other small wrapped gifts, and enjoyed cakes and wine.
In the 5th century A.D., the Christ child was introduced to counteract another feast, Mithras. The mass of Christ was introduced (i.e. Christmas). The Germans already celebrated with the Yule log ("wheel" of the sun). The Norse strung holly and evergreen for the goddess, Frey and the god, Odin.
By the middle ages, Christmas had become a festival of light, combining Pagan memories with the glories of the Christian faith, where commoners and royals alike envisioned one world.
Although the Puritans banned Christmas in America, immigrants restored it, including the German illuminated fir tree.
The real Santa Claus was Saint Nicholas of Bari. He was sorrowful, due to his compassionate concern for humankind, long, thin, elderly, generous, and caring. However, his legend grew. Saint Nick probably became linked with the all-father god, Odin. Odin rode through the skies on his eight-legged friend, Sleipner, and he was transformed into the kindly, night rider with flowing white beard.
Scandinavians continue to proudly put their "Julenisse" (Christmas gnomes, who bear some resemblance to Father Christmas' elven helpers) under their trees.
(paraphrased mostly from "The Dance of Time" by Michael Judge, as well as "Christmas this Year," by Booth Tarkington.)
