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The origins of Santa Claus, who is synonymous with Christmas and its meaning
Entering the Christmas season, it cannot be denied that the figure of Santa Claus has become an icon that is inseparable from this celebration. But do we know why Christmas is so synonymous with this happy figure? In the Christmas celebration, Santa Claus is a figure who is said to bring happiness by giving gifts to children. Santa is depicted wearing red and white clothes with a white beard.
So what are the origins and history of the creation of the figure of Santa? Let's find out the interesting story behind the presence of Santa Claus who brings joy this Christmas.
The Origins of Santa Claus This frequently present Christmas icon actually still has a mystery about its origins. The following is the story of Santa Claus from several versions:
Ancient Christian Version According to the ancient Christian version, Santa Claus is a bishop named Saint Nicholas. He was from Myra (now Demre region, Türkiye). Saint Nicholas was known for his kindness, especially his compassion for the sick and poor. Because of his goodness, Saint Nicholas is often used as a reference by many people as a Patron Saint, especially for people in need.
Common People's Version The story about Santa Claus is most widely known from German folklore. In this version, Santa Claus is a figure who comes from Odin. Every year at the Yule celebration (midwinter festival), Odin and the Gods would go on a hunting party.
German children would usually place their shoes filled with carrots, hay, or sugar in the chimney which they offered to Odin's horse. In return, Odin will reward the children with candy.
Then, the story of Santa Claus experienced various developments, one of which was in the Netherlands. According to the Dutch version, Santa Claus is a kind-hearted figure, who has a black servant or slave with the name Zwarte Piet (Black Piet).
It is said that Black Piet would hit naughty children with his stick, put them in sacks and take them to Spain (in the past the Spaniards were known as sailors). However, in the end this story faced opposition because it was considered racist.
- Fictional Version Around 1822, there was a writer named Clement Moore who wrote that the figure of Santa Claus gave Christmas gifts to people through smoke that flowed into the fireplace area.
Some gifts are also sometimes placed by Santa Claus in stockings that are hung near the fireplace. This also links the existence of sock decorations at Christmas celebrations.
From these various versions, we have a picture of the figure of Santa Claus who often appears and enlivens the month of Christmas.
The meaning of Santa Claus in Christmas The majority of children think that Santa Claus is a symbol of the Christmas celebration, because at Christmas events, almost every corner of activity, buildings, shopping centers, and even several churches display this special figure complete with his attributes.