12 Days, 12 Hidden Meanings

Just a note on this post: None of this is via my own research or trifle epiphany.  This information is compliments of GodTube.

We're all familiar with the famous carol, "The Twelve Days of Christmas", and many historians hold that there are actually hidden instructional tools for 16th century Christians in each of the twelve verses.  Whether this is actually true, or simply urban legend, I found the hidden meanings quite intriguing.

1) Partridge in a Pear Tree:

Christ, sacrificing Himself for us.

2) Two turtle doves:

The Old and New testaments

3) Three French Hens:

Symbols of the three theological virtues: Faith, Hope, and Love

4) Four calling birds:

The four Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, John

5) Five Golden Rings:

The first five books of the Bible, otherwise known as the Pentateuch.

6) Six Geese-a-laying:

The six days of creation (recall that He rested on the seventh).

7) Seven swans a-swimming:

The seven spiritual gifts: prophecy, ministry, teaching, exhortation, giving, leading, compassion.

8) Eight maids a-milking:

The eight beatitudes Jesus teaches about in Matthew.

9) Nine ladies dancing:

The fruits of the Spirit: Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.

10) Ten Lords a-leaping:

The Ten Commandments

11) Eleven Pipers Piping:

The eleven faithful apostles (Judas Iscariot was ultimately unfaithful).

12) Twelve Drummers Drumming:

The twelve points of the Apostles' Creed.