Article by HenrikHolt
With the largest number of disciples, Christianity is the most widely followed religion in the world. December is the reason to celebrate for all Christians. It is their happiest time of the year. Not only is it the time for snow and sweaters and Tørklæder. It is the time for Christmas. The 25th of December is celebrated every year as Christmas. It commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, the son of God. Christmas is time of great enjoyment. Especially for the children. They can wish all to their heart’s desire and they will hardly get a ‘no’ in response. It is the time of giving and gifts.
Speaking of gifts and Christmas one is invariably reminded of Santa Claus. Santa Claus is actually named after Saint Nicholas who wore the robes of a bishop. In modern times, Santa is depicted as a plump, white bearded and good spirited man wearing a red coat with fluffy collar and cuffs and red trousers also with white cuffs. He also wears a big black leather belt and high leather boots. This image of Santa is particularly popular in The USA and Canada, popularized by popular culture and folk, TV, songs, radio and print media. The British have their own counterpart of the American Santa Claus. They call him ‘Father Christmas’.
The most narrated and popular of all legends associated with Santa Claus is that he lives in the far north. By far north, one means the North Pole! It is said to be perpectually snowing over there. Santa lives there with his missus and spends a quiet life. But it’s all busy-busy-busy during the winter. Santa and his army of numerous magical elves start working day and night packing gifts and presents for little children around the world. Santa then gets on his magical super-fast sleigh drawn by eight flying reindeer. He showers gifts upon all children the whole night. Santa is said to have a list of ‘naughty’ and ‘nice’ children. Children are supposed to hang Strømper over the mantelpiece and keep a glass of milk and cookies for Santa. When Santa comes down the chimney he leaves toys and candy for the ‘nice’ children, but leaves coal in the socks for the naughty ones urging them to become nicer. This goes on the whole night of Christmas Eve.
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