Did you ever wonder what the song is all about and why it is a Christmas Carol? From 1558 to 1829, Roman Catholics in England were not permitted to practice their faith openly. Someone during that era wrote this carol as a catechism song for young Catholics. It has two levels of meaning: the surface meaning plus a hidden meaning known only to members of the Catholic church. Each element in the carol has a code word for a religious reality which children could remember.
The partridge in a pear tree was Jesus Christ.
Two turtle doves were the old and new testaments.
Three French hens stood for faith, hope, and love.
Four calling birds were the 4 gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.
Five golden rings recalled the Torah or Law, the first 5 books of the Old Testament.
Six geese a laying stood for the the six days of creation.
Seven swans a swimming represented the seven fold gifts of the Holy Spirit, Prophesy, Serving, Teaching, etc.
Eight maids a milking were the 8 beatitudes.
Nine ladies dancing were the Nine fruits of the Spirit.
Ten lords a leaping were the 10 commandments.
Eleven pipers piping stood for the eleven faithful disciples.
Twelve drummers drumming symbolizes the 12 points of belief in the Apostles Creed.
Just wanted to pass this on to you and wish you a very Merry CHRISTmas. God bless you in 2010. Mary Fox
Thanks for passing this on, I just recently learned the meaning of this song and thought it very interesting. Merry Christmas.
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