The Star
The thesis that the births and deaths of great men were marked by heavenly signs was widely accepted in Jesus’ time. The magi were astrologers whose business it was to study the heavenly bodies, for by them, they believed, the gods communicated to humans. The "Star of the East" becomes a part of the traditional Christmas story as Matthew chooses Gentiles, who accept the evidence from nature about the birth of the Messiah, as examples of those who believe.
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Mary Elizabeth Birth Shepherds Journey
The Christ Child
Is it straw or light that surrounds the Baby in the manger? The brilliant golden colour symbolizing the deity serves to emphasize the new born Jesus, the central figure in the Christmas story.
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Mary Elizabeth Birth Shepherds Journey
The Dove
The Dove represents the descent of the Holy Spirit, expressing how God was active in establishing and later confirming (at his baptism) the sonship of Jesus.
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The White Rose
The white rose has for many centuries been the symbol of purity, mostly seen in Roman Catholic art depicting Mary -- but can equally, for Protestants. symbolize the sinlessness of Jesus.
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Mary Elizabeth Birth Shepherds Journey
The Diamond
The diamond, clear and flawless, is a more recent symbol adopted by modern artists, to stand for purity.
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Gold and Frankincense and Myrrh
Gold, always associated with royalty, has come to symbolize Jesus’ kingship within God’s realm. Frankincense was used in the Temple sacrificial system, and came to symbolize proper worship before the Lord. Myrrh, another aromatic substance, was particularly employed in embalming and is included to symbolize the crucifixion of Jesus.
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Mary Elizabeth Birth Shepherds Journey