SAMUEL KUTTY
Festivals have long been significant in all human cultures, although the oldest festivals were religious. They are occasions with national, cultural and religious focus and play an important role in our social lives.
History shows that ancient Greek and Roman societies relied heavily on festivals, both communal and administrative. The word festival was originally used as an adjective from the late 14th century, deriving from Latin via old French. In Middle English, a “festival day” was a religious holiday.
Christmas is one such festival celebrated differently by millions around the world to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a time of happiness, warmth and togetherness.
Christmas comes from "Christ's Mass," or "Cristes Maesse." The word "Christ," originally spelled as "Crīst," comes from the Greek word "Khrīstos," which is a translation of the Hebrew word "Messiah," meaning "anointed." The word "messe" is related to the Latin word "missa," which is connected to the tradition of midnight Mass or the Eucharist.
Over the centuries, different cultures have blended it with their own histories and values. Beyond the familiar traditions like Santa Claus, a fir tree, caroling and gift-giving, a number of countries bring their own unique twists — both old and new, to the celebrations.
In Christian households, preparations for Christmas begin on the first day of December. They illuminate their houses with stars and decorate trees. To add to the festive atmosphere, they create giant Christmas trees, huge stars and light displays.
While general businesses offer massive discounts, cafes and restaurants often adapt their menus and create inviting spaces to encourage customers to linger and savor the holiday spirit.
While this discusses Christmas and its celebrations, it is equally important that the true meaning of Christmas — peace on earth — always remains in the hearts of all human beings. Unfortunately, peace has become an elusive thing today. The Christmas season has now become a momentary fulfilment!
Against this backdrop, what we see in the world are wars, conflicts and chaos. People harbour hatred towards one another. Domestic violence is pervasive. Injustice still exists and people continue to live in fear.
As I type this, it pains me to see images of particularly children experiencing unimaginable suffering in war-torn countries. The situation is dire in Palestine, Ukraine, Iraq, Syria and Sudan, among other places. There is no escape from the pain and sorrow!
In Bethlehem, which is revered as the birthplace of Jesus, the blockade imposed by Israel has turned it into an open-air prison. There is no tree adorned with decorations and nor is there any carol or other festivities.
Leaving this aside, people in Gaza are unable to bury their loved ones. They lack time and space to mourn or process the magnitude of their loss. Israel has created a catastrophic humanitarian situation that is likely to worsen as disease and famine ravage Gaza’s population.
As the world slows down for Christmas and the New Year, beyond the celebrations, let’s extend generosity, compassion and selflessness. Let’s also strive to heal divisions embrace peace and yearn for a world where people take care of one another.
Let’s support the Palestinians’ demand for universal values like justice, dignity and freedom is genuine. The next generations should not endure what they are experiencing right now.
Both religious and political leaders, regardless of their creed, should come forward without any bias to provide objective guidance to their followers, ensuring peace in those conflict-ridden countries. We must transform the world into a better place and change our stars together.
After all, the heart of Christmas lies in the act of giving, extending beyond mere gifts wrapped in ribbons!
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