Santa Claus

[QuranStudy]

Why is a mythical character associated with the holy occassion of Christmas??

All answers appreciated

 

[glo]

Well, I found this on wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_claus

Santa Claus is a variation of a European folk tale based on the historical figure Saint Nicholas, a bishop from Myra that is now present-day Turkey, who gave presents to the poor. His charity became legend when a man lost his fortune and found himself incapable of supporting his three daughters, who would not be able to find husbands as they lacked doweries. This man was going to give them over to a life prostitution, however St. Nicholas provided them with gold, enabling them to retain their virginal virtues and marry.
[..]
Despite Santa Claus's mixed Christian roots, he has become a secular representation of Christmas. As such, a small number of primarily fundamentalist Christian churches dislike the secular focus on Santa Claus and the materialist focus that present-receiving gives to the holiday.
[...]
Some Christians would prefer that the focus of the Christmas season be placed on the actual birth of Jesus. Some parents are uncomfortable about lying to their children about the existence of Santa. Some parents worry that their children might think that if they were deceived by their parents about Santa Claus, parents might also be deceiving them about the existence of God. Some in this group who still wish to participate in the festive gift-giving atmosphere of "Santa season" will shop for toys to donate to underprivileged children on St. Nicholas's feast day, December 6. This is an opportunity to instill the Christian value of secret charity, which Nicholas was known for. Although feast days are usually not acknowledged in Protestant denominations, this tradition has found acceptance there as well.

Clearly, Santa Claus is not Biblical ... just in case that's what you are getting at. :rollseyes :giggling:

Personally, I particularly agree with the article's statement that Christmas has become a very secular celebration, which is celebrated by Christians and non-Christians alike.
For Christians the focus remains on the birth of Jesus Christ, and the hope and joy that he brought into this world! :statisfie
It is up to people's own consciences to what extend they partake in the consumerism and hype of the secular celebration. Some people don't have much of a problem with it, others avoid it completely.
The main thing, is that Christ remains at the heart of it.

As for Santa, un-Biblical as he may be, I quote one sentence - which I rather liked - from the above article again:

This is an opportunity to instill the Christian value of secret charity, which Nicholas was known for.

I also found this link from a religious tolerance site, which shows different perspectives and views of Santa Claus.
I've only skimmed over it, but you may find it interesting ...
http://www.religioustolerance.org/santa3.htm

Peace

 

[E'jaazi]

If Christians today knew the true origin of Christmas, they might not want Isa (Jesus) to be associated with it in any way. Also, Christmas is NOT an holy ocassion.

 

[north_malaysian]

Santa claus is the image of commercialization of christmas...

 

[Trumble]

If Christians today knew the true origin of Christmas, they might not want Isa (Jesus) to be associated with it in any way.

They do know it. It doesn't seem to make any difference.

Also, Christmas is NOT an holy ocassion.

For some it is, i.e those to whom their religion really matters. As far as the population as a whole, goes, though, you are right - its just ludicrously commercialised excuse for a holiday.

Shall I explain about the Easter Bunny now, or wait for the question? :happy:

 

[glo]

Shall I explain about the Easter Bunny now, or wait for the question? :happy:

Now, now, Trumble ... sarcasm is the lowest form of wit!
Although I have to confess, the same thought entered into my head. :giggling:

And then there'll be the Christmas tree, the Ivy and the Holly, Easter eggs ... there'll be a lot of explaining to do! :rollseyes :uhwhat

Peace.

 

[Umar001]

Peace be upon those who stay on the straight path,

Back in the day, I read a little about this, wasn't it some Guy who gave presents? I saw a picture of him, I wish I had met him.

 

[Far7an]

I believe the question was answered by glo in the second post.