I'm not sure if this is true but maybe
@ChaplainRachelDonovan can speak on this:
So interesting! DID YOU KNOW THIS?!
The partridge in a pear tree is Jesus Christ.
Two turtle doves are the Old and New Testaments.
Three French hens stand for faith, hope, and love.
The four calling birds are the four gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.
The five golden rings recalled the Torah or Law, the first fiv
… Moree books of the Old Testament.
The six geese a-laying stand for the six days of creation.
Seven swans a-swimming represent the sevenfold gifts of the Holy Spirit--Prophesy, Serving, Teaching, Exhortation, Contribution, Leadership, and Mercy.
The eight maids a-milking are the eight Beatitudes.
Nine ladies dancing are the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit--Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self Control.
The ten lords a-leaping are the Ten Commandments.
The eleven pipers piping stand for the eleven faithful disciples. The twelve drummers drumming symbolize the twelve points of belief in the Apostles' Creed.
So there is your history lesson for today!
Merry Christmas!! Less
@Derek, there is a bit of controversy over whether this is true or not. Some say the Catholic church labeled these during a time when it is important to remember the tenants of the Catholic faith. The… Morere are an equal number of articles and sources that refute it. When you asked the question it made me remember seeing this carol performed at a church. I've put the link below. I think you might enjoy it!!! Happy New Year to you!!! Less