What Does the Bible Say About XMAS (Christmas) Trees?
The tradition of the Christmas tree is familiar to millions worldwide, yet it is noticeably absent from the pages of the Bible. This is not surprising, since the practice of decorating evergreen trees as part of the XMAS celebration did not emerge until many centuries after biblical times. Still, Christians have long debated whether bringing trees into the home at Christmas aligns with biblical principles or if it risks crossing into questionable territory.
Some turn to passages such as Jeremiah 10:1–4, which describes cutting down a tree, shaping it, and adorning it with silver and gold. However, when read in context, Jeremiah is condemning the making of wooden idols—not speaking about XMAS decorations. Others see trees as having symbolic value throughout the Bible, pointing to them as metaphors for life, blessing, or even the presence of God.
The Bible does not directly command or forbid Christmas trees. Instead, it provides principles that can guide believers toward worshiping God rightly, avoiding idolatry, and understanding how cultural traditions can be engaged faithfully.
1. What the Bible Actually Says About Trees and Worship
Throughout Scripture, trees are often presented as part of God’s good creation, worthy of admiration but never of worship. The Bible opens in Genesis with the Tree of Life and the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, both central to humanity’s early story. Trees in the Old Testament often serve as symbols of fruitfulness, stability, and righteousness. Psalm 1 describes the blessed man as “a tree planted by streams of water,” while Proverbs 3:18 likens wisdom to “a tree of life.”
However, the Bible also warns about the misuse of created things in worship. Deuteronomy repeatedly condemns the setting up of Asherah poles—wooden symbols used in idolatrous worship. In this light, Jeremiah 10:1–4’s description of cutting, shaping, and decorating a tree refers to the making of an idol, not a festive holiday tradition. The prophet mocks the lifelessness of such objects, contrasting them with the living God who created the heavens and the earth.
This distinction is crucial. The biblical warning is not about bringing greenery into one’s home for beauty, but about assigning divine power or honor to the object itself. If a Christmas tree is viewed merely as decoration and not as an object of worship, then the issue shifts from idolatry to conscience and purpose.
2. Historical Roots of the Christmas Tree Tradition
The modern Christmas tree tradition appears to have developed in medieval and early modern Europe, particularly in German-speaking regions. Evergreen trees were used in winter festivals as symbols of life enduring through the cold months. By the 16th century, Christians began incorporating decorated trees into XMAS celebrations, often placing them in homes or public squares.
While some of these customs may have pre-Christian origins, the practice as known today—placing lights and ornaments on an evergreen tree—developed in explicitly Christian contexts, often as a visual reminder of eternal life in Christ. The evergreen’s year-round greenery made it a natural symbol of hope, resilience, and God’s enduring promises.
Because the Bible does not mention Christmas trees, debates over their appropriateness have often revolved around whether borrowing from non-biblical customs compromises Christian faithfulness. Some have argued that using elements from non-Christian cultures is always wrong; others note that Christians have long adapted cultural symbols for gospel purposes, so long as their meaning is redefined in Christ.
3. Biblical Symbolism of Trees and Their Theological Meaning
In Scripture, trees often point beyond themselves to spiritual realities. The Garden of Eden’s Tree of Life represents the gift of eternal life from God’s own presence. In Revelation 22, the Tree of Life reappears, bearing fruit for the healing of the nations—a vision of the restored creation under Christ’s reign.
The Bible also uses trees as images for God’s people. Isaiah 61:3 calls the righteous “oaks of righteousness,” planted by the Lord. Psalm 92:12–14 describes the faithful flourishing “like a palm tree” and growing “like a cedar in Lebanon.” These metaphors tie the beauty and strength of trees to the life of those rooted in God.
From this perspective, a Christmas tree could serve as a seasonal reminder of God’s life-giving presence. Its evergreen branches can prompt reflection on the hope believers have in Christ—a hope that remains vibrant in every season. This is not to say that the Bible prescribes such use, but that it can be an intentional act of worship when directed toward the Creator rather than the creation.
4. Christian Freedom, Conscience, and the Use of Christmas Trees
Romans 14 provides an important framework for thinking about issues the Bible does not address directly. Paul instructs believers not to judge one another over disputable matters but to act in ways that honor the Lord and build up the body of Christ. Whether one sets up a Christmas tree or avoids it entirely, the heart motive matters most.
Some believers may choose to avoid XMAS traditions altogether out of concern for their association with secularism or past pagan practices. Others may embrace trees and other decorations as opportunities to celebrate Christ’s birth and to share the Gospel with family and friends. The Bible allows room for both convictions, provided they are pursued in faith and not in defiance of God’s commands.
Ultimately, Christian freedom should lead to mutual respect and an eagerness to glorify God in all things. Decorating a Christmas tree can be done in a way that points to Christ, just as refraining can be done as an act of devotion.
5. How Christmas Trees Can Point to the Bigger Gospel Story
The Bible’s grand narrative—from creation to new creation—centers on God dwelling with His people. In Eden, God walked among the trees of the garden. In the temple, wooden carvings of palm trees adorned the walls, symbolizing a return to that Eden-like fellowship. In the New Jerusalem, the Tree of Life stands at the heart of the city, nourished by the river of life from God’s throne.
Seen this way, Christmas trees can remind us of our place in God’s story. Their lights can recall the Light of the World who entered our darkness. Their evergreen branches can hint at the eternal life secured by Christ’s death and resurrection. When viewed through the lens of the Gospel, even a cultural tradition like the XMAS tree can be infused with deep theological meaning.
This does not make the practice essential—nor does it sanctify it automatically—but it shows how everyday customs can be redeemed as part of a larger testimony to Christ.
Conclusion
The Bible does not directly address Christmas trees, but it offers clear principles for approaching such traditions: avoid idolatry, act from faith, and use cultural practices to glorify God. The symbolism of trees in Scripture—from Eden to the New Jerusalem—can enrich the meaning of this seasonal custom for those who choose to practice it. Whether one sets up a Christmas tree or not, the focus must remain on Christ, whose life and light are the true reason for the celebration.
Bible Verses About Trees and Worship
Genesis 2:9 – “The LORD God made all kinds of trees grow out of the ground—trees that were pleasing to the eye and good for food.”
Psalm 1:3 – “He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season.”
Proverbs 3:18 – “She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her.”
Isaiah 61:3 – “They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD.”
Jeremiah 10:3–4 – “For the customs of the peoples are vanity. A tree from the forest is cut down… they decorate it with silver and gold.”
Ezekiel 31:7 – “It was beautiful in its greatness, in the length of its branches.”
Matthew 7:17 – “Every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit.”
Revelation 2:7 – “To the one who conquers I will grant to eat of the tree of life.”
Revelation 22:2 – “On either side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit.”
Psalm 92:12 – “The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon.”
