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Welcome to Syria—the “4th Country of Christmas”!
Approximately 10% of the nation of Syria is made up of Eastern Christians— those who celebrate Christmas. (Indobase Holidays)
In Syria, children supposedly receive gifts from one of the camels of the three wise men. It is believed that the gift-giving camel is the youngest and the smallest of the caravan—the runt.
According to Green Global Travel, in the Syrian Christmas story, this young camel sadly fell down exhausted at the end of his long journey to Bethlehem.
Thankfully, his exhaustion didn’t keep him from being generous and delivering presents to expectant children.
“The children leave shoes filled with hay on their doorsteps to feed the camel.”
Indobase Holidays
It seems that the camel eats the hay at night and then leaves presents in the children’s empty shoes.
Syrian Christmas Traditions
Other Christmas celebrations begin on December 6 when Syrian Christians attend special masses in their churches.
“This day is marked to honor St. Nicholas, the Bishop of Myra—a kind-hearted man who was known for his compassion and generosity towards children.“
Indobase Holidays
On Christmas Eve, Syrian Christians lock the gates of their homes. This is a symbolic reminder of their persecution in the past, when Christianity was forbidden.
In addition, families gather together and celebrate on this special day. The youngest child in the family has the honor of reciting the Gospel story of the birth of Jesus.
Afterwards, a family member will light a bonfire in the courtyard, and everyone gathers around with candles in their hands.
“The Syrian Christians observe the manner in which the flames of the bonfire spread through the wood. They observe this, in order to determine whether they would be blessed in the coming year.”
Indobase Holidays
The families then recite Psalms until the fire burns out. At that point, they leap over the hot charcoal embers and make wishes.
After the bonfire, the Christmas Eve feast begins—delicious chicken, lamb, and dessert dishes.
“Some of their famous Christmas dishes include ‘Baba Ghannouj,’ ‘Hummus,’ ‘Baklava,’ and ‘Mezze platters.'”
Indobase Holidays
Yummy!
We better all go and get our shoes filled with hay. The camel is coming tonight!
MERRY CHRISTMAS, Syria!
—THE CULTURAL STORY-WEAVER
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What about you? What are some interesting Christmas traditions in your family or culture, or in other countries you have visited?
We invite you to tell us your own cultural stories and global adventures . . . as you engage with the world, breaking down barriers, building bridges, and “weaving cultures”! Write about them in the comment box below.
