Eiresione: The Ancient Greek Precursor to the Christmas Tree Tradition
BY THE ARCHAEOLOGIST EDITOR GROUP
Eiresione: The Ancient Greek "Christmas Tree" that was Transmitted to European Customs through Byzantium
As the festive season approaches, the world is adorned with Christmas trees, bedecked with ornaments and lights, symbolizing a spirit of joy and goodwill. Yet, few are aware that this beloved tradition has deep roots in the ancient world, specifically in ancient Greece. The Eiresione, a symbol of fertility and gratitude, played a significant role in the development of the Christmas tree custom we know today.
Ancient Greek Origins
In ancient Greece, long before the advent of Christmas, there was a similar custom of decorating a tree. However, this tree was not the familiar fir or pine but an Eiresione, derived from the Greek word "eiros," meaning wool. The Eiresione was a branch of the wild olive tree, known as kotinos, adorned with garlands of white and red wool. What made this tradition unique was the inclusion of the first autumn fruits, such as figs, walnuts, almonds, chestnuts, cereals, and more, excluding apples and pears. Additionally, bottles of oil and honey were part of the decoration. This ritual was a profound expression of gratitude for the fertility of the previous year and a hopeful plea for continued abundance in the coming year. The Eiresione was dedicated to Athena, Apollo, and the Horae, particularly Eunomia, Dike, and Eirene.
The Ritual
On the seventh day of the month Pyanepsion, which roughly corresponds to our modern September 22 to October 20, children from homes with both parents alive took to the streets of Athens, singing carols as they went from house to house. In return for their musical offerings, they received tips from the householders or housewives. Upon returning home, they would hang the Eiresione above their front door. This symbolic decoration remained in place until the same day of the new year, when it was replaced with a new Eiresione, and the old one was ceremoniously burned. Some children would also hang the Eiresione above the door of the Sanctuary of Apollo.
Mythical Origins
According to legend, the valiant Theseus established this custom when he set out for Crete to slay the terrifying Minotaur. During his voyage, Theseus made a stop at Delos and offered a sacrifice to Apollo. He vowed to offer decorated olive branches to Apollo if he were victorious over the Minotaur. True to his word, upon his triumphant return to Athens, Theseus fulfilled his promise, thus establishing the Eiresian tradition.
The Byzantine Influence
As time passed and cultures evolved, the Eiresione tradition found a new life during the Byzantine era. The decoration of Byzantine pillars, akin to the Eiresione, was not only embraced but also incorporated into the Christmas holiday. Children continued to sing carols in the streets, echoing the ancient Greek custom. Interestingly, the practice of placing a child in a manger, symbolizing the birth of Jesus, can also be traced back to Byzantine Greece.
Transmission to Europe
The Eiresione's journey did not end there. It served as a precursor to the modern Christmas tree. The custom of decorating trees during the Christmas season found its way to the Christian peoples of the north, likely through the influence of foreign groups, including the "Knights of the Middle Society." These knights played ritual roles in official ceremonies, helping to bridge the gap between cultures. The "Small Society" comprised non-religious individuals, while the "Middle Society" included foreign Christians. The "Great Society" was composed of Greek Orthodox Christians.
"The Christmas tree (Eiresioni)", painting by Spyridon Vikatos, oil on canvas, National Gallery of Greece.
The Revival
In the 20th century, the tradition came full circle when Bavarians, accompanying King Otto on a mission to free Greece, introduced their own Christmas custom, resembling the Eiresione. This revival of an ancient tradition immediately resonated with the Greek people, and the Christmas tree, as we know it today, found its place in their hearts.
The fascinating journey of the Eiresione, from ancient Greece to Byzantium and then to Europe, highlights the enduring power of cultural traditions. This ancient custom of gratitude and hope, represented by the decorated Eiresione, laid the foundation for the beloved Christmas tree tradition celebrated worldwide today. As we gather around our own decorated trees during this holiday season, let us remember the rich history and cultural exchange that have shaped this cherished tradition.