CHRISTMAS CUSTOMS Are They Christian? -The Posadas, "The Three Wise Men," and the Nacimiento

The Posadas, "the Three Wise Men," and the Nacimiento

The festivities begin on December 16 with the posadas, the book Mexico's  Feasts of Life comments:  "It is the time of the posadas, nine magical days leading up to Christmas Eve, which commemorate the lonely wandering of Joseph and Mary in the city of Bethlehem and the moment where they at last found kindness and shelter.  Families and friends gather together nightly to reenact the days proceeding the birth of Christ." 

Traditionally, a group of people carries images of Mary and Joseph to a home and in song asks for shelter, or posada.  Those in the house sing in reply until the visitors  are finally given admittance.  Then begins a party, where some-blindfolded and with a stick in hand-take turns trying to break the pinata, a large decorated earthenware pot that hangs from a cord.  Once broken, its contents (candy, fruit, and the like) are gathered by the celebrants.  This is followed by food,drinks, music, and dancing.  Eight posada parties are held from December 16th through December 23 .  On  the 24, Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) is celebrated, and families make an effort to be together for a special dinner.

Before long comes New Year's Day, celebrated with very noisy parties.  On the evening of January 5, Tres Reyes Magos ('three wise men") are supposed to bring toys for the children.  The climax is a party on January 6, when a rosca de Reyes (ring-shaped cake) is served.  As this pasty is eaten, somebody will find in his piece a little doll representing the baby Jesus.  The finder is obliged to organize and host a final party on February 2.  (In some places there are three little dolls, representing 'the three wise men.) As you can see, the partying in  connection with Christmas goes on and on.

During this period, the nacimiento (Nativity scene) is quite prominent.  What is involved in this? Well, in public ares, as well as in churches and homes, scenes are set up with figures (large or small) made out of ceramic, wood, or clay.  They represent Joseph and Mary kneeling before a manger that holds a newborn baby.  Often there are shepherds and Los Reyes Mago ("the wise men").  The setting is a stable and some animals may round out the scene.  the central figure, however, is that of a newborn baby, called in Spanish el Nino Dios (the Child God) This key figure may be placed there on Christmas Eve.

Next time: A Closer Look at Nativity Traditions

The Watchtower, 2000