CHILDERMAS DAY Meaning and
Definition
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Childermas Day, also known as Holy Innocents' Day, is an observance that falls on December 28th, commemorating the massacre of young children in Bethlehem by King Herod as described in the Bible. This event is documented in the Gospel of Matthew, where it is said that Herod ordered the killing of every male child aged two years and under, fearing the birth of Jesus Christ as the new King of the Jews.
The term "Childermas" derives from the Old English words "cild" and "mæsse," meaning "children's mass." The day originally served as a somber reminder of the tragic loss of innocent lives. Throughout history, Childermas has been observed as a day of mourning and remembrance, often marked by special prayers and church services dedicated to the young victims.
In various cultures, Childermas Day has taken on different customs and traditions. In medieval Europe, it was customary for children to be allowed to run the household on this day, symbolizing the inversion of authority as a reflection of the innocence and vulnerability of the slaughtered children. This practice was known as "Boy Bishop," and it provided an opportunity for children to temporarily assume positions of authority within the church hierarchy.
Today, Childermas Day is acknowledged by some Christian denominations as a reminder of the vulnerability of children and the importance of protecting their innocence. Though the tragic events that inspired Childermas have left a lasting mark on history, the observance is an opportunity to reflect on the significance of children in society and to cherish and safeguard their well-being.
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A feast of the Church held on 28th December, in remembrance of the children slain at Bethlehem by Herod-called usually Innocent's Day.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CHILDERMAS DAY
- xhildermas day
- vhildermas day
- fhildermas day
- dhildermas day
- cgildermas day
- cbildermas day
- cnildermas day
- cjildermas day
- cuildermas day
- cyildermas day
- chuldermas day
- chjldermas day
- chkldermas day
- choldermas day
- ch9ldermas day
- ch8ldermas day
- chikdermas day
- chipdermas day
- chiodermas day
Etymology of CHILDERMAS DAY
The word "Childermas" originated from the Middle English term "Childermesse day", which can be traced back to the Old English "Cildemæsse dæg". "Cildemæsse" is a compound word consisting of "cilde", meaning "child" and "mæsse", meaning "Mass" or "religious feast". Therefore, "Childermas" literally translates to "Children's Mass" or "Feast of the Holy Innocents".
Childermas day, also known as the Feast of the Holy Innocents, is observed on December 28th in the Christian calendar. It commemorates the massacre of young male children in Bethlehem by order of King Herod, as mentioned in the New Testament of the Bible (Matthew 2:16-18).
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