Fun with History: The Origins of Xmas


For some reason people think that the shorthand for Christmas--Xmas--is a negative term that is used to secularize Christmas (in that it removes the "Christ" from Christmas). Well guess what? It isn't!

Fun fact, Xmas is not a derogatory abbreviation for Christmas. It is short hand that has been used for over 1,000 years!

It originates from the Greek letter Chi (X), which is the first letter of the Greek word Χριστός, which is translated into Christ in English. Chi (X), or Chi Rho (XP), have been used to symbolize the name Jesus Christ since ancient times. So Xmas literally means Christ + mas (a mass for Christ)!

Just thought I share some fun history with you on this Christmas Eve. Feel free to impress people with this fun fact at your next holiday party!

Merry Christmas!

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