Christians celebrate Jesus' birth on December 25, known as Christmas, as a longstanding tradition established by the early Church, even though the Bible does not specify the exact date of his birth.
Historical Date Selection
Early Christians calculated December 25 based on theological reasoning, such as linking it to March 25—the traditional date of Jesus' conception or crucifixion, exactly nine months prior. This "integral age" concept held that prophets died on the anniversary of their conception. Another theory ties it to John the Baptist's birth around June 24, placing Jesus' birth six months later per Luke 1:36.
Pagan Festival Influence
The date coincided with Roman pagan holidays like Saturnalia and the winter solstice festival honoring Sol Invictus, allowing Christians to repurpose these celebrations to symbolize Jesus as the true "Light of the World" triumphing over darkness. By the 4th century, under Emperor Constantine, December 25 was formalized as Christmas to unify Christian observance.
Theological Significance
The precise date matters less than the event's meaning: commemorating God incarnate as Savior, Messiah, and Lord, fulfilling prophecies and offering salvation (Luke 2:10-11). This tradition emphasizes hope and redemption over historical precision.