Christmas Bells

 

The History of Bells
Bells are used in many cultures and in many countries. The history of bells dates back to antiquity when bells were used in ancient Babylonia, Egypt and by the Romans and Greeks. The process of casting bells in Europe dates to the 4th or 5th century. Huge, bronze bells were traditionally placed in Bell towers of Christian churches and used to call people to church for various services and special occasions. Church bells are rung to announce the coming or arrival of an event, activity, or occasion. Bells toll for good and bad times (births, marriages and deaths) and they are also used to ring out warnings. Christmas bells are rung to announce the arrival of the season and to proclaim the birth of Jesus Christ.

 

 

 

 

Christmas Bells are especially associated with Christmas as they proclaim the birth of Jesus and are therefore a sacred Christian symbol relating to the Nativity. Smaller bells are also associated with Christmas, especially sleigh bells, or jingle bells. Jingle bells are typically used as a cheaper alternative to small 'classic' bells. Jingle Bells are commonly used on Christmas decorations, ornaments and feature in many Christmas card illustrations.

 

 

 

 

Christmas is celebrated worldwide, throughout the Christian population of approximately 2275 million people, but is also celebrated by many non-Christians as a secular, cultural festival. A Christmas custom or tradition is symbolized by a familiar symbol or icon, such as the Christmas Bells,  have come to represent the spirit and meaning of this special time of the year.