Christmas is getting closer, a time that invites reflection, peace and family love. In this context, The manger is consolidated as one of the most representative symbols of the festival.
Traditionally, it is a representation of the Nativity of Jesus, showing the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph, the Baby Jesus in his manger, the shepherds, the Three Wise Men and the animals, all in an atmosphere of humility.
He manger is basically the birth of Jesuswho came into the world in conditions of humility to teach love, loyalty and brotherhood. Setting up the manger in homes is part of a tradition and a way to connect with the sacred. Besides, represents hope, spiritual rebirth and commitment with Christian values of compassion and generosity.
According to experts, the manger, beyond being a simple decoration, is a visual reminder of what is truly celebrated at Christmas. Therefore, it must be put together as an act of faith, family unity and celebration of the divine love that is manifested in the birth of the Savior.
How to assemble the manger and what do its elements mean?
Next, learn the step by step of how to assemble the manger:
The first step is to choose the place where the manger will be placed. Traditionally, it is arranged in a table, altar or on a flat surfacevery close to the Christmas tree. The space must be adequate to place all the elements without them looking crowded, and it must have sufficient visibility.
The base or background is essential to create the context of the birth. You can use a box, wood or cardboard, and cover it with neutral colored fabrics or paper that simulate the floor or the natural environment of the manger. In many representations, the background includes a small cave or house that represents the stable where Jesus was born. The base also has details such as stones, moss, grass or sand to give greater realism.
The Child Jesus is placed there. Traditionally, it is a kind of wooden box or basket, and on it you put a little straw or dry grasswhich represents the bed where he was born. In many performances, it is the first element that is put on, since it is the center of the scene.
He manger or cradle symbolizes simplicity and divine love towards humanitysince the Child Jesus was born in a humble place, far from luxuries, in a gesture of closeness to the poor and needy.
- The figure of the Child Jesus
This is the central element of the manger. It is usually a small figure of a child wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in his crib. Traditionally, the Baby Jesus is placed at the end, December 24on Christmas Eve, to represent the birth.
Mary, mother of Jesus, stands near the manger, kneeling or standing, looking at the Child. Generally, it is represented with a blue cloak, which symbolizes her purity and her role as mother. On the other hand, Mary is a symbol of faith, humility and maternal love. It represents the Mother of God who, in her poverty, accepted his will.
Saint Joseph, the adoptive father of Jesus, stands next to Mary, looking at the Child. He is usually represented with a simple tunic and a staff. Sometimes a lamb or an ox is placed near it. Saint Joseph is a model of paternity and protection. It represents obedience to God, and its presence with Mary symbolizes family care and love.
- The animals: ox and donkey
Animals, especially the ox and the donkey, are classic elements in the manger. They are located near the manger, showing their presence during the birth. Normally, they are associated with the warmth and company that they offered to the Baby Jesus in its first moment of life.
The ox and the donkey represent the simplicity of life in the countryside. According to some traditions, its presence has a symbolism of humility, like the manger, and it is said that its breath warmed the Baby Jesus during the night of his birth.
The shepherds, who traditionally They represent the humble and simpleare key figures. They stand around the manger looking at the Baby Jesus. They can be represented with sheep, and their attitude reflects adoration and amazement.
They symbolize the invitation to everyone, without distinction of social class, to approach the birth of Christ. They are the first to receive the angel’s message about the arrival of the Savior.
The Three Wise Men, or the three wise men, They usually stand a little further from the mangersince, according to tradition, they arrived with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh a few days after birth. They are represented as majestic figures in rich clothing and crowns, and are shown presenting their gifts to the Baby Jesus.
They symbolize the nations of the world that recognize Jesus as King and Savior. His presence symbolizes that Jesus’ message is intended for all humanity.
They are an important part of the manger scene, and are usually depicted on the scene, singing or announcing the birth of Jesus.
Normally, one of them may be holding a star, a symbol of the celestial announcement. They symbolize the glory of God and the divine message. In many representations, one of the angels announces the birth of Jesus to the shepherds.
It is located at the top of the manger, and is an important symbol. It is said that the star guided the Three Wise Men to the place where Jesus was born.
It symbolizes the divine light that guided the wise men towards the Messiah and, in a broader sense, represents the light that Christ brings to the world. It is also referring to hope.
- Additional elements (optional)
In addition to the previously mentioned objects and characters, other details can be added such as water sources, bridges, roads, or natural elements such as trees, flowers, and mountains. All of this seeks to give realism and a sense of life to the manger.
Also read: When does advent 2024 begin, what does the wreath mean and how to make one at home
4 ideas to put together the manger
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