The Christmas nativity scene is a visual representation of the birth of Jesus Christ, as described in the gospels of Matthew and Luke in the Bible. It typically includes figures of the baby Jesus, Mary, Joseph, angels, shepherds, and the three wise men. The nativity scene originated in medieval mystery plays, which were dramatizations of Biblical events performed by churches during the Advent and Christmas seasons. Over time, static nativity scenes were set up in churches and homes to visually tell the Christmas story.
According to the Gospel of Luke, Jesus was born in the town of Bethlehem during the reign of King Herod. Mary and Joseph had traveled there from Nazareth to register for a census. When they arrived, there was no room for them in the inn, so Mary gave birth to Jesus in a stable and laid him in a manger. An angel appeared to nearby shepherds in the fields and told them of Jesus’ birth. The shepherds then visited the stable to pay homage to the newborn king. Some time later, three wise men, or Magi, arrived after seeing the star of Bethlehem in the East. They presented gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the Christ child.
The typical nativity scene attempts to visually depict these events. It includes figures of the baby Jesus lying in a manger filled with hay. Mary and Joseph kneel or stand near him, gazing down reverently. Barn animals like cows, donkeys, and sheep may surround the manger. One or more angels look down from above, their wings spread gloriously. Shepherds hold staffs and appear amazed. Three regally dressed wise men offer gifts and sometimes kneel before Jesus. A bright star often hovers directly above the manger.
Nativity scenes come in many varieties. Some are simple with just the main figures, while others are quite complex with numerous people and animals. The figures may be life-sized statues or small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. They are made from diverse materials like wood, ceramic, stone, fabric, paper, or food. Nativity scenes appear in churches, town squares, stores, schools, museums, and private homes during the Christmas season.
The nativity scene is a visual reminder of the humble yet holy birth of Jesus. As the angels declared in Luke 2:10-11: “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” The manger shows Jesus came not as a rich king but as a lowly servant. The shepherds show that the good news of the gospel is for everyone, rich and poor alike. The wise men bearing gifts recognize Jesus as Lord and King. By displaying a nativity scene, Christians tell the story of Christmas and Jesus’ incarnation visually and remind themselves to follow Him humbly in loving service to all people.
The Origin of Nativity Scenes
The tradition of the nativity scene or crèche began in the 13th century with St. Francis of Assisi. In 1223 in the Italian village of Greccio, St. Francis set up the first Christmas manger scene. It included hay, live animals, and people portraying Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus. The nativity scene created a visual focus for Christmas Eve worship services. St. Francis wanted people to be reminded of Jesus’ humility and understand Christmas was not just about feasting but about new life in Christ.
Nativity plays and pageants had already been popular at churches for over a hundred years when St. Francis introduced the nativity scene. In medieval times, priests would dramatize Biblical stories like the birth of Jesus to teach important lessons to largely illiterate congregations. An actor portraying St. Nicholas might confront a devilish figure representing temptation. Such mystery plays eventually led to more structured performances with scripts and elaborate costumes and sets.
While live reenactments continued in some areas, static model nativity scenes grew increasingly popular, since they were simpler to set up. By the 15th century, nativity sculptures appeared in churches, town squares, and in private homes. They became treasured Christmas decorations that remained up throughout the holiday season. Over time they became more elaborate, with each figure finely crafted and costumed. Various types of materials were used, from precious metals and ivory to wood, wax, and terracotta.
Nativity scenes remain a beloved Christmas tradition around the world. They range from miniature displays on mantles to life-sized outdoor Nativities. Simple affordable models allow almost any family to own a nativity set. More expensive handcrafted nativities become heirlooms passed down for generations. St. Francis’ emphasis on the humility and accessibility of Jesus still shines through.
The Significance of Key Nativity Scene Figures
Baby Jesus
The baby Jesus lying in a manger is the central figure of the nativity scene. His swaddling clothes represent his humanness and lowly birth circumstances. The manger indicates no proper cradle was available for the King of Kings (Luke 2:7). Yet angels stand guard ready to proclaim his glory. Jesus left his heavenly throne to become Emmanuel, “God with us” (Matthew 1:23).
Mary and Joseph
Mary and Joseph gaze with love and wonder at the miracle baby entrusted to their care. As Jesus’ earthly parents, they serve as role models of faithful obedience. Joseph’s protection of Mary speaks of sacrificial love. Mary treasured and pondered the events in her heart (Luke 2:19). Both modeled saying yes to God’s plans even when it meant hardship and high cost.
Shepherds
The excited shepherds symbolize the lowly status of many of Jesus’ first worshipers. Though poor and insignificant in the world’s eyes, the shepherd’s hearts recognized Jesus as Messiah. Their presence shows Jesus cares for ordinary people. As outcasts, the shepherds also represent God’s universal welcome to all who come to Him.
Angels
Angels demonstrate heaven’s joy at the Savior’s birth. Their proclamation of “good tidings of great joy” (Luke 2:10) reveal Jesus came to redeem people from every nation. Glorious wings symbolize God’s transcendence. Angels remind us to make God’s glory, not our own, the focus of Christmas.
Wise Men
The wise men or Magi who visit later signify Jesus came for all nations – both Jews and Gentiles. Their costly gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh foreshadow his identity as King, Priest, and Sacrifice (Matthew 2:11). The wise men’s long journey shows people’s willingness to seek Jesus. Their kneeling posture represents surrendering to him as Lord of our lives.
Animals
The presence of farm animals like cows, sheep, donkeys, and camels emphasizes the lowly setting of Christ’s birth. Located in a stable with only a manger for a crib, Jesus entered the world in a place occupied by beasts, not men. This humble setting fulfilled prophecy of the unlikely king who would come from Bethlehem (Micah 5:2).
Star
The Bethlehem star shining above the nativity represents divine guidance and revelation. The Magi followed it to find their way to Jesus. Like the light of faith, the star illuminates the darkness. It also hints at Jesus’ later words, “I am the bright and morning star” (Revelation 22:16).
Other figures and items may appear in more elaborate nativities. For example, additional peasants and children, merchants with gifts, and even Roman soldiers on horseback could appear. Such figures help create the sense of a bustling little town packed due to the census mentioned in Luke 2:1.
Types of Nativity Scenes
Nativity scenes come in a wide array of sizes, materials, styles, and complexity. Here are some of the most common varieties.
Traditional Nativities
The standard nativity scene features the typical figures mentioned above like Mary, Joseph, Jesus, shepherds, wise men, and angels. Such traditional nativities range from small five-piece sets to large elaborate displays. They typically use a realistic artistic style emphasizing the religious significance.
Neapolitan Nativities
This style originated in Naples, Italy, in the 18th century. Neapolitan nativities portray typical villagers in great detail and include numerous figurines representing activities of daily life. The goal is to recreate the hustle and bustle of the little town of Bethlehem.
Folk Art Nativities
Folk art nativities use simple rustic materials like wood, clay, woven straw, or fabric. The often handmade figures have a charming, homemade aesthetic. What folk art nativities may lack in refinement they make up for in heartfelt charm.
Nativity Paintings and Prints
Nativity artwork ranges from masterpieces by the old masters to mass-produced prints. Such two-dimensional nativities cannot have the intricate detail of sculpture but portray the Christmas story in vivid inspiring color. Some also bring a fresh contemporary cultural perspective.
Homemade and Children’s Nativities
Half the joy of a nativity scene is creating it yourself. Even just putting out some favorite stuffed animals in a sacred arrangement can touch the heart. Simple nativities made with popsicle sticks, clothespins, paper bags, or Legos allow children to actively learn the Christmas story.
Living Nativities
Churches and communities often reenact living nativities for their holiday celebrations. Actors dressed in costume act out the story just as in medieval times. Live animals lend an authentic ambiance. Visitors connect powerfully to the story through sight, sound, and shared experience.
Nativity Scene Placement and Display
Part of the tradition of the nativity scene involves strategically placing it in locations for optimal viewing. Here are some of the most popular placements both indoors and out.
Church Displays
Churches almost always display nativity scenes during the Advent and Christmas seasons. The figures may stand near the altar, rest in a side chapel, or populate the courtyard or lawn outside. These public nativities remind the community of the true reason for the season.
Home Displays
Individual households create their own cherished family nativities. People carefully unwrap their nativity sets each December and give them a place of honor indoors on the mantle, coffee table, sideboard, or under the tree. Outdoor lawn nativities also welcome neighbors.
Public Displays
Town squares, shopping malls, libraries, businesses, museums, and other public places often erect nativities. Though some prove controversial, such displays bring reminders of the first Christmas into communal spaces.
Living Room Fireplace
The traditional mantel over the fireplace creates a perfect platform for displaying a nativity. The warmth of the hearth welcomes the Christ child figurines. Garlands, candles, and Christmas cards accentuate the arrangement.
Foyer Table
An entryway side table or console table makes an ideal foundation for a nativity greeting. The Holy Family stands ready to welcome each person who enters the home during the Christmas season.
Children’s Tabletops
Low, accessible surfaces like coffee tables or shelves bring child-sized nativities within easy reach. Young ones delight in moving the figures around and playing out the story.
Office Spaces
Even workplace desks lend themselves to mini nativity displays. Glimpsing the familiar figurines amidst the bustle reminds employees of Advent’s true meaning.
Tips for Setting Up a Nativity Scene
A well-designed nativity scene becomes a treasured feature of Christmas decorating. Here are some tips for aesthetically displaying your nativity set.
Select a Focal Point
Choose a prominent location in your display space. This could be the fireplace mantel, a hall table, the center of the holiday bookshelf, or even right under the Christmas tree. Position the focal point where people will naturally notice it.
Elevate the Setting
Place the nativity atop something like steps, a block, a decorative platform, or risers. Even just a simple mirror or glass coffee table elevates the scene and makes the figures stand out.
Illuminate the Space
Spotlights, Christmas lights, candles, or lanterns enhance and highlight the nativity. Try placing lights above or around it. Strategic up-lighting makes the scene glow.
Add Greenery
Evergreen garlands, Christmas tree branches, holly sprigs, and poinsettias frame the nativity elegantly. Greenery symbolizes ongoing life and mirrors the natural setting Jesus was born in.
Include Figurines
Place your nativity figurines thoughtfully using size and elevation to show perspective. The holy family stands central and near the manger. Surround them with shepherds, angels, and animals in a pleasing arrangement.
Incorporate Artistry
Consider putting the nativity figures inside another decorative object like a glass terrarium, a wreath, an ornament, or a birdcage. Such creative containers become like mini prosceniums.
Personalize with Keepsakes
Work special items from nature or family history into your nativity display. For example, include seashells, grandfather’s pocketknife, and old family Bible.
Takeaways from the Symbolic Meaning of Nativity Scenes
This visual retelling of Jesus’ birth offers inspirational lessons for believers today.
Humble Beginnings
The lowly stable reminds us God chose unexpected settings to redeem humanity. Divine purposes often originate in insignificant places overlooked by the world.
For All People
The diverse figures – shepherds and kings, Jews and Gentiles alike – represent God’s gift of salvation for everyone. No one is excluded from Christ’s love.
Heaven Rejoices
The joyous angels bring “good news of great joy” for all people (Luke 2:10). Their exuberance models excitement for Christ’s birth and God’s miraculous grace.
Follow His Lead
Jesus left heaven for earthly poverty and suffering in order to redeem us. His humility challenges us to seek out opportunities to serve others sacrificially.
Worship Fully
The Magi traveled far to honor Christ with extravagant gifts and worship. We must make worship a priority, offering God our best in time, talents, and treasure.
The beloved nativity scene beautifully represents the wonder of the incarnation. This depiction of Jesus coming in lowly human form to redeem creation inspires gratitude in believers everywhere. The nativity displays God’s amazing grace and Christ’s perfect example of humble service.