Day 2 Two Turtle Doves

"The Twelve Days of Christmas" is a traditional Christmas carol that counts the gifts given on each of the twelve days. While the exact origins and meanings of each gift are subject to various interpretations, some believe that the song was used as a catechism to teach Christian principles. Here’s a popular interpretation of the symbolism of each gift: 1. Partridge in a Pear Tree Symbolism: Jesus Christ, the Son of God, whose birthday we celebrate on the first day of Christmas. 2. Two Turtle Doves Symbolism: The Old and New Testaments of the Bible. 3. Three French Hens Symbolism: Faith, hope, and charity, the theological virtues from 1 Corinthians 13:13. 4. Four Calling Birds Symbolism: The Four Gospels - Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. 5. Five Gold Rings Symbolism: The first five books of the Old Testament, also known as the Pentateuch or the Torah. 6. Six Geese a-Laying Symbolism: The six days of creation as described in the Book of Genesis. 7. Seven Swans a-Swimming Symbolism: The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit - wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord. 8. Eight Maids a-Milking Symbolism: The eight Beatitudes as taught by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount. 9. Nine Ladies Dancing Symbolism: The nine fruits of the Holy Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22-23 - love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. 10. Ten Lords a-Leaping Symbolism: The Ten Commandments given to Moses on Mount Sinai. 11. Eleven Pipers Piping Symbolism: The eleven faithful apostles (excluding Judas Iscariot who betrayed Jesus). 12. Twelve Drummers Drumming Symbolism: The twelve points of doctrine in the Apostles' Creed. These interpretations provide a Christian religious meaning to each verse of the carol. Whether or not this was the original intent of the song, it has become a popular way to infuse deeper significance into the festive tune.