Christians worldwide celebrate Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ on December 25th, but some religions do not celebrate it. Curious to find out what they are? Then read on, and let’s look at ten religions that don’t celebrate Christmas in no particular order.
Key Takeaways:
- Shinto, the primary religion of Japan, does not celebrate Christmas due to its lack of a founder or sacred scriptures.
- Jainism, a religion that draws from Hinduism, does not celebrate Christmas and emphasizes self-control and non-violence.
- Scientology, a relatively new religion founded by L. Ron Hubbard, does not celebrate Christmas due to its focus on returning to one’s true self through counseling.
- Wicca, a modern pagan religion, does not celebrate Christmas due to its focus on the worship of nature and cycles of the seasons.
- Judaism, the oldest monotheistic religion, does not celebrate Christmas due to its different beliefs about Jesus and its own holiday of Chanukah.
- Jehovah’s Witnesses, a Christian denomination, do not celebrate Christmas due to their belief that it has pagan origins.
- Taoism, an ancient Chinese philosophy and religion, does not celebrate Christmas due to its focus on living in harmony with the Tao.
- Islam, one of the three monotheistic religions, does not celebrate Christmas and instead focuses on the teachings of Mohammed and the Quran.
- Buddhism, a world religion that originated in India, does not believe in God and does not celebrate Christmas.
- The Churches of Christ and the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) have varying beliefs about Christmas and may choose to not observe or scale back their celebrations.
As we explore these different religions, it’s important to remember the diversity of beliefs and traditions that exist around the world. Each religion has its own unique practices and reasons for not celebrating Christmas, showcasing the rich tapestry of human spirituality.
Shinto
Shinto, or the way of the gods, is the faith of the people of Japan and the country’s primary religion (alongside Buddhism). As is the case with Hinduism, Shinto does not have a founder or sacred scriptures.
| Kami | |
|---|---|
| Kami are what the Shinto gods are called; they are holy spirits that manifest themselves in the form of things and concepts. |
In Shinto, nobody is perfect. There is no absolute wrong and right; this religion believes that all people are intrinsically good and that evil can be kept at bay by purification and prayers.
“In Shinto, nobody is perfect. There is no absolute wrong and right; this religion believes that all people are intrinsically good and that evil can be kept at bay by purification and prayers.” – Shinto Practitioner
Shinto places great importance on the connection between humans and nature, recognizing the divine presence in natural phenomena such as mountains, rivers, and trees. It embraces rituals and ceremonies that seek to maintain harmony with the natural world.
Shinto and National Identity
- Shinto is deeply intertwined with Japan’s national identity, with many cultural and traditional practices stemming from Shinto beliefs.
- Shrines and torii gates are common sights throughout Japan, reflecting the prevalence of Shinto in everyday life.
- Shinto festivals, known as matsuri, are vibrant and lively celebrations that showcase the community’s connection to the divine.
Shinto’s emphasis on harmony and respect for nature has also influenced various aspects of Japanese culture, including art, architecture, and even personal relationships.
Conclusion
Shinto, as the primary religion of Japan, holds a unique place in the country’s cultural and spiritual fabric. Its lack of a founder or sacred scriptures sets it apart from other established religions, allowing its practitioners to focus on the connection between humans and nature, and the pursuit of harmony in all aspects of life.
| Religion | Celebrates Christmas? |
|---|---|
| Shinto | No |
Jainism
Jainism draws from Hinduism, and it is divided into two sects: Digambara and Svetambara. Its believers hold that through self-control and non-violence, one can obtain liberation.
Jainism teaches that all living beings have a divine essence, and the goal is to liberate the soul from the cycle of birth and death by practicing austerity, non-attachment, and non-violence. Ahimsa, or non-violence, is a central principle in Jainism, and Jains strive to avoid causing harm to any living being, including animals and insects. Jains believe in the concept of karma, which is the accumulation of both good and bad actions, and they strive to live a life of purity and compassion to minimize the negative effects of karma.
In Jainism, the ascetic lifestyle is highly revered, and monks and nuns renounce worldly possessions and dedicate themselves to spiritual practice. They observe strict vows of non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-attachment to material possessions. Lay Jains also strive to live a virtuous life, practicing self-discipline and compassion towards all living beings.
| Sects | Beliefs |
|---|---|
| Digambara | Believe in complete nudity as a symbol of renunciation |
| Svetambara | Believe in wearing white clothes for modesty |
Jainism has significantly influenced Indian culture and has made contributions in various fields such as philosophy, ethics, and non-violence. The religion emphasizes the importance of self-control, non-violence, and peaceful coexistence. Jains celebrate Mahavir Jayanti as the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavira, the last Tirthankara, who revitalized the Jain community and propagated its teachings.
Scientology
Scientology is the newest religion on our list. It was created by L. Ron Hubbard, a science fiction writer, in 1952. For Scientologists, people are immortal beings who are no longer in touch with their true selves.
In Scientology, individuals are encouraged to undergo a type of counseling called auditing, which helps them return to their natural state and reconnect with their true selves. This process involves examining past experiences and removing any negative emotions or traumas that may be holding a person back from personal growth and enlightenment.
Scientology does not celebrate Christmas, as it is a religion focused on individual spiritual advancement rather than external holidays or celebrations. Instead, Scientologists place their emphasis on the teachings and practices of their faith throughout the year.
Scientology’s Approach to Spirituality
Scientology emphasizes the importance of personal growth, self-awareness, and spiritual enlightenment. It teaches that each individual has the potential to reach higher states of consciousness and achieve a state of spiritual freedom.
Scientology is not just a religion, it is a complete understanding of one’s self and the universe.
Scientologists believe that by following the teachings of L. Ron Hubbard and participating in auditing sessions, they can overcome the negative effects of past traumas, improve their mental and spiritual well-being, and ultimately achieve a higher level of spiritual awareness.
| Religion | Founder | Main Beliefs |
|---|---|---|
| Scientology | L. Ron Hubbard | Belief in the immortal nature of the soul and the potential for personal growth through auditing and spiritual practices. |
While Scientology doesn’t celebrate Christmas, its followers focus on their own unique spiritual journey and the teachings of their faith. Their practices center around achieving personal enlightenment and understanding of the self.
Wicca
Religious studies categorize Wicca as both a new religious movement and as part of the occultist stream of Western esotericism. It was developed in England during the first half of the 20th century.
Wicca is a nature-based religion that celebrates the cycles of the seasons and the worship of nature. It emphasizes the belief in a divine feminine and divine masculine, often represented by the mother goddess and the horned god. Wiccans believe in the concept of reincarnation and the practice of sorcery.
One of the key principles of Wicca is the belief in the connection between humans and nature. Wiccans strive to live in harmony with their surroundings and acknowledge the interconnectedness of all living beings. They celebrate the solstices, equinoxes, and other natural events as sacred times.
While Wiccans do not celebrate Christmas, they may still partake in festivities with their family and friends who do celebrate. Wiccans respect the diversity of religious beliefs and traditions and recognize that each individual has the freedom to choose their own celebration or observance.
| Religion | Beliefs | Celebration of Christmas |
|---|---|---|
| Shinto | No absolute right and wrong, purification and prayers | Does not celebrate Christmas |
| Jainism | Self-control, non-violence, and conquering of passions | Does not celebrate Christmas |
| Scientology | Returning to one’s true self through counseling | Does not celebrate Christmas |
| Wicca | Worship of nature and cycles of the seasons | Does not celebrate Christmas |
As we can see, Wicca is just one of the many religions that do not celebrate Christmas. Each of these religions has its own unique beliefs and practices, and it is important to respect and understand the diversity of religious traditions around the world.
Judaism
There is only one God in Judaism. Abraham is the father of the Jewish people, and God promised him that his son, Isaac, would inherit the land of Israel.
In Judaism, the celebration of Christmas is not observed. This is because Judaism does not recognize Jesus as being the son of God, and therefore, does not attribute any significance to his birth. Instead, Jews have their own holiday known as Chanukah (Hanukkah), which is celebrated in December.
Chanukah is an eight-day festival of lights that commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. It is celebrated through the lighting of the menorah, special prayers, and the consumption of traditional foods like latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly-filled donuts).
Judaism places great emphasis on its own religious traditions and holidays, and Christmas is not part of these traditions. Judaism has a rich history and a distinct set of beliefs and practices that are observed by its followers.
| Religion | Does Not Celebrate Christmas |
|---|---|
| Shinto | ✓ |
| Jainism | ✓ |
| Scientology | ✓ |
| Wicca | ✓ |
| Judaism | ✓ |
| Jehovah’s Witnesses | ✓ |
| Taoism | ✓ |
Jehovah’s Witnesses: A Christian Religion that Doesn’t Celebrate Christmas
This religion is the only Christian religion on our list that does not celebrate Christmas. While Jehovah’s Witnesses believe in Jesus, they feel that Christmas is of pagan origins and thus, choose not to celebrate it.
According to spokesman J.R. Brown from the church’s Brooklyn, New York, headquarters, the decision to not celebrate Christmas came after further study by one official in 1928. This official’s findings led to the church dropping the holiday. The official found that Christmas observance was based on “false religious beliefs or activities.”
Brown explains that Jehovah’s Witnesses now ask themselves, “does this please God, when it is not mentioned in the scriptures?” They believe that if Christmas observance were important, the Bible would have provided instructions on how to honor the day. As a result, they choose not to celebrate Christmas, but they do not prevent others from honoring the day.
Jehovah’s Witnesses have a unique approach to the holiday season. Brown says, “If someone is dealing with you and they say, ‘Merry Christmas,’ we do not go into a sermon about the pagan origins. You don’t make an issue of it every time because we have to face the fact that they mean well when they say ‘Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.’ We will say this is the time of year many people are actually thinking about Jesus Christ. Did you take notice of what he put their emphasis on in his life?”
In addition to not celebrating Christmas, Jehovah’s Witnesses also do not celebrate other holidays or birthdays. Their beliefs stem from their conviction that the Bible does not support the celebration of these occasions.
| Religion | Reason for Not Celebrating Christmas |
|---|---|
| Jehovah’s Witnesses | Believe Christmas has pagan origins |
| Deeper Life Bible Church | View Christmas as having idolatrous background |
| Society of Friends (Quakers) | Believe that every day is a holy day, no need for singling out one day to celebrate |
| Churches of Christ | Emphasize worship on the first day of the week, not the celebration of Christmas |
| Buddhism | Do not believe in God, focus on reaching Nirvana |
Despite not observing Christmas, Jehovah’s Witnesses, along with other religious groups, continue to appreciate the significance of Jesus Christ’s birth throughout the year. Their decision to not celebrate Christmas is based on their interpretation of biblical teachings and their desire to adhere to what they believe is the true essence of their faith.
Taoism: Living in Harmony with the Tao
Taoism means the principle, the way, and those who practice Taoism try to live their life in harmony with the Tao. The concept of the Tao, which can be translated as the “path” or the “way,” lies at the heart of Taoist philosophy. Taoism originated in ancient China and combines elements of religious belief, philosophy, and traditional practices.
In Taoism, practitioners seek to align themselves with the natural flow of the universe and live in harmony with nature. They believe in the principle of Wu-Wei, which means non-action or action without intent. It emphasizes the importance of allowing things to unfold naturally, without forcing or resisting.
The Yin and Yang symbol, perhaps the most well-known Taoist symbol, represents the balance and interdependence of opposing forces. It symbolizes the harmony that can be achieved when opposites are in balance. Taoists believe that living passively and avoiding violence is the way to maintain this balance.
The Taoist Way of Life
Taoists focus on simplicity, humility, and detachment from material possessions. They value inner peace and spiritual growth over external achievements. Taoist practices include meditation, breathing exercises, and physical movements aimed at cultivating the flow of energy, known as Qi, throughout the body.
Taoism does not observe Christmas, as it is not a part of its traditional beliefs and practices. Instead, Taoists focus on living in the present moment, cultivating inner harmony, and aligning themselves with the natural rhythm of the universe.
| Taoism | Key Beliefs |
|---|---|
| Living in harmony with the Tao | Emphasizes simplicity, humility, and detachment |
| Principle of Wu-Wei | Non-action or action without intent |
| Balance of Yin and Yang | Interdependence of opposing forces |
| Focus on inner peace and spiritual growth | Practices include meditation and Qi cultivation |
Taoism offers a unique perspective on life, emphasizing the importance of living in harmony with nature and finding balance within oneself. While Taoists do not celebrate Christmas, their focus on inner peace and spiritual growth can inspire individuals from all walks of life.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the topic of religions that don’t celebrate Christmas is a fascinating one that highlights the diversity of belief systems and traditions around the world. From Shinto to Scientology, Jainism to Wicca, and Judaism to Taoism, these religions offer unique perspectives on spirituality and non-participation in Christmas festivities.
Shinto, the primary religion of Japan, does not celebrate Christmas due to its lack of a founder or sacred scriptures. Jainism draws from Hinduism and emphasizes self-control and non-violence, which is why it does not observe Christmas. Scientology, founded by L. Ron Hubbard, focuses on returning to one’s true self through counseling and does not celebrate Christmas. Wicca, a modern pagan religion, worships nature and the cycles of the seasons, and therefore does not partake in Christmas celebrations.
Judaism, the oldest monotheistic religion, does not celebrate Christmas because of its different beliefs about Jesus and its own holiday of Chanukah. Jehovah’s Witnesses, a Christian denomination, believe that Christmas has pagan origins and choose not to observe it. Taoism, an ancient Chinese philosophy and religion, does not celebrate Christmas as it emphasizes living in harmony with the Tao.
It is important to note that while these religions do not celebrate Christmas, they have their own unique holidays and traditions that hold significance for their respective communities. The decision to not observe Christmas is based on their religious beliefs and interpretations of scripture.
The diversity of religious practices and beliefs is something to be celebrated and respected. While Christmas may be a widely celebrated holiday for many, it is important to recognize and appreciate the perspectives of those who choose not to participate. This holiday season, let us embrace the richness and variety of religious traditions and foster understanding and respect for one another’s beliefs.
FAQ
Q: Which religions don’t celebrate Christmas?
A: Shinto, Jainism, Scientology, Wicca, Judaism, Jehovah’s Witnesses, and Taoism are some of the religions that don’t celebrate Christmas.
Q: Why doesn’t Shinto celebrate Christmas?
A: Shinto, the primary religion of Japan, doesn’t celebrate Christmas because it doesn’t have a founder or sacred scriptures.
Q: Why doesn’t Jainism celebrate Christmas?
A: Jainism, which draws from Hinduism, doesn’t celebrate Christmas because its focus is on self-control and non-violence.
Q: Why doesn’t Scientology celebrate Christmas?
A: Scientology, a relatively new religion, doesn’t celebrate Christmas because its emphasis is on returning to one’s true self through counseling.
Q: Why doesn’t Wicca celebrate Christmas?
A: Wicca, a modern pagan religion, doesn’t celebrate Christmas because it focuses on the worship of nature and the cycles of the seasons.
Q: Why doesn’t Judaism celebrate Christmas?
A: Judaism doesn’t celebrate Christmas because it has different beliefs about Jesus and celebrates its own holiday of Chanukah.
Q: Why don’t Jehovah’s Witnesses celebrate Christmas?
A: Jehovah’s Witnesses do not celebrate Christmas because they believe it has pagan origins and choose to focus on other aspects of their faith.
Q: Why doesn’t Taoism celebrate Christmas?
A: Taoism, an ancient Chinese philosophy and religion, doesn’t celebrate Christmas because its emphasis is on living in harmony with the Tao.
