Christmas Symbols

Candles, fires:  Summer, warmth, paradise, end of darkness,  Jewish Hanukkah

Tree: Eternal life, Paradise tree, pagan symbol

Apples: Apple of Paradise

Reindeer: A prop

Santa Claus: St. Nicholas, pagan deity

Gifts: Customary (Romans, pagans everywhere), Magi

Mistletoe: Peace, kisses

Holly: Christ's crown of thorns

Gnomes: Pagan entirely

Straw: Stable & crib, pagan, handy material for decorations

Sock: A prop (as chimney etc.) to hold gifts