Why Do People Use "Xmas" Instead of "Christmas?"

The Surprising Meaning Behind "Xmas" — Honoring Christ in Christmas

I often hear Christians — with the best of intentions — say, “Using ‘Xmas’ is crossing out ‘Christ’ from Christmas!” However, nothing could be further from the truth.

The title of “Christ” (or more accurately “Christos) is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew word “Messiah,” which means “anointed one.” And of course, the Christians’ claim is that Jesus of Nazareth was, and is, the Christ. In Greek, the first letter of the word “Christos” is “X” (spelled “chi,” and pronounced like a breathy “k,” or sounding like “ch” in “loch). In the early Christian Church, Greek-speaking believers used this first letter of the word “Christos” in an ancient symbol of theirs called “the Chi Rho.” You’ve likely seen it before. It looks like the capital English letter “P,” overlaid by the letter “X.” The two letters are actually not English characters at all. Rather, they are the first two Greek letters or characters in the title, “Christos” (Χρίστος). This was the early Church’s shorthand, or abbreviated way of referring to their Lord, Jesus the Christ.

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Ancient Meaning of the "X" in Xmas

It was in Europe during the 1500s that Christians began to use the Greek letter “X” to refer to “Christ” in the word “Christmas.” So, rather than being upset when you see “Xmas,” let it all the more remind you of the person who is represented by that “X” — Jesus the Christ, the Messiah, the anointed one of God, come in the flesh, “to save us all from Satan’s pow’r when we were gone astray. O tidings of comfort and joy,” (God Rest Ye Merry, Gentleman).

This Christmas, let seeing "Xmas" fill your heart with joy and gratitude. The "X" beautifully symbolizes Jesus Christ, our long-awaited Messiah and Savior, at the very center of the Christmas season. This year, celebrate the birth of the anointed one by sharing the ancient, sacred meaning behind Xmas with your friends and family.

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Celebrate Xmas at Timberline Church this Christmas Eve

At Timberline Church, we hope all people can discover the rich history behind Xmas. Join us this Christmas Eve for our candlelight services. These beautiful services capture the sacred meaning of Christmas in a glowing atmosphere with carols and candlelight. For more information, check out our Christmas Eve Services.

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