What eXactly is the Religious Reason for the "X" in XMAS? (Father Simon Says) episode artwork

EPISODE · Dec 19, 2024 · 1 MIN

What eXactly is the Religious Reason for the "X" in XMAS? (Father Simon Says)

from The Best of the Week · host Relevant Radio

Fr. Richard Simon is at it again, clearing up misunderstandings like a theological superhero. Here’s the deal: people get all riled up about “Xmas” as if someone’s canceling Christ.  But surprise! The “X” in Xmas isn’t about erasing Jesus: it’s actually an ancient Greek abbreviation for Christ.    In Greek, the letter "X" (chi) is the first letter of Christos (aka Christ). So, when you see "Xmas," it’s not lazy shorthand. It’s actually rooted in the Christian tradition.  🧑‍🎓✝️   Father also threw in some trivia about abbreviations in icons (because why not?). For example, you might see "MR" on an image of the Blessed Mother. That’s short for Maria in their funky, ancient style of abbreviating. And honestly, their abbreviations make ours look boring. 🖌️   So next time someone gets mad about “Xmas,” you’ve got the perfect comeback: “Relax, it’s Greek!” Merry (X)mas! 🎄   P.S. Fr. Simon also said Yiddish is like medieval German and phlegm. 😂 Don’t say he doesn’t keep it real.     The best way to listen to the Best of the Week is on our #1 Free Catholic App. It’s free, and always will be! To get and share the Relevant Radio app, check it out here.

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What eXactly is the Religious Reason for the "X" in XMAS? (Father Simon Says)

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