On the fourth day of Christmas, "my true love gave to me" Four Calling Birds, along with the gifts from the previous three days: three French hens, two turtle doves, and a partridge in a pear tree. The "calling birds" were likely blackbirds or canaries, and this day also marks the Christian commemoration of the Holy Innocents (Childermas), remembering the babies slain by King Herod.
The Gifts:
On the fourth day: Four Calling Birds
Plus: Three French hens, two turtle doves, and a partridge in a pear tree.
The Significance (Christian Tradition):
The 4th day of Christmas (December 28th) is the Feast of the Holy Innocents, or Childermas, honoring the young boys killed by King Herod in his attempt to find Jesus.
On the third day of Christmas, the gift is Three French Hens, building on the partridge and turtle doves from the previous days in the cumulative carol, and often symbolizing faith, hope, and love, while the day itself is also associated with the Feast of St. John the Evangelist.
The Song's Gift
"On the third day of Christmas, my true love sent to me, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree."
Symbolic Meanings
Faith, Hope, & Love: The three hens can represent the theological virtues of faith, hope, and charity (love).
St. John the Evangelist: The third day (December 27th) is the feast day for St. John the Apostle, who, according to legend, blessed poisoned wine and drank it without harm, leading to traditions of blessing wine on this day.
Historical Context
French Hens: These were a luxury item, signifying wealth, and were a popular dish for the clergy.
St. John's Wine: A tradition involved toasting with wine on this day, passing it from person to person, symbolizing love and connection within the household.
Comments
Today is the 3rd day of Christmas, some Google notes below
https://youtu.be/wD9bdP6hR00?si=xW5Qe9kzwvdCeoGx