The candy cane is a popular treat that everyone seems to love. The strong peppermint
flavor mixed with sugar is something both young and old can’t get enough of. Whether you bite it off and crunch it between your teeth, or lick away the stripes, it always seems to be gone before we would like it to be, however there are more to get to eat especially during this time of year.
Ever wonder how this favorite candy that we all know and love became so popular?
Well, one of the first historical references to the candy cane dates back to 1670, when a choir leader in Germany purposely bent the sugar-sticks into canes to represent a shepherd's staff. The form and symbolism of the staff, was meant as a reminder of Christ who not only the Savior of the world, but is also our good Shepherd (in Psalm 23 and John 10.).
There are also historical references in regards to symbolism for Christians during various times in history. It was known as a “secret sign” to those living in difficult times of worldly oppression where one could not openly share their faith in Christ. It was also believed that the shape of the candy cane was not only shaped as a cane, but as the letter “J” for Jesus. The colors of red and white represents the blood and purity of Jesus Chris and the three red stripes (in the first candy canes) were meant to describe the Holy Trinity. The hardness of the candy represents the Church's foundation on the solid rock of Jesus and the peppermint flavor represents the use of hyssop and other herbs referred to many times in the Bible. Some of these instances in the Bible include when the kings brought gifts to baby Jesus and when the women gathered and herbs to take to the body of Christ when He had risen.
This year when you are eating your candy cane, remember the symbolic references to Christ. Rejoice and bow the knee to the One who came and the One who is coming!
© Copyright 2011 Simone Lake. All Rights Reserved
