The song, of course, was borne out of the Catholic religion, with parts being foreign to those of us who hold different beliefs, and other parts that are foreign to people who reject Christianity outright. For the record, as far as I can tell, here is the rundown:
- A Partridge in a Pear Tree - Jesus Christ
- Two Turtle Doves - The Old and New Testaments
- Three French Hens - The three virtues of Faith, Hope and Charity
- Four Calling/Collie Birds - Four gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John
- Five Golden Rings - First five books of the Old Testament
- Six Geese-a-Laying - Six days of creation before God's rest on the seventh day
- Seven Swans-a-Swimming - Seven gifts of the Holy Spirit
- Eight Maids-a-Milking - Eight Beatitudes
- Nine Ladies Dancing - Nine fruits of the Holy Spirit
- Ten Lords-a-Leaping - Ten Commandments
- Eleven Pipers Piping - Eleven faithful disciples
- Twelve Drummers Drumming -Twelve points of belief in the Apostles' Creed
By the way, in 2012, the cost for all of the literal gifts listed in the song has increased by six percent, totaling $25,430, and the highest cost is not incurred by any of the entertainers, or even the gold rings. Here's what the breakdown looks like:
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