Oh Christmas Tree (O Tannenbaum)

The Story Behind Oh Christmas Tree (O Tannenbaum)

Folk Song Origins of "O Tannenbaum"

The lyrics for "O Christmas Tree" that we know today were composed in 1824 by the Leipzig organist, teacher, and composer Ernst Anschütz. Anschütz based his additional verses on a 16th-century folk song.

A Tannenbaum is a fir tree, a species of coniferous evergreen tree in the family Pinaceae. The original lyrics do not actually refer to the Bible story of Christmas or describe a decorated Christmas tree. Instead, they refer to the fir tree's evergreen quality as a symbol of constancy and faithfulness—something that, while not overtly Christian, certainly could apply to the Christian life. 

"O Tannenbaum" Association with Christmas

The folk song first became associated with Christmas when Anschütz added two verses of his own to the first, traditional verse. The custom of the Christmas tree developed in the course of the 19th century, and the song came to be seen as a Christmas carol around the same time.

Deepen your celebration of Christmas with your FREE copy of our Christmas Hymns & Carols Guide. Enjoy lyrics, videos, and the spiritual significance of timeless carols. Download yours HERE.

Listen to beautiful music videos of this Christmas carol below!