The symbolism of the Christmas tree and its decoration Evergreen fir Symbolizes fertility and immortality, until now, green is the colour of hope, in the origin context the hope for the re-awakening of Nature in Spring and for the return of the life cycles (compare to "O Christmas tree"). The Christian mythology is also about fertility and hope. The birth of Christ symbolizes the beginning of a new life cycle and, at the same time, the hope for redemption by the saviour Christ. Evergreen branch Rod of life, bringer of luck and blessing, also used as an addition to a present. We still find this in the German proverb "Auf (k)einen grünen Zweig kommen(not to get on a green branch)" = having bad luck. (Candle)light Successor of the candle burning in Midwinter nights, which fused together with the general window lighting. Following pre-Christian beliefs, the candle should help the dead to find their way home in the Midwinter nights. The candle was also used to celebrate the overcoming of the darkest time of the year by burning fire. Thus the return of the sun was summoned, whose warming light represents a symbol of life and is necessary for all life on earth.In Christianity, Christ represents the light, the hope for an end of darkness or respectively stands for the light in darkness himself. Apples Fruits, of course, are symbols of fruitfulness. Since the apple is a fruit durable until the winters in Northern Europe, it offered itself as a tree decoration. In Christianity, the apple is the fruit of temptation growing on the tree of knowledge. Occasional, in front of churches, plays were performed showing the expulsion from paradise. Paradise trees, decorated with apples, of course, were set up. It is assumed that in the Christian context the apple on the christmas tree symbolizes the apple of paradise. Glitter decorations Probably, the glitter decorations (balls, tinsel garlands, aso.) allude to the valuable presents brought by the three saint kings. But the decorative effects of precious metals or similar looking materials are known in every culture.     More informations about the history of the Christmas tree. The Christmas  topic in music and literature