Vegan blogger, Tabatha James, reflects on the deeper meanings of compassion and kindness at Christmas
Reading the nativity story about the birth of Jesus is one of my favourite holiday traditions. As a Christian, it’s one of the cornerstones of my beliefs. Although the Bible does not mention any animals being in the manger at the birth of Christ, the nativity story, central to Christmas celebrations, paints a vivid picture of a humble manger surrounded by animals like donkeys, cows, oxen and sheep. These animals are often overlooked in the grand narrative, yet their presence in the story offers an opportunity to reflect on the connection between Christmas and the compassionate treatment of animals. Christmas is a season of love, joy and giving. It is a time to reflect on the deeper meanings of compassion and kindness, not just to our fellow humans but to all living beings.
The animals of the nativity scene
Donkeys: Donkeys have long been associated with humility and service. In the nativity story, it is often imagined that a donkey carried Mary to Bethlehem. Donkeys are highly intelligent, social animals known for their incredible memory and ability to form deep bonds with other animals and humans. Today, donkeys are exploited in many ways, such as for entertainment and even used in traditional medicine.
Cows: These remarkably intelligent animals are often depicted in nativity scenes, resting peacefully beside the baby Jesus. They are gentle giants and are known for their calm demeanour and friendly nature. Cows form strong maternal bonds with their calves, often grieving when separated. They are also incredibly social animals, capable of forming friendships within their herds. Sadly, they are often abused and suffer cruel deaths, just to end up on someone’s plate or exploited for their milk. There are numerous stories about cows escaping from being slaughtered. They have feelings and they want to live, just like us. Let their presence in the manger scene remind us to extend love, understanding and compassion to all beings.
Oxen: Oxen, in the nativity story, are imagined as silent witnesses to the miraculous birth of Jesus. Their powerful yet peaceful presence adds a sense of stability to the scene. They are valued for their resilience and patience, qualities that align with the message of Christmas: to remain steadfast in our commitment to love and kindness, even in challenging times. Sadly, oxen are among the most severely abused animals in the world. They are made to perform horrendous tasks like pulling heavy carts of goods, and if they are not working fast enough, they are often abused further. When they are no longer deemed ‘useful’, they are killed so that their skin can be made into leather. When we see oxen pictured in the nativity, we should be reminded that all animals deserve to live a long, peaceful life.
Sheep: Sheep often accompanied the shepherds who visited the manger. They represent innocence and trust. Contrary to popular belief, sheep are extremely intelligent. They are highly social animals that thrive in close-knit flocks. Professor John Webster of the University of Bristol studied sheep. He found that they visibly express emotions like humans. They experience sadness, grief, happiness and fear. Sheep are exploited for their wool and are sometimes abused by their shearers. When we see images of sheep sitting happily in the nativity, we should remember that they deserve to live and thrive happily with no fear of abuse or death.
The nativity story is a story of hope and love. Portrayals show baby Jesus in the manger, surrounded by animals, a setting that underscores the interconnectedness of all living beings. In today’s celebrations when we gaze at the animals, it should be a reminder for us to advocate for the ethical treatment of animals. Christmas is a time to reflect on the values we should hold dear – peace, goodwill and compassion. Extending these values to animals, who share the Earth with us, can deepen the meaning of the holiday season.
Find out more about how farmed animals are treated in the animal agriculture industry.
Rethinking traditions: a compassionate Christmas
The Christmas feast is often centred around animal-based dishes, from roasted ham to turkey. However, the reality of modern animal agriculture is far removed from the idyllic scenes of animals in the nativity story. Factory farming subjects animals to cramped, inhumane conditions, stripping them of their natural behaviours and causing immense suffering. This stark contrast to the peaceful manger scene invites us to reconsider our holiday traditions. Choosing vegan alternatives for our Christmas meals is a powerful way to honour the spirit of compassion and kindness.
Vegan alternatives for a festive feast
A compassionate Christmas table can be just as delicious and celebratory. Consider these alternatives:
- SO VEGAN’s butternut squash wellington: a beautiful and hearty centrepiece filled with perfectly cooked butternut squash nestled inside a mushroom and walnut stuffing.
- Nut patties with cranberry-orange sauce: a savoury dish packed with protein and flavour, perfect for replacing traditional meat-based mains.
- Vegan Eggnog: made with almond or oat milk, a touch of nutmeg, and vanilla for a creamy holiday treat.
- Dairy-Free Desserts: from mincemeat baklava and Christmas pudding ice cream, to chocolate and miso mousse the options are endless.
By embracing vegan meals, we not only reduce harm to animals but also celebrate the abundance of vegan foods that nourish our bodies and the planet.
Ways to show compassion this Christmas
Support sanctuaries and shelters: animal sanctuaries and shelters provide safe havens for rescued animals, including donkeys, cows, oxen and sheep mentioned in this blog. Consider donating to or volunteering at these organisations during the holiday season.
Adopt a vegan lifestyle: choosing a vegan lifestyle is a profound way to live out the values of compassion and kindness. By avoiding animal products, you contribute to a world where animals are treated with respect and care.
Teach the next generation: involve children in compassionate practices, such as making vegan treats, visiting sanctuaries or reading books about kindness to animals. Teaching empathy early on fosters a more compassionate future.
The Vegan Society’s Education Network works tirelessly to create resources specifically designed to address gaps in support for vegan learners, vegan families and those who work within the education sector. They are designed to help create an educational environment where vegan families feel respected and valued. We encourage you to explore what we have already developed to meet these needs.
The nativity story invites us to embrace a worldview that values humility, peace and love. The animals in the manger were not just passive observers; they were integral to the story, symbolizing the harmony and connection of all life. By choosing compassion over cruelty, we honour the true essence of Christmas. Whether it is through our food choices, acts of kindness, or advocacy for animals, we can make the holiday season a time of peace for all beings.
Tabatha James is a busy wife, mom, vegan blogger, children's book author, AFPA Certified Holistic Nutrition Consultant, NASM Certified Weight Loss Specialist, and the founder of The Sensible Vegan, LLC. She became vegan overnight in 2016 after watching the film Vegucated. She has been featured by PETA, Health Magazine, Woman's World and a host of other publications.
The views expressed by our bloggers are not necessarily the views of The Vegan Society.
