What Is Santa Called in Sweden?
In Sweden, the figure known as Santa Claus is referred to as Jultomten or simply Tomten. The name “Jultomten” translates to “Christmas gnome” or “Yule gnome” in English, while “Tomten” is a more general term for a mythical creature or spirit that is believed to live on farms and protect the household and its inhabitants.
Origin and Folklore:
The concept of Jultomten has its roots in ancient Norse mythology and folklore. In Norse mythology, there were numerous mythical creatures, including the “Nisse” or “Tomte,” who were believed to be small, bearded creatures with a pointy hat. These creatures were believed to bring good fortune, protect the household, and ensure a successful harvest.
Over time, the folklore surrounding the Tomte merged with Christian traditions, and the figure became associated with Christmas. The modern-day Jultomten is often depicted as a benevolent old man with a long white beard, wearing a red hat and a red coat. He is said to live in the forests of Sweden and emerges during the Christmas season to deliver gifts to children.
Jultomten and Swedish Christmas Traditions:
In Sweden, Jultomten is an integral part of the Christmas celebrations. On Christmas Eve, it is a common tradition for children to leave a bowl of porridge or a plate of food out for Jultomten as a gesture of goodwill. It is believed that Jultomten visits each household on this night to deliver gifts to well-behaved children.
A unique aspect of the Swedish Christmas tradition is the way Jultomten delivers gifts. Instead of entering the house through the chimney like Santa Claus in other cultures, Jultomten knocks on the front door and asks, “Finns det några snälla barn här?” (Are there any good children here?). The children respond, and Jultomten comes in, handing out the gifts from a sack.
FAQs:
1. How is Jultomten different from Santa Claus?
Jultomten and Santa Claus share similar characteristics but have different origins. Jultomten is rooted in Norse mythology, while Santa Claus has its origins in Saint Nicholas and Christian traditions.
2. Does Jultomten have reindeer?
Unlike Santa Claus, Jultomten is not commonly associated with reindeer. He is usually depicted coming on foot or sometimes with a sleigh pulled by horses.
3. Does Jultomten wear the same red suit as Santa Claus?
Jultomten is often depicted wearing a red hat and a red coat, similar to Santa Claus. However, the details of their attire may vary in different illustrations and interpretations.
4. Do Swedish children hang stockings for Jultomten?
No, hanging stockings is not a common tradition in Sweden. Instead, children often leave a bowl of porridge or food for Jultomten.
5. Are there any specific traditions associated with Jultomten?
Aside from leaving food for Jultomten, children in Sweden often perform a dance around the Christmas tree while singing traditional songs to welcome Jultomten.
6. How is Jultomten celebrated in modern times?
Jultomten is still a beloved figure in Sweden, and many families continue to incorporate Jultomten into their Christmas celebrations. However, some families also exchange gifts in the American Santa Claus style.
7. Are there any regional variations in the name or depictions of Jultomten?
While the name “Jultomten” is widely used across Sweden, there might be some regional variations in the name or depictions of Jultomten due to local folklore and traditions.
In conclusion, Santa Claus in Sweden is known as Jultomten or Tomten. Rooted in Norse mythology and folklore, Jultomten is an important figure in Swedish Christmas traditions. Though similar to Santa Claus in many ways, Jultomten has its own distinct characteristics and customs that make the Swedish Christmas experience unique and cherished.