Many Danes love singing Christmas carols on Christmas Eve, but few fully understand the words they sing. A language expert breaks down nine confusing phrases that appear in traditional Danish songs dating back centuries.
Old Songs, Fading Words
Every year on December 24, families gather around the Christmas tree. They hold hands, sing, and celebrate the joy of the holiday. But behind the laughter and warmth, many might not realize that some of the words they sing have lost their meaning through time.
Rikke Hyldgaard, a journalist and author, has studied the history of Danish Christmas songs. She explains that many of them were written between the 1500s and 1800s. That’s why several words have disappeared from everyday Danish. Her research even led to the book *Juleaftens Sange*, written with composer and broadcaster Philip Faber.
She and TV 2 Fyn created a list to help modern Danes understand these older expressions. The translations reveal fascinating insights about language, history, and faith.
Nine Phrases That Confuse Singers
Hyldgaard explains that lyrics like “En fattig jomfru sad i løn” from *Et barn er født i Betlehem* often confuse people. The phrase doesn’t relate to money, as some might guess. It simply means Mary gave birth in secret.
Another line, “Og Østens vise ofred der guld, røgelse og myrra skær,” refers to the gifts brought by the Wise Men. The word *myrra* means “myrrh,” a resin once used for medical purposes and a symbol of Jesus’ future death.
The song continues with “Da vorde engle vi som de.” Here, *vorde* means “to become,” not “wart.” The line means believers will become angels like those in heaven.
Other confusing examples include:
– In *Et barn er født i Betlehem*, “frelser bold” refers to a “great savior,” not a ball.
– In *På loftet sidder nissen*, “rotterne de skotter” means the rats are sneakily peeking around.
– In *Højt fra træets grønne top*, “du skal være fændrik” describes a flag bearer, a position in an army.
– In *Glade jul, dejlige jul*, “lønlig iblandt os de går” means the angels walk secretly among humans.
– From *Sikken voldsom trængsel og alarm*, “Det skal være aften med gevalt” means it should be a grand and lively evening.
– And in *Det kimer nu til julefest*, “miskundhed og nådebud” expresses gratitude for mercy and forgiveness.
Fun Traditions with a Touch of Confusion
While understanding old Danish words may be challenging, Hyldgaard believes the real spirit of singing lies in togetherness. Even misheard lyrics are part of the fun. She notes examples where people change words intentionally or by mistake.
One well-known mix-up occurs in *Julen har bragt velsignet bud*, where many sing “dugen til julegilde” instead of the correct “duen til julegilde.” The true line about the dove symbolizes peace and unity across all social classes. The mistaken version with “tablecloth” changes the meaning completely.
Families also develop playful traditions around changing lyrics. Philip Faber, for instance, jokes by singing “jul i Gammelby” instead of “Himmelby,” a wink to a classic Danish TV Christmas calendar. Such versions may not be correct, but they keep the songs alive and personal.
Singing Together Is What Matters
Hyldgaard says accuracy doesn’t matter on Christmas Eve. Even if someone mumbles or mixes up the words, what’s important is singing together. The Danish Christmas experience—walking around the decorated tree, sharing songs, and smiling at each other—means more than perfect pronunciation.
Interestingly, these Christmas traditions tie deeply into Danish culture. Singing, gathering, and sharing stories are essential to how Denmark celebrates Christmas. The songs reflect centuries of history and beliefs that still shape the holiday today.
Sources and References
The Danish Dream: How does Denmark celebrate Christmas?
The Danish Dream: Best festivals in Denmark for foreigners
TV2: Forstår du, hvad du synger juleaften? Her er ni ord i julesange, der driller
