It is not easy to uncover the historic facts about Sankt Nikolaus,
the fourth century Greek bishop of Myra in Asia Minor (modern Turkey = ancient Greece, in part. see map), who died on December 6th,
343. In Eastern Europe, Southern Italy and among the Greeks, he is revered
most of all as the patron saint of seafaring men.
In many regions, the festivities originally attributed to the gift- giving St. Nikolaus have been transfered to Christmas, yet in Western and Southern Germany, in Austria, Switzerland, and the Low Countries, December 6 remains a day of joy for children.
When evening comes, St. Nikolaus, a reverend grey-haired figure with flowing beard, bishop's raiment, gold embroidered cope, mitre and pastoral staff, will knock on doors and enquire about the behavior of the children. The custom of examining the children, where they will deliver a verse, sing, or otherwise show their skills, is still widespread in German- speaking countries.
Nikolaus traditions vary as widely from region to region as his guise and name. He appears as Ruhklas, Pelznickel, Klasbur, etc. He is afoot or astride a white horse, a mule, or even a goat. More diverse than those of the saintly Nikolaus are the many legends and traditions surrounding his often wild companions (Krampus, etc.). The pagan origin of all of these figures is evident although difficult to trace.
His best known companion is Knecht Ruprecht (poem), "Knecht" meaning servant. Historically, Ruprecht was a dark and sinister figure clad in a tattered robe with a big sack on his back in which, legend has it, he will place all naughty children.
St. Nikolaus also appears together with St. Peter, with an angel, the Christchild (Christkindl or Christ Child). As the splendor of the candle-lit Christmas tree and emphasis on the birth of Christ, began to shift the function of the gift-giving St. Nikolaus, Knecht Ruprecht became the servant and companion of the Christchild. In this role Ruprecht became the patron saint of Christmas and was called "Weihnachtsmann," (literally "Christmas Man") Father Christmas or Santa Claus.
As with the Christmas tree, St. Nikolaus was brought to this country by German and Dutch immigrants. Oldtimers in Indiana still remember Belshnickel, the Pelznickel (literally "Fur Niklaus; Pelz=pelt=fur). They helped weave the legend of Santa Claus, the jolly good fellow created by German-American cartoonist Thomas Nast.
Ruth Reichman
Max Kade German-American Center IUPUI.
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