1 True Love refers to God


2 Turtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments


3 French Hens refers to Faith, Hope and Charity, the Theological Virtues


4 Calling Birds refers to the Four Gospels and/or the Four Evangelists


5 Golden Rings refers to the first Five Books of the Old Testament, the "Pentateuch", which gives the history of man's fall from grace.

6 Geese A-laying refers to the six days of creation


7 Swans A-swimming refers to the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit, the seven sacraments


8 Maids A-milking refers to the eight beatitudes


9 Ladies dancing refers to the nine Fruits of the Holy Spirit


10 Lords A-leaping refers to the ten commandments


11 Pipers Piping refers to the eleven faithful apostles


12 Drummers Drumming refers to the twelve points of doctrine in the Apostle's Creed