I bet when y’all saw that you sang the choices
If you've never seen this...Long story short I did some research to find out if the story of its origin was true. It wasn't, but the Christian symbolic meanings are cool. I posted some notes on a few of them.
12 drummers drumming: The 12 points of doctrine in the Apostles' Creed
The 11 pipers piping: Represent the eleven faithful Apostles. Some say the number 11 in Matthew 28:16 is a reminder of Judas' absence and the betrayals the other 11 participated in.
The 10 lords a-leaping: Represent the Ten Commandments. Exodus 20.
The 9 ladies dancing: Represent the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit. Galatians 5:22-23.
The 8 maids a-milking: Represent the eight beatitudes. Matthew 5:3-10
The 7 swans a-swimming: Represent the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 12:8-10.
The 6 geese a-laying: Represent the six days of creation
The 5 golden rings: Represent the first five books of the Old Testament
The 4 calling birds: Represent the four gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John
The 3 French hens: Represent faith, hope, and love
The 2 Turtle Doves: Represent The Old and New Testaments.
The partridge in the pear tree: Represents Christ because the bird sacrifices itself to protect its young