The answer is: False

The idea of celebrating birthdays is a pagan one and neither the Jews, the apostles nor Jesus celebrated them.

It’s fascinating to unravel the origins of holiday traditions and see how they intersect with historical and cultural practices. The celebration of birthdays in ancient societies polytheistically worshipped numerous deities who personified aspects of life and nature. Romans were known for their birthday festivities that included feasting and the offering of gifts, but this certainly wasn’t a part of Jewish life during Jesus’ time.

In biblical narratives, we don't find any mentions of Jesus observing a birthday party or a birthday itself. Rather, significant anniversaries celebrated in the scriptures emphasize the day of a person's death or special events typically tied to God's dealings with people. For example, many notable figures were honored for their life achievements in relation to their faithfulness or covenant with God, like Moses and the prophets.

An interesting fact that might tickle your fancy is that Christmas as we know it—celebrated on December 25—was established several centuries after Jesus’ lifetime, merging various cultural customs, particularly from pagan ritualistic winter solstice celebrations! Even before its formal institution, Christians observed different fasting and prayer practices during the winter months.

So perhaps, as we trim our trees and hang ornaments, we participate in a mix of history, culture, and spirituality—inviting us to reflect more appreciatively on the themes of giving, love, and hope than simply birthday bells.