The twelve days were from December 25 (Christmas) until January 6 (Epiphany). The "true love" referred to God. The repetition of the melody signified God's continual renewal of His gifts.

The partridge is a symbol of Christ. The partridge will feign injury to protect nestlings, which are defenseless, just as we are before Satan without Christ.

The pear tree is the symbol of the salvation of man, just as the apple tree signified his downfall.

Two turtle doves symbolize the Old Testament sacrifice, offered by even the poorest of people.

Three French hens, valued for their beauty and rarity, symbolize the gifts of the three Wise Men and the three theological virtues of faith, hope, and love.

Four calling birds represent the four major prophets and the four Gospel writers, the former announcing His coming and the latter proclaiming His message.

Five golden rings represent the perfect circle of faith: God's love for us, our love for God, and our love for each other. The number five refers to the five obligatory sacraments and the five books of the Bible that make up the Pentateuch, also know as the Law.

Six geese a-laying represents the six days of creation.

Seven swans a-swimming are the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit and the seven works of mercy. The number seven is the number of perfection.

Eight maids a-milking are the eight beatitudes as well as the eight times during the year that were prescribed at that time for the reception of the Eucharist.

Nine ladies dancing are the nine ranks of angel choirs and the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit.

Ten lords a-leaping are the Ten Commandments.

Eleven pipers piping are the eleven apostles proclaiming the resurrection of Jesus.

Twelve drummers drumming are the twelve minor prophets of the Old Testament and the twelve points of the Apostle's Creed. It also refers to the twelve tribes of Israel and the twelve apostles.