Belen
Belén with stress marks
nativity scene
Also means
Belen is also a given name for Filipino women, derived from the Spanish name for Bethlehem.
Usage Note
Belen comes from Spanish Belén (Bethlehem) and refers to the nativity scene displayed in homes, churches, and public spaces during the Christmas season. Creating elaborate belens is a beloved Filipino Christmas tradition, with community competitions held annually, making the word inseparable from Filipino Catholic holiday culture.
Examples
" Maganda ang belen sa simbahan. "
Natural Translation
The nativity scene in the church is beautiful.
Literal Translation
Beautiful the nativity-scene in-the church.
" Naglagay ang pamilya ng belen sa sala tuwing Pasko. "
Natural Translation
The family put up a nativity scene in the living room every Christmas.
Literal Translation
Put the family a nativity-scene in-the living-room every Christmas.
" Tuwing Disyembre, abala ang buong baryo sa paggawa ng malalaking belen na pinagagandang-pinaganda para sa taunang paligsahan. "
Natural Translation
Every December, the whole village is busy making large nativity scenes that are decorated beautifully for the annual competition.
Literal Translation
Every December, busy the whole village in making of large nativity-scenes that beautified-very for the annual competition.
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