Why is the History of Halloween Important to Christian Teens?:
Since the Bible has no direct statement about Halloween, the decision whether or not to participate in Halloween festivities relies on Christian teens to pray and make informed decisions. Understanding the history of Halloween can help many Christian teens learn the original basis of the holiday and how it has involved into the festivals we see today.
Quick Overview: The Celtic View of Death:
The Celts believed that, at the end of each year, there was blurring of the world of the dead and that of the living. It was during this time of year that they believed the ghosts of those who had died returned to the earth, damaging crops and allowing Druid priests to make future predictions.
The Celtic Festival of Samhain:
Ancient Celts lived over 2,000 years ago in an area spanning Ireland, the U.K., and northern France. Halloween is said to have begun with the Celts festival of Samhain, which was held each November 1 (their New Year's Day). The Festival of Samhain was a time to celebrate the harvest, commemorate the end of Summer and start of the harsh winter.
Festival of Samhain Activities:
The festival involved the Druids (Celtic priests) building sacred bonfires upon which crops and animals were sacrificed to their gods. Costumes were donned and attempts were made at fortune telling. Most of the costumes were made of animal heads and skins. Each Celt returned home after the celebration with a flame from the bonfire to light their hearth fire. This ritual was performed in hope that the sacred bonfire would keep them safe and warm during the harsh and demanding winter months.
Going from a Celtic Celebration to Christianity:
Romans had conquered the Celts by A.D. 43, and the Festival of Samhain was combined with the festivals of Feralia and Pomona. Feralia celebrated the passing of the dead and Pomona celebrated the Roman goddess of fruit and trees. It is believed that the tradition of bobbing for apples came from this festival, because Pomona was often symbolized by the apple.
Eventually Roman rule made way for Christianity. Pope Boniface IV used the New Year date of November 1 to celebrate honorable saints and martyrs, designating it All Saints' Day. Some experts believe that he was attempting to replace the pagan holiday with a Christian celebration. By A.D. 1000 November 2nd was made All Souls' Day in which bonfires, parades, and costumes were used in the celebration. Eventually both holidays were combined and given the name "Hallowmas."
