Every wonder where all those Halloween customs originated? Why do people where costumes on Halloween? What's the deal with trick-or-treating? While some Christian teens
choose not to celebrate Halloween], they may be surprised to know that some of the celebrations we participate in today have their roots in Christianity...
Costumes
During the
Festival of Samhain, ghoulish costumes were worn to prevent possession by the dead. Later, people dressed up as angels, devils, and saints to commemorate All Saints' Day.
Jack-o-lanterns
The tradition of the Jack-o-lantern is believed to have began in Irish folklore. In the tale, a notorious drunkard named Jack had trapped the devil in a tree. He carved a cross in the tree and made a deal with the devil that he would never tempt Jack again. However, when he died, Jack was not allowed in Heaven due to his troublemaking, and then was denied entrance into Hell due to his deal with the devil. Thus, he was given a single ember in a hallowed-out turnip to light his way. In America, those turnips eventually made way for the more plentiful pumpkins.Trick-or-Treating
It is believed that trick-or-treating originated with the All Souls Day parades that took place on November 2nd. "Soul Cakes" were made out of currants and square pieces of bread. During the parade these soul cakes were given to participants. Eventually, Christians would go from village to village "begging" for the cakes in return for prayers on behalf of dead relatives.Black Cats and Other Nocturnal Animals
It was believed that black cats were reincarnated beings that could also predict the future. By the Middle Ages, there was a great deal of fear regarding witches, and it was believed that those witches could turn themselves into black cats. Many cats were killed during this time, because it was believed that they were all witches in disguise. Other nocturnal animals such as owls and bats were believed to be able to communicate with the dead.
