History of Halloween
There is mixed information as to the origins of Halloween despite it being one of the most popular party dates for adults in America. Despite not being connected with a particular religion, Halloween manages to combine spirituality, death, and religious beliefs together in our minds. Most sources seem to agree that the name "Halloween" has come from “All Hallows Eve” which referred to the night before “All Hallows Day” or All Saints Day (a Christian holiday). On this day they honour all the Saints in heaven through prayers and offerings.
Halloween is also connected with the Celtic tradition of Samhain. Samhain marked the end of summer and beginning of winter, also referred to as the Celtic New Year. On this night it is believed that the boundary between the living and dead becomes blurred and the spirits of the dead are able to return to earth. Costumes were used by people to deter spirits from possessing their bodies or making themselves unrecognizable to the spirits.
Trick-or-treating is another favourite tradition associated with this holiday. Who doesn’t like free candy? As to where this tradition comes from, the results are mixed. Some information says that it may come from the All Souls Day parades during which poor folks would beg for food, then receive “soul cakes” in return for prayers for the dead and “souling” – the practice of leaving food and wine for roaming spirits. Other information relates it to Samhain traditions of opening doors and providing food to the wandering dead which led to people dressing up as wandering dead and demanding food. And still other information points to it being a way to counteract the pranks and destruction that would occur with the holiday.
And we can’t forget the Jack-o-lantern. Again, the background for this is unclear. There is some Irish folklore that relates back to a man named Jack who tricked the devil then made a deal with him that resulted in him being refused entry into both Heaven and Hell. He was provided with a single ember to light his way which was placed in a hollowed out turnip to keep it glowing longer. Pumpkins were found to be more plentiful in America so they were used instead of turnips. Pumpkins are also recognized a part of the Native Americans’ sacred trinity of squash, beans, and maize – which is also seen in the form of candy corn and as part of Halloween decorations.
So, this Halloween take a moment to remember where your own traditions come from and watch out for spirits looking for a body.
(Information gathered from urbanlegends.about.com, www.history.com, and www.theholidayspot.com)