Halloween refers to the evening and night of October 31, traditionally marking the eve of All Hallows’ Day (All Saints’ Day). The meaning and origins of Halloween are a blend of ancient traditions, religious influences, and modern secular practices:
- Historical roots: Many scholars trace Halloween to the Celtic festival of Samhain, a seasonal boundary marking the end of harvest and the beginning of winter. It was believed that on this night the veil between the living and the dead was blurred, leading people to engage in rites, feasting, and divination. This origin is often described as a pre-Christian, pagan festival that influenced later Halloween customs. [historical and encyclopedic sources]
- Christian overlay: Over time, All Hallows’ Day (All Saints’ Day) was established on November 1, and Halloween became All Hallows’ Eve, the vigil preceding that feast. In some traditions, the night retains spiritual significance and is observed with prayer or church services, while in others it remains primarily a secular celebration. [historical summaries and religious histories]
- Modern customs: In contemporary contexts, Halloween is widely associated with activities such as trick-or-treating, costume wearing, pumpkin carving (jack-o’-lanterns), haunted attractions, costume parties, and horror-themed entertainment. These practices vary by country and culture but are commonly linked to playful, spooky, and community-centered celebration rather than strictly religious observance. [general cultural descriptions]
- Etymology: The term “Halloween” is derived from All Hallows’ Eve, meaning the evening before All Saints’ Day. In everyday usage, it has come to denote the entire holiday and its festivities. [etymological explanations]
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