Halloween & Christianity: Candy in Place of Sacrifices – the History of Halloween
Samhain: Halloween’s Origins
The Celts were an ancient Irish people group that practiced the feast of Samhain (pronounced Sah-ween). During this autumnal period, the Celtic priests, also known as druids, would perform sacrifices to pagan gods. It was believed that the undead would rise from the grave during Samhain and cause destruction across the countryside. To appease these spirits, the druids would make their way from home to home looking for crop, animal, and even human sacrifices. They would wear ghastly costumes to resemble the undead spirits. This ancient ritual is where we get the “treat” part of the popular “trick-or-treat” custom. Today we hand out candy instead of sacrifices.
All Saints Day: Halloween Grows Up
When Christianity came to the Celtic regions, the church attempted to overcome these pagan rituals. Rather than putting an end to Samhain altogether, they introduced Christian imagery into the pagan rituals. Pope Boniface IV announced All Saint’s Day in the seventh century. Instead of worshipping false gods with Samhain sacrifices, this would be a day to honor famous saints and martyrs. October 31st, the night before All Saint’s Day became All Hallow’s Eve (hallow meaning “saint”). Many of the pagan rituals unfortunately lingered. At this time, another local custom was integrated into this jumble of pagan and Christian traditions. Mischief Night was a night during which children were allowed to perform all kinds of pranks and tomfoolery without the threat of severe punishment. This is where the “trick” in “trick-or-treat” comes from.
The Irish Immigration: Halloween is Americanized
These customs remained unique to Ireland