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We cannot explore the origins of Halloween without first learning about the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain which literally means 'Summers End'. Many people have never even heard of Samhain but it is the true reason that Halloween first arose and still exists today.

The Celtic tribes of Scotland and Ireland celebrated several festivals throughout the year but none of these held more importance then the festival they called Samhain. On the night of October 31 the festival would begin to usher in November 1st which was the beginning of the new year for the Celts. It was a time to usher in the harsh winter that was to come. Summer had ended and for the country folk of Scotland and Ireland the long process to prepare for the coming cold was to begin. The animals were brought in from the fields, it was a time to harvest the much needed food for both livestock and families, and the repairs on homes and barns needed to be completed. All of this was wrapped up on Samhain so it was cause to celebrate. The bonfires lit the sky across the countryside and the country folk gathered to feast and dance.

It was believed that during this time it was an ushering in of a new year which meant it was a time that the Gods drew near to the Earth. The astral plain became blurred. This life and the next could merge and step between the divider. At no time of year would the souls of those who had departed be closer. During this time divination was extremely popular and believed to be the most telling. The practice of carving and lighting pumpkins came into effect at this time to keep unwanted spirits away from the home.

But soon Christianity would sweep across Scotland and Ireland. The Church frowned upon pagan festivals and decided to change Samhain to Hallowmas or All Saints Day. It was during this time that the Church proclaimed it a time to commemorate those who had been canonized in death the year before. The people where told to pray for those who's souls sat in purgatory during Hallowmas. Soon Hallowmas simply became known has Halloween. Samhain and Halloween became entwined and one.

Many centuries have passed but even now if you go forth to the countryside of Ireland and Scotland you will see the hillsides alight with bonfires as people celebrate their Celtic ancestry and continue to honor the festival of Samhain. During this time the past and present become one as the people dance around the bonfires. It is as if time has not passed and you are transported into the past.

Nowadays, we in America celebrate Halloween and very few of us know its true meaning. It has become twisted. Some people even feel it is an evil holiday and somehow against Christianity without even realizing that the Church had a hand in creating it. Whether you call it Samhain or Halloween I believe it is not only a day for fun for children but also a day that we can look back across the mists of time and think for just a bit about those people who have celebrated throughout history. It is a window into the past and we should always remember that.

Learn more about this author, Kim Sharpe.
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