You Pagan!

Gaby Psychic Medium
Oct 5
2 min read

The history of Halloween

Halloween orginated in Ireland over 2000 years ago. From October 31st to November 1st, is the celebration of the harvest, and the start of the darker days of winter, called Samhain. Also, it is believed that Spirits roam the earth at this time.

Historically, this festival was celebrated by Pagans. Pagans are those who do not conform to any of the big 3 religions. In medieval times, Pagans lived in the outskirts of built-up areas and large populations. On Samhain, Pagans performed ritualistic activities that have morphed into our current North American Halloween.

Samhain (pronounced "Saa-win")

My favourite part of Samhain, is the honouring of those in Spirit. It is the time to celebrate the lives of those who have died, as well as paying respect to ancestors, family members, elders of the faith, friends, pets, and other loved ones who have died. Setting a plate at the dinner table and inviting them in to feast with you. Also, I love a big bonfire!

Paganism

Part of Paganism, is to develop your own Spirituality and discover the activities that allow you to commune with those in the Spirit world. Historically on Samhain, divination with nuts and apples was used. Personally, I've used rocks as a divination tool. Rocks have history and connection to the earth. And most importantly, because they 'speak' to me (and I really like them!).

I also love the fact that this Pagan festival Samhain (the Celtic word meaning November), is non-denominational and honours nature and the earth and Spirit. This freedom to explore, is a right to be exercised.

Rocks and crystals used as divination tools.

How did Samhain morph into North American Halloween?

Irish settlers to North America celebrated this festival and North Americans embraced the part of the celebration of wearing masks and costumes to disguise themselves from malevolent Spirits. Also going door-to-door asking for food, as was done in Ireland. The carving and lighting of turnips changed to pumpkins, as they are more plentiful.

It is unfortunate that the Spiritual meaning of Halloween is absent today (but the consumerist part is alive and well!).

In my opinion, the derogatory terms "You Pagan" is one I wear with pride. And I might consider the terms "hellene, gentile, and heathen" as good ones too. Will you?