2000 years ago, in the territory now called Ireland, Celts feasted Samhain, this festival happen on the 1th November. This festival marked the end of the year, the winter beginning and the last harvest.
At that time some people believe that in this date the souls had their last and final chance to return to the realm of the living
In this festival people gathered and lit fires and offer sacrifices to the deceased, believing this would stop them to return. Celts also dressed in clothes made from animal skins and offer food to the dead. As time passed by the festival changed and the people started dressing as ghosts, witches and other creatures known to be malevolent, and asking food and drinks. It is thought that this was the origin of the famous "trick-or-treat".
In the Catholic Church November 1st celebrates the day of "All Saints", in Mexico, for example, is celebrated as the day of "los Muertos" (Day of the Dead).
Samhain or All Saints Day?
People celebrate Samhain (Halloween) on the night of 31 October to 1 November, but using new and present rituals adapted to each country.The All Saints Day comes as an attempt by the Catholic Church to annul the pagan festivals of the Celtic people. This attempt, despite being brilliant (according to some experts), has not had the desired impact, and the reunion of families around the table with the goal of honoring the Saints never managed to replace Samhain with the desired success.
Today we have a kind of fusion between the two parties- the Hallowe'en and All Hallows, or Halloween and All Saints Day (Hollow has its roots in the word sanctified or holy). The current version of Samhain on the evening of October 31 to November 1, and All Saints Day on November 1, are exactly the same, honoring the dead and settle down.
actividades de outono, Halloween, mitos,
sources:
http://www.history.com
http://ancienthistory.about.com
Et voilá!
Trick-or-treat?
Enjoy!
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