Introduction
Halloween is a popular festival celebrated in countries across many regions, and is particularly prevalent in the United States. With its roots tied to rituals and celebrations that predates Christianity, there have been debates regarding whether this festivity is appropriate for the Christian community. While some argue the festivity has been adapted to fit in with other cultures, there are both Christian and non-Christian who people oppose this viewpoint and argue that, by celebrating Halloween, it goes against the principles of Christianity.
Terminology
Halloween or Hallowe’en, also known as Allhalloween and All Hallows’ Eve, is a celebration observed in various countries around the world, particularly in places that have been influenced by western Christian culture. Besides providing an opportunity for recreation and fun, the festival was originally believed to honor the dead, relate to divination practices, and observe a day of the end which are all activities which contrast with Christian beliefs.
Arguments for Halloween is inappropriate for Christians
One of the main arguments against Halloween being an acceptable celebration for Christians is its strong association with paganism and its roots coming from pre-Christian festivals. Halloween, which is celebrated on October 31st every year, closely matches with significant dates of pre-Christian festivals; this has made people associate the festival with activities that violate the principles of Christianity. Moreover, some non-Christian characters of this festival like trick-or-treating, bonfires, fortune-telling and dressing up in costumes are considered as a form of idolatry, something opposed by the Christian faith.
Arguments for Halloween being acceptable to Christianity
In contrast with the opposition against Halloween within Christianity, there are those that argue it is possible to observe the festivities without participating in activities that are against the teachings of Christianity. There supporters argue that it is possible to celebrate Halloween without encouraging activities such as divination and the worshiping of non-Christian gods. In addition to this, the festival provides a great opportunity for those who observe it to reach out to others in the community, participating in activities such as charitable work or church events. This would help to further spread the message of Christianity, rather than encourage to engage in activities which are against the principles of Christianity.
Response from Christian Leaders
The varying views on whether it is appropriate for Christians to observe Halloween has led to major Christian leaders such as John Calvin and Martin Luther ultimately taking a neutral stance on this topic, advocating for people to make a decision for themselves, by using judgment about which activities are appropriate to partake in. There are some Christian leaders who take a counter approach, encouraging Christians not to join the activities, whereas other religious leaders are in the opinion that participating in the festivities is allowable, as long as it is done in a way that is in line with Christian principles.
Conclusion
As the practice of celebrating Halloween and the associated activities have both Christian, and pre-Christian roots, it is difficult to take a definitive stance on whether it is appropriate for Christians to celebrate this festival. Ultimately, the choice should come down to the individual and their own take on the activities associated with it.
Moral and ethical considerations
Another point to consider when thinking about the appropriateness of celebrating Halloween is its potential effects on moral and ethical development and values. If the celebration is something that is encouraged in the same vein of activities such as devil worship and magical practices, this could give negative connotations to the holiday and could send a message that practicing activities for amusement, which are against Christian beliefs, is acceptable.
Family dynamics
A common occasion during the festivities of Halloween is trick-or-treating. This activity is something that is pursued mostly by children, which brings up considerations regarding the responsibility that their parents have for regulating the activities of their kids. Are the parents supplying their child with costumes and candy, encouraging their child to take part in activities such as trick-or-treating, despite the potential consequences that it could have on their moral and ethical growth according to the principles of Christianity?
Popularity
It is impossible to ignore the fact that Halloween is a popular event and has been embraced by many cultures, not just in the US but also in other countries of different religions. In some cases, those celebrating the event put considerable effort into participating in the associated activities. This may be because, in their opinion, these activities are not linked to the non-Christian traditions and culture, but rather to activities which could be called ‘innocent fun’.
Relevance
When making a decision about taking part in such activities on the festivity of Halloween, it is important to understand the background of the festival and its relevance to the principles that Christianity holds dear. It is possible to observe Halloween, yet still maintain the integrity of Christianity within such activities. It is important to get an understanding of what acceptable activities are and what should be avoided so that the celebration of Halloween will not go against the principles of the Christian faith.
