Remembering the dead on Halloween night
WHEN my daughter asked me about Halloween I actually had to think about its’ origin. Of course growing up we knew it was followed by All Saints Day and All Soul’s Day ( the order of which I could never remember) so it had a Christian link. However I also knew it was connected with Samhain, a Pagan festival to mark the end of the harvest and the beginning of winter. So which one is correct?
Some would have you believe that Samhain was taken over by Christianity and renamed Halloween, marking the three day observance of Allhallowtide. Whichever version you believe, it seems October 31 has the same meaning; a night to remember the dead.
It was believed it was a night where the dead roamed the earth once more. Some returned to their homes where they would be greeted with food. The wearing of ghoulish attire was to trick the dead into thinking you were one of them if you were to encounter them.
I was also interested to learn that the whole idea of pumpkin carving originated in Ireland, where a turnip was used. God love those who had to carve a turnip! The ‘ lantern’ was also another attempt to ward off bad spirits who would roam the earth on this night.
It’s funny how a night attached to such ancient traditions has not only made it into the world of technology, but has thrived. It plays on the psyche of the unknown; nobody can swear to what comes after this life.
It’s also funny how something intended to frighten has other customs attached such as the Barm brack. As a child you were always hopeful of getting that cheap metal ring which broke almost as soon as you found it. It was worth having to eat all that horrible rubbery cake to get to.
Another custom was that if you peeled an apple in one straight piece, and then if you threw it over your shoulder it would land in the shape of the first letter of your true love’s name. Therefore a festival associated with death also becomes a festival that can predict your future love. Strange, but sweet.
When I was younger Halloween involved dressing up with the cheapest mask on offer and a black bin liner and going around with a friend playing “Oró sé do bheatha ‘ bhaile” on the tin whistle while I sang it at the same time.
It was a far cry from the parties and discos that kids enjoy now. We weren’t greeted at the door with handfuls of sweets, if we wanted our treat, we had to earn it!
Nowadays it has become somewhat commercialised with costumes and decorations galore.
For children it is a night of excitement as it is the only legitimate day of the year that you can call to houses and beg for sweets. It would be nice to think as the tradition goes on that children are reminded it is a time to remember our dead, whatever your religion or beliefs.