In the world today, the question of whether Christians should observe and/or participate in the celebration of Halloween is one that has sparked much debate within the faith community.
Obviously, with its roots in pagan rituals and its association with themes of death, fear, and the occult, Halloween presents certain ethical and theological concerns for Christians who strive to live according to biblical principles.
There are my reasons why it is believed and expected that Christians should abstain from Halloween celebrations, here are some of them:
Its Historical and Pagan Origins
The origin of Halloween is traced back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, a pagan event where people believed the barrier between the living and the dead was thinnest.
During this time, people would wear costumes to ward off wandering spirits, as they feared encounters with the supernatural. Samhain was believed to be deeply rooted in occult practices and beliefs, such as divination and communicating with the dead (Wikipedia, Bethel Fekade, 2018).
In the 8th century, the Catholic Church tried to “Christianize” this pagan holiday by establishing All Saints’ Day on November 1, leading to “All Hallows’ Eve” (or Halloween) on October 31
However, the original pagan elements remained, making Halloween’s history questionable for many Christians who believe in worshiping God in spirit and truth (John 4:24) without mixing their faith with pagan customs. (Catholic.com)
Emphasis on Darkness and Fear
Halloween is customarily celebrated with images of darkness, fear, and death, featuring symbols like ghosts, witches, skulls, and horror themes. The Bible encourages Christians to focus on what is good, pure, and lovely (Philippians 4:8) and to avoid the “unfruitful works of darkness” (Ephesians 5:11).
Halloween’s reputation on horror and fear seems to contradict this biblical call to live in the light and in joy, as believers are called to have a spirit of love and self-discipline, not of fear (2 Timothy 1:7).
Embracing cryptograms of death and darkness may blur the lines between light and darkness for Christians, drawing them away from the message of hope and life that is central to the gospel. 2 Corinthians 6:14: “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what fellowship has light with darkness?”
Relationship with the Occult
Halloween has become synonymous with occult activities such as witchcraft, spells, and communicating spirits. Even though these practices may appear to be “just for fun,” they have spiritual implications.
The Bible consistently warns against involvement with the occult, sorcery, and any form of communication with the dead (Deuteronomy 18:10-12, Leviticus 19:31). Engaging with these practices, even superficially, may be seen as compromising one’s faith and could open doors to spiritual influences contrary to God’s guidance.
For Christians, whose primary source of wisdom and power is God, participation in activities associated with the occult can be spiritually detrimental.
A Call to Be Set Apart
As Christians, we are called to be “set apart” or holy (1 Peter 1:16). This means that there should be a distinct difference from secular culture, including their celebrations and practices.
When Christians participate in Halloween, it can blur their distinctiveness and may send a message that they condone the holiday’s elements that are contrary to Christian beliefs. Celebrating Halloween may also create confusion for non-believers, as it could seem inconsistent with a Christian’s message of salvation and eternal life.
Alternative Ways to Celebrate the Season
Rather than celebrating Halloween, Christians may choose to participate in or create alternative events that focus on positive and edifying themes.
For instance, churches may host evangelism program, concerts, retreats or “light-up events that celebrate God’s goodness and the fall season without invoking themes of fear and death. These alternatives allow Christians to enjoy community and fellowship.
Ask yourself, do you also love this “present world” in the name of “it’s just for fun” just like Demas?
Are you sitting on the window just like Eutychus, so you could watch both the activities in the Body of Christ as well as the happenings in the world?
Would you rather trust the Ancient Word or seek advice from your men in order to suit your lust just like Amnon?
In conclusion, Proverbs 21:16 says “The man that wandereth out of the way of understanding shall remain in the congregation of the dead.” Celebrating or observing things of the world that are contrary to God’s way as a Christian is tantamount to giving a free access ticket to the congregation of the dead.
As Christians, the challenge most of us have is how to cope with the pressure that children put on us during this season. So we should sit them down and explain to them the reason we should not participate according to the Bible. Once we do this, they will understand and walk by it.
Our Lord, Jesus Christ has gone to the cross for us Christians and conquered death for us. He is risen and seated in the heavenly places as God of the living.
Shalom!