Learn why pumpkins are used on Halloween
The Jack o Lantern is one of the most endearing symbols in the celebration of Halloween. In fact, These pumpkins carved with spectral eyes and mouths can be seen at the entrances of houses, in store windows., and even in the prints of clothing or gift paper. Illuminated from the inside, they give a gloomy and ghostly appearance. But have you ever wondered why pumpkins are used on Halloween? Why is this healthy orange vegetable so closely associated with Halloween? Well, everything has a spiritual symbolism.
The legend of the Jack o Lantern
The first thing to clarify about why pumpkins are used on Halloween is that the specific use of the pumpkin is more recent, although the symbology has remained the same for two millennia. What the legend says is that a man named Jack made a pact with the devil to fulfill his wishes. But that deal went pretty wrong. Then his soul was condemned to wander in the nights for all eternity. The only thing he had to light his way was a lump of glowing coal inside a turnip carved with holes.
Then, the Celts began to follow the tradition of carving turnips, lighting them from the inside and placing them at the entrances of their houses. It was also common for those who had to go out during witches’ night to take these lamps with them. What was believed was that they represented supernatural beings, and therefore served to ward off evil spirits.
The arrival of the pumpkin
We have already approached the symbolism of a vegetable cut, carved and lit from the inside, which works as a kind of protection to ward off evil spirits from people and homes. But why are pumpkins used on Halloween? Why didn’t the custom of carved turnips continue? Well This modification in the tradition of the Jack o Lantern is more related to the celebration of Halloween in the United States.
It was in the 19th century that great waves of Irish immigrants landed in North America, bringing their traditions with them. The night of witches was one of those that best penetrated American culture. But in those days, to continue celebrating Halloween and warding off evil spirits, the Irish came up with a new way. They met the pumpkin, which was much easier to carve than the turnip. Since then, it has been used year after year.
Nowadays, The great pumpkin harvests in the United States coincide with the celebration of Halloween. Many have become familiar with its decoration, for which the upper part of the stem is cut in the form of a lid and all the meat inside is scraped until it is hollow. Holes in the shape of eyes and mouth are then cut into the shell, and the inside is lit, usually by a candle. Such is the dedication of North Americans to this tradition, that competitions are even organized in which they seek to choose the best Jack o Lantern.
Other Halloween facts you should know
In addition to knowing why pumpkins are used on Halloween, it is very interesting to learn about other curiosities and symbolism about this holiday. The halloween in the world has not stopped growing. From the distant Scottish and Irish lands it passed to North America, and from there, its celebration has spread to other countries and very distant localities., such as Europe and some Latin American countries. If you are one of those who enjoys the night of the witch, do not miss reading these articles, to understand it better.
And you, Did you know why pumpkins are used on Halloween? Have you ever practiced the Jack o Lantern, carving a pumpkin in your home? Are you one of those who dress up on Halloween? Dare to leave us all your opinions in a comment. We will be happy to read you!