Why is the pumpkin a symbol of Halloween? The pumpkin generally and over the years since the inception of one of the most celebrated holidays in the US and in other regions of the world, is the hallmark of Halloween. And many ignorant bystanders are curious as to the reason for this?
Why Is The Pumpkin A Symbol Of Halloween?
Pumpkin is now seen more like the logo of Halloween and on the eve of all saints day which is now Halloween, pumpkins will be seen all over the place in regions where it is celebrated. Since spooky faces are carved on them at most times, they may appear scary, but in essence, they are very edible or good to eat.
They (pumpkins) are now a major symbol of Halloween along with creepy and spooky costumes and decorations all over the world in places where the holiday is respected. The pumpkin originally and symbolically is linked often to fertility and rebirth. Also, they symbolize and stand for crops and harvests. And do you know that pumpkins naturally fall in the same season in which Halloween falls every year? Yes, this is true and this is one of the reasons why pumpkins are one of the symbols of the event.
The Meaning Of Pumpkins In Halloween
Besides the fact that it is a symbol of the holiday, pumpkins represent various meanings in different and diverse situations. If you are one of the many that go trick and treating on this very day, a luminous pumpkin on the staircase of a house symbolizes that the residents of the house want a visit. Pumpkins can also be used for lanterns to help luminate stairs streets and window frames each year. Pumpkin lanterns are probably the most visible symbol of the Halloween celebration.
Scented vegetables can also be used in Halloweens but they are old phenomena. But pumpkins are preferable because they are ready for harvest in many places of the world in late October. They can be accessed and of course, they are also in season around Halloween time. Additionally, as the night begins to grow, pumpkins make good lanterns.
Why Pumpkins Are Carved In Halloween
The origins as to why pumpkins are carved in Halloweens dates back to the ancient Irish myth about the fierce black-smith known as “stingy jack”. He was said to have fooled the devil on several occasions and often tricks himself into receiving a last drink at the pub. The myth says he tricked the devil the last time into promising him not to take his soul when he died so he couldn’t end up in hell. And also due to his dealings with dark power and his likeness or alcohol, he wasn’t allowed in heaven either.
When he therefore died, Jack walked the earth forever with a piece of glowing coal as the only light he had with him. Jack then had to put the chunk in a cabbage root that is carved and until this day he wanders the dark with it leaving behind him an ethereal green light. People in England, therefore, carved vegetables with candles in their stairways and window frames to scare the wandering soul of jack away.
