The Dark Origins of Halloween: From Samhain to Trick-or-Treat

 

For many, it will come as no surprise that Halloween has its origins in pagan occult practices, yet churches around the world will still be hosting some sort of festivities on that day. They will have various games, trick-or-treating segments, and other Halloween-themed activities. But what are the origins behind Halloween and those deeds done on that day? 

Christianizing Pagan Ways and Days  

As the British Isles were being converted to Catholicism in the early 600s, Pope Gregory the 1st wrote a letter to Abbot Mellitus detailing what the strategy should be to gain “converts”. 

“In 601 A.D. Pope Gregory the First… issued a now famous edict to his missionaries concerning the native beliefs and customs of the peoples he hoped to convert. Rather than try to obliterate native peoples' customs and beliefs, the pope instructed his missionaries to use them: if a group of people worshipped a tree, rather than cut it down, he advised them to consecrate it to Christ and allow its continued worship.” (Jack Santino. Halloween in America: Contemporary Customs and Performances, p.7)

Immediately, a red flag should pop up; this is what is called syncretism, and the church made it a custom to adopt pagan ways of worship and to Christianize them. The Bible, however, does not allow for such actions; we are not to worship Elohim in the same manner as the Gentiles or pagans do their gods.

“Guard yourself that you are not ensnared to follow them, after they are destroyed from before you, and that you do not inquire about their mighty ones, saying, ‘How did these nations serve their mighty ones? And let me do so too.’ “Do not do so to יהוה your Elohim, for every abomination which יהוה hates they have done to their mighty ones, for they even burn their sons and daughters in the fire to their mighty ones.” (Deuteronomy 12:30-31) 

The Samhain and Halloween Connection 

As the Catholic Church was moving through Britain, one of the people groups they would have come across were druids. Druids were a learned class among the Celts who held roles as priests, judges, and teachers. One of their festivals was called Samhain, which begins the evening of October 31, and it is not a mere coincidence that the two holidays fall on the same day. It is from this tradition that we get Halloween, as noted, Pope Georgy instructed his missionaries not to destroy the pagan customs but to “Christianize” them. 

“This feast day was meant to substitute for Samhain, to draw the devotion of the Celtic peoples, and, finally, to replace it forever. That did not happen… All Saints Day, otherwise known as All Hallows (hallowed means sanctified or holy), continued the ancient Celtic traditions.” (University of Northern Iowa on Samhain)

Samhain, which means “End of Summer”, was one of the most important festivals for the Celtic people. During this time, it was (is) believed that the supernatural veil was at its thinnest, giving rise to many supernatural occurrences, such as the gods playing tricks on the people. One of the more significant events during Samhain was the sacrifice of humans. 

“First-born sacrifices are mentioned in a poem in the Dindshenchas, which records that children were sacrificed each Samhain…” (Rogers, Nicholas. Halloween: From Pagan Ritual to Party Night, p. 17)

“Halloween. That was the eve of Samhain… firstborn children were sacrificed…Samhain eve was a night of dread and danger.” (National Geographic, May 1977, pp. 625-626)

Believe it or not, but human sacrifice still occurs to this day, and maybe even more so on Halloween night. It may also surprise you to know that many of the traditional activities of Halloween can be traced back to Samhain, such as the use of jack-o’-lanterns, dressing up, bobbing for apples, and trick-or-treating.

Jack-o’-lanterns

“It is believed that faces, rather than other images or symbols, were originally carved onto the pumpkin because they gave the jack-o’-lantern the look of a head. The Celts of ancient times believed that the head was the most sacred part of the human body, for it housed a person’s immortal soul.” (Dunwich, Gerina. The Pagan Book of Halloween, p. 32)

“Trophy, charm, or ornament, the human head figured prominently in Celtic life. Warriors hung enemy heads on their houses as a show of prowess, and Druids, believing that the head harbored the soul, placed skulls in sanctuaries to ward of evil.” (National Geographic, May 1977, p. 603)

“… the jack-o’-lantern is generally presented in its traditional form as a festive euphemism for death’s-head, the triangular nose hole and rictus grin being the “dead” giveaways.” (Skal, David J. Death Makes a Holiday: The Cultural History of Halloween, p. 38)

“Carved and illuminated by a candle, they are symbolic of death and the spirit world.” (Thompson, Sue Ellen. Holiday symbols and customs, p. 256)

Dressing up in Costume

“There may also have been precedents for trick-or-treating and Halloween costumes in Samhain celebrations. James (1961) reports that in Gallic celebrations of Samhain, the skins of slaughtered animals were worn as a disguise to invoke the spirits of sacred animals and that this masquerade feature continues to survive in the Scottish Highlands.” (Russell W. Belk, University of Utah. Halloween: an Evolving American Consumption Ritual) 

“… mischievous spirits could play tricks on the living- so it was advantageous to “hide” from them by wearing costumes. Masks and costumes were worn to either scare away the ghosts or to keep from being recognized by them.” (John Ankerberg, John Weldon, Dillon Burroughs. The Facts on Halloween, p. 16)

Trick-or-Treat

I found several websites and articles that stated Trick-or-Treat started when Druids would visit houses and ask the man of the house if he was going to provide a sacrifice or not. If the man did offer up someone from his house, then the Druids would place a hollowed-out pumpkin filled with human fat and a candle. This was meant to let other Druids know that this house has already given a sacrifice. If the man refused to give up someone, then strange markings were written on his door in blood; this was done to cause the spirits to afflict the family. The reason I do not have a quote for this is that I could not find this information in a book or a scholarly article, so take it with a grain of salt. 

Bobbing for Apples

“Apples were the sacred fruit of the goddess Pomona, and many games of divination involving apples entered the Samhain customs through her influence. One of the most popular involved bobbing for apples.” (Common Boundary, Sep./Oct. 1993, p. 30)

Do not Do as they Do

Now, many may say, “Well, when I celebrate Halloween, it’s just for fun and I’m not thinking of other gods and spirits.” This is a common objection from people, but I propose that what if engaging in these activities on that night causes spirits or demons to attach themselves to you? Even more, are we not told to be a set-apart people and not to follow the ways of the nations?

“You must not do as they do in Egypt, where you used to live, and you must not do as they do in the land of Canaan, where I am bringing you. Do not follow their practices.” (Leviticus 18:3)

“When you come into the land which יהוה your Elohim is giving you, do not learn to do according to the abominations of those nations.” (Deuteronomy 18:9)

“Thus said יהוה, “Do not learn the way of the nations…” (Jeremiah 10:2)

“So this I say, and witness in the Master, that you should no longer walk as the nations walk, in the futility of their mind,” (Ephesians 4:17)

There are Holy days that the Father has given us to observe, and they are beyond measure in terms of value and meaning compared to these holidays celebrated by the nations. If you have not read my post titled “The Mo’edim” and my other articles in the pagan holiday series I highly recommend giving them a read. Continue to test all things and may the Ruach Hakodesh lead you into all truth. 

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What Does it Mean to Walk in the Spirit According to the Bible?

 

What does it mean to walk in the Spirit? Is it this mystical state of being achieved by meditation, is it following the teachings of man-made doctrine, or is it following the Messiah in obedience to the Father’s instructions (Torah)? I believe the Bible makes it very clear that the right answer is the last option. I know many in the Church will proclaim the law has been done away with or is not for them, but if you profess to be a follower of the Messiah, then the Torah is totally for you.

Walking in the Spirit vs the Flesh 

 Paul writes quite heavily on this topic, showing the contrast between walking in the Spirit and walking according to the flesh. 

“For we know that the Torah is Spiritual, but I am fleshly, sold under sin.” (Romans 7:14)

“For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under Torah.” (Galatians 5:17-18)

Walking in Spirit is walking in obedience to the Father, as Paul states the Torah is Spiritual, and the flesh wants to do the exact opposite, which is disobedience. Many people get hung up on verse 18, but it isn’t as complicated as it sounds. If you are led by the Spirit (the Torah), then you are not under the Torah. If I keep the commandments, I am not under the law because I cannot be under what I am following. Think about the laws in your country, as long as you obey, you are not under the law (under arrest). 

“And the works of the flesh are well-known, which are these: adultery, whoring, uncleanness, indecency, idolatry, drug sorcery, hatred, quarrels, jealousies, fits of rage, selfish ambitions, dissensions,factions,envy, murders, drunkenness, wild parties, and the like – of which I forewarn you, even as I also said before, that those who practice such as these shall not inherit the reign of Elohim.” (Galatians 5:21)

The acts of the flesh are contrary to the acts of the Spirit, for the Torah does not promote such actions but condemns them. It speaks out against adultery, idolatry, sexual impurity, and hatred. Yet some people will state that the works of the flesh is Torah observance, how can this be? For the Father’s instructions do not tell me to go commit adultery or worship false gods, but tell me not to do these things. Paul writes that by walking in the Spirit, Torah, we do not do the desires of the flesh.

“And I say: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not accomplish the lust of the flesh.” (Galatians 5:16)

Yeshua’s Behavior Mirror’s the Torah  

We are told to imitate the Messiah, and following Torah is how we are being transformed into the image of the Son. 

“For Messiah is the goal of the ‘Torah unto righteousness’ to everyone who believes.” (Romans 10:4) 

When I read the commandments, it’s as if I’m a biologist examining strains of DNA, because as John writes, the word put on flesh. Studying the Torah is how I know who the Messiah is, what he values, what he stands for, and what he is against. So, in keeping the Father’s instructions, my aim (goal) is Messiah, the more commandments I keep, the more I align myself to Yeshua and the Father’s will. By being obedient, I bear fruits that showcase my character and demonstrate where my heart is. 

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, trustworthiness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no Torah.” (Galatians 5:22-23) 

Obeying Torah (walking in the Spirit) leads us to be full of Shalom (peace), joy, gentleness, and self-control. The Torah is not against such attributes because following the instructions leads to them. 

Stay in Him, through Obedience 

Since the case has been made that walking in the Spirit is Torah observance and that fruit is produced from such living, notice then, the speech Yeshua uses in identifying who enters the kingdom and who is thrown out. 

“I am the true vine, and My Father is the gardener. “Every branch in Me that bears no fruit He takes away. And every branch that bears fruit He prunes, so that it bears more fruit. “You are already clean because of the Word which I have spoken to you. Stay in Me, and I stay in you. As the branch is unable to bear fruit of itself, unless it stays in the vine, so neither you, unless you stay in Me. “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who stays in Me, and I in him, he bears much fruit. Because without Me you are able to do naught! “If anyone does not stay in Me, he is thrown away as a branch and dries up. And they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned.” (John 15: 1-6)

One cannot be a branch in Messiah if they do not first proclaim to know him, and any branch that does not bear fruit (which is brought forth from obedience) is cut off and thrown into the fire. This passage presents complications for those who claim once saved always saved, but the one who is walking according to the Spirit should have no fear. By being a YHWH believer, Yeshua follower, keeper of the Torah, you can rest easy knowing that while the world may come against you, you have no condemnation.

“There is, then, now no condemnation to those who are in Messiah יהושע, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.” (Romans 8:1) 

Continue to test all things, including what I have written; it is, after all, your responsibility to be knowledgeable in the word. I hope you will be inquisitive and uncompromising in your walk with Messiah Yeshua, and may the Ruach HaKodesh lead you into all truth. 

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The Proper Interpretation of 'Eye for an Eye' in the Bible

 

“But if there is injury, then you shall give life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burn for burn, wound for wound, lash for lash.” (Exodus 21:23-25)

The term “eye for an eye and tooth for tooth” has often been used by Christians to show how barbaric the “old laws” were back in the day. Followed then by quoting what Yeshua said in the Brit Hadashah (New Testament), to turn the other cheek. When presented out of context, it does make the Torah seem rather brutal and depicts a Messiah who taught against keeping the Father’s instructions. Yet, when given the entire context of the phrase “eye for an eye,” it is plain to see (no pun intended) that the correct way of interpreting this is in view of a judicial system that operates within the punishment fitting the crime. In fact, this is quite obvious given the examples that are laid out immediately following Exodus 21:25.

A Judicial System of Equal Measure 

“And when a man strikes the eye of his male or female servant, and destroys it, he is to let him go free for the sake of his eye. And if he knocks out the tooth of his male or female servant, he is to let him go free for the sake of his tooth.” (Exodus 21:26-27) 

If we were to take a literal interpretation of “eye for an eye” as it is given in Exodus 21, we can already see problems arising. Such as why wasn’t the man who destroyed the eye of his servant, in turn, have his eye destroyed? Or when he knocked out a tooth, why didn’t he have a tooth removed? Did Moses forget what he wrote just 2 seconds earlier? Did the Bible just contradict itself? Of course not, these are two examples of how “eye for an eye” was to be implemented, not in a literal sense, as the examples demonstrated, but in a judicial way. Because the master permanently damaged the servant, the proper action was to release said servant from their obligation.

“And when a man opens a pit, or if a man digs a pit and does not cover it, and an ox or a donkey falls in it, the owner of the pit is to repay, he is to give silver to their owner, and the dead beast is his.” (Exodus 21:33-34)

Again, we see that if the typical understanding of an “eye for an eye” was applied here, then the person who dug the pit should have one of his animals killed. But, as we can see, the punishment befitting the crime was to pay the price of the dead beast, so the owner who had just lost livestock could have it replaced. The idea of “eye for an eye” was not meant to come off as cruel, but was a way to make sure the person in trouble did not receive a punishment worse than the offense. Take the judicial system today, people are always attempting to sue someone else for more than the damages owed. They don’t just want reconciliation; they want retribution. If the Bible were advocating for taking revenge, as some have equated “eye for an eye” to mean, then the Bible would be contradicting itself, for it is a sin to seek vengeance. 

“Do not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the children of your people. And you shall love your neighbor as yourself. I am יהוה.” (Leviticus 19:18) 

Yeshua vs the Pharisees for the Proper Interpretation   

Then what was Yeshua talking about when he presumably condemned the perfect Torah? Well, the Messiah was not being critical of the Father’s instructions but was challenging how it was being applied under the leadership of the Pharisees. 

“You heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth,’ but I say to you, do not resist the wicked. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.” (Matthew 5:38-39) 

Notice how Yeshua states, “you heard it was said”, not “It is written”, this may seem of little significance upon first glance, but understanding the difference is key to unlocking what the Master was talking about. By saying you have heard it said, immediately we can know Yeshua was not attacking the Father’s instructions but was critiquing how it was both understood and practiced. During this time, the phrase “eye for an eye” (still widely used today to convey a vengeful attitude) was used to justify personal vendettas, which, as we have already covered, is a sin. If this is the case, then what do we make of turning the other cheek? Exodus 21:23-25 speaks of permanent damage or actions that warrant serious consequences, such as losing an eye, tooth, or receiving scars or burns. These are lasting changes and will remain with a person for the rest of their lives. Even more so, the idiom starts with, “if there is injury”, a slap on the cheek is nothing compared to losing a limb or enduring a perpetual alteration. The Messiah is essentially saying to toughen up; a measly slap on the face or its equivalent is nothing to get overly upset about. I imagine Elohim looking down on us, seeing a bunch of children running around, crying about everything. We must learn to endure hardship or risk falling by the wayside when things really get serious. Furthermore, why would Yeshua denounce a judicial system that allows for reconciliation and applies equal weight and measures? Given the whole scope of what “eye for an eye” means, it is easy to see the absurdity brought forth by lawless people, whether intentionally or unintentionally. Taking scripture out of context to fit man-made doctrines is vile, especially when suggesting that Yeshua taught against the Torah.

Building Understanding of the Word

 I hope this brings understanding and a way to combat the accusations of lawless people, for we must be ready to give a defense for what we believe. 

“But set apart יהוה Elohim in your hearts, and always be ready to give an answer to everyone asking you a reason concerning the expectation that is in you, with meekness and fear, having a good conscience, so that when they speak against you as doers of evil, those who falsely accuse your good behavior in Messiah, shall be ashamed. For it is better, if it is the desire of Elohim, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.” (1 Peter 3:15- 17) 

Continue to test all things, including this, and may the Ruach Hakodesh lead you into all truth. 

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Is Faith More Than Just Believing? Understanding The Bible's Definition of Faith

 

Is faith more than just simply believing? Is faith a confession of the mouth for things hoped for and nothing else? Is there evidence that a person has faith or faithfulness? Mainstream Christianity provides an ambiguous definition of faith, or at least what it means to have faith (to be faithful). 

Mainstream Christianity’s Definition of Faith 

According to Billy Graham, faith has two parts to it. First, we must believe that YHWH exists, that He loves us, and that He sent His Son to die for our sins. The second part is,

“a definite decision not only to believe in our minds that Christ can save us, but to put our lives into His hands and trust Him alone for our salvation. True faith not only believes Christ can save us, but actually trusts Him to do it.” (Billy Graham, Can you give me a simple definition of faith?) 

This is a typical mainstream Christian response; faith is simply believing as if we are talking about Santa Claus, and we must believe he exists to receive our gifts. I say this not to downplay the role belief plays in having faith but to put it into perspective, just as James wrote, 

“You believe that Elohim is one. You do well. The demons also believe – and shudder!” (James 2:19) 

The Bible's Definition of Belief 

James had some very interesting things to say regarding faith, or as the Scriptures translate it, belief. I will return to his writings towards the end of the post, but for now, let us turn to Hebrews, where the author (possibly Paul) defines faith or belief.

“And belief is the substance of what is expected, the proof of what is not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1)

Interesting, belief (faith) is the substance of things expected. Do you not know that substances are things that exist in the physical world and not in the mind? For example, my thoughts take up no space; they have no extension or substance to them. It is only when my thoughts are written down or acted out that they materialize. Moreover, proof is the presence of empirical evidence, which can only be verified when seen. Therefore, it is reasonable to conclude that simply professing to have faith is not enough, but having proof that is verifiable by tangible means. This is exactly what the author of Hebrews goes on to show us with the faith “Hall of Famers” as some have so adequately referred to them.

“By belief, Heḇel (Abel) offered to Elohim a greater slaughter offering than Qayin (Cain), through which he obtained witness that he was righteous, Elohim witnessing of his gifts. And through it, having died, he still speaks. By belief, Ḥanoḵ (Enoch) was translated so as not to see death, “and was not found because Elohim had translated him.” For before his translation he obtained witness, that he pleased Elohim. But without belief it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to Elohim has to believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who earnestly seek Him. By belief, Noaḥ, having been warned of what was yet unseen, having feared, prepared an ark to save his house, through which he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness which is according to belief. By belief, Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he was about to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going. By belief, he sojourned in the land of promise as a stranger, dwelling in tents with Yitsḥaq (Isaac) and Ya‛aqoḇ (Jacob), the heirs with him of the same promise, for he was looking for the city having foundations, whose builder and maker is Elohim. By belief also, Sarah herself was enabled to conceive seed, and she bore a child when she was past the normal age, because she deemed Him trustworthy who had promised. And so from one, and him as good as dead, were born as numerous as the stars of the heaven, as countless as the sand which is by the seashore. In belief all these died, not having received the promises, but seeing them from a distance, welcomed and embraced them, and confessed that they were aliens and strangers on the earth.” (Hebrews 11:4-13)

All of them mentioned above were obedient. Abel brought the best he had for the sacrifice, Enoch walked faithfully with Elohim, Noah built the Ark, Abraham traveled to a foreign land when Elohim told him to do so, and Sarah trusted in Elohim to make good on His promise. It is only because they had faith that they were able to be obedient to the Father. If they did not trust the Father, then they would not have done what they did. It is quite simple, faith, like love, is a verb. For if I tell my wife that I love her, but my actions do not align with my words, then do I truly love her? Likewise, if I say I have faith in the Messiah, but I do not express my profession with good works, like those mentioned above, then do I truly trust in Him? I do not do the various actions to show my affection towards my wife to garner her love; on the contrary, I do those actions because I have obtained her love. Similarly, I keep the Torah because that is tangible proof of my faith in Yeshua Hamashiach. This is exactly what James was talking about when he said,

“So also belief, if it does not have works, is in itself dead. But someone might say, “You have belief, and I have works.” Show me your belief without your works, and I shall show you my belief by my works.” (James 2:17-18)

The way James describes faith is in complete alignment with Hebrews 11:1; the work is the very substance that gives testament to the proof that one has faith. Also, in keeping with the flow of Hebrews, James gives his own list of faith “Hall of Famers”. 

“But do you wish to know, O foolish man, that the belief without the works is dead? Was not Abraham our father declared right by works when he offered Yitsḥaq (Isaac) his son on the slaughter-place? Do you see that the belief was working with his works, and by the works the belief was perfected? And the Scripture was filled which says, “Abraham believed Elohim, and it was reckoned to him for righteousness.” And He called him, “he who loves Elohim.” You see, then, that a man is declared right by works, and not by belief alone. In the same way, was not Rahab the whore also declared right by works when she received the messengers and sent them out another way? For as the body without the spirit is dead, so also the belief is dead without the works.” (James 2:20-26) 

What does James mean by works? Does he mean attending Sunday church, teaching Sunday school, and generally being a good person? I would argue no, but to know what we should do (the works) we must know what is Biblically defined as good. 

Good as Defined by the Bible

“If you obey the voice of יהוה your Elohim, to guard His commands and His laws which are written in this Book of the Torah, if you turn back to יהוה your Elohim with all your heart and with all your being. “For this command which I am commanding you today, it is not too hard for you, nor is it far off. “It is not in the heavens, to say, ‘Who shall ascend into the heavens for us, and bring it to us, and cause us to hear it, so that we do it?’ Nor is it beyond the sea, to say, ‘Who shall go over the sea for us, and bring it to us, and cause us to hear it, so that we do it?’” “For the Word is very near you, in your mouth and in your heart – to do it. See, I have set before you today life and good, and death and evil,” (Deuteronomy 30:10-15) 

Being obedient to YHWH and following his instructions is good, so is it wrong to assume that keeping Torah is performing good works? Titus doesn’t seem to think so.

“For the saving Gift of Elohim has appeared to all men, instructing us to renounce wickedness and worldly lusts, and to live sensibly, righteously, and reverently in the present age, looking for the blessed expectation and esteemed appearance of the great Elohim and our Saviour יהושע Messiah, who gave Himself for us, to redeem us from all lawlessness and to cleanse for Himself a people, his own possession, ardent for good works.” (Titus 2:11-14)

Neither does Paul.

“For by favour you have been saved, through belief, and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of Elohim, it is not by works, so that no one should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Messiah יהושע unto good works, which Elohim prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:8-10)

Even Paul agrees with Titus and James that we are created in Yeshua to do good works, which YHWH has prepared for us to walk in. Remember that the good works prepared by Elohim is His Torah, His instructions on how to live a life pleasing to Him. And how does this tie in with faith? Well, Paul said we are saved by grace through faith, which means that faith is the vehicle through which we arrive at grace (unmerited favor). James tells us that faith without works is dead; no good works equal no gas for the vehicle. Therefore, there is no grace for those who claim to have faith and yet lack the works to prove it. 

Belief without Works is Dead

“My brothers, what use is it for anyone to say he has belief but does not have works? This belief is unable to save him.” (James 2:14)

Keeping Torah with the attitude that you will save yourself (which is works without belief), will not be effective; it is through belief that our good works will be counted as righteous. 

“For not the hearers of the Torah are righteous in the sight of Elohim, but the doers of the Torah shall be declared right.” (Romans 2:13) 

Continue to test all things, including this teaching, for I do not wish for you to become like children, unable to think for themselves. Instead, it is my hope you will grow into mature adults in the spirit, fully capable and ready to be a living testimony to our Messiah Yeshua and our Father YHWH. 

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Uncovering the Truth Behind Easter: Separating Fact from Fiction

 

The series of Pagan Holidays continues with Easter, I know for many, as it is for Christmas, it will be very difficult for them to let this pagan holiday go. The fingernails of Easter have dug into the skin with fond memories of finding Easter eggs or celebrating the resurrection of the Messiah. But what is the true meaning of the Easter egg, and more importantly, does the holiday have anything to do with Yeshua coming back to life? Mainstream Christianity will tell you, of course, it has to do with Jesus resurrecting and that finding Easter eggs is a fun activity for children. 

Three Days and Three Nights?

There are already problems with their claim, for how can the Messiah die on Friday and then be raised on Sunday when the Bible said he spent three days and three nights in the grave?

“But He answering, said to them, “A wicked and adulterous generation seeks after a sign, and no sign shall be given to it except the sign of the prophet Yonah (Jonah). “For as Yonah (Jonah) was three days and three nights in the stomach of the great fish, so shall the Son of Adam be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.” (Matthew 12:39-40) 

Friday to Sunday will not give us the three complete days and nights; those who subscribe to this model can only do so by affirming that any amount of a day counts for a whole day. This is illogical. How can 6 hours equal 24? Or how can eating a slice of pizza equate to eating the whole thing? The absurdity of their claim is plain and evident to see; no matter how you dice it, a part can not equal the whole. What about this business of Easter being in celebration of Yeshua’s sacrifice? My Messiah is the Passover lamb. 

Messiah is the Passover Lamb

“Therefore, when Pilate heard these words, he brought יהושע out and sat down in the judgment seat in a place that is called Pavement, but in Hebrew, Gabbatha. And it was the Preparation Day of the Pĕsaḥ week, and about the sixth hour. And he said to the Yehuḏim, “See your Sovereign!” (John 19:13-14) Pesah means Passover. My quotes from the Bible come from The Scriptures 2009, the free version can be found online. 

“being declared right, without paying, by His favor through the redemption which is in Messiah יהושע, whom Elohim set forth as an atonement, through belief in His blood, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His tolerance Elohim had passed over the sins that had taken place before.” (Romans 3:24-25)

“Therefore, cleanse out the old leaven, so that you are a new lump, as you are unleavened. For also Messiah our Pĕsaḥ was slaughtered for us.” (1 Corinthians 5:7) 

If the Bible continually refers to Yeshua as the Passover lamb, then why do mainstream Christians keep Easter and not Passover? 

The Catholic Church’s Doing

The Catholic church made it a practice to “Christianize” pagan holidays, and mainstream Christian churches have followed in line with their treacherous mother. 

“We further proclaim to you the good news of the agreement concerning the holy Easter, that this particular also has through your prayers been rightly settled; so that all our brethren in the East who formerly followed the custom of the Jews are henceforth to celebrate the said most sacred feast of Easter at the same time with the Romans and yourselves and all those who have observed Easter from the beginning.” (First Council of Nicæa, A.D. 325) 

First off, keeping Passover is not a Jewish thing; it’s a Hebrew thing, and if that statement confuses you, please read through my posts under the tab Torah. Most sacred feast of Easter, who claimed that in the Bible? Absolutely no one! The Catholic Encyclopedia uses a few choice words that are deceptive in order to promote their pagan holiday. 

“The connection between the Jewish Passover and the Christian feast of Easter is real and ideal. Real, since Christ died on the first Jewish Easter Day.” (http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/05224d.htm)

Passover is not the Jewish version of Easter; that is a ridiculous statement to make, but the reason they use that type of language is to blind the masses. Because the mainstream Christian will then be indoctrinated to believe that celebrating Easter is for the Messiah and Passover is for the Jews when they were led out of Egypt. When in reality, as Paul promptly mentions, Yeshua is the Passover Lamb, not the Easter ham. Before we delve into the origins of Easter, I have to make you all aware of a purposely mistranslated phrase that is found in the KJV of the Bible; other translations may use this as well. 

“And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people.” (Acts 12:4)

The word used here is Pascha, which comes from the word Pesach; this word means Passover, not Easter. 

“So when he had seized him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four squads of soldiers to watch over him, intending to bring him before the people after Pĕsaḥ.” (Acts 12:4)

The Origins of Easter

Ok, now that is out of the way, let us continue with our journey of discovering the truth. So, if Easter did not come from the Bible, then where did it come from?

“Since Bede the Venerable (De ratione temporum 1:5) the origin of the term for the feast of Christ’s Resurrection has been popularly considered to be from the Anglo-Saxon Eastre, a goddess of spring…the Old High German plural for dawn, eostarun; whence has come the German Ostern, and our English Easter” (The New Catholic Encyclopedia, 1967, Vol. 5, p. 6).

“The fact that vernal festivals were general among pagan peoples no doubt had much to do with the form assumed by the Eastern festival in the Christian churches. The English term Easter is of pagan origin” (Albert Henry Newman, D.D., LL.D., A Manual of Church History, p. 299).

“Easter—the name Easter comes to us from Ostera or Eostre, the Anglo-Saxon goddess of spring, for whom a spring festival was held annually, as it is from this pagan festival that some of our Easter customs have come” (The Easter Book of Legends and Stories by Hazeltine, p. 53).

“This Ostarâ, like the Eástre, must in heathen religion have denoted a higher being, whose worship was so firmly rooted, that the Christian teachers tolerated the name, and applied it to one of their own grandest anniversaries.” (“Deutsche Mythologie” by Jacob Grimm) 

“In Babylonia…the goddess of spring was called Ishtar. She was identified with the planet Venus…In Phoenecia, she became Astarte; in Greece, Eostre and in Germany, Ostara…” (Easter Parade (An Avon Camelot Book) by Englehart, p. 4) 

“The reasons for celebrating our major feasts when we do are many and varied. In general, however, it is true that many of them have at least an indirect connection with the pre-Christian feasts celebrated about the same time of year -- feasts centering around the harvest, the rebirth of the sun at the winter solstice (now Dec. 21, but Dec. 25 in the old Julian calendar), the renewal of nature in spring, and so on.” (The New Question Box -- Catholic Life for the Nineties by John J. Dietzen, p. 554.)

“The term ‘Easter’ is not of Christian origin. It is another form of Astarte, one of the titles of the Chaldean goddess, the queen of heaven. The festival of Pasch held by Christians in post-apostolic times was a continuation of the Jewish feast … From this Pasch, the pagan festival of ‘Easter’ was quite distinct and was introduced into the apostate Western religion, as part of the attempt to adapt pagan festivals to Christianity.” (. E. Vine, Merrill F. Unger, William White, Jr., Vine's Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, article: Easter, p.192) 

“The term Easter was derived from the Anglo-Saxon 'Eostre,' the name of the goddess of spring. In her honor sacrifices were offered at the time of the vernal equinox. By the 8th cent. the term came to be applied to the anniversary of Christ's resurrection.” (International Standard Bible Encyclopaedia, edited by Geoffrey Bromiley, Vol 2 of 4, p.6, article: Easter)

“The name of a feast, according to the Venerable Bede, comes from Eostre, A Teutonic goddess whose festival was celebrated in the spring. The name was given to the Christian festival in celebration of the resurrected Eostre, it was who, according to the legend, opened portals of Valhalla to recieve Baldur, called the white god because of his purity and also the sun god because his brow supplied light to mankind. It was Baldur who, after he had been murdered by Utgard Loki, the enemy of goodness and truth, spent half the year in Valhalla and the other half with the pale goddess of the lower regions. As the festival of Eostre was a celebration of the renewal of life in the spring it was easy to make it a celebration of the resurrection from the dead of Jesus. There is no doubt that the church in its early days adopted the old pagan customs and gave a Christian meaning to them.” (George William Douglas, The American Book of Days, article: Easter) 

Easter does not have its roots in the Bible but comes from the pagan worship of spring. The Catholic church would assimilate pagan customs to garner new converts, as they did with Christmas, Halloween, and Valentine’s Day. I could continue to provide quote after quote detailing the pagan origins of Easter, but I believe the point has been made. Now, what about the traditions that surround Easter?

Easter Eggs 

“The origin of the Easter egg is based on the fertility lore of the Indo-European races…The egg to them was a symbol of spring…In Christian times the egg had bestowed upon it a religious interpretation, becoming a symbol of the rock tomb out of which Christ emerged to the new life of His resurrection” (Handbook of Christian Feasts and Customs by Francis X. Weiser, p. 233)

“Around the Christian observance of Easter…folk customs have collected, many of which have been handed down from the ancient ceremonial…symbolism of European and Middle Eastern pagan spring festivals…for example, eggs…have been very prominent as symbols of new life and resurrection.” (Encyclopedia Britannica, 1991 ed., Vol. 4, p. 333)

“Eggs were hung up in the Egyptian temples. Bunsen calls attention to the mundane egg, the emblem of generative life, proceeding from the mouth of the great god of Egypt. The mystic egg of Babylon, hatching the Venus Ishtar, fell from heaven to the Euphrates. Dyed eggs were sacred Easter offerings in Egypt, as they are still in China and Europe. Easter, or spring, was the season of birth, terrestrial and celestial.” (Egyptian Belief and Modern Thought by James Bonwick, p. 211-212)

“The custom may have its origin in paganism, for a great many pagan customs, celebrating the return of spring… the egg is the emblem of the germinating life of early spring.” (http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/05224d.htm) 

“In ancient Egypt and Persia friends exchanged decorated eggs at the spring equinox, the beginning of their New Year. These eggs were a symbol of fertility for them because the coming forth of a live creature from an egg was so surprising to people of ancient times. Christians of the Near East adopted this tradition, and the Easter egg became a religious symbol. It represented the tomb from which Jesus came forth to new life.” (Catholic Customs and Traditions by Greg Dues, p. 101) 

Easter Rabbit

“The Easter Rabbit lays the eggs, for which reason they are hidden in a nest or in the garden. The rabbit is a pagan symbol and has always been an emblem of fertility (Simrock, Mythologie, 551).” (http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/05224d.htm)

“The Easter bunny had its origin in pre-Christian fertility lore…The Easter bunny has never had religious symbolism bestowed on its festive usage…However, the bunny has acquired a cherished role in the celebration of Easter as the legendary producer of Easter eggs for children in many countries.” (Handbook of Christian Feasts and Customs by Francis X. Weiser, p. 236)

“The hare, the symbol of fertility in ancient Egypt, a symbol that was kept later in Europe…Its place has been taken by the Easter rabbit.” (Encyclopedia Britannica, 1991 ed., Vol. 4, p. 333)

“Little children are usually told that the Easter eggs are brought by the Easter Bunny. Rabbits are part of pre-Christian fertility symbolism because of their reputation to reproduce rapidly.” (Catholic Customs and Traditions by Greg Dues, p.102) 

“The Easter hare was no ordinary animal, but a sacred companion of the old goddess of spring, Eostre.” (Julian Fox, Easter, Vero Beach: Rourke Enterprises, 1989, p.11)

The number of sources that speak on the pagan origins of Easter and its customs is extensive. I provided just a handful of quotes, but I strongly encourage everyone to do their own research. Indeed, looking into this topic has proven to be a rabbit hole so deep that it puts Alice and Wonderland to shame. I hope this post has sparked your interest in testing the origins of Easter. I pray that the Ruach Hakodesh leads you into all truth. 

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