What Does The Bible Say About Celebrating Halloween? Answered

Last Updated on August 29, 2023 by Kimberlee Johnson

As the days grow shorter and it becomes autumn, people start talking again about whether it’s okay to celebrate Halloween, especially among religious groups.

I remember when I was younger and part of a conservative community, we would have strong debates every year about this holiday.

If you look at the Bible, different viewpoints have led to ongoing discussions about whether Halloween fits with the Christian faith.

So, it leads to a question: What does the Bible say about celebrating Halloween? I’ll walk you through the insights that I gather that shed light on this intriguing problem.

Table of Contents

What Does The Bible Say About Halloween Celebrations?

While the Bible doesn’t directly mention Halloween due to its post-biblical origins, it touches on death [1], darkness, and evil.

For some, Halloween provides a platform to engage with these themes.

“Be true to yourself, help others, make each day your masterpiece, make friendship a fine art, drink deeply from good books – especially the Bible, build a shelter against a rainy day, give thanks for your blessings and pray for guidance every day.”
– John Wooden, American Basketball Coach

The Bible encourages believers to focus on light and goodness and avoid participating in activities glorifying darkness.

Ultimately, whether to celebrate Halloween or not becomes a matter of personal conviction guided by biblical principles. But what does October in the Bible mean?

Is It Okay for Christians To Enjoy Halloween?

While Halloween’s origins are rooted in themes of darkness and the supernatural, some Christians choose to celebrate the holiday in a different light.

Although celebrating evil, death, and darkness contradicts Christian values, some believers view Halloween as an opportunity to spend quality time with loved ones, connect with their community, and exhibit Christ-like kindness in unconventional settings.

Recognizing that Halloween has evolved into a largely secular event for many, some Christians find a balance between participating and upholding their faith, becoming a positive presence amid the darkness of the holiday.

Which Christian Does Not Celebrate Halloween?

Russian Christians, particularly those from the Russian Orthodox sect, often refrain from celebrating Halloween due to its perceived clash with Christian values.

Similarly, some Evangelical Christians reject the holiday, associating it with pagan origins [2] and devil worship.

These groups abstain from Halloween festivities due to their religious convictions and concerns about the holiday’s historical and symbolic connections to practices outside their beliefs.

Find out what countries do not observe Halloween here.

How Can A Christian Celebrate Halloween?

1. Engage In Pumpkin Carving

Participate in the seasonal tradition of pumpkin carving. Embrace your creative side by crafting intricate designs and hosting friendly carving competitions.

To infuse a spiritual essence, consider utilizing Christian-themed pumpkin carving stencils, offering a distinctive way to express your faith visually.

2. Embrace Trunk-or-Treat Activities

Explore the realm of trunk-or-treat events, often organized by churches or groups. These provide a secure and non-intimidating alternative to conventional trick-or-treating.

This option is particularly suitable for families with young children, allowing them to revel in collecting treats within a controlled and familiar environment.

3. Craft Prayerful Pumpkins

Make your pumpkin carving meaningful by drawing pictures and writing prayers on them. This creative approach lets you convey Christ’s message and intentions visually appealingly.

Each pumpkin can become a piece of art and an expression of your faith through the prayers you share.

4. Foster Togetherness With Board Game Night

For a more relaxed celebration, opt for a board game night. Introduce a new board game that the whole family can enjoy, fostering bonding and creating lasting memories.

Take time to revisit your favorite childhood games that can be just as entertaining and delightful.

5. Host A Meaningful Harvest Fest

Consider reimagining the Halloween celebration as a Harvest Fest. While the name changes, the emphasis on gratitude and togetherness remains.

“Our approach to Halloween can be a testament to our faith—embracing joy, community, and the light in a world that loves the dark.”
– Howkapow Gift Site

Families can host safe gatherings with various activities and stations that align with autumnal themes, emphasizing the season’s blessings.

6. Share Bible Stories By The Fire

Gather your community around a cozy fire to share Bible stories and prayers.

This setting provides a unique opportunity to spread the gospel while enjoying the warmth of the fire and the company of others.

The experience can be enriched further by adding the delight of s’mores and building connections through shared faith narratives.

Also Read: Easy Tips To Throw A Halloween Party?

FAQs

What term do Christians use for Halloween?

Christians refer to Halloween as “Hallowe’en,” short for “All Hallows Eve.”

This term, rooted in Christian history, underscores the eve of All Saints’ Day and emphasizes its connection to the Christian tradition of honoring saints and departed loved ones.

But what is Halloween, and why do people love to celebrate it?

Does the Bible prohibit Halloween?

No, the Bible does not specifically mention or prohibit the celebration of Halloween. However, some Christians avoid Halloween due to its pagan origins and dark associations.

Final Say

Thinking about what the Bible says about celebrating Halloween, I see a mixed view of this spooky holiday.

The Bible doesn’t directly discuss Halloween, but its ideas of darkness, bad things, and death make us think.

For Christians, it’s about choosing to be part of it or not based on their beliefs. Some Christians enjoy Halloween. They see it as a way to make friends and bring light to dark things.

But other Christians, like Russian Orthodox and certain Evangelical groups, avoid it because they think it goes against their faith.

During this sweet and spooky fun time, remember that your choice of Halloween shows what you believe in.

References:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/23144-what-happens-when-you-die
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/where-to-go-to-explore-pagan-culture

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Kimberlee Johnson

Kimberlee Johnson is a preschool teacher and a mom of 3. She puts a lot of thought into gift-buying and gift-giving as she believes that each gift should tell a story. She enjoys scrapbooking and watching the History Channel. Learn more about us here or you can email us [email protected].