Growing up, one of my favourite holidays was Halloween. Who could resist going out after dark, in costume, to collect sack-fulls of candy? I had an added bonus— Halloween doubles as my birthday, so I always received presents.
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Not every Jewish kid was so fortunate. Some of my friends would sit at home with the shades pulled and the lights shut so the neighbourhood kids would know not to come a-knocking.
It does make sense, from a religious perspective, to eschew this festival. Not only is it historically a Christian rite— All Hallows’ Eve, preceding All Saints Day— Halloween actually originates in several pagan traditions. Halloween served as a Druidic observance in ancient England and Ireland, where fires would be lit late into the night, and to celebrate the Roman harvest goddess Pomona, people used to give out nuts and apples! Our tradition very clearly tells us, over and over again, to refrain from the idolatrous practices of the many surrounding cultures. Halloween clearly has some strong idolatrous roots.
I see Halloween differently however, as do most Reform Jews. It may have served religious functions in the past, but today, Halloween is rather devoid of religious connotations; it serves much more as a civic celebration. Even 400 years ago, before the creation of our movement, some rabbis in Europe noted that they had absolutely no issue with those Jews who chose to join their neighbours in costuming, masking, merry-making, and ‘snatching’ food for certain occasions. Halloween provides a wonderful opportunity for celebrating alongside our neighbours and being one with our larger community.
Just because Halloween is non-religious, however, does not mean that we should check our Jewishness at the door. Rather, I encourage you to take certain Jewish values to heart for that festival evening:
Kavod l’atzmut (respect for ourselves) — We are made in God’s image and ought to treat ourselves accordingly. Often, Halloween serves as an excuse for wearing clothing that does not befit our dignity; we must keep in mind that our bodies are sacred and deserving of respect.
Sh’mirat haguf (guarding the body) — We need to keep ourselves healthy and safe. Please remain vigilant when it comes to safety by keeping eyes on our children at all times, by making sure that costumes allow for full mobility and use of eyes and ears, and that all foods collected are safely wrapped and sealed.
Moderation — This may not be a Hebrew word, but it is most certainly a Jewish concept. The great rabbi and physician, Maimonides, preached
moderation at all opportunities for all areas of life. When we enjoy our Halloween gleanings, may we make sure to pace ourselves and consume our sweets, savouries and spirits in healthy balance.
Halloween may not be a Jewish holiday but it can most certainly be observed in a healthy Jewish way. May you all have a sweet October, a cozy autumn, and a Happy Halloween.
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