Werks Words of Wisdom
October 23, 2014
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Halloween in the truest sense is not a Jewish day - it is a celebration of All Saints Day, which is a Catholic celebration. Outside of the United States it is really a holy day for our Catholic friends.
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Historically Halloween was an opportunity to riot against Jewish neighborhoods, especially on mischief night.
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Today Halloween has lost its meaning in the United States. It is now more a secular day than religious.
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If you are participating in Halloween, add your Jewish value system.
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Trick or treat is not a Jewish concept; we give - example mishloach manot. Tricking for candy is not a value; neither is destroying property on mischief night.
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Tzedakah collection is a great addition to Halloween; however, be sure of where the money is going to.
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We do not celebrate death - examples, ghosts, goblins, devils, angels, etc. We celebrate life; if you wish to dress up, dress like the living.
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Moderation - even with candy, gluttony is not something we promote.
