In some countries, the occult has become the fastest growing religion. The word “occult” is derived from the Latin occultus, which means “hidden, secret or mysterious.” The most well-known day in the occult and the day witches celebrate above all others is October 31st, which is All Hallows Eve or Halloween. It is believed that on this night Satan and his witches have their greatest power.

The origin of Halloween goes back 4,000 years to the ancient Druids in Britain, France, Germany and the Celtic countries. The celebration honored their god Samhain, lord of the dead. The Celtic people considered November 1st as being the day of death because it was the beginning of winter. The Druids believed that on this evening the spirits of the dead returned to their former home to visit the living in search of bodies to possess. It was believed to be their only hope for the afterlife. The still-living did not want to be possessed, so on October 31st, the Celts wore animal skins and animal heads to hide from these evil spirits and Druid priests burned sacrifices to appease the spirits.

Halloween has held an association with the occult throughout its history, and to a degree that stigma still exists. However, Halloween is now largely considered a secular holiday, with various traditions, including trick or treating, bobbing for apples, dressing in costumes and jack-o-lanterns, all evolving from differing customs. Like any other day with a pagan background (such as Christmas), one can make it as evil as they wish. For some, they believe that they should not participate in any way in Halloween. Others have come to the conclusion that they can celebrate it without its darker overtones.

Kyle Campbell