Defined by glowing pumpkins, buckets filled with candy, and a spooky atmosphere, Halloween has been a staple holiday in the United States for over 200 years.
However, due to this spooky atmosphere, some people may view Halloween festivities as controversial to their faith. Across various religions, each has its own beliefs and opinions on this widely celebrated holiday.
The City of Rancho Cucamonga is a very diverse city, with people from a wide variety of faiths celebrating different cultural traditions every year. For some insight about how different religions, such as Islam, Hinduism, and Christianity, view or participate in Halloween activities, some Rancho Cucamonga High School students shared their thoughts.
To begin with, according to the Encyclopædia Britannica, Islam is the second most practiced religion. RCHS senior Muhammad Masud shared his thoughts about the holiday in relation to his religion.
“We see it as a pagan holiday,” Masud said. “It’s a day that celebrates thieving and that goes against Islamic teachings.”
In Islam, there is just no acknowledgment of the day or celebration at all. According to Maud, it’s “just a normal day for Muslims.”
Another religion is Christianity. It’s the world’s largest religion, with about 32% of the global population practicing the faith.
Senior Mia Spann shared her thoughts about Halloween as a Christian.
“Personally, I celebrate it, but I know other Christians who do and don’t celebrate it,” Spann said. “Some people see it as the Devil’s day, but every day is the Lord’s day.”
Spann was also discussed her opinion about Halloween costumes.
“If it’s appropriate or funny, then I love it, but if it’s too much or disrespectful, like the Devil, then no, I don’t love it,” Spann said.
The third most practiced religion in the world is Hinduism, with about 1.2 billion followers.
Junior Amol Balal discussed his and his faith’s views on Halloween.
“Most Hindus who move here celebrate now just because they don’t think about past traditions anymore,” Balal said. “People in India, however, would probably not celebrate it. There’s no big event or anything for it.”
Balal said he celebrates Halloween, saying it helps him get involved in the community.
This year, Halloween falls on a Friday. Whether people choose to celebrate it or not, Fall activities are still on the table for everyone!
