What is a Christian view of Halloween? What does the Bible say about Halloween?

what does the bible say?

Halloween has origins in darkness, superstition, and the occult, yet the Bible gives clear principles for how Christians can approach it. God forbids practices such as witchcraft, divination, and attempting to communicate with the dead, reminding us that He alone is to be honored (Deuteronomy 18:9-14; Leviticus 19:31). Believers are called to live in the light, avoiding anything that glorifies sin or leads others astray. Christians may participate in Halloween in ways that honor God, but they should respect differing convictions and avoid judging those who make other choices. Activities like costumes, decorations, or community events can be enjoyed safely if they steer clear of promoting evil or sin. Many churches offer alternatives, such as Harvest festivals, to engage neighbors in wholesome, God-honoring activities during Halloween. Ultimately, a Christian perspective on Halloween emphasizes discernment and glorifying God while exercising freedom responsibly, whether one chooses to celebrate or abstain.

from the old testament

• The Bible does not mention Halloween, but it gives principles that help Christians evaluate it. Both the Old and New Testaments caution against involvement with practices related to the occult, worship of the dead, or anything that promotes evil or leads others into sin. The Israelites were explicitly forbidden from practicing witchcraft, divination, necromancy, or attempting to communicate with the dead (Deuteronomy 18:9-14; Leviticus 19:31). God desires His people to honor Him alone and avoid engaging with spiritual practices tied to other gods or evil forces.

from the new testament

• Jesus calls His followers to be the “light of the world” (Matthew 5:14-16). Participating in occult practices isn’t fitting for Christians.
• Believers are called to live in the light and avoid participating in darkness, immorality, or anything that glorifies sin (Ephesians 5:11-12; 1 Thessalonians 5:22).
• Christians who feel convicted to avoid Halloween because of its origins should feel free to do so while respecting others’ freedom to make their own choices. In exercising our Christian liberty, we must not judge others or lead them into actions they believe are sinful, honoring God in whatever decisions we make (Romans 14:5–14).

implications for today

Although our modern celebration of Halloween has religious influences, there is nothing biblical about the holiday. It is affiliated with “All Saints’ Day,” but even this holiday is not supported by Scripture. The Bible does not tell us to pray for the dead. There is no purgatory the dead need to escape from. The spirits of the dead do not come back to visit us on Earth. And although the Bible does not forbid us from remembering our loved ones, neither does it ordain the practice, and attempting to contact them was punishable by death (Leviticus 19:31). With this in mind, we can analyze the various practices associated with Halloween to determine if they’re biblical. It is not biblical to endorse or represent demons, evil, sin, or anything that would lead another to sin. But there is no injunction in the Bible against making lanterns out of gourds, wearing superhero and princess costumes, and asking neighbors for candy. Many churches and Christian organizations have Halloween alternatives, like Harvest Parties or Festivals. Others encourage their members to use Halloween as an opportunity to meet neighbors in hopes of being a light to them. Whether we avoid Halloween or participate in it in godly ways, we shouldn’t try to justify the secular tradition of Halloween nor read evil intent into where there is none. Instead, we should strive to glorify God in all that we do. Whether we go trick-or-treating, attend a Harvest Party, or ignore the day altogether, our actions should reflect God’s leading in our own lives.

Recap

understand

• Halloween has occult origins, which the Bible warns against.
• Christians can prayerfully participate in Halloween activities if they honor God and avoid sin or glorifying sin.
• Halloween can be a time to be a light to others, but we should respect others’ convictions about Halloween.

reflect

• How does God’s Word and your personal convictions guide whether or not you participate in Halloween activities?
• How can your actions during Halloween reflect God’s light rather than darkness?
• Are there aspects of Halloween you participate in that might unintentionally glorify sin or lead others astray? What can you do?

engage

• How can we balance Christian liberty with the responsibility to avoid sinning or leading others into sin, especially considering Halloween?
• What are practical ways we can use Halloween or alternative events to be a light to our neighbors?
• How can we honor and respect the different convictions of fellow believers regarding Halloween while still living faithfully according to our own conscience?