The Mysterious Valentine s Day
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Home Family -> subcategory Holidays.
The Enigmatic Valentine's Day
Introduction
Valentine's Day, celebrated every February 14th, is renowned as the holiday of love. Across the globe, people exchange candy, flowers, and gifts, all in the name of St. Valentine. But who was this mysterious saint, and how did this tradition originate? The history of Valentine's Day is a blend of Christian and ancient Roman customs, shrouded in mystery.
The Origins of St. Valentine
The Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred. The St. Valentine associated with this holiday is believed to have been a priest in third-century Rome. During this time, Emperor Claudius II banned marriages for young men, thinking single men made better soldiers. Valentine defied the emperor by secretly officiating marriages, ultimately leading to his execution. This brave act in the name of love has made him a legendary figure.
Another tale suggests Valentine fell in love with his jailer's daughter during his imprisonment. Before his execution, he sent her a letter signed "from your Valentine," an expression we still use today. This story might mark the very first celebration of Valentine's Day.
Another theory focuses on agape, or Christian love. Valentine may have been martyred for refusing to renounce his faith, signifying his enduring devotion to God.
Some believe Valentine's Day is celebrated on February 14th to coincide with the day of St. Valentine's death. Others argue it was designed to replace the pagan Lupercalia festival, celebrated on February 15th. This fertility festival honored Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture, and the founders Romulus and Remus. Around 498 A.D., Pope Gelasius declared February 14th as St. Valentine's Day, officially outlawing Lupercalia.
Valentine's Day Traditions
The oldest Valentine's gift still in existence is a poem penned by Charles, Duke of Orleans, to his wife while imprisoned in the Tower of London in 1415. This greeting is housed in the British Library in London. The Greeting Card Association estimates about one billion Valentine's cards are exchanged each year, making it the second-largest card-sending holiday after Christmas.
In the 1840s, Esther A. Howland, known as the Mother of the Valentine, began producing commercial Valentine's Day cards in the U.S. Her intricate designs featured lace, ribbons, and colorful images, creating a cherished tradition.
Cupid: The Icon of Love
Cupid, symbolizing desire, is another enduring icon of Valentine's Day. In Roman mythology, Cupid is the son of Venus, the goddess of love. He is mirrored in Greek mythology by Eros, the god of love. Known for his mischievous arrows, Cupid causes both gods and humans to fall in love.
The Romans believed white roses sprouted from Venus's tears for Adonis. When Cupid was stung by a bee, his arrows struck the rose garden, turning the stings into thorns. Venus, pricking her foot on a thorn, turned the roses red with her blood.
The Tradition of Sending Roses
Roses are synonymous with Valentine's Day, symbolizing love, magic, hope, and passion. They convey messages of romance and are perfect for expressing deep feelings. While a dozen red roses remain a classic favorite, many people also treasure roses in other colors. With countless options available, you can find roses as unique as your loved one.
Conclusion
Whether you send roses, chocolates, or any other gift, enjoy the holiday of love. Let this glimpse into the fascinating history of Valentine's Day enhance your celebration!
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