Mother’s Day Pagan Origin 2023: A Look at the History and Celebrations Mother’s Day is a celebration of motherhood, maternal bonds, and the influence of mothers in society. It is celebrated on different days in various parts of the world but the most commonly celebrated day is the second Sunday of May. While many people know about the modern-day celebration of Mother’s Day, few are aware of its pagan origin.
The Pagan Origin of Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day has its roots in ancient civilizations where goddesses were worshipped as the mothers of the universe. In ancient Greece, the festival of Cybele, the mother of the gods, was celebrated in mid-March. Similarly, the Romans celebrated Hilaria, a festival dedicated to the mother of the gods, in mid-March. The early Christians also celebrated Mother’s Day as a tribute to the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ.
The Modern-Day Celebration of Mother’s Day
The modern-day celebration of Mother’s Day began in the United States in the early 20th century. It was initiated by Anna Jarvis, who wanted to honor her mother who had passed away. She started a campaign to make Mother’s Day a recognized holiday, and in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation making it an official holiday.
How is Mother’s Day Celebrated Today?
Today, Mother’s Day is celebrated in different ways across the world. In the United States, it is celebrated with gifts, cards, and flowers. Many families also take their mothers out for brunch or dinner. In some countries, Mother’s Day is celebrated with parades, festivals, and cultural events.
The Debate on Mother’s Day Pagan Origin
While some people embrace the pagan origin of Mother’s Day, others reject it based on their religious beliefs. Some Christian groups view the celebration of Mother’s Day as a form of pagan worship and avoid it entirely. Others argue that the modern-day celebration of Mother’s Day has lost its original meaning and has become too commercialized.
Question & Answer
Q: Is Mother’s Day a pagan holiday? A: While the modern-day celebration of Mother’s Day is not pagan, its roots can be traced back to ancient pagan festivals. Q: When is Mother’s Day celebrated in the United States? A: Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May in the United States. Q: How is Mother’s Day celebrated in other parts of the world? A: Mother’s Day is celebrated differently in different parts of the world. In some countries, it is celebrated with parades and cultural events while in others it is simply a day to honor mothers with gifts and cards.
Conclusion
Mother’s Day has a rich history that spans thousands of years. While its pagan origin may be debated, its modern-day celebration has become an important holiday for families across the world. Whether you choose to celebrate its pagan roots or not, Mother’s Day is a day to honor the women who have made a significant impact on our lives.