Valentine’s day is widely celebrated on February 14 all over the world. On this day couples celebrate by exchanging gifts, flowers, and chocolates. Did you know there are some traditions of Valentine’s day that are actually myths? Read on to discover Valentine’s Day myths and how it started?
Myths about Valentine’s Day
Like several festivals and holidays, Valentine’s Day also has some myths.
The Truth Behind Valentine’s Day
The Ancient Romans contributed to the name of modern-day Valentine’s day. Emperor Claudius II killed two men in different years but on the same date (February 14) in the 3rd century A.D. Both men’s names were Valentine. The Catholic Church decided to honor their sacrifice with the celebration of St. Valentine’s Day.
In February, Romans used to celebrate a festival called Lupercalia that was an alcohol-fueled, pagan, or fertility festival. It was observed on February 15th. Pope Gelasius wanted to replace the Lupercalia because it was observed as a non-Christian festival. Hence he determined to celebrate February 14th as St. Valentine’s day at the end of the 5th century.
Saint Valentine
You might have heard many different stories of Saint Valentine. Some people believed that he was a priest who served in 3rd century Rome. The emperor banned many young men from marriage because he had a belief that single men could be better soldiers. But Valentine supported young men and helped them to get married secretly. As a result, he was beheaded.
Another story reveals Valentine helped Christians to escape from Roman prisons. When he was in prison his jailor’s daughter used to visit her father. Valentine and the tailor’s daughter fell in love. Once he wrote while signing it and used this popular phrase “From your Valentine”.
History of Cupid
The origin of Cupid dates back to around 700 B.C. Cupid is demonstrated as a sweet innocent baby with wings. He has a bow and arrow to shoot people to find them love. But cupid is not depicted in this way earlier. Cupid is actually a Roman god of love Eros who was depicted as an attractive young man who has the charm to make any woman fall in love with him.
Wedding Myth
It is believed that Valentine’s day is the best day to propose to your loved ones which are completely untrue.
Beginning of Spring
In several cultures, Valentine’s Day is associated with the first days of spring.
Heart Symbol
In the past, the heart symbol was used to represent love and emotion and didn’t resemble an actual human heart.
St. Valentines Observed by Early Christain Churches.
Several St. Valentine’s celebrations were held by early Christian churches.
Valentine’s Day Invented by Hallmark
Hallmark began selling Valentine’s day cards in 1913. But it refused its contribution to the creation of Valentine’s Day. Around 131 million Valentines’ Day cards were exchanged on this day. It was the second-largest holiday for greeting cards.