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There are many different views on how jack-o-lanterns came about and
what they symbolize. For example, the Druids believe that the jack-o-lantern
symbolizes sympathy and submission to evil spirits in the hope that the evil
spirits will have mercy on them. On the other hand, the World Book Encyclopedia
says that it is a symbol of a damned soul.
Meanwhile, in Ireland, jack-o-lanterns were made of nutabagas, potatoes,
turnips, and beets. The Irish believed in a legend about Stingy Jack. Stingy Jack was
too mean to get into heaven, but he played too many tricks on the devil to go to hell. He
had to walk on Earth carrying a lantern made out of a turnip with a burning coal inside. Thus,
that was how the name came about (Jack of the lantern). The Irish built jack-o-lanterns to scare
away Stingy Jack and others like him.
As you can see, there are many beliefs of what jack-o-lanterns actually symbolize.
What you choose to believe is up to you, I am just here to give you the facts. Personally,
I believe that the Druids' representation is the most accurate because it makes the most sense.
* Today, most jack-o-lanterns are made of pumpkins. This
tradition was started by the Americans because they had an abundant supply of pumpkins. How
economical, don't you think? Knowing this, it kind of takes away the superstitious belief of
why jack-o-lanterns are made out of pumpkins.
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