Copyright photographie : Cottonbro studio
Every year on 14 February, the world is decked out in red and pink to celebrate Valentine’s Day, a day dedicated to love and affection. But where does this centuries-old romantic tradition come from? Is it anything more than just a commercial holiday?
Let’s delve into the origins of Valentine’s Day, with its hints of mystery, legends and love (obviously)… but not only that.
1. The legendary origins :
Valentin from Rome :
One of the most popular stories about the origins of Valentine’s Day dates back to the Roman Empire in the third century. According to legend, Emperor Claudius II banned young men from marrying, believing that single men made better soldiers. However, a Christian priest named Valentin defied the ban by continuing to celebrate marriages in secret. Discovered and imprisoned, Valentin is said to have struck up a friendship with his jailer’s daughter and wrote her a farewell letter signed « From your Valentin » before his execution on 14 February (a tragic story!).
Copyright : Mary Pages
Lupercalia :
Others believe that the origins of Valentine’s Day go back to pre-Christian Roman celebrations called the Lupercalia, which took place from 13 to 15 February. This festival honoured the god of fertility and spring, Lupercus. Young men drew lots to choose the name of their future partner during rituals and festivities dedicated to love and procreation. Now, the aim was procreation rather than romance, and this festival was very violent for the women.
Etymology :
We can also take a look at the first name « valentine« . The etymology of the word « Valentine » has its roots in the Latin « valens, » meaning « strong » or « powerful. » So Valentine’s Day can be seen as a celebration of the strength of love, a powerful feeling capable of defying even imperial prohibitions, according to the earliest legend.
2. The development of this celebration
Christianity and the Synthesis of Traditions :
When Christianity spread across Europe, the Church tried to Christianise pagan festivities by associating them with a saint. Rome’s Valentine emerged as the patron saint of love and lovers, merging pagan and Christian traditions.
Propagation of Tradition :
Over the centuries, the tradition of Valentine’s Day spread across Europe, gaining in popularity in the Middle Ages. Exchanges of love cards, known as « valentines », began to appear in 15th-century England. The practice of celebrating love on 14 February finally spread to the United States in the 19th century, thanks to the exchange of love cards and poems.
What about today ?
Valentine’s Day Today :
Today, Valentine’s Day is celebrated around the world in many different ways. From romantic dinners to gift exchanges, the day is a special occasion to express love and affection for our loved ones. Whether you believe in the legend of Rome’s Valentine or prefer the pagan roots of Lupercalia, Valentine’s Day remains a celebration of love in all its forms.
Although the tradition of Valentine’s Day has evolved over the centuries to include the exchange of gifts, cards and romantic gestures, it’s essential to remember that love shouldn’t be limited to romantic relationships. This year, Noireônaturel encourages you to broaden your definition of love to include self-love.
The Importance of Self-Love :
In modern society, where beauty standards can sometimes seem restrictive, self-love is a revolutionary act. Taking care of your textured hair is a form of self-love, an affirmation of your unique identity and natural beauty, especially when we know how much our hair has been mocked, denigrated and discriminated against.
Noireônaturel’s organic hair products are designed to embrace and enhance your hair’s natural texture, allowing you to celebrate your authentic beauty. This Valentine’s Day, take a moment to cherish yourself, appreciate your inner and outer beauty, and express your love.
Copyright : Kelly His
In conclusion, Valentine’s Day is much more than just a commercial celebration. It has its roots in the rich and complex history of mankind, where love has always been a powerful force, capable of transcending time and culture. Whether you’re in a relationship, single, or whatever, Valentine’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate love in all its forms. Noireônaturel encourages you to include self-love in this equation, because after all, the most important relationship you have is with yourself.
