�� Please, be my Valentine! �� | Nursery Rhymes Songs for Kids | Karaoke f...
"Please, be my
Valentine!"
Valentine!"
"Please, be my Valentine!" - this is a song that is dedicated to the
holiday - Valentine's Day, which is celebrated every year around the world.
People give each other gifts - "Valentines" in the form of hearts,
kisses and smiles, sing songs and confess love.
holiday - Valentine's Day, which is celebrated every year around the world.
People give each other gifts - "Valentines" in the form of hearts,
kisses and smiles, sing songs and confess love.
Lyrics:
Today is the day for Valentines.
Is that a word that's new?
Well let me tell you now my
friends
friends
What Valentines can do.
They let you know that
someone cares.
someone cares.
They let you show you’re
caring.
caring.
They tell you someone wants
to share,
to share,
And love is what they're
sharing.
sharing.
Mothers, fathers, teachers
too,
too,
Sisters, brothers and
cousins.
cousins.
Aunts and uncles, me and
you,
you,
With good friends by the
dozens.
dozens.
Today is the day for Valentines.
Is that a word that's new?
Well let me tell you now my
friends
friends
What Valentines can do.
They let you know that
someone cares.
someone cares.
They let you show you’re
caring.
caring.
They tell you someone wants
to share,
to share,
And love is what they're
sharing.
sharing.
Everybody's heart is warm
And all the smiles shine
When you say these words all
day.
day.
Please, be my Valentine!
Please, be my Valentine!
Valentine's Day
Valentine's Day, also called Saint
Valentine's Day or the Feast of Saint Valentine, is
celebrated annually on February 14. It originated as a Western Christian feast day honoring one or two early saints
named Valentinus.
Valentine's Day is recognized as a significant cultural, religious, and
commercial celebration of romance and romantic love in
many regions around the world, although it is not a public holiday in any
country.
Valentine's Day or the Feast of Saint Valentine, is
celebrated annually on February 14. It originated as a Western Christian feast day honoring one or two early saints
named Valentinus.
Valentine's Day is recognized as a significant cultural, religious, and
commercial celebration of romance and romantic love in
many regions around the world, although it is not a public holiday in any
country.
There
are numerous martyrdom stories
associated with various Valentines connected to February 14, including a
written account of Saint Valentine of
Rome's imprisonment for performing weddings for soldiers who were forbidden to
marry and for ministering to Christians persecuted
under the Roman Empire. According
to legend, Saint Valentine restored sight to the blind daughter of his judge, and
he wrote her a letter signed "Your Valentine" as a farewell before
his execution.
are numerous martyrdom stories
associated with various Valentines connected to February 14, including a
written account of Saint Valentine of
Rome's imprisonment for performing weddings for soldiers who were forbidden to
marry and for ministering to Christians persecuted
under the Roman Empire. According
to legend, Saint Valentine restored sight to the blind daughter of his judge, and
he wrote her a letter signed "Your Valentine" as a farewell before
his execution.
The
Feast of Saint Valentine was established by Pope Gelasius I in AD 496 to be celebrated on
February 14 in honour of the Christian martyr, Saint Valentine of Rome, who
died on that date in AD 269. The day first became associated with romantic
love within the circle of Geoffrey Chaucer in the 14th century, when the
tradition of courtly love flourished.
In 18th-century England, it grew into an occasion in which couples expressed
their love for each other by presenting flowers, offering confectionery, and sending
greeting cards (known as "valentines"). Valentine's Day symbols that
are used today include the heart-shaped outline, doves, and the figure of the
winged Cupid. Since the 19th century, handwritten valentines
have given way to mass-produced greeting cards. In
Europe, Saint Valentine's Keys are
given to lovers "as a romantic symbol and an invitation to unlock the
giver’s heart", as well as to children to ward off epilepsy (called Saint Valentine's Malady).
Feast of Saint Valentine was established by Pope Gelasius I in AD 496 to be celebrated on
February 14 in honour of the Christian martyr, Saint Valentine of Rome, who
died on that date in AD 269. The day first became associated with romantic
love within the circle of Geoffrey Chaucer in the 14th century, when the
tradition of courtly love flourished.
In 18th-century England, it grew into an occasion in which couples expressed
their love for each other by presenting flowers, offering confectionery, and sending
greeting cards (known as "valentines"). Valentine's Day symbols that
are used today include the heart-shaped outline, doves, and the figure of the
winged Cupid. Since the 19th century, handwritten valentines
have given way to mass-produced greeting cards. In
Europe, Saint Valentine's Keys are
given to lovers "as a romantic symbol and an invitation to unlock the
giver’s heart", as well as to children to ward off epilepsy (called Saint Valentine's Malady).
Saint
Valentine's Day is an official feast day in the Anglican Communion and
the Lutheran Church. Many
parts of the Eastern Orthodox Church also celebrate Saint Valentine's Day on
July 6 and July 30, the former date in honor of Roman presbyter Saint
Valentine, and the latter date in honor of Hieromartyr Valentine, the Bishop of Interamna
(modern Terni).
Valentine's Day is an official feast day in the Anglican Communion and
the Lutheran Church. Many
parts of the Eastern Orthodox Church also celebrate Saint Valentine's Day on
July 6 and July 30, the former date in honor of Roman presbyter Saint
Valentine, and the latter date in honor of Hieromartyr Valentine, the Bishop of Interamna
(modern Terni).
History
Numerous early Christian martyrs were named Valentine. The
Valentines honored on February 14 are Valentine of Rome (Valentinus presb.
m. Romae) and Valentine of Terni (Valentinus ep. Interamnensis m. Romae). Valentine
of Rome was a priest in Rome who was martyred in
269 and was added to the calendar of saints by Pope Galesius
in 496 and was buried on the Via Flaminia. The relics of Saint Valentine were kept
in the Church and Catacombs of San
Valentino in Rome, which "remained an important pilgrim
site throughout the Middle Ages until the relics of St. Valentine were
transferred to the church of Santa Prassede during the pontificate of Nicholas IV". The flower-crowned skull of
Saint Valentine is exhibited in the Basilica of Santa Maria in Cosmedin,
Rome. Other relics are found at Whitefriar
Street Carmelite Church in Dublin, Ireland.
Valentines honored on February 14 are Valentine of Rome (Valentinus presb.
m. Romae) and Valentine of Terni (Valentinus ep. Interamnensis m. Romae). Valentine
of Rome was a priest in Rome who was martyred in
269 and was added to the calendar of saints by Pope Galesius
in 496 and was buried on the Via Flaminia. The relics of Saint Valentine were kept
in the Church and Catacombs of San
Valentino in Rome, which "remained an important pilgrim
site throughout the Middle Ages until the relics of St. Valentine were
transferred to the church of Santa Prassede during the pontificate of Nicholas IV". The flower-crowned skull of
Saint Valentine is exhibited in the Basilica of Santa Maria in Cosmedin,
Rome. Other relics are found at Whitefriar
Street Carmelite Church in Dublin, Ireland.
Valentine
of Terni became bishop of Interamna and is said to have been martyred during
the persecution under Emperor Aurelian in 273. He is buried on the Via
Flaminia, but in a different location from Valentine of Rome. His relics are at
the Basilica of Saint Valentine in Terni (Basilica di San Valentino).
Jack B. Oruch states that "abstracts of the acts of the two saints were in
nearly every church and monastery of Europe. The Catholic Encyclopedia also
speaks of a third saint named Valentine who was mentioned in early martyrologies under date of February 14. He was
martyred in Africa with a number of companions, but nothing more is known about
him. Saint
Valentine's head was preserved in the abbey of New Minster, Winchester,
and venerated.
of Terni became bishop of Interamna and is said to have been martyred during
the persecution under Emperor Aurelian in 273. He is buried on the Via
Flaminia, but in a different location from Valentine of Rome. His relics are at
the Basilica of Saint Valentine in Terni (Basilica di San Valentino).
Jack B. Oruch states that "abstracts of the acts of the two saints were in
nearly every church and monastery of Europe. The Catholic Encyclopedia also
speaks of a third saint named Valentine who was mentioned in early martyrologies under date of February 14. He was
martyred in Africa with a number of companions, but nothing more is known about
him. Saint
Valentine's head was preserved in the abbey of New Minster, Winchester,
and venerated.
February
14 is celebrated as St. Valentine's Day in various Christian denominations;
it has, for example, the rank of 'commemoration' in the calendar
of saints in the Anglican Communion. In
addition, the feast day of
Saint Valentine is also given in the calendar
of saints of the Lutheran
Church. However,
in the 1969 revision of
the Roman
Catholic Calendar of Saints, the feast day of Saint Valentine on
February 14 was removed from the General Roman Calendar and
relegated to particular (local or even national) calendars for the following
reason: "Though the memorial of Saint Valentine is ancient, it is left to
particular calendars, since, apart from his name, nothing is known of Saint
Valentine except that he was buried on the Via Flaminia on February 14."
14 is celebrated as St. Valentine's Day in various Christian denominations;
it has, for example, the rank of 'commemoration' in the calendar
of saints in the Anglican Communion. In
addition, the feast day of
Saint Valentine is also given in the calendar
of saints of the Lutheran
Church. However,
in the 1969 revision of
the Roman
Catholic Calendar of Saints, the feast day of Saint Valentine on
February 14 was removed from the General Roman Calendar and
relegated to particular (local or even national) calendars for the following
reason: "Though the memorial of Saint Valentine is ancient, it is left to
particular calendars, since, apart from his name, nothing is known of Saint
Valentine except that he was buried on the Via Flaminia on February 14."
The
feast day is still celebrated in Balzan (Malta)
where relics of the saint are claimed to be found, and also throughout the
world by Traditionalist Catholics who
follow the older, pre-Second Vatican Council calendar.
feast day is still celebrated in Balzan (Malta)
where relics of the saint are claimed to be found, and also throughout the
world by Traditionalist Catholics who
follow the older, pre-Second Vatican Council calendar.
In
the Eastern Orthodox Church,
St. Valentine is recognized on July 6,
in which Saint Valentine,
the Roman presbyter, is honoured; in addition, the Eastern Orthodox Church
observes the feast of Hieromartyr Valentine, Bishop of Interamna, on July 30.
the Eastern Orthodox Church,
St. Valentine is recognized on July 6,
in which Saint Valentine,
the Roman presbyter, is honoured; in addition, the Eastern Orthodox Church
observes the feast of Hieromartyr Valentine, Bishop of Interamna, on July 30.
Legends
J.C. Cooper, in The Dictionary of Christianity,
writes that Saint Valentine was "a priest of Rome who was imprisoned for
succouring persecuted Christians." Contemporary records of Saint Valentine
were most probably destroyed during this Diocletianic Persecution in
the early 4th century. In
the 5th or 6th century, a work called Passio Marii et Marthae published
a story of martyrdom for Saint Valentine of Rome, perhaps by borrowing tortures
that happened to other saints, as was usual in the literature of that period.
The same events are also found in Bede's
Martyrology, which was compiled in the 8th century. It
states that Saint Valentine was persecuted as a Christian and interrogated
by Roman Emperor Claudius II in person. Claudius was impressed by
Valentine and had a discussion with him, attempting to get him to convert to
Roman paganism in order to save his life. Valentine
refused and tried to convert Claudius to Christianity instead. Because of this,
he was executed. Before his execution, he is reported to have performed a
miracle by healing Julia, the blind daughter of his jailer Asterius. The
jailer's daughter and his forty-six member household (family members and servants) came to
believe in Jesusand were baptized.
writes that Saint Valentine was "a priest of Rome who was imprisoned for
succouring persecuted Christians." Contemporary records of Saint Valentine
were most probably destroyed during this Diocletianic Persecution in
the early 4th century. In
the 5th or 6th century, a work called Passio Marii et Marthae published
a story of martyrdom for Saint Valentine of Rome, perhaps by borrowing tortures
that happened to other saints, as was usual in the literature of that period.
The same events are also found in Bede's
Martyrology, which was compiled in the 8th century. It
states that Saint Valentine was persecuted as a Christian and interrogated
by Roman Emperor Claudius II in person. Claudius was impressed by
Valentine and had a discussion with him, attempting to get him to convert to
Roman paganism in order to save his life. Valentine
refused and tried to convert Claudius to Christianity instead. Because of this,
he was executed. Before his execution, he is reported to have performed a
miracle by healing Julia, the blind daughter of his jailer Asterius. The
jailer's daughter and his forty-six member household (family members and servants) came to
believe in Jesusand were baptized.
A
later Passio repeated the legend, adding that Pope Julius I built a church over his sepulchre
(it is a confusion with a 4th-century tribune called Valentino who donated land
to build a church at a time when Julius was a Pope). The
legend was picked up as fact by later martyrologies, starting by Bede's
martyrology in the 8th century. It
was repeated in the 13th century, in The Golden Legend.
later Passio repeated the legend, adding that Pope Julius I built a church over his sepulchre
(it is a confusion with a 4th-century tribune called Valentino who donated land
to build a church at a time when Julius was a Pope). The
legend was picked up as fact by later martyrologies, starting by Bede's
martyrology in the 8th century. It
was repeated in the 13th century, in The Golden Legend.
There
is an additional embellishment to The Golden Legend, which
according to Henry Ansgar Kelly, was added centuries later, and widely repeated. On
the evening before Valentine was to be executed, he is supposed to have written the first
"valentine" card himself, addressed to the daughter of his jailer
Asterius, who was no longer blind, signing as "Your Valentine." The
expression "From your Valentine" was later adopted by modern
Valentine letters. This
legend has been published by both American Greetings and The History Channel.
is an additional embellishment to The Golden Legend, which
according to Henry Ansgar Kelly, was added centuries later, and widely repeated. On
the evening before Valentine was to be executed, he is supposed to have written the first
"valentine" card himself, addressed to the daughter of his jailer
Asterius, who was no longer blind, signing as "Your Valentine." The
expression "From your Valentine" was later adopted by modern
Valentine letters. This
legend has been published by both American Greetings and The History Channel.
John Foxe, an
English historian, as well as the Order of Carmelites,
state that Saint Valentine was buried in the Church of Praxedes in Rome, located near the cemetery
of Saint Hippolytus.
This order says that according to legend, "Julia herself planted a
pink-blossomed almond tree near his grave. Today, the almond tree remains a symbol
of abiding love and friendship."
English historian, as well as the Order of Carmelites,
state that Saint Valentine was buried in the Church of Praxedes in Rome, located near the cemetery
of Saint Hippolytus.
This order says that according to legend, "Julia herself planted a
pink-blossomed almond tree near his grave. Today, the almond tree remains a symbol
of abiding love and friendship."
Another
embellishment suggests that Saint Valentine performed clandestine Christian weddings for
soldiers who were forbidden to marry. The
Roman Emperor Claudius II supposedly forbade this in order to grow his army,
believing that married men did not make for good soldiers. However, George
Monger writes that this marriage ban was never issued and that Claudius II told
his soldiers to take two or three women for themselves after his victory over
the Goths.
embellishment suggests that Saint Valentine performed clandestine Christian weddings for
soldiers who were forbidden to marry. The
Roman Emperor Claudius II supposedly forbade this in order to grow his army,
believing that married men did not make for good soldiers. However, George
Monger writes that this marriage ban was never issued and that Claudius II told
his soldiers to take two or three women for themselves after his victory over
the Goths.
According
to legend, in order "to remind these men of their vows and God’s love,
Saint Valentine is said to have cut hearts from parchment", giving them to
these soldiers and persecuted
Christians, a possible origin of the widespread use of hearts on St.
Valentine's Day.
to legend, in order "to remind these men of their vows and God’s love,
Saint Valentine is said to have cut hearts from parchment", giving them to
these soldiers and persecuted
Christians, a possible origin of the widespread use of hearts on St.
Valentine's Day.
Saint
Valentine supposedly wore a purple amethyst ring, customarily worn on the hands of
Christian bishops with an image of Cupid engraved
in it, a recognizable symbol associated with love that was legal under the
Roman Empire; Roman soldiers would recognize the ring and ask him to
perform marriage for them. Probably due to the association with Saint
Valentine, amethyst has become the birthstone of February, which is thought to
attract love.
Valentine supposedly wore a purple amethyst ring, customarily worn on the hands of
Christian bishops with an image of Cupid engraved
in it, a recognizable symbol associated with love that was legal under the
Roman Empire; Roman soldiers would recognize the ring and ask him to
perform marriage for them. Probably due to the association with Saint
Valentine, amethyst has become the birthstone of February, which is thought to
attract love.
Folk
traditions
While
the European folk traditions connected with Saint Valentine and St. Valentine's
Day have become marginalized by the modern Anglo-American customs connecting
the day with romantic love,
there are some remaining associations connecting the saint with the advent
of spring.
the European folk traditions connected with Saint Valentine and St. Valentine's
Day have become marginalized by the modern Anglo-American customs connecting
the day with romantic love,
there are some remaining associations connecting the saint with the advent
of spring.
While
the custom of sending cards, flowers, chocolates and other gifts originated in
the UK, Valentine's Day still remains connected with various regional customs
in England. In Norfolk, a character
called 'Jack' Valentine knocks on the rear door of houses leaving sweets and
presents for children. Although he was leaving treats, many children were
scared of this mystical person.
the custom of sending cards, flowers, chocolates and other gifts originated in
the UK, Valentine's Day still remains connected with various regional customs
in England. In Norfolk, a character
called 'Jack' Valentine knocks on the rear door of houses leaving sweets and
presents for children. Although he was leaving treats, many children were
scared of this mystical person.
In Slovenia, Saint Valentine or Zdravko was one of the saints of spring,
the saint of good health and the patron of beekeepers and pilgrims. A proverb says
that "Saint Valentine brings the keys of roots". Plants and flowers
start to grow on this day. It has been celebrated as the day when the first
work in the vineyards and in the fields commences. It is also said that birds
propose to each other or marry on that day. Another proverb says "Valentin
– prvi spomladin" ("Valentine — the first spring
saint"), as in some places (especially White Carniola), Saint Valentine marks the
beginning of spring. Valentine's Day has only recently been
celebrated as the day of love. The day of love was traditionally March 12,
the Saint Gregory's
day, or February 22, Saint Vincent's Day.
The patron of love was Saint Anthony, whose day has been celebrated
on June 13.
the saint of good health and the patron of beekeepers and pilgrims. A proverb says
that "Saint Valentine brings the keys of roots". Plants and flowers
start to grow on this day. It has been celebrated as the day when the first
work in the vineyards and in the fields commences. It is also said that birds
propose to each other or marry on that day. Another proverb says "Valentin
– prvi spomladin" ("Valentine — the first spring
saint"), as in some places (especially White Carniola), Saint Valentine marks the
beginning of spring. Valentine's Day has only recently been
celebrated as the day of love. The day of love was traditionally March 12,
the Saint Gregory's
day, or February 22, Saint Vincent's Day.
The patron of love was Saint Anthony, whose day has been celebrated
on June 13.
Connection
with romantic love
Lupercalia
There is no evidence of any link between St. Valentine's Day and
the rites of the ancient Roman festival Lupercalia, despite many claims by many
authors. The celebration of Saint Valentine did not have any romantic
connotations until Chaucer's poetry about
"Valentines" in the 14th century. Popular modern sources claim links
to unspecified Greco-Roman February holidays alleged to be devoted to fertility
and love to St. Valentine's Day, but prior to Chaucer in the 14th century, there were
no links between the saints named Valentinus and romantic love.
the rites of the ancient Roman festival Lupercalia, despite many claims by many
authors. The celebration of Saint Valentine did not have any romantic
connotations until Chaucer's poetry about
"Valentines" in the 14th century. Popular modern sources claim links
to unspecified Greco-Roman February holidays alleged to be devoted to fertility
and love to St. Valentine's Day, but prior to Chaucer in the 14th century, there were
no links between the saints named Valentinus and romantic love.
In Ancient Rome, Lupercalia, observed February 13–15, was an
archaic rite connected to fertility. Lupercalia was a festival local to the
city of Rome. The more general Festival of Juno Februa, meaning "Juno the
purifier" or "the chaste Juno", was celebrated on February
13–14. Pope Gelasius I (492–496)
abolished Lupercalia. Some researchers have theorized that Gelasius I replaced
Lupercalia with the celebration of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary and
claim a connection to the 14th century's connotations of romantic love, but
there is no historical indication that he ever intended such a thing. Also,
the dates do not fit because at the time of Gelasius I, the feast was only
celebrated in Jerusalem, and it was on February 14 only because Jerusalem
placed the Nativity of Jesus (Christmas) on January 6. Although it was
called "Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary", it also dealt with
the presentation of Jesus at the temple. Jerusalem's Purification of the
Blessed Virgin Mary on February 14 became the Presentation
of Jesus at the Temple on February 2 as it was introduced to
Rome and other places in the sixth century, after Gelasius I's time.
archaic rite connected to fertility. Lupercalia was a festival local to the
city of Rome. The more general Festival of Juno Februa, meaning "Juno the
purifier" or "the chaste Juno", was celebrated on February
13–14. Pope Gelasius I (492–496)
abolished Lupercalia. Some researchers have theorized that Gelasius I replaced
Lupercalia with the celebration of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary and
claim a connection to the 14th century's connotations of romantic love, but
there is no historical indication that he ever intended such a thing. Also,
the dates do not fit because at the time of Gelasius I, the feast was only
celebrated in Jerusalem, and it was on February 14 only because Jerusalem
placed the Nativity of Jesus (Christmas) on January 6. Although it was
called "Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary", it also dealt with
the presentation of Jesus at the temple. Jerusalem's Purification of the
Blessed Virgin Mary on February 14 became the Presentation
of Jesus at the Temple on February 2 as it was introduced to
Rome and other places in the sixth century, after Gelasius I's time.
Alban Butler in his Lifes of the
Principal Saints (1756–1759) claimed without proof that men and women
in Lupercalia drew names from a jar to make couples, and that modern
Valentine's letters originated from this custom. In reality, this practice originated
in the Middle Ages, with no link to Lupercalia, with men drawing the names of
girls at random to couple with them. This custom was combated by priests, for
example by Frances de Sales around
1600, apparently by replacing it with a religious custom of girls drawing the
names of apostles from the altar. However, this
religious custom is recorded as soon as the 13th century in the life of
Saint Elizabeth of Hungary,
so it could have a different origin.
Principal Saints (1756–1759) claimed without proof that men and women
in Lupercalia drew names from a jar to make couples, and that modern
Valentine's letters originated from this custom. In reality, this practice originated
in the Middle Ages, with no link to Lupercalia, with men drawing the names of
girls at random to couple with them. This custom was combated by priests, for
example by Frances de Sales around
1600, apparently by replacing it with a religious custom of girls drawing the
names of apostles from the altar. However, this
religious custom is recorded as soon as the 13th century in the life of
Saint Elizabeth of Hungary,
so it could have a different origin.
Chaucer's love birds
Jack
B. Oruch writes that the first recorded association of Valentine's Day with
romantic love is in Parlement of Foules (1382)
by Geoffrey Chaucer. Chaucer
wrote:
B. Oruch writes that the first recorded association of Valentine's Day with
romantic love is in Parlement of Foules (1382)
by Geoffrey Chaucer. Chaucer
wrote:
"For this was on seynt
Volantynys day
Whan euery bryd comyth there to chese his make".
Volantynys day
Whan euery bryd comyth there to chese his make".
["For
this was on St. Valentine's Day, when every bird cometh there to choose his
mate."]
this was on St. Valentine's Day, when every bird cometh there to choose his
mate."]
This
poem was written to honor the first anniversary of the engagement of King Richard II of England to Anne of Bohemia. A treaty providing for a
marriage was signed on May 2, 1381.
poem was written to honor the first anniversary of the engagement of King Richard II of England to Anne of Bohemia. A treaty providing for a
marriage was signed on May 2, 1381.
Readers
have uncritically assumed that Chaucer was referring to February 14 as
Valentine's Day. Henry Ansgar Kelly has observed that Chaucer might have had in
mind the feast day of St. Valentine of Genoa, an early bishop of Genoa who died around AD 307;
it was probably celebrated on 3 May. Jack B. Oruch notes that the date on which spring begins has
changed since Chaucer's time because of the precession of the equinoxes and the
introduction of the more accurate Gregorian calendar only
in 1582. On the Julian calendar in
use in Chaucer's time, February 14 would have fallen on the date now called
February 23, a time when some birds have started mating and nesting in England.
have uncritically assumed that Chaucer was referring to February 14 as
Valentine's Day. Henry Ansgar Kelly has observed that Chaucer might have had in
mind the feast day of St. Valentine of Genoa, an early bishop of Genoa who died around AD 307;
it was probably celebrated on 3 May. Jack B. Oruch notes that the date on which spring begins has
changed since Chaucer's time because of the precession of the equinoxes and the
introduction of the more accurate Gregorian calendar only
in 1582. On the Julian calendar in
use in Chaucer's time, February 14 would have fallen on the date now called
February 23, a time when some birds have started mating and nesting in England.
Chaucer's Parliament
of Foules refers to a supposedly established tradition, but there is
no record of such a tradition before Chaucer. The speculative derivation of
sentimental customs from the distant past began with 18th-century antiquaries, notably Alban Butler, the author of Butler's
Lives of Saints, and have been perpetuated even by respectable modern
scholars. Most notably, "the idea that Valentine's Day customs perpetuated
those of the Roman Lupercalia has
been accepted uncritically and repeated, in various forms, up to the
present".
of Foules refers to a supposedly established tradition, but there is
no record of such a tradition before Chaucer. The speculative derivation of
sentimental customs from the distant past began with 18th-century antiquaries, notably Alban Butler, the author of Butler's
Lives of Saints, and have been perpetuated even by respectable modern
scholars. Most notably, "the idea that Valentine's Day customs perpetuated
those of the Roman Lupercalia has
been accepted uncritically and repeated, in various forms, up to the
present".
Three
other authors who made poems about birds mating on St. Valentine's Day
around the same years: Otton de Grandson from Savoy, John Gower from England, and a knight called Pardo from
Valencia. Chaucer most probably predated all of them but, due to the difficulty
of dating medieval works, it is not possible to ascertain which of the four
first had the idea and influenced the others.
other authors who made poems about birds mating on St. Valentine's Day
around the same years: Otton de Grandson from Savoy, John Gower from England, and a knight called Pardo from
Valencia. Chaucer most probably predated all of them but, due to the difficulty
of dating medieval works, it is not possible to ascertain which of the four
first had the idea and influenced the others.
Court of love
The
earliest description of February 14 as an annual celebration of love appears in
the Charter of the Court of Love. The charter, allegedly issued
by Charles VI of France at Mantes-la-Jolie in 1400, describes lavish
festivities to be attended by several members of the royal court, including a
feast, amorous song and poetry competitions, jousting and dancing. Amid these
festivities, the attending ladies would hear and rule on disputes from lovers. No
other record of the court exists, and none of those named in the charter were
present at Mantes except Charles's queen, Isabeau of Bavaria,
who may well have imagined it all while waiting out a plague.
earliest description of February 14 as an annual celebration of love appears in
the Charter of the Court of Love. The charter, allegedly issued
by Charles VI of France at Mantes-la-Jolie in 1400, describes lavish
festivities to be attended by several members of the royal court, including a
feast, amorous song and poetry competitions, jousting and dancing. Amid these
festivities, the attending ladies would hear and rule on disputes from lovers. No
other record of the court exists, and none of those named in the charter were
present at Mantes except Charles's queen, Isabeau of Bavaria,
who may well have imagined it all while waiting out a plague.
Valentine poetry
The
earliest surviving valentine is a 15th-century rondeau written by Charles, Duke of
Orléans to his wife, which commences.
earliest surviving valentine is a 15th-century rondeau written by Charles, Duke of
Orléans to his wife, which commences.
"Je suis desja d'amour tanné
Ma tres doulce Valentinée..."
Ma tres doulce Valentinée..."
— Charles
d'Orléans, Rondeau VI, lines 1–2
d'Orléans, Rondeau VI, lines 1–2
At
the time, the duke was being held in the Tower of London following his capture at
the Battle of Agincourt,
1415.
the time, the duke was being held in the Tower of London following his capture at
the Battle of Agincourt,
1415.
The
earliest surviving valentines in English appear to be those in the Paston Letters, written in 1477 by Margery
Brewes to her future husband John Paston "my right well-beloved
Valentine".
earliest surviving valentines in English appear to be those in the Paston Letters, written in 1477 by Margery
Brewes to her future husband John Paston "my right well-beloved
Valentine".
Valentine's
Day is mentioned ruefully by Ophelia in William Shakespeare's Hamlet (1600–1601):
Day is mentioned ruefully by Ophelia in William Shakespeare's Hamlet (1600–1601):
"To-morrow is Saint
Valentine's day,
All in the morning betime,
And I a maid at your window,
To be your Valentine.
Then up he rose, and donn'd his clothes,
And dupp'd the chamber-door;
Let in the maid, that out a maid
Never departed more."
Valentine's day,
All in the morning betime,
And I a maid at your window,
To be your Valentine.
Then up he rose, and donn'd his clothes,
And dupp'd the chamber-door;
Let in the maid, that out a maid
Never departed more."
— William
Shakespeare, Hamlet, Act IV, Scene 5
Shakespeare, Hamlet, Act IV, Scene 5
John Donne used the legend of the
marriage of the birds as the starting point for his epithalamion celebrating the marriage
of Elizabeth,
daughter of James I of England,
and Frederick V,
Elector Palatine, on Valentine's Day:
marriage of the birds as the starting point for his epithalamion celebrating the marriage
of Elizabeth,
daughter of James I of England,
and Frederick V,
Elector Palatine, on Valentine's Day:
"Hayle Bishop Valentine
whose day this is
whose day this is
All the Ayre is thy Diocese
And all the chirping Queristers
And other birds ar thy parishioners
Thou marryest every yeare
The Lyrick Lark, and the graue whispering Doue,
The Sparrow that neglects his life for loue,
The houshold bird with the redd stomacher
Thou makst the Blackbird speede as soone,
As doth the Goldfinch, or the Halcyon
The Husband Cock lookes out and soone is spedd
And meets his wife, which brings her feather-bed.
This day more cheerfully than ever shine
And all the chirping Queristers
And other birds ar thy parishioners
Thou marryest every yeare
The Lyrick Lark, and the graue whispering Doue,
The Sparrow that neglects his life for loue,
The houshold bird with the redd stomacher
Thou makst the Blackbird speede as soone,
As doth the Goldfinch, or the Halcyon
The Husband Cock lookes out and soone is spedd
And meets his wife, which brings her feather-bed.
This day more cheerfully than ever shine
This day which might inflame thy
selfe old Valentine."
selfe old Valentine."
— John
Donne, Epithalamion Vpon Frederick Count Palatine and the Lady Elizabeth
marryed on St. Valentines day
Donne, Epithalamion Vpon Frederick Count Palatine and the Lady Elizabeth
marryed on St. Valentines day
The
verse "Roses are red"
echoes conventions traceable as far back as Edmund Spenser's epic The Faerie Queene (1590):
verse "Roses are red"
echoes conventions traceable as far back as Edmund Spenser's epic The Faerie Queene (1590):
"She bath'd with roses red,
and violets blew,
And all the sweetest flowres, that in the forrest grew."
and violets blew,
And all the sweetest flowres, that in the forrest grew."
The
modern cliché Valentine's Day poem can be found in the collection of English
nursery rhymes Gammer Gurton's
Garland (1784):
modern cliché Valentine's Day poem can be found in the collection of English
nursery rhymes Gammer Gurton's
Garland (1784):
"The rose is red, the
violet's blue,
violet's blue,
The honey's sweet, and so are
you.
Thou art my love and I am thine;
I drew thee to my Valentine:
The lot was cast and then I drew,
you.
Thou art my love and I am thine;
I drew thee to my Valentine:
The lot was cast and then I drew,
And Fortune said it shou'd be
you."
you."
Modern times
In 1797, a British publisher issued The Young Man's
Valentine Writer, which contained scores of suggested sentimental verses for the young lover unable to
compose his own. Printers had already begun producing a limited number of cards
with verses and sketches, called "mechanical valentines." Paper
Valentines became so popular in England in the early 19th century that they
were assembled in factories. Fancy Valentines were made with real lace and
ribbons, with paper lace introduced in the mid-19th century. In 1835,
60,000 Valentine cards were sent by post in the United Kingdom, despite postage
being expensive.
Valentine Writer, which contained scores of suggested sentimental verses for the young lover unable to
compose his own. Printers had already begun producing a limited number of cards
with verses and sketches, called "mechanical valentines." Paper
Valentines became so popular in England in the early 19th century that they
were assembled in factories. Fancy Valentines were made with real lace and
ribbons, with paper lace introduced in the mid-19th century. In 1835,
60,000 Valentine cards were sent by post in the United Kingdom, despite postage
being expensive.
A reduction in postal rates following Sir Rowland
Hill's postal reforms with the 1840 invention of the postage stamp (Penny Black) saw the number of Valentines
posted increase, with 400,000 sent just one year after its invention, and
ushered in the less personal but easier practice of mailing Valentines. That
made it possible for the first time to exchange cards anonymously, which is
taken as the reason for the sudden appearance of racy verse in an era otherwise
prudishly Victorian. Production
increased, "Cupid's Manufactory" as Charles Dickens termed it, with over
3,000 women employed in manufacturing. The Laura
Seddon Greeting Card Collection at Manchester
Metropolitan University gathers 450 Valentine's Day cards
dating from early nineteenth century Britain, printed by the major publishers
of the day. The collection appears in Seddon's book Victorian
Valentines (1996).
Hill's postal reforms with the 1840 invention of the postage stamp (Penny Black) saw the number of Valentines
posted increase, with 400,000 sent just one year after its invention, and
ushered in the less personal but easier practice of mailing Valentines. That
made it possible for the first time to exchange cards anonymously, which is
taken as the reason for the sudden appearance of racy verse in an era otherwise
prudishly Victorian. Production
increased, "Cupid's Manufactory" as Charles Dickens termed it, with over
3,000 women employed in manufacturing. The Laura
Seddon Greeting Card Collection at Manchester
Metropolitan University gathers 450 Valentine's Day cards
dating from early nineteenth century Britain, printed by the major publishers
of the day. The collection appears in Seddon's book Victorian
Valentines (1996).
In the United States, the first mass-produced Valentines of
embossed paper lace were produced and sold shortly after 1847 by Esther Howland (1828–1904) of Worcester,
Massachusetts. Her father operated a large book and stationery
store, but Howland took her inspiration from an English Valentine she had
received from a business associate of her father. Intrigued with the idea of
making similar Valentines, Howland began her business by importing paper lace
and floral decorations from England. A writer in Graham's American
Monthly observed in 1849, "Saint Valentine's Day ... is
becoming, nay it has become, a national holyday." The English practice of
sending Valentine's cards was established enough to feature as a plot device
in Elizabeth Gaskell's Mr. Harrison's
Confessions (1851): "I burst in with my explanations:
'The valentine I know nothing about.' 'It is in your handwriting', said he
coldly." Since 2001, the Greeting Card Association has been giving an
annual "Esther Howland Award for a Greeting Card Visionary".
embossed paper lace were produced and sold shortly after 1847 by Esther Howland (1828–1904) of Worcester,
Massachusetts. Her father operated a large book and stationery
store, but Howland took her inspiration from an English Valentine she had
received from a business associate of her father. Intrigued with the idea of
making similar Valentines, Howland began her business by importing paper lace
and floral decorations from England. A writer in Graham's American
Monthly observed in 1849, "Saint Valentine's Day ... is
becoming, nay it has become, a national holyday." The English practice of
sending Valentine's cards was established enough to feature as a plot device
in Elizabeth Gaskell's Mr. Harrison's
Confessions (1851): "I burst in with my explanations:
'The valentine I know nothing about.' 'It is in your handwriting', said he
coldly." Since 2001, the Greeting Card Association has been giving an
annual "Esther Howland Award for a Greeting Card Visionary".
Since the 19th century, handwritten notes have given way to
mass-produced greeting cards. In the UK, just under half of the population
spend money on their Valentines, and around £1.9 billion was spent in 2015 on
cards, flowers, chocolates and other gifts.The mid-19th century Valentine's Day
trade was a harbinger of further commercialized holidays in the U.S. to follow.
mass-produced greeting cards. In the UK, just under half of the population
spend money on their Valentines, and around £1.9 billion was spent in 2015 on
cards, flowers, chocolates and other gifts.The mid-19th century Valentine's Day
trade was a harbinger of further commercialized holidays in the U.S. to follow.
In 1868, the British chocolate company Cadbury created Fancy Boxes — a decorated
box of chocolates — in the shape of a heart for Valentine's Day. Boxes of
filled chocolates quickly became associated with the holiday. In the
second half of the 20th century, the practice of exchanging cards was extended
to all manner of gifts, such as giving jewelry.
box of chocolates — in the shape of a heart for Valentine's Day. Boxes of
filled chocolates quickly became associated with the holiday. In the
second half of the 20th century, the practice of exchanging cards was extended
to all manner of gifts, such as giving jewelry.
The U.S. Greeting Card Association estimates that approximately
190 million valentines are sent each year in the US. Half of those valentines
are given to family members other than husband or wife, usually to children.
When the valentine-exchange cards made in school activities are included the
figure goes up to 1 billion, and teachers become the people receiving the most
valentines. The average valentine’s spending has increased every year in the
U.S, from $108 a person in 2010 to $131 in 2013.
190 million valentines are sent each year in the US. Half of those valentines
are given to family members other than husband or wife, usually to children.
When the valentine-exchange cards made in school activities are included the
figure goes up to 1 billion, and teachers become the people receiving the most
valentines. The average valentine’s spending has increased every year in the
U.S, from $108 a person in 2010 to $131 in 2013.
The rise of Internet popularity at the turn of the millennium is
creating new traditions. Millions of people use, every year, digital means of
creating and sending Valentine's Day greeting messages such as e-cards, love coupons or printable greeting cards.
An estimated 15 million e-valentines were sent in 2010. Valentine's Day is
considered by some to be a Hallmark holiday due to its
commercialization.
creating new traditions. Millions of people use, every year, digital means of
creating and sending Valentine's Day greeting messages such as e-cards, love coupons or printable greeting cards.
An estimated 15 million e-valentines were sent in 2010. Valentine's Day is
considered by some to be a Hallmark holiday due to its
commercialization.
In the modern era, liturgically, the Anglican Church has a service for St.
Valentine's Day (the Feast of St. Valentine), which includes the optional rite
of the renewal of
marriage vows. In 2016, Catholic Bishops of England and Wales established
a novena prayer "to support single
people seeking a spouse ahead of St Valentine’s Day."
Valentine's Day (the Feast of St. Valentine), which includes the optional rite
of the renewal of
marriage vows. In 2016, Catholic Bishops of England and Wales established
a novena prayer "to support single
people seeking a spouse ahead of St Valentine’s Day."
Celebration
and status worldwide
Valentine's
Day customs developed in early modern England and spread throughout
the English-speaking
world in the 19th century. In the later 20th and early 21st
centuries, these customs spread to other countries, but their effect has been
more limited than those of Hallowe'en, or than aspects of Christmas, (such as Santa Claus).
Day customs developed in early modern England and spread throughout
the English-speaking
world in the 19th century. In the later 20th and early 21st
centuries, these customs spread to other countries, but their effect has been
more limited than those of Hallowe'en, or than aspects of Christmas, (such as Santa Claus).
Valentine's
Day is celebrated in many East Asian countries
with Singaporeans, Chinese and South Koreans spending the most money on
Valentine's gifts.
Day is celebrated in many East Asian countries
with Singaporeans, Chinese and South Koreans spending the most money on
Valentine's gifts.
Americas
Latin America
In
most Latin American countries,
for example, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Puerto Rico, Saint Valentine's Day is known
as Día de los Enamorados (day of lovers) or
as Día del Amor y la Amistad (Day of Love and Friendship). It
is also common to see people perform "acts of appreciation" for their
friends. In Guatemala it is
known as the "Día del Cariño" (Affection Day). Some countries, in
particular the Dominican Republic and El Salvador, have a tradition
called Amigo secreto("Secret friend"), which is a game
similar to the Christmas tradition
of Secret Santa.
most Latin American countries,
for example, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Puerto Rico, Saint Valentine's Day is known
as Día de los Enamorados (day of lovers) or
as Día del Amor y la Amistad (Day of Love and Friendship). It
is also common to see people perform "acts of appreciation" for their
friends. In Guatemala it is
known as the "Día del Cariño" (Affection Day). Some countries, in
particular the Dominican Republic and El Salvador, have a tradition
called Amigo secreto("Secret friend"), which is a game
similar to the Christmas tradition
of Secret Santa.
In Brazil, the Dia dos Namorados (lit. "Lovers'
Day", or "Boyfriends'/Girlfriends' Day") is celebrated on June
12, probably because that is the day before Saint Anthony's day, known there as the marriage
saint, when traditionally many single women perform popular rituals,
called simpatias, in order to find a good husband or boyfriend.
Couples exchange gifts, chocolates, cards, and flower bouquets. The February 14
Valentine's Day is not celebrated at all because it usually falls too little
before or too little after the Brazilian Carnival —
that can fall anywhere from early February to early March and lasts almost a
week. Because of the absence of Valentine's Day and due to the celebrations of
the Carnivals, Brazil was recommended by U.S. News & World Report as
a tourist destination during February for Western singles who want to get away
from the holiday.
Day", or "Boyfriends'/Girlfriends' Day") is celebrated on June
12, probably because that is the day before Saint Anthony's day, known there as the marriage
saint, when traditionally many single women perform popular rituals,
called simpatias, in order to find a good husband or boyfriend.
Couples exchange gifts, chocolates, cards, and flower bouquets. The February 14
Valentine's Day is not celebrated at all because it usually falls too little
before or too little after the Brazilian Carnival —
that can fall anywhere from early February to early March and lasts almost a
week. Because of the absence of Valentine's Day and due to the celebrations of
the Carnivals, Brazil was recommended by U.S. News & World Report as
a tourist destination during February for Western singles who want to get away
from the holiday.
Colombia celebrates Día del amor
y la amistad on the third Saturday in September instead. Amigo
Secreto is also popular there.
y la amistad on the third Saturday in September instead. Amigo
Secreto is also popular there.
United States
In the United States, about 190 million Valentine's Day cards
are sent each year, not including the hundreds of millions of cards school
children exchange.
are sent each year, not including the hundreds of millions of cards school
children exchange.
Valentine's
Day is a major source of economic activity, with total expenditures in 2017
topping $18.2 billion in 2017, or over $136 per person. This is an
increase from $108 per person in 2010.
Day is a major source of economic activity, with total expenditures in 2017
topping $18.2 billion in 2017, or over $136 per person. This is an
increase from $108 per person in 2010.
Asia
China
In Chinese, Valentine's Day is called lovers' festival (simplified
Chinese: 情人节; traditional
Chinese: 情人節; Mandarin: Qīng Rén Jié; Hokkien: Chêng Lîn Chiat; Cantonese: Chìhng
Yàhn Jit; Shanghainese Xin
Yin Jiq). The "Chinese Valentine's Day" is the Qixi Festival, celebrated on the seventh day of the
seventh month of the lunar calendar. It commemorates a day on which a legendary
cowherder and weaving maid are allowed to be together. In Chinese culture, there is an older observance related
to lovers, called "The Night of Sevens"
(Chinese: 七夕; pinyin: Qi Xi). According to the legend,
the Cowherd star and the Weaver
Maid star are normally separated by the Milky Way (silvery river) but are allowed to
meet by crossing it on the 7th day of the 7th month of the Chinese calendar.
Chinese: 情人节; traditional
Chinese: 情人節; Mandarin: Qīng Rén Jié; Hokkien: Chêng Lîn Chiat; Cantonese: Chìhng
Yàhn Jit; Shanghainese Xin
Yin Jiq). The "Chinese Valentine's Day" is the Qixi Festival, celebrated on the seventh day of the
seventh month of the lunar calendar. It commemorates a day on which a legendary
cowherder and weaving maid are allowed to be together. In Chinese culture, there is an older observance related
to lovers, called "The Night of Sevens"
(Chinese: 七夕; pinyin: Qi Xi). According to the legend,
the Cowherd star and the Weaver
Maid star are normally separated by the Milky Way (silvery river) but are allowed to
meet by crossing it on the 7th day of the 7th month of the Chinese calendar.
In
recent years, celebrating White Day has
also become fashionable among some young people.
recent years, celebrating White Day has
also become fashionable among some young people.
India
In India,
in antiquity, there was a tradition of adoring Kamadeva, the lord of love; exemplificated by the
erotic carvings in the Khajuraho Group of
Monuments and by the writing of the Kamasutra. This tradition was lost around
the Middle Ages,
when Kamadeva was no longer celebrated, and public displays of sexual affection
became frowned upon. This repression of public affections began to loosen
in the 1990s.
in antiquity, there was a tradition of adoring Kamadeva, the lord of love; exemplificated by the
erotic carvings in the Khajuraho Group of
Monuments and by the writing of the Kamasutra. This tradition was lost around
the Middle Ages,
when Kamadeva was no longer celebrated, and public displays of sexual affection
became frowned upon. This repression of public affections began to loosen
in the 1990s.
Valentine's
Day celebrations did not catch on in India until around 1992. It was spread due
to the programs in commercial TV channels, such as MTV,
dedicated radio programs, and love letter competitions, in addition to an
economical liberalization that allowed the explosion of the valentine card
industry. Economic liberalization also helped the Valentine card industry. The
celebration has caused a sharp change on how people have been displaying their
affection in public since the Middle Ages.
Day celebrations did not catch on in India until around 1992. It was spread due
to the programs in commercial TV channels, such as MTV,
dedicated radio programs, and love letter competitions, in addition to an
economical liberalization that allowed the explosion of the valentine card
industry. Economic liberalization also helped the Valentine card industry. The
celebration has caused a sharp change on how people have been displaying their
affection in public since the Middle Ages.
In
modern times, Hindu and Islamic traditionalists have considered the
holiday to be cultural contamination from the West, a result of globalization
in India. Shiv Sena and the Sangh Parivar have asked their followers to shun
the holiday and the "public admission of love" because of them being
"alien to Indian culture". Although these protests are organized by political elites, the
protesters themselves are middle-class Hindu men who fear that the
globalization will destroy the traditions in their society: arranged marriages, Hindu joint families, full-time mothers,
etc.
modern times, Hindu and Islamic traditionalists have considered the
holiday to be cultural contamination from the West, a result of globalization
in India. Shiv Sena and the Sangh Parivar have asked their followers to shun
the holiday and the "public admission of love" because of them being
"alien to Indian culture". Although these protests are organized by political elites, the
protesters themselves are middle-class Hindu men who fear that the
globalization will destroy the traditions in their society: arranged marriages, Hindu joint families, full-time mothers,
etc.
Despite
these obstacles, Valentine's Day is becoming increasingly popular in India.
these obstacles, Valentine's Day is becoming increasingly popular in India.
Valentine's
Day has been strongly criticized from a postcolonial perspective by intellectuals from
the Indian left. The holiday is regarded as a front for "Western
imperialism", "neocolonialism",
and "the exploitation of working classes through commercialism by multinational corporations". It is
claimed that as a result of Valentine's Day, the working classes and rural poor become more disconnected socially,
politically, and geographically from the hegemonic capitalist power structure. They also criticize
mainstream media attacks on Indians opposed to Valentine's Day as a form
of demonization that
is designed and derived to further the Valentine's Day agenda. Right
wing Hindu nationalists are
also hostile. In February 2012, Subash Chouhan of the Bajrang Dal warned couples that "They
cannot kiss or hug in public places. Our activists will beat them up". He
said "We are not against love, but we criticize vulgar exhibition of love
at public places".
Day has been strongly criticized from a postcolonial perspective by intellectuals from
the Indian left. The holiday is regarded as a front for "Western
imperialism", "neocolonialism",
and "the exploitation of working classes through commercialism by multinational corporations". It is
claimed that as a result of Valentine's Day, the working classes and rural poor become more disconnected socially,
politically, and geographically from the hegemonic capitalist power structure. They also criticize
mainstream media attacks on Indians opposed to Valentine's Day as a form
of demonization that
is designed and derived to further the Valentine's Day agenda. Right
wing Hindu nationalists are
also hostile. In February 2012, Subash Chouhan of the Bajrang Dal warned couples that "They
cannot kiss or hug in public places. Our activists will beat them up". He
said "We are not against love, but we criticize vulgar exhibition of love
at public places".
Iran
In
the first part of the 21st century, the celebration of Valentine's Day in Iran has
been harshly criticized by Islamic teachers who see the celebrations as opposed
to Islamic culture.
In 2011, the Iranian printing works owners' union issued a directive banning
the printing and distribution of any goods promoting the holiday,
including cards, gifts,
and teddy bears. "Printing and producing any goods
related to this day including posters, boxes and cards emblazoned with hearts
or half-hearts, red rosesand any activities promoting this
day are banned ... Outlets that violate this will be legally dealt
with", the union warned.
the first part of the 21st century, the celebration of Valentine's Day in Iran has
been harshly criticized by Islamic teachers who see the celebrations as opposed
to Islamic culture.
In 2011, the Iranian printing works owners' union issued a directive banning
the printing and distribution of any goods promoting the holiday,
including cards, gifts,
and teddy bears. "Printing and producing any goods
related to this day including posters, boxes and cards emblazoned with hearts
or half-hearts, red rosesand any activities promoting this
day are banned ... Outlets that violate this will be legally dealt
with", the union warned.
In
Iran, the Sepandarmazgan,
or Esfandegan, is a festival where people express love towards their mothers
and wives, and it is also a celebration of earth in ancient Persian culture. It
has been progressively forgotten in favor of the Western celebration of
Valentine's Day. The Association of Iran's Cultural and Natural Phenomena has
been trying since 2006 to make Sepandarmazgan a national holiday on February
17, in order to replace the Western holiday.
Iran, the Sepandarmazgan,
or Esfandegan, is a festival where people express love towards their mothers
and wives, and it is also a celebration of earth in ancient Persian culture. It
has been progressively forgotten in favor of the Western celebration of
Valentine's Day. The Association of Iran's Cultural and Natural Phenomena has
been trying since 2006 to make Sepandarmazgan a national holiday on February
17, in order to replace the Western holiday.
Israel
In Israel, the Jewish tradition of Tu B'Av has been revived and transformed into
the Jewish equivalent of Valentine's Day. It is celebrated on the 15th day of
the month of Av (usually in late August). In ancient times
girls would wear white dresses and dance in the vineyards, where the boys would
be waiting for them (Mishna Taanith end of Chapter 4).
Today, Tu B'Av is celebrated as a second holiday of love by secular people
(along with Valentine's Day), and it shares many of the customs associated with
Saint Valentine's Day in western societies. In modern Israeli culture Tu B'Av
is a popular day to proclaim love, propose marriage, and give gifts like cards
or flowers.
the Jewish equivalent of Valentine's Day. It is celebrated on the 15th day of
the month of Av (usually in late August). In ancient times
girls would wear white dresses and dance in the vineyards, where the boys would
be waiting for them (Mishna Taanith end of Chapter 4).
Today, Tu B'Av is celebrated as a second holiday of love by secular people
(along with Valentine's Day), and it shares many of the customs associated with
Saint Valentine's Day in western societies. In modern Israeli culture Tu B'Av
is a popular day to proclaim love, propose marriage, and give gifts like cards
or flowers.
Japan
In Japan, Morozoff Ltd. introduced the holiday for the
first time in 1936, when it ran an advertisement aimed at foreigners. Later, in
1953, it began promoting the giving of heart-shaped chocolates; other Japanese
confectionery companies followed suit thereafter. In 1958, the Isetan department store ran
a "Valentine sale". Further campaigns during the 1960s popularized
the custom.
first time in 1936, when it ran an advertisement aimed at foreigners. Later, in
1953, it began promoting the giving of heart-shaped chocolates; other Japanese
confectionery companies followed suit thereafter. In 1958, the Isetan department store ran
a "Valentine sale". Further campaigns during the 1960s popularized
the custom.
The
custom that only women give chocolates to men may have originated from the
translation error of a chocolate-company executive during the initial campaigns.
In particular, office ladies give
chocolate to their co-workers. Unlike western countries, gifts such as greeting
cards, candies, flowers, or dinner dates are
uncommon, and most of the gifts-related activity is about giving the right
amount of chocolate to each person. Japanese chocolate companies make
half their annual sales during this time of the year.
custom that only women give chocolates to men may have originated from the
translation error of a chocolate-company executive during the initial campaigns.
In particular, office ladies give
chocolate to their co-workers. Unlike western countries, gifts such as greeting
cards, candies, flowers, or dinner dates are
uncommon, and most of the gifts-related activity is about giving the right
amount of chocolate to each person. Japanese chocolate companies make
half their annual sales during this time of the year.
Many
women feel obliged to give chocolates to all male co-workers, except when the
day falls on a Sunday, a holiday. This is known as giri-choko (義理チョコ), from giri ("obligation") and choko,
("chocolate"), with unpopular co-workers receiving only
"ultra-obligatory" chō-giri choko cheap chocolate.
This contrasts with honmei-choko(本命チョコ, lit. "true feeling chocolate"), chocolate given to a
loved one. Friends, especially girls, may exchange chocolate referred to
as tomo-choko (友チョコ); from tomo meaning "friend".
women feel obliged to give chocolates to all male co-workers, except when the
day falls on a Sunday, a holiday. This is known as giri-choko (義理チョコ), from giri ("obligation") and choko,
("chocolate"), with unpopular co-workers receiving only
"ultra-obligatory" chō-giri choko cheap chocolate.
This contrasts with honmei-choko(本命チョコ, lit. "true feeling chocolate"), chocolate given to a
loved one. Friends, especially girls, may exchange chocolate referred to
as tomo-choko (友チョコ); from tomo meaning "friend".
In
the 1980s, the Japanese National Confectionery Industry Association launched a
successful campaign to make March 14 a "reply day", where men are expected
to return the favour to those who gave them chocolates on Valentine's Day,
calling it White Day for
the color of the chocolates being offered. A previous failed attempt to
popularize this celebration had been done by a marshmallow manufacturer who wanted men to
return marshmallows to women.
the 1980s, the Japanese National Confectionery Industry Association launched a
successful campaign to make March 14 a "reply day", where men are expected
to return the favour to those who gave them chocolates on Valentine's Day,
calling it White Day for
the color of the chocolates being offered. A previous failed attempt to
popularize this celebration had been done by a marshmallow manufacturer who wanted men to
return marshmallows to women.
Men
are expected to return gifts that are at least two or three times more valuable
than the gifts received in Valentine's Day. Not returning the gift is perceived
as the man placing himself in a position of superiority, even if excuses are
given. Returning a present of equal value is considered as a way to say that
the relationship is being cut. Originally only chocolate was given, but now the
gifts of jewelry, accessories, clothing, and lingerie are usual. According to
the official website of White Day, the color white was chosen because it's the
color of purity, evoking "pure, sweet teen love", and because it's
also the color of sugar. The initial name was "Ai ni Kotaeru White
Day" (Answer Love on White Day).
are expected to return gifts that are at least two or three times more valuable
than the gifts received in Valentine's Day. Not returning the gift is perceived
as the man placing himself in a position of superiority, even if excuses are
given. Returning a present of equal value is considered as a way to say that
the relationship is being cut. Originally only chocolate was given, but now the
gifts of jewelry, accessories, clothing, and lingerie are usual. According to
the official website of White Day, the color white was chosen because it's the
color of purity, evoking "pure, sweet teen love", and because it's
also the color of sugar. The initial name was "Ai ni Kotaeru White
Day" (Answer Love on White Day).
In
a 2006 survey of people between 10 and 49 years of age in Japan, Oricon Style found the 1986 Sayuri Kokushō single "Valentine Kiss" to be the most popular
Valentine's Day song, even though it sold only 317,000 copies. The singles
it beat in the ranking were number one selling "Love Love Love"
from Dreams Come True (2,488,630
copies) and "Valentine's Radio" from Yumi Matsutoya (1,606,780 copies). The final
song in the top five was "My Funny Valentine"
by Miles Davis.
a 2006 survey of people between 10 and 49 years of age in Japan, Oricon Style found the 1986 Sayuri Kokushō single "Valentine Kiss" to be the most popular
Valentine's Day song, even though it sold only 317,000 copies. The singles
it beat in the ranking were number one selling "Love Love Love"
from Dreams Come True (2,488,630
copies) and "Valentine's Radio" from Yumi Matsutoya (1,606,780 copies). The final
song in the top five was "My Funny Valentine"
by Miles Davis.
In
Japan, a slightly different version of a holiday based on a lovers' story
called Tanabata (七夕) has
been celebrated for centuries, on July 7 (Gregorian calendar).
It has been considered by Westerners as similar to St. Valentine's Day.
Japan, a slightly different version of a holiday based on a lovers' story
called Tanabata (七夕) has
been celebrated for centuries, on July 7 (Gregorian calendar).
It has been considered by Westerners as similar to St. Valentine's Day.
Lebanon
Saint Valentine is
the patron saint for
a large part of the Lebanese population.
Couples take the opportunity of Valentine's feast day to exchange sweet words
and gifts as proof of love. Such gifts typically include boxes of chocolates,
cupcakes, and red roses, which are considered the emblem of sacrifice and
passion.
the patron saint for
a large part of the Lebanese population.
Couples take the opportunity of Valentine's feast day to exchange sweet words
and gifts as proof of love. Such gifts typically include boxes of chocolates,
cupcakes, and red roses, which are considered the emblem of sacrifice and
passion.
Lebanese people celebrate Valentine's Day
in a different way in every city. In Beirut, men take women out to dine and may buy
them a gift. Many women are asked to marry on that day. In Sidon,
Valentine's Day is celebrated with the whole family – it is more about family
love than a couple's love.
in a different way in every city. In Beirut, men take women out to dine and may buy
them a gift. Many women are asked to marry on that day. In Sidon,
Valentine's Day is celebrated with the whole family – it is more about family
love than a couple's love.
Malaysia
Islamic
officials in West Malaysia warned
Muslims against celebrating Valentine's Day, linking it with vice activities.
Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said the celebration of
romantic love was "not suitable" for Muslims. Wan Mohamad Sheikh
Abdul Aziz, head of the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim), which oversees the country's Islamic
policies said that a fatwa (ruling) issued
by the country's top clerics in 2005 noted that the day 'is associated with
elements of Christianity,' and 'we just cannot get involved with other
religions' worshipping rituals.' Jakim officials planned to carry out a
nationwide campaign called "Awas Jerat Valentine's Day" ("Mind
the Valentine's Day Trap"), aimed at preventing Muslims from celebrating
the day on February 14, 2011. Activities include conducting raids in hotels to
stop young couples from having unlawful sex and distributing leaflets to Muslim
university students warning them against the day.
officials in West Malaysia warned
Muslims against celebrating Valentine's Day, linking it with vice activities.
Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said the celebration of
romantic love was "not suitable" for Muslims. Wan Mohamad Sheikh
Abdul Aziz, head of the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim), which oversees the country's Islamic
policies said that a fatwa (ruling) issued
by the country's top clerics in 2005 noted that the day 'is associated with
elements of Christianity,' and 'we just cannot get involved with other
religions' worshipping rituals.' Jakim officials planned to carry out a
nationwide campaign called "Awas Jerat Valentine's Day" ("Mind
the Valentine's Day Trap"), aimed at preventing Muslims from celebrating
the day on February 14, 2011. Activities include conducting raids in hotels to
stop young couples from having unlawful sex and distributing leaflets to Muslim
university students warning them against the day.
On
Valentine's Day 2011, West Malaysian religious authorities arrested more than
100 Muslim couples concerning the celebration ban. Some of them would be
charged in the Shariah Court for defying the department's ban against the
celebration of Valentine's Day.
Valentine's Day 2011, West Malaysian religious authorities arrested more than
100 Muslim couples concerning the celebration ban. Some of them would be
charged in the Shariah Court for defying the department's ban against the
celebration of Valentine's Day.
In East Malaysia, the celebration are much more
tolerated among young Muslim couples although some Islamic officials and Muslim
activists from the West side have told younger generations to refrain from such
celebration by organising da'wah and tried to spread their ban into the East. In
both the states of Sabah and Sarawak, the celebration is usually common
with flowers.
tolerated among young Muslim couples although some Islamic officials and Muslim
activists from the West side have told younger generations to refrain from such
celebration by organising da'wah and tried to spread their ban into the East. In
both the states of Sabah and Sarawak, the celebration is usually common
with flowers.
Pakistan
The
concept of Valentine's Day was introduced into Pakistan during the late 1990s
with special TV and radio programs. The Jamaat-e-Islami political
party has called for the banning of Valentine's Day celebration. Despite this,
the celebration is becoming popular among urban youth and the florists expect
to sell a great amount of flowers, especially red roses. The case is the same
with card publishers.
concept of Valentine's Day was introduced into Pakistan during the late 1990s
with special TV and radio programs. The Jamaat-e-Islami political
party has called for the banning of Valentine's Day celebration. Despite this,
the celebration is becoming popular among urban youth and the florists expect
to sell a great amount of flowers, especially red roses. The case is the same
with card publishers.
In
2016, local governing body of Peshwar officially banned the celebration
of Valentine's Day in the city. The ban was also implemented in other cities
such as Kohat by the local governments.
2016, local governing body of Peshwar officially banned the celebration
of Valentine's Day in the city. The ban was also implemented in other cities
such as Kohat by the local governments.
In
2017, the Islamabad High Court banned
Valentine's Day celebrations in public places in Pakistan.
2017, the Islamabad High Court banned
Valentine's Day celebrations in public places in Pakistan.
Philippines
In
the Philippines, Valentine's Day is called Araw
ng mga Puso in much the same manner as in the West. It is usually
marked by a steep increase in the price of flowers, particularly red roses. It
is the most popular day for weddings, with some localities offering mass
ceremonies for no charge.
the Philippines, Valentine's Day is called Araw
ng mga Puso in much the same manner as in the West. It is usually
marked by a steep increase in the price of flowers, particularly red roses. It
is the most popular day for weddings, with some localities offering mass
ceremonies for no charge.
Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia, in 2002 and 2008, religious police banned the sale of all
Valentine's Day items, telling shop workers to remove any red items, because
the day is considered a Christian holiday. This ban has created a black market for roses and wrapping paper. In 2012, the religious
police arrested more than 140 Muslims for celebrating the holiday, and
confiscated all red roses from flower shops. Muslims are not allowed to
celebrate the holiday, and non-Muslims can celebrate only behind closed doors.
Valentine's Day items, telling shop workers to remove any red items, because
the day is considered a Christian holiday. This ban has created a black market for roses and wrapping paper. In 2012, the religious
police arrested more than 140 Muslims for celebrating the holiday, and
confiscated all red roses from flower shops. Muslims are not allowed to
celebrate the holiday, and non-Muslims can celebrate only behind closed doors.
"Saudi
cleric Sheikh Muhammad Al-'Arifi said on Valentine's Day Eve that celebrating
this holiday constitutes bid'a – a forbidden
innovation and deviation from religious law and custom – and mimicry of the
West."
cleric Sheikh Muhammad Al-'Arifi said on Valentine's Day Eve that celebrating
this holiday constitutes bid'a – a forbidden
innovation and deviation from religious law and custom – and mimicry of the
West."
However,
in 2017 and 2018, after a fatwa was widely
circulated, the religious police did not prevent Muslims from celebrating the
day.
in 2017 and 2018, after a fatwa was widely
circulated, the religious police did not prevent Muslims from celebrating the
day.
Singapore
According
to findings, Singaporeans are
among the biggest spenders on Valentine's Day, with 60% of Singaporeans
indicating that they would spend between $100 and $500 during the season
leading up to the holiday.
to findings, Singaporeans are
among the biggest spenders on Valentine's Day, with 60% of Singaporeans
indicating that they would spend between $100 and $500 during the season
leading up to the holiday.
South Korea
In South Korea, women give chocolate to men on
February 14, and men give non-chocolate candy to women on March 14 (White Day). On April 14 (Black Day), those who
did not receive anything on February or March 14 go to a Chinese-Korean restaurant
to eat black noodles (자장면 jajangmyeon) and lament their 'single
life'. Koreans also celebrate Pepero Day on November 11, when young
couples give each other Pepero cookies. The date '11/11' is intended to
resemble the long shape of the cookie. The 14th of every month marks a
love-related day in Korea, although most of them are obscure. From January to
December: Candle Day, Valentine's Day, White Day, Black Day,
Rose Day, Kiss Day, Silver Day, Green Day, Music Day, Wine Day, Movie Day, and
Hug Day. Korean women give a much higher amount of chocolate than Japanese
women.
February 14, and men give non-chocolate candy to women on March 14 (White Day). On April 14 (Black Day), those who
did not receive anything on February or March 14 go to a Chinese-Korean restaurant
to eat black noodles (자장면 jajangmyeon) and lament their 'single
life'. Koreans also celebrate Pepero Day on November 11, when young
couples give each other Pepero cookies. The date '11/11' is intended to
resemble the long shape of the cookie. The 14th of every month marks a
love-related day in Korea, although most of them are obscure. From January to
December: Candle Day, Valentine's Day, White Day, Black Day,
Rose Day, Kiss Day, Silver Day, Green Day, Music Day, Wine Day, Movie Day, and
Hug Day. Korean women give a much higher amount of chocolate than Japanese
women.
Taiwan
In Taiwan,
traditional Qixi Festival,
Valentine's Day and White Day are all celebrated. However, the situation is the
reverse of Japan's. Men give gifts to women on Valentine's Day, and women
return them on White Day.
traditional Qixi Festival,
Valentine's Day and White Day are all celebrated. However, the situation is the
reverse of Japan's. Men give gifts to women on Valentine's Day, and women
return them on White Day.
Europe
United Kingdom
In
the UK, just under half of the population spend money on their Valentines and
around £1.3 billion is spent yearly on cards, flowers, chocolates, and other
gifts, with an estimated 25 million cards being sent.
the UK, just under half of the population spend money on their Valentines and
around £1.3 billion is spent yearly on cards, flowers, chocolates, and other
gifts, with an estimated 25 million cards being sent.
In
Wales, some people celebrate Dydd Santes Dwynwen (St.
Dwynwen's Day) on January 25 instead of (or as well as) Valentine's Day. The
day commemorates St Dwynwen, the
Welsh patron saint of love.
Wales, some people celebrate Dydd Santes Dwynwen (St.
Dwynwen's Day) on January 25 instead of (or as well as) Valentine's Day. The
day commemorates St Dwynwen, the
Welsh patron saint of love.
The
Welsh name for Saint Valentine is Sant Ffolant.
Welsh name for Saint Valentine is Sant Ffolant.
Ireland
On Saint Valentine's Day in Ireland, many individuals who seek
true love make a Christian pilgrimage to
the Shrine of St. Valentine in Whitefriar
Street Carmelite Church in Dublin, which is said to house
relics of Saint Valentine of Rome; they pray at the shrine in hope of finding romance. There
lies a book in which foreigners and locals have written their prayer requests
for love.
true love make a Christian pilgrimage to
the Shrine of St. Valentine in Whitefriar
Street Carmelite Church in Dublin, which is said to house
relics of Saint Valentine of Rome; they pray at the shrine in hope of finding romance. There
lies a book in which foreigners and locals have written their prayer requests
for love.
Finland and Estonia
In
Finland, Valentine's Day is called ystävänpäivä which
translates into "Friend's Day". As the name indicates, this day is
more about remembering friends, not significant others. In Estonia, Valentine's
Day is called sõbrapäev, which has the same meaning.
Finland, Valentine's Day is called ystävänpäivä which
translates into "Friend's Day". As the name indicates, this day is
more about remembering friends, not significant others. In Estonia, Valentine's
Day is called sõbrapäev, which has the same meaning.
France
In
France, a traditionally Catholic country, Valentine's Day is known
simply as "Saint Valentin",
and is celebrated in much the same way as other western countries. The relics
of Saint Valentin de Terni, the patron of the St Valentine’s day, are in the
Catholic church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste and Saint-Jean-l’Evangéliste located in
the southern France town of Roquemaure, Gard. The celebrations of “Fête des
Amoureux” takes place every two years on the Sunday closest to February 14. The
village gets dressed in its 19th-century costume and put on the program with
over 800 people.
France, a traditionally Catholic country, Valentine's Day is known
simply as "Saint Valentin",
and is celebrated in much the same way as other western countries. The relics
of Saint Valentin de Terni, the patron of the St Valentine’s day, are in the
Catholic church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste and Saint-Jean-l’Evangéliste located in
the southern France town of Roquemaure, Gard. The celebrations of “Fête des
Amoureux” takes place every two years on the Sunday closest to February 14. The
village gets dressed in its 19th-century costume and put on the program with
over 800 people.
Greece
St.
Valentine's Day, or Ημέρα του Αγίου Βαλεντίνου in Greek tradition was not
associated with romantic love. In the Eastern Orthodox church there is another
Saint who protects people who are in love, Hyacinth of Caesarea (feast
day July 3), but this was not widely known until the late 1990s In
contemporary Greece, Valentine's Day is generally celebrated as in the common
Western tradition.
Valentine's Day, or Ημέρα του Αγίου Βαλεντίνου in Greek tradition was not
associated with romantic love. In the Eastern Orthodox church there is another
Saint who protects people who are in love, Hyacinth of Caesarea (feast
day July 3), but this was not widely known until the late 1990s In
contemporary Greece, Valentine's Day is generally celebrated as in the common
Western tradition.
Portugal
In Portugal, the holiday is known as "Dia dos
Namorados" (Lover's Day / Day of the Enamoured). As elsewhere, couples
exchange gifts, but in some regions, women give a lenço de namorados ("lovers'
handkerchief"), which is usually embroidered with love motifs.
Namorados" (Lover's Day / Day of the Enamoured). As elsewhere, couples
exchange gifts, but in some regions, women give a lenço de namorados ("lovers'
handkerchief"), which is usually embroidered with love motifs.
Romania
In
recent years, Romania has also started celebrating Valentine's Day. This has
drawn backlash from several groups, institutions, and
nationalist organizations like Noua Dreaptǎ, who condemn Valentine's Day for being
superficial, commercialist, and imported Western kitsch. In order to counter the perceived
denaturation of national culture, Dragobete, a spring festival celebrated in parts of
Southern Romania, has been rekindled after having been ignored during the
Communist years as the traditional Romanian holiday for lovers. The holiday is
named after a character from Romanian folklore who was supposed to be the son
of Baba Dochia. Its date used to vary depending on
the geographical area, however nowadays it is commonly observed on February 24.
recent years, Romania has also started celebrating Valentine's Day. This has
drawn backlash from several groups, institutions, and
nationalist organizations like Noua Dreaptǎ, who condemn Valentine's Day for being
superficial, commercialist, and imported Western kitsch. In order to counter the perceived
denaturation of national culture, Dragobete, a spring festival celebrated in parts of
Southern Romania, has been rekindled after having been ignored during the
Communist years as the traditional Romanian holiday for lovers. The holiday is
named after a character from Romanian folklore who was supposed to be the son
of Baba Dochia. Its date used to vary depending on
the geographical area, however nowadays it is commonly observed on February 24.
Scandinavia
In Denmark and Norway, February 14 is known as Valentinsdag,
and it is celebrated in much the same manner as in the United Kingdom. In Sweden it is called Alla hjärtans dag ("All
Hearts' Day") and is not widely celebrated. A 2016 survey revealed that
less than 50% of men and women were planning to buy presents for their partners. The
holiday has only been observed since the 1960s.
and it is celebrated in much the same manner as in the United Kingdom. In Sweden it is called Alla hjärtans dag ("All
Hearts' Day") and is not widely celebrated. A 2016 survey revealed that
less than 50% of men and women were planning to buy presents for their partners. The
holiday has only been observed since the 1960s.
Spain
In
Spain, Valentine's Day is known as "San Valentín" and is celebrated the same way as
in the rest of the West.
Spain, Valentine's Day is known as "San Valentín" and is celebrated the same way as
in the rest of the West.
Valentine's
Day in popular culture
Many
films have been produced depicting various aspects of Valentine's Day,
including A Charlie Brown Valentine (2002).
films have been produced depicting various aspects of Valentine's Day,
including A Charlie Brown Valentine (2002).
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