What Are The Origins of Mother’s Day?
In the US, we celebrate Mother’s Day on the 2nd Sunday in May. We usually associate it as a time to give gifts, send flowers, and take our Mom’s out to eat. But did you know that this holiday is celebrated all over the world, in various forms, and can trace roots back to ancient times?
Ancient Greeks celebrated Cybele, the mother of gods. They gave gifts to mothers during this festival. Eventually this custom was also picked up by the Romans. They celebrated it during the famous Ides of March. The ancient Romans also had a holiday which celebrated Juno, and they also gave gifts to mothers on this day.
Europe also has several old traditions of setting aside a Sunday to celebrate mothers. It is part of the religious calendar of many denominations. But the tradition of setting aside a day or time is not exclusive to Europe or western nations. It also arose in many African and Asian countries like Japan, India, and middle Eastern countries. Some African countries started following the British tradition after they were colonized, but many had festivals that pre-dated this time period.
If Every Day Were Mother’s Day….
In the US, the holday, like most, has become very commerical. Billions of dollars are spent on greeting cards, restaurant meals, jewelry, flowers, and other gifts or treats. Many people have protested this trend, but on the other hand, it is possible that the holday may have folded without continued support from industries, like florists and jewelers, who depend upon this additional revenue every year. For at least one Sunday every every May, business has Mom’s back.
If you are interested in learning more about Mother’s Day, from ancient times to the present day, see History of Mother’s Day.
Now, go call your mom!
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