Did you know? Valentine’s Day began as a memorial; held for a man in the early church ages known as Valentinus. In his book, “Foxe’s book of Martyrs,” John Foxe records the story of this amazing man. Apparently, during the second century, Valentinus was imprisoned by the Romans for performing marriage ceremonies for soldiers forbidden to marry. He also gave food, shelter and comfort to early Christians, which was also a crime.
While he was in prison, his jailor, Asterius, communicated with Valentinus that his daughter was ill and about to die. In desperation, the jailor asked Valentinus to pray to his God for a miracle. Within days, the woman was healed and had returned to her healthy self. She began to visit him in prison, and the two became very close friends.
On the day Valentinus was to be executed, Foxe records he sent a letter to her, as she had become the closest person to him. In the letter, he declared his love to her, and wished her well; signing the letter with “from your Valentine” as his farewell. According to tradition, his execution day was February 14.
As word spread of Valentinus’ experience, the practice was repeated by early Christians who were about to die. The term “Valentine” eventually became associated with the concept of expressing undying love in the face of difficulties.
Several hundred years later, during the Middle Ages, knights were assigned to care and protect for the female members of royal families. Because of time spent together, and inevitable conversation, the term “courtly love” became accepted. This term became a description of the unspoken love and attraction between a maiden and her protector. In that age, a knight would be executed if he expressed love for his charge as his objectivity in the situation was considered a major asset in serving as her protector. In his writings, Geoffrey Chaucer used the term “Valentine” to explain this frustrating circumstance, and as a result, the practice of sending notes from a secret admirer became a practice in England.
In our day, Valentine’s Day still has the same symbolism, but without its history, we can forget the depth of its meaning. But no matter the depth of meaning, the words “Happy Valentine’s Day” communicate affection and the desire for closer relationship.
Blessings! Enjoy your day!
©2013 dcg/atg
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