Saturday, January 9, 2010

Legend Of Valentine's

There are various legends of St. Valentine's Day... from the beginning of the mating of birds to Saint Valentine of Rome II. A famous legend on St. Valentine's states Valentine was a early Christian in Rome, who was very popular amongst children. During the time when Valentine lived, Roman Regine was not in favour of Christianity and it even prosecuted Christians to make Rome free of followers of Christianity. In spite of this strict law Valentine continued to practice his faith and refused to worship Roman Gods. This enraged Emperor Claudius II and he put Valentine into prison. Valentine is said to have spent a year in rigorous imprisonment during which he was missed by allot of the children. They began to toss loving notes and flowers between the bars of his cell window. To an extent that this may explain the tradition loving notes and flowers are given on Valentines Day. Some scholars believe that during his stay in prison Valentine made friends with the jailers blind daughter who at times brought him notes and flowers from children. Whenever possible Valentine replied to the notes. Days before his execution, Valentine prayed for the jailers daughter and she regained her sight. Before his death, Valentine is also said to have written a farewell note to the jailers daughter and signed it "FROM YOUR VALENTINE". The expression has remained popular even till todays's date. Some scholars believe that Valentine was killed because he tried to help Christians escape from the Roman prison as they were being tortured and beaten. Yet another set of scholars said the Emperor Claudius II was impressed by Valentine's kindness and good behavior. He even stated the Valentine could be freed if he agreed to worship Roman Gods... Valentine just refused. He even tried to convert the Emperor to Christianity. This made Claudius very angry and he ordered his execution. Valentine was beheaded on February 14th.

3 comments:

SharDon Exclusives said...

Marietta, I have missed reading your lovely stories. I have been away so long that I feel so out of touch but all I had to do is read your sweet legend. I pray you are having a wonderful adventure in 2010. Blessings to you, sweet gal,
Sharon

Cynthia K. said...

Wow - we forget what tough and dangerous times that Christians had to live in and suffer for their faith. Thanks for the reminder through this story about Valentine. I'm glad you research these things and help us be informed even as we are entertained by them.

Have a Beautifully Blessed 2010...

Cynthia K. (Beauty and Blessings)

The Victorian Parlor said...

Marietta,

I never knew this about Valentine! What an amazing and beautiful story!

Blessings,

Kim