The Story of Carving Pumpkins — A Christian Perspective

The tradition of carving vegetables into lanterns began centuries ago in Ireland and Scotland. Villagers told of Stingy Jack, a man who tricked the devil and was cursed to wander the earth with only a hollowed-out turnip and a glowing coal to light his way. When Irish immigrants came to America, they found that pumpkins — native to this land — were easier to carve and soon became the preferred lantern.

While this old tale has roots in folklore, Christians today can give new meaning to the tradition. We don’t carve pumpkins to frighten away spirits or celebrate darkness — we carve them to remember that Jesus is the Light of the World.

In our home, we do not do "scary". We have fun as a family. When the kids were little, we participated in community safe trunk or treats, we dressed in a fun theme. 

“When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.’” — John 8:12

As believers, we’re called to let our light shine in the world. When a candle glows inside a carved pumpkin, it’s a beautiful reminder of Christ shining through us.

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden… Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 5:14–16

The process of hollowing out a pumpkin can represent what God does in our lives. He removes the “gunk” — our sin, selfishness, and fear — and fills us with His Holy Spirit.

“I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.” — Ezekiel 36:26

Just as we clean out the inside of the pumpkin before placing a light within, God transforms us from the inside out.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” — 2 Corinthians 5:17

Carving pumpkins also happens during harvest — a time to thank God for His provision and blessings.

“The land yields its harvest; God, our God, blesses us.” — Psalm 67:6

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18

For Christian families, carving pumpkins can become a time of fellowship and gratitude. Before lighting your pumpkin, say a prayer together: “Lord, help us shine Your light in our community. Let others see You in us.”

A simple family reflection:
“As we hollow out the pumpkin, we thank God for removing our sin. As we carve the face, we ask Him to shape us into His image. As we light the candle, we invite Jesus to fill us with His light so that others may see His love through us.”