“February 14” is a day that many young people often consider a special day between lovers that brings sweetness together. In the past, this day was called “Lovers’ Day”, etc. Due to misunderstandings, young people have done outrageous things in the past that have led to a departure from Khmer traditions, leading to a loss of Khmer national values.
After all, February 14 is Valentine’s Day. Love on this day is not only focused on lovers, but also shows respect for parents, family, relatives, friends, etc. So, to avoid any misunderstanding about Valentine’s Day on February 14, Radio Vayo would like to present some of the history as follows:
The story takes place during the Roman Empire, which is now Italy, when the Catholic Church recognized three different priests named Valentine or Valentinus who sacrificed their lives for the faith. There is a story about a priest named Valentine who served the church in the 3rd century who helped protect the love of Roman lovers.
At that time, the Roman Emperor Claudius II believed that single soldiers were stronger and better than those with wives and children. For this reason, the emperor forbade young men from getting married. Valentine felt that the emperor’s ban was unfair and he did not comply. Often, many couples came to him to help them get married in a private place. Valentine would pick flowers from the garden and give them to the newlyweds, which was considered a symbol of marriage for married couples at that time. Therefore, today, most people give flowers as gifts to each other on this holiday.
After the emperor learned of this, he ordered Valentine to be imprisoned and sentenced to death. At the same time, there is another story that Valentine was convicted of trying to save Christian prisoners from escaping from a brutal Roman prison, where they were beaten and tortured. According to the same story, Valentine first fell in love with a young woman, the sister of a prison guard, who came to visit him while he was in prison. Valentine was later executed in 210 AD. Before Valentine’s death, it was discovered that he had written a letter to the woman he loved, entitled From Your Valentine, a phrase that is still used today.
However, although the truth behind Valentine’s story remains unclear, all the stories confirm his appeal as a compassionate, heroic figure with the deepest feelings of love. By the Middle Ages, perhaps because of this reputation, Valentine had become one of the most popular figures in England and France.
The origins of Valentine’s Day are a religious celebration in February. While some believe that Valentine’s Day was celebrated in mid-February to commemorate the death of Saint Valentine, which may have occurred around 270 AD, it is claimed that the Christian church may have decided to fix the date of Valentine’s Day in mid-February in an attempt to Christianize the religious celebration of Lupercalia. Held in mid-February, or February 14, Lupercalia was a birth celebration dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture, and also to the founders of Rome, Romulus and Remus.
Valentine’s Day, celebrated every year on February 14, is a special occasion dedicated to expressing love and affection. Whether you are in a relationship, single, or celebrating with friends, this day offers the perfect opportunity to show appreciation to those who matter most.
History and Significance
Valentine’s Day traces its origins back to Saint Valentine, a Roman priest who secretly married couples during a time of war. Over the centuries, it evolved into a global celebration of love, marked by romantic gestures, heartfelt gifts, and special moments.
Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day
- Romantic Dinners: Enjoy a candlelit meal at a fancy restaurant or cook a homemade dinner.
- Gift Giving: Traditional gifts include flowers, chocolates, jewelry, and love letters. Personalized presents like custom mugs, engraved jewelry, or photo albums add a meaningful touch.
- Creative Date Ideas: Plan a movie night, a weekend getaway, or a fun adventure like a picnic or a scenic drive.
- Self-Love & Friendship: Valentine’s Day isn’t just for couples. Celebrate Galentine’s Day with friends or pamper yourself with a spa day.
Valentine’s Day in the Digital Age
With online shopping and virtual greetings, expressing love has never been easier. Many people send digital cards, order gifts online, or plan virtual dates to stay connected.
Whether you celebrate traditionally or uniquely, Valentine’s Day is a reminder to cherish love in all forms. ❤️
