Although known as a Christian celebration the period of 40 days leading up to Easter has been celebrated since pagan times. It was customary in ancient times to lend a neighbor a useful hand tool or utensil and if it was returned in good condition within 40 days, a meal was prepared in honour of the borrower. Hence, the word Lent, derived from the Hebrew "to lend". After centuries the pagans adopted a month of celebration of "neighborly harmony" just before the start of spring to honor and renew friendships, which culminated a very big party on the Spring Equinox. It was only when the Romans occupied Northern Europe and Britain did it become the hedonistic, sexually repressed, violent and perverse celebration of sexual depravity, human torture and sacrifice that we enjoy today.
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