What is the true origin of Easter? Christians around the world commemorate this season annually. It’s one of the most significant holidays on their calendars, marking the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. During this time, great symbolism is used to signify different things. But where did Christians start observing Easter?
Christian Roots of Easter
What is the true origin of Easter? The crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ are at the heart of Easter celebrations. They fulfilled Old Testament prophesies and established Jesus as the chosen Messiah. However, the exact date of his death and resurrection remains unknown. This caused a dispute among the Western and Eastern Christians.
Become an insider. Subscribe to our newsletter for more top trending stories like this!
However, in Asia Minor, Christians observed crucifixion on the same day the Jews celebrated Passover, the 14th day of the first full moon of Spring, and the resurrection came two days later, regardless of the day of the week. The Western church commemorated the resurrection on the first Sunday of the week, hence Easter was marked on the first Sunday after the 14th day of the month of Nisan.
Ultimately, the Council of Nicaea ruled that Easter be celebrated on the first Sunday after the full moon after the equinox (March 21). Consequently, Easter falls between March 22 and April 25.
People Also Read: Top 5 Black Models Who Were Trailblazers on the Runway
Pre-Christian Origins
Easter is a Christian holiday with traditions steeped in pagan celebrations of rebirth, fertility, and renewal. The word Easter is believed to originate from Eostre or Ostara, the Anglo-Saxxon goddess of fertility and spring.
The spring equinox festivals included various celebrations to welcome Spring, including the Roman Hilaria, which involved procession, feasts, and resurrection. The Persian Nowruz marks the Persian New Year as a time of renewal, and Germanic traditions observed the return of long days after winter.
Join our Spotcovery Global Black Community Facebook Group for early access to exclusive content and to share in a lively discussion.
The Evolution of Easter
Christianity spread across Europe, and some celebrations, like Easter, were assimilated into the cultures. As a result, some people adapted their customs to the Easter tradition.
Eggs and Easter Bunny
Eggs symbolise new life and were used to share that message before Christianity. They were adopted into Easter to signify the resurrection of Jesus. During the Lent season in Europe, eggs were not eaten until Easter Sunday.
Become an insider. Subscribe to our newsletter for more top trending stories like this!
Meanwhile, the Easter Bunny has Germanic roots and was associated with Eostore, the fertility goddess. So, the Germans brought the Easter hare tradition to America, and it became a highlight of the holiday when the bunny delivered eggs to children.
People Also Read: 9 Greatest African Women Who Have Shaped the Continent
Lamb and Cross Symbols
The lamb is present in Jewish Passover and Christian theology. In Judaism, the Passover lamb symbolizes God’s deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt, while for Christians, Jesus is the Lamb of God who brings salvation. The cross symbolizes Christian crucifixion and resurrection, reminding Christians of the suffering, death, and victory of Jesus.
The Message of Easter
What is the true origin of Easter? This article outlines how this Christian holiday came to be. The central message of Easter is to commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It reaffirms their faith in redemption and eternal life, reminding them that Jesus died for them to receive salvation and a path to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. It’s a time of reflection and renewal. What does Easter mean to you?
Nearly 80% of consumers visit directories with reviews to find a local business. List your business for free in our exclusive Spotcovery Black-Owned Business Directory.
Spotcovery offers unique and fresh daily content on Black culture, lifestyle, and experiences. We talk about everything black, black people, black-owned and black-owned businesses. We also deliver authentic and relevant content that will inform, inspire, and empower you! The future of black media is critical to today’s black experience! Our primary audience includes African Americans, Africans, Afro-Caribbean, and people of African heritage. Black culture is for the culture!
Become an insider. Subscribe to our newsletter for more top trending stories like this!
