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Happy Easter!
Want to learn its technicolor traditions?
What is Easter?
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Why is Easter historically associated with April?
While Easter emerged as a Christian holiday in the 2nd century, its origins go back even further.
In fact, Easter’s traditions can be traced back to cultures that predate Jesus himself.
Domenico Pagliarolo, “Resurrection, in an initial A,” Last quarter of the 15th century (Photo:Google Arts & Culture, Public domain)
Easter Lilies
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White lilies are a popular flower to buy for Easter celebrations.
To Christians, they symbolize the purity of Christ and are referenced many times in the Bible.
But with so many references to them, it’s unsurprising they are associated with the holiday.
Johannes Gehrts, “Ostara, 1901 (Photo:Wikimedia Commons, Public domain)
Dyed Eggs
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Dipping eggs in dye has become an Easter staple.
Like many mainstream holiday traditionsincluding trick-or-treating onHalloweenor playing pranks onApril Fools' Daythis pastime has pagan roots.
In ancient times, equinoxes and solstices were seen as sacred times.
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In Pagan spring festivalscelebrating the goddess of Earth, Eostreunhatched eggs were used to symbolize new life.
This concept was adapted by the Christians in Easter’s early years.
Worshippers would also place their offerings to Eostre in baskets.
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Using their bonnets, children would craft makeshift nests for the hare to fill with colorful eggs.
Why was a hare selected to serve as this special visitor?
The answer, again, is rooted in spring symbolism, as rabbits and hares traditionally represent fertility.
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President Barack Obama hosting the Easter Egg Roll at the White House in 2009.
(Photo: Pete Souza viaWikimedia Commons, Public domain)
Another popular game isegg rolling.
Originating in Europe, this game was played by children who rolled eggs downhill.
Photo:Stock Photosfrom PHOTOCREO Michal Bednarek/Shutterstock
The Holiday Today
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Today, Easter is celebrated around the world.
True to its roots, it is typically regarded as both a religious holiday and a celebration of spring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Easter based on a pagan holiday?
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In these pagan festivals, unhatched eggs were used to symbolize new life.
This concept was adapted by the Christians in Easter’s early years.
Why do we celebrate Easter with eggs?
Photo: RRRmmm22/Depositphotos
In pagan spring festivals, unhatched eggs were used to symbolize new life.
This concept was adapted by the Christians in Easter’s early years.
President Barack Obama hosting the Easter Egg Roll at the White House in 2009. (Photo: Pete Souza viaWikimedia Commons, Public domain)
Photo:Stock Photosfrom Barbara Neveu/Shutterstock
