Easter is one of the major Christian holidays, celebrated in many countries around the world. To facilitate the celebration of Easter, here are a few facts about the holiday that you will most certainly enjoy.
Easter is the oldest Christian holiday
You might assume it’s Christmas, but it’s actually Easter. Early Christians used to observe Christ’s Resurrection every single Sunday until they decided to dedicate a full annual day to Him. Like Christmas, Easter started as a pagan holiday before it was later adopted by Christians to celebrate the resurrection of Christ.
Easter is celebrated at different time by Eastern and Western Christians.
This is because the dates for Easter in Eastern Christianity are based on the Julian Calendar
The Easter Eggs Dates Way Back Before Easter
The popular Easter eggs is believed to have originated form medieval Europe and Christians may not have actually been the ones to start the tradition of giving eggs.
Easter was Named After the Anglo-Saxon Goddess Eostre
Scholars believe that Easter was named after a festival celebrating Eostre and the coming of spring. This goddess in particular was known for spring time celebrations and fertility, her sacred symbols are thought to have been the hare and the egg.
The Easter Bunny Originated from Germany
The idea of the Easter bunny giving candies and eggs is said to have originated in Germany during the Middle Ages, with the first written mention of this tradition dating back to the 16th century.
In many countries, giving eggs is a symbol of “rebirth”
The exchange or giving of Easter eggs actually dates back to before Easter and the egg symbolizes new life, fertility, and rebirth in many places around the world. Thanks to the rounded shape, it has also been used as a symbol of the earth and our connection with nature
The White Lily is commonly used as Easter flower
The white lily is more or less the official flower of Easter. As they represent grace and purity, many churches and homes choose to decorate with the white lily for the holiday. In fact, they’re commonly known best as “Easter lilies.”
Happy Easter! Stay safe and stay healthy.
