2024’s Easter is March 31 this year, What is the meaning of Easter Eggs
New Delhi, INDIA (DT/AP) – On Easter morning, many Christians wake before dawn to celebrate their belief in the resurrection of Jesus, the son of God — as the sun rises.
They gather outside on beaches and church lawns, in local cemeteries and national parks, marking the holy day at the very core of Christianity. For the majority of the world’s Christians, Easter Sunday — and in turn, the sunrise service tradition — will be observed on March 31 this year.
READ MORE : Easter 2023: Why Is Easter Called ‘Easter, Why Is it Celebrated, Here’s how the easter celebration in Punjab
Easter is not a fixed date. It swings between March 22 and April 25 based on a calendar calculation involving the moon.
The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops explains further: “Easter is celebrated on the first Sunday after the Paschal full moon, which is the first full moon occurring either on or after the spring equinox (March 21).”
That means sunrise service attendees will be waking up early on the last day of March this year.
What is the meaning of Easter Eggs
Regardless of religious affiliation, Easter is a time marked by traditions that have origins in non-Christian, pagan, or secular customs. Many individuals who do not follow Christianity still partake in these traditions while focusing less on the religious context of the holiday.
One such example is the tradition of Easter eggs, along with associated activities like egg rolling and egg decoration. Eggs historically symbolized fertility and new life in pagan practices that predate Christianity. The incorporation of egg decorating into Easter festivities may be a nod to the religious significance of the holiday, specifically Jesus’ resurrection or symbolic rebirth.
Another common practice during Easter is egg hunts, where decorated eggs are hidden for children to find. One of the most renowned Easter events for children is the White House Easter Egg Roll, an annual tradition where children roll Easter eggs down Capitol Hill.
What is mean of Easter Bunny
In certain households, children wake up on Easter Sunday to find candy and chocolate eggs delivered by a character known as the Easter Bunny. These treats often come nestled in an Easter basket.
The exact origins of the Easter Bunny tradition remain unclear, but some historians suggest it came to America with German immigrants during the 1700s. Rabbits are often associated with fertility in various cultures, making the appearance of baby bunnies in spring symbolic of birth and rejuvenation.
Interestingly, some Protestant Christian denominations, such as Lutherans and Quakers, have chosen to discontinue several Easter traditions due to their pagan origins. Nevertheless, many religious Easter observers continue to embrace these traditions as part of their celebrations.
Easter foods are rich in symbolism, too. Lamb is a common dish for Easter dinner, with historical ties to Jewish traditions where lambs were sacrificial animals. This association is further linked to Passover, and the phrase “lamb of God” is sometimes used in reference to Jesus and the sacrificial nature of his death.
Today, Easter is a commercial event as well as a religious holiday, marked by high sales for greeting cards, candies (such as Peeps, chocolate eggs and chocolate Easter bunnies) and other gifts.
Religious Tradition of the Easter
The New Testament of the Bible narrates the resurrection of Jesus, a pivotal event that forms the cornerstone of Christian faith. Consequently, Easter holds immense significance on the Christian calendar.
As per the New Testament accounts, Jesus was apprehended by Roman authorities primarily due to his assertion of being the “Son of God,” although historians debate this motive, suggesting that the Romans may have perceived him as a threat to their rule.
Pontius Pilate, the Roman prefect in Judea from A.D. 26 to 36, sentenced Jesus to death by crucifixion. This event, commemorated as Good Friday in Christianity (observed the Friday before Easter), was followed by his resurrection three days later. The gospel authors assert that this resurrection validates Jesus’ divine nature as the Son of God.
All four gospels in the New Testament—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—affirm that believers in Jesus’ death and resurrection receive “the gift of eternal life.” This promise signifies that those with faith will be welcomed into the “Kingdom of Heaven” upon their earthly passing.
Note: This report has been automatically generated by History TV. Diplomat Times does not assume responsibility for its content.
