Easter 2025
About Easter
Easter is a cultural holiday that, while associated with Christian celebrations, has roots in ancient pagan spring festivals. The name "Easter" itself comes from Eostre, a Germanic goddess of spring and fertility. Many of its customs and symbols have pagan origins rather than biblical connections.
Historical Background
Pagan Origins
Easter incorporates elements from various pagan spring festivals:
- Eostre's Festival (Germanic spring celebration)
- Ishtar Festivals (Babylonian fertility rites)
- Spring Equinox celebrations
Church Adoption
The Council of Nicaea (325 AD) established Easter's date separate from the biblical Passover, deliberately distancing it from Jewish observances. This date is determined by the first Sunday following the first full moon after the spring equinox.
Easter vs Biblical Passover
Easter
- Date varies yearly based on moon/equinox
- Incorporates pagan symbols (eggs, rabbits)
- Sunday sunrise services (pagan sun worship)
- Not mentioned in the Bible
Biblical Passover
- Fixed date: 14th day of 1st month (Hebrew calendar)
- Specific biblical symbols (bread, wine)
- Observed at night as commanded
- Clearly outlined in Scripture
Easter Symbols and Their Origins
Easter Eggs
Ancient symbol of fertility and rebirth in pagan religions. Decorated eggs were used in spring festivals long before Christianity.
Easter Bunny
Derived from the hare, a symbol of fertility associated with the goddess Eostre. No biblical connection.
Hot Cross Buns
Originally offerings to gods in pre-Christian times, marked with a cross representing the four quarters of the moon.
Sunrise Services
Related to ancient sun worship practices, not biblical observances which begin at sunset.
Modern Traditions
Activities
- Easter egg hunts
- Easter parades
- Sunrise services
- Family gatherings
Food
- Hot cross buns
- Easter eggs
- Chocolate bunnies
- Easter ham
Easter Around the World
Germany
Easter egg trees (Ostereierbaum) and Easter fires
Greece
Red egg cracking and midnight fireworks
Poland
Blessing of Easter baskets (Święconka)
Finland
Children dress as witches and go door-to-door
Holiday Details
- Date: Variable (March-April)
- Type: Cultural Holiday
- Calculation: First Sunday after first full moon following spring equinox
- Season: Spring
- Origins: Pre-Christian spring festivals