Easter is a major holiday celebrated by Christians around the world to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, as described in the New Testament of the Bible. It is considered the most important and oldest festival in the Christian calendar, symbolizing the victory of life over death and hope over despair. The origins of Easter trace back not only to Christian beliefs but also to earlier pagan traditions. The name “Easter” is believed to have come from “Eostre” or “Ēastre,” a pagan goddess of spring and fertility in Anglo-Saxon mythology. Celebrations around the vernal equinox were common in pre-Christian times, as they marked the end of winter and the
beginning of new life. Many scholars believe that early Christians adopted certain elements of these pagan spring festivals to help spread Christianity among non-believers by making the religion feel more familiar. Over time, myths and symbols such as the Easter Bunny and Easter eggs became intertwined with the holiday. The rabbit, known for its high fertility, was associated with Eostre and symbolized rebirth. Similarly, eggs—an ancient symbol of new life—were decorated and exchanged during spring festivals long before they became part of the Easter tradition. According to one popular myth, the Easter Bunny lays, decorates, and hides eggs, which adds a playful and imaginative layer to the holiday for children, though it has no biblical basis. In the 21st century, Easter is viewed through many different lenses. For devout Christians, it remains a deeply spiritual and sacred time, beginning with Good Friday, which marks the crucifixion of Jesus, and culminating in Easter Sunday, which celebrates his resurrection. Churches hold special services, and many believers take part in fasting, prayer, and reflection. However, in a more secular and commercial context, especially in Western cultures, Easter has also become a time of consumerism, marked by candy sales, chocolate bunnies, egg hunts, and themed decorations. Retail stores often promote Easter weeks in advance, and for many people, it is more of a cultural or family-oriented holiday than a religious one. In today’s global society, what Easter represents varies widely. For some, it is a day of religious significance and spiritual renewal. For others, it is a chance to gather with family, enjoy a meal, and celebrate the arrival of spring. And for a growing number of people, it holds little religious meaning at all and is more about seasonal fun and tradition. Regardless of individual beliefs, Easter often symbolizes themes of hope, renewal, and the promise of new beginnings. This universal message resonates across cultures and religions, even for those who may not celebrate Easter in a traditional sense. In a world that continues to change and diversify, Easter continues to adapt—retaining its ancient roots while also evolving in how it is understood and observed in modern times.
