This one is for the historical research writers…

Did you know that Easter has its roots in an ancient pagan festival celebrating the spring equinox? In Christianity, this day is dedicated to commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which occurs around the same time as the Jewish Passover. As the teachings of Christ spread, early Christians who did not follow Jewish traditions began to combine their celebrations with the pagan spring festivities, leading to the recognition of Easter as “Resurrection Day.”

Modern Easter customs are a mix of Christian elements and ancient pagan practices, with the latter being more prominent. Decorations like eggs, bunnies, and sweets are all symbols from pre-Christian spring celebrations.

One of the most famous symbols of Easter is the Easter egg. This tradition dates back to the Ancient Babylonians, who believed an egg fell from the sky into the Euphrates River and hatched the fertility goddess Astarte (also known as Ashtur, Ishtar, and Easter). During their spring festival, pagans exchanged eggs as gifts. Today, eggs are often brightly colored and hidden for children to find during Easter egg hunts.

Another well-known symbol is the Easter Bunny. Like eggs, rabbits symbolize spring and fertility. The tradition of the Easter Bunny comes from the pagan festival of Eostre, which featured a northern goddess associated with rabbits and hares. Nowadays, the Easter Bunny brings eggs and treats for children to enjoy each Easter.

The white lily is closely linked to the holiday and is sometimes referred to as the Easter lily. Lilies symbolize purity and resurrection, with one legend suggesting they grew in the Garden of Gethsemane, where Christ prayed before his crucifixion. Other spring flowers like daffodils, crocuses, hyacinths, and tulips are also associated with Easter.

Additional symbols of the Easter season include crosses and crucifixes, which connect directly to religious beliefs, as well as chickens and chicks, representing the theme of rebirth.

Now that you’ve gotten a tidbit more info you can get back to those darn keys and commence your creations.

Thank you for your continued readership and support.

Happy Easter to all of the writers out there! Until next week…Blessings and Peace!

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