Easter is commonly referred to as a "moveable feast," since it is celebrated on a different date each year. Easter is celebrated on the Sunday that follows the first full moon after the first day of Spring. Feasts at this time of year pre-date Christianity, but the current holiday has religious significance to Christians as well as elements of the original Pagan symbolism.
Eostre, Ôstarâ, Austron or Eastre
In his book, "De temporum ratione," an 8th century monk named Bede described the source of the names of the months and seasons. One translation of the passage relating to Easter, available on the Pagan News website under the heading, "Eastre," refers to the original season as "Eosturmonath", stating that it was named for a German goddess called Eostre.
Alternative names and spellings for this goddess are Eostre, Ôstarâ, Austron, Eastre and others, depending on the area, language, and dialect. The goddess of the dawn or spring symbolizes renewal and fertility,
Pagan and Christian Symbols for Easter
Eostre, or Eastre, is a spring goddess associated with certain symbols, colors and offerings. These associations are easily recognizable in the Easter traditions of today.
- Easter colors – The colors of white and green, and pastels, found in every Easter basket, are the colors associated with the goddess Eastre.
- Easter symbols – The Easter Bunny and the Easter Egg are the most easily recognizable symbols of the holiday, and are also the two symbols of the spring goddess.
Christian Significance of Easter
The Christian celebration of Easter Sunday commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ three days after his crucifixion. Often, Christian churches have a special Easter service, for this reason. The belief in death and rebirth of the Messiah, symbolized by the Easter holiday for many, are central to the Christian faith.
There is a controversy between different Christian faiths regarding the celebration of Easter. The New Testament only includes a single reference to Easter, which is a mistranslation according to multiple sources, including the Catholic Encyclopedia. Combined with this, the Pagan symbols associated with the holiday are enough to stop many from celebrating Easter Sunday. For more information about the relation of Easter to the Christian Faith, read the Easter entry of the Catholic Encyclopedia.
Combining Pagan and Christian Elements on Easter Sunday
Easter Sunday, as it is currently observed, has both Christian and Pagan elements. Chocolate rabbits and Easter baskets are rejected by some, but to others the underlying message of Easter is more important. Although the Easter Bunny and Easter Eggs are related to a pre-Christian goddess, the theme of rebirth and renewal corresponds with the purely Christian traditions of the season.
Sources:
Pagan News: "Gods & Goddesses Eastre". Accessed March 31, 2010.
Knight, K., 2009. New Advent Catholic Encyclopedia: "Easter". Accessed March 31, 2010.
Victoria Nicks - Victoria Nicks has a Master's Degree in IT, and extensive hands-on experience with various types of hardware and software.
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