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Where does the name Easter come from?

Easter is a widely celebrated Christian holiday commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. While the religious significance of Easter is well-known, the origins of its name and the incorporation of certain symbols, such as eggs, bunnies, and chicks, are lesser-known. This article will explore the connection between Easter and the Anglo-Saxon goddess Eostre, delving into the historical and cultural context that shaped this important Christian celebration.

The Goddess Eostre: Spring and Fertility

The name ‘Easter’ is derived from ‘Eostre,’ an Anglo-Saxon goddess associated with the season of Spring and fertility. Eostre was celebrated during the month of April (also known as Eosturmonath in Old English) by the pagan Anglo-Saxons. The festival was a time to rejoice in the renewal of life, as the days grew longer and warmer, and nature awoke from its winter slumber.

Eostre was often depicted as a maiden, symbolizing youth and fertility, and was associated with the dawn. As a goddess of fertility, Eostre was linked to the renewal of life, which is echoed in the Christian celebration of Jesus’ resurrection.

Pagan Symbols of Life: Eggs, Bunnies, and Chicks

The incorporation of symbols such as eggs, bunnies, and chicks into Easter celebrations is rooted in ancient pagan traditions celebrating Spring and new life. These symbols predate Christianity and hold a deep connection to the goddess Eostre.

1. Eggs: Eggs have long been considered a symbol of life, rebirth, and fertility. In pagan traditions, they were often painted and exchanged as gifts during Spring festivals to celebrate the renewal of life. Over time, the Christian faith adopted this practice, and eggs became a symbol of the resurrection of Jesus, representing the emergence of new life from the tomb. Today, Easter eggs are often painted, decorated, and hidden for children to find during Easter celebrations, maintaining the connection to the ancient tradition.
2. Bunnies: Bunnies, or rabbits, are another symbol of fertility due to their remarkable reproductive abilities. They have long been associated with the goddess Eostre and the celebration of Spring. The Easter Bunny, a popular figure in modern Easter celebrations, is thought to have originated from these early pagan traditions. The Easter Bunny is often depicted bringing baskets of colourful eggs, candy, and small gifts to children, combining the symbols of fertility and the joy of new life.
3. Chicks: As baby birds, chicks symbolize the beginning of life and the promise of growth. They represent the renewal and continuation of life cycles, making them a fitting symbol for both the pagan celebration of Spring and the Christian commemoration of Jesus’ resurrection. Chicks, often depicted hatching from eggs, serve as a visual reminder of the cycle of life and the importance of renewal.

The name ‘Easter’ and its associated symbols have deep roots in ancient pagan traditions centred around the Anglo-Saxon goddess Eostre and the celebration of Spring and fertility. As Christianity spread, many of these symbols were incorporated into the celebration of Jesus’ resurrection, illustrating the connections between the renewal of life in nature and the promise of eternal life through Christ.

Today, Easter is a time to remember and celebrate the resurrection of Jesus, while also appreciating the rich cultural history that has shaped this important Christian holiday. By understanding the origins of the name ‘Easter’ and the significance of its symbols, we can deepen our appreciation for the connections.