Supermarket shelves are stocked with Peeps, chocolate bunnies, plastic grass, and baskets brimming with treats as Easter and the Easter Bunny approach this Sunday, with millions worldwide gearing up to celebrate.
Easter, a Christian holiday marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the forgiveness of sins, is observed with diverse traditions and religious practices among denominations and across cultures. Many Christians commemorate the occasion through church services and prayer.
Easter, honoring the resurrection of Jesus Christ three days post-crucifixion by Romans circa 30 A.D., was once observed every Sunday.
Easter concludes the Holy Week, encompassing distinct days, each bearing significant events:
- Palm Sunday: Honoring Jesus' entry into Jerusalem
- Holy Thursday: Commemorating the Last Supper and the washing of feet
- Good Friday: Marking Jesus' crucifixion and death
- Easter Sunday: Celebrating Jesus' resurrection
The Easter Mass stands out as one of the lengthiest segments of the Catholic liturgy. For many, the Easter Vigil starts post-sunset on Saturday or in the early hours of Sunday, extending into the sunrise of Easter. With additional readings, hymns, and rituals, the Mass typically lasts from two to three hours.
The date of Easter varies annually, usually falling between March 22 and April 25. In essence, it lands on the first Sunday after the full Moon following the spring equinox.
Western Christianity observes Easter according to the Gregorian calendar, with Easter falling on March 31 in 2024.
However, Orthodox Christianity determines the date of Easter based on the Julian Calendar, with their Easter occurring on Sunday, May 5 this year.
Apart from religious observances, commercial festivities surrounding Easter have brought widespread recognition to symbols such as eggs, chicks, and, notably, the Easter Bunny.
Experts suggest that these symbols have religious origins. In regions of the northern hemisphere, where Easter coincides with spring, the imagery of new life associated with the season intertwines with the holiday, notes O’Malley.
According to Nadieszda Kizenko, director of religious studies at the University at Albany, the tradition of dyeing eggs traces back to ancient times in the Middle East, where people utilized onion skins for coloring purposes.
Eggs held significant importance and were adorned due to dietary restrictions during the early days of Lent, the fasting period spanning from Ash Wednesday to Easter. As meat and dairy products were abstained from, the reintroduction of eggs for consumption became a noteworthy event, prompting the custom of egg decoration to emerge.
Easter festivities vary globally, influenced by both local customs and the practices of different Christian denominations.
While families in the United States might eagerly await a visit from the Easter Bunny this weekend, young children in France, for instance, are informed that bells will deliver their eggs.