The Resurrection of Christ vs Easter

The Resurrection of Christ and the celebration of Easter are two significant events each with its own profound significance and cultural impact. Both revolve around themes of rebirth and renewal, they differ in their origins, symbolism, and religious significance.

The resurrection of Christ occurred three days after His crucifixion.  Jesus’ sacrifice offers hope for salvation and eternal life.  In contrast, the Easter celebration has its roots in both Christian and pagan traditions.  Eostre, (Easter), is the goddess apart of the Germanic paganism and mythology. She is worshiped as the the goddess of spring and fertility.  She is also considered the renewal of life.  The worship of Eostre traces back to ancient Germanic tribes inhabiting regions of present-day Germany, Scandinavia, and England.   It is said that Eostre transformed a bird into a rabbit which retained the ability to lay eggs, thus giving rise to the Easter tradition of egg-laying rabbits. Ancient rituals dedicated to Eostre often involved offerings of flowers, grains, and colored eggs, symbolizing the fertility of the earth and the promise of new life.

The resurrection of Christ holds immense biblical significance, representing the cornerstone of the faith. It symbolizes redemption, forgiveness of sins, and the promise of eternal life for believers. The Easter celebration, incorporates various symbols and traditions, including the Easter bunny, Easter eggs, and Easter lilies, which have both Christian and pagan origins. The Easter bunny and eggs, for instance, symbolize fertility and rebirth, while Easter lilies represent purity and new beginnings.

The resurrection of Christ has inspired countless ways to show the crucifixion and resurrection, serving as a source of spiritual inspiration.  The Easter celebration has become commercialized. Retailers capitalizing on the holiday through sales and promotions. While Easter retains its religious significance for many, it has also become a cultural phenomenon celebrated by people of various faiths and backgrounds.

The resurrection of Christ is commemorated through religious services, such as Resurrection Sunday Mass, where Christians gather to celebrate the resurrection with prayers, hymns, and scripture readings. The focus is on spiritual reflection, repentance, and gratitude for God's sacrifice. In contrast, the Easter celebration has evolved into a secular holiday characterized by various customs and rituals, including Easter egg hunts, decorating eggs, and exchanging gifts. These practices, while enjoyable for many, often overshadow the religious significance of the holiday. Easter should no longer be equated with the resurrection of Christ. There are no scriptures mentioning, or validating Easter but numerous bible verses foretelling Christ’s birth, miracles, death and above all His resurrection.  There is only one true and living God, not a goddess for each aspect of life.

Anjetta (Anjie) Williams-Brown