Easter Unwrapped: Myths, Truths, and the Meaning Behind the Celebration

Is Easter a Christian Holiday or a Pagan One?

The Myth: Easter originates from pagan festivals and has nothing to do with Christianity.

The Truth: Easter has been celebrated by Christians since the 1st and 2nd centuries, long before claims of pagan influences.

1. The resurrection of Jesus is at the heart of Christian belief (1 Corinthians 15:14).
2. Early Christians celebrated Pascha (the Greek word for Passover) to commemorate Jesus’ resurrection.
3. The name Easter is primarily used in English and German, deriving from an Old English spring month (Eosturmonath). The claim that it originates from Ishtar is a modern internet myth.
4. The date of Easter is linked to Passover because Jesus was crucified during Passover week. The Council of Nicaea (AD 325) later standardized its observance as the first Sunday after the first full moon on or after March 21.

How is Passover Related to Easter?

The Question: Should Christians celebrate Passover instead of Easter?

The Answer: Easter fulfills Passover.

1. Jesus’ crucifixion occurred during Passover week, intertwining the two events. His death and resurrection took place during this sacred Jewish festival, linking Christian Easter to Jewish Passover chronologically and theologically.
2. The New Testament calls Jesus the “Passover Lamb” (1 Corinthians 5:7). Just as the blood of a lamb marked the Israelites’ deliverance from death in Egypt, Jesus’ sacrifice is seen as the fulfillment of that redemptive act - offering spiritual deliverance from sin.
3. The Last Supper was likely a Passover meal. Jesus celebrated it with his disciples the night before his crucifixion. Many Christian traditions recognize this moment as the institution of the Eucharist (Communion), echoing elements of the Jewish Seder.
4. Jesus’ crucifixion took place at the same time as the Passover lamb sacrifices in the Temple. This detail deepens the symbolism of Jesus as the “Lamb of God,” sacrificed for the sins of the world.
5. Early Christians saw Easter as the completion of Passover. It shifted the focus from physical deliverance (Exodus) to spiritual freedom through Christ’s resurrection, emphasizing a new covenant.
6. While some Christians observe Passover elements, Easter became a distinct celebration. Over time, the Church established Easter separately, calculated using a different calendar - but both festivals still share themes of redemption, liberation, and new beginnings.
   

What Did Jesus Eat at the Last Supper?

The Last Supper was a Passover meal, and according to Jewish tradition, it likely included:

1. Unleavened Bread (Matzah): Used by Jesus to symbolize His body (Luke 22:19).
2. Bitter Herbs: Representing suffering and slavery - foreshadowing Jesus’ suffering.
3. Wine: A key part of Passover, which Jesus used to symbolize His blood (Matthew 26:27-28).*
4. Roasted Lamb: The Passover lamb was central to the meal, signifying God’s deliverance (Exodus 12:8).

What's with the Eggs and Bunnies?

The Myth: Eggs and bunnies have deep Christian symbolism.

The Truth: These are later cultural traditions but can be faith-filled symbols.

1. Eggs: Early Christians used eggs to symbolize new life and the resurrection. Some traditions dye eggs red to represent Christ’s blood.
2. The Easter Bunny: The idea of a rabbit delivering eggs originated in 17th-century Germany as a folk tradition (Osterhase). While fun, it has no biblical connection.

How Can We Make Easter More Meaningful?

Beyond church services and meals, here are ways to deepen the spiritual significance of Easter:

1. Personal Reflection: Read and meditate on the Gospel accounts of Jesus’ death and resurrection (Matthew 26–28, Luke 22–24).
2. Family Traditions: Try a Resurrection Garden (planting flowers that bloom after Easter) or a Good Friday fast to focus on Jesus’ sacrifice.
3. Faith-Filled Feasts: Instead of a commercialized meal, why not create an Easter menu inspired by what Jesus ate? Keep an eye out for our Easter Recipe PDF download coming soon that brings these traditions to life with faith-centered recipes that help connect your table to the story of Jesus.

Final Thoughts: The Heart of Easter