Lillian Gutsch,
Staff Writer.
Easter is one of the most popular holidays in America. It falls on the first Sunday after the spring equinox, and this year Easter Sunday is on April 20. Most people know about the egg hunts and the fluffy bunny, but not everyone knows the true origins of the holiday and how it became a commercial holiday rather than a religious one.
Easter has its roots in Pagan religions. Before Christianity came to be, many cultures would celebrate the spring equinox, a time representing rebirth and new beginnings. It is said that the Anglo-Saxon goddess Eostre, associated with spring and fertility, may have inspired the name “Easter.” This caused some symbols associated with Eostre, such as the hare and the egg, to be incorporated into Easter celebrations.
The most commonly known origin of Easter comes from Christian and Catholic celebrations of the holiday. Christians celebrate Easter as the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which is believed to have occurred on the first day of the week after his crucifixion, following the Resurrection. The timing of Easter is linked to the Jewish holiday of Passover, as Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection are believed to have occurred during the week of Passover.
Over time, the Christian and Pagan traditions merged, leading to the Easter celebrations we know today. Easter eggs, initially representing new life and rebirth, became a symbol of the empty tomb and resurrection. The Easter bunny, also linked to fertility and spring, became another popular symbol of the holiday.
More recently, Easter has become a way for large corporations to boost their sales and revenue by producing Easter-themed products, making the holiday more commercial than spiritual. Some companies sell egg-dying kits, which appeal to a younger audience. Little kids don’t usually understand the spiritual meaning behind the holiday; they see pretty colors, bunnies and fun scavenger hunts that result in cool prizes.
Freshman Elouise Rygiel celebrates the holiday as a fun way to connect with her family. “My mom always sets out jelly beans and an Easter basket that’s hidden somewhere in the house,” said Rygiel. While Rygiel said this tradition is mainly for her younger brother, she still finds joy in quality family time. Whether or not you celebrate as a part of your religion, you can still have fun this Easter holiday.
