The last week of the Holy month of Lent in Christianity is also termed as the Holy Week. Preparations to bring in this week are in full swing and millions of people are gearing up to celebrate it. However, do you think you know enough about it and the significance it holds? This Easter, let us look at the history and lore about this festival, which is interestingly also about chocolate eggs and bunnies.
Here is a lowdown on it all…
Palm Sunday– It is a feast which commemorates the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem
Spy Wednesday– It was the Wednesday before Jesus was crucified, when during a feast, he was anointed with oil by a woman.
Maundy Thursday– It commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with his apostles, famously depicted by Leonard da Vinci in his painting.
Good Friday– It is a holiday which commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary.
Holy Saturday– It is the last day of the Holy Week and it commemorates burial of Jesus in a tomb.
The Holy Week ends just before Easter Sunday.
What is Easter?
Easter is the Sunday which falls right after the Holy Week. It marks the day when Jesus Christ was resurrected after being crucified. The New Testament states that the resurrection of Jesus marks the foundation of Christianity.
When does it occur?
Easter is not fixed to a specific day. It usually falls between March 22nd and April 25th. It is supposed to fall on the first Sunday after the full moon following March 21st.
Easter Eggs
Easter Eggs symbolize a new life. Thus, every year, it is a much-loved tradition to hunt down Easter Eggs which are hidden by the “Easter Bunny”. Goodies can be found inside the eggs once one breaks them open.
Easter Bunny
The Easter Bunny is a popular folkloric symbol. Legend has it, that the bunny hides chocolate eggs for the kids to hunt and discover. In many traditions, the bunny is clothed and human like.
Orthodox Beliefs
Some European countries follow a tradition of burning Easter fires, which represent fertility. Members of the Greek Orthodox faith often paint their Easter eggs red, which symbolizes Jesus’ blood and his victory over death. The colour red is symbolic of the renewal of life, and as such, Jesus’ resurrection. Eggs were a symbol of life to Ancient Egyptians, Persians, Romans and Greeks. The custom of giving eggs at Easter originated with them.
