Easter holds diverse meanings for people around the world, deeply rooted in religious, cultural, and personal significance. It symbolizes hope, redemption, and the promise of new beginnings.
Beyond its religious connotations, Easter has evolved into a celebration of rebirth and renewal in many cultures. It marks the arrival of spring, a time of growth and rejuvenation in nature, signifying the end of winter’s dormancy and the start of brighter days. This aspect of Easter is often associated with themes of fertility, abundance, and the cycles of life. (hence the eggs and bunnies)
Many are unaware that the word “Easter” is derived from the Old English word “Ēastre” or “Ēostre,” which itself originates from the Proto-Germanic “Austrǭ,” meaning “dawn” or “east.” This term was associated with a pagan festival dedicated to Eostre, a Germanic goddess of spring and fertility. The Easter festival was held after the Paschal Moon (aka the egg moon) The full moon which occurs on the 14th day of the lunar month that occurs on or after March 21, its not in the shape of an egg (it would be cool if it was) but Its name is to acknowledge again the Northern Hemisphere themes of spring and fertility.
Interesting all this information for those of us who live in the Southern hemisphere – moving into slower, colder months – watching the other side of the life cycle. Leaves turning brown, the cooler days and losing the light of day earlier.
“Watch your thoughts, they become your words; watch your words, they become your actions; watch your actions, they become your habits; watch your habits, they become your character; watch your character, it becomes your destiny.”
Alofa Atu
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