![]() As religious studies scholar Bruce Forbes summarizes: The only reference to this goddess comes from the writings of the Venerable Bede, a British monk who lived in the late seventh and early eighth century. The naming of the celebration as “Easter” seems to go back to the name of a pre-Christian goddess in England, Eostre, who was celebrated at beginning of spring. Given the symbolism of new life and rebirth, it was only natural to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus at this time of the year. Spring also means the coming back to life of plants and trees that have been dormant for winter, as well as the birth of new life in the animal world. For those in northern latitudes, the coming of spring is often met with excitement, as it means an end to the cold days of winter. Similar was the case with Easter, which falls in close proximity to another key point in the solar year: the vernal equinox (around March 20), when there are equal periods of light and darkness. Since the days following the winter solstice gradually become longer and less dark, it was ideal symbolism for the birth of “the light of the world” as stated in the New Testament’s Gospel of John. Many scholars believe, however, that the main reason Jesus’ birth came to be celebrated on December 25 is because that was the date of the winter solstice according to the Roman calendar. The New Testament gives no information about what time of year Jesus was born. This is especially obvious in the case of Christmas. Most major holidays have some connection to the changing of seasons. ![]() In all of these holidays, Christian and non-Christian (pagan) elements have continued to blend together. I am a religious studies scholar specializing in early Christianity, and my research shows that this dating of Easter goes back to the complicated origins of this holiday and how it has evolved over the centuries.Įaster is quite similar to other major holidays like Christmas and Halloween, which have evolved over the last 200 years or so. The reason for this variation is that Easter always falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox. ![]() ![]() The date of Easter, when the resurrection of Jesus is said to have taken place, changes from year to year. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Details
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |