Crack Open Your Egg! I think most people recognize that Easter is the celebration of Christ Rising From the Dead, Eternal Love, and Life.
And so many people have liked my Holiday fact hunting that I decided to do a little more research to bring you some other interesting and amazing Easter facts. Did you know:
THE NAME EASTER:
Scholars state that the name Easter originated from a festival celebrating the coming of spring and Eostre, who was the fertility goddess. Her sacred symbols were, ready… eggs and hares.
EASTER BASKETS:
These woven containers replicate birds' nests and the newness of life. Isn’t that lovely?
HAM:
This was a new one for me! If you look back in time and history, most early Easter celebrations would have served lamb since Easter’s roots are from the Jewish Passover. But most American Easter dinners feature ham instead. Why do you think this change occurred? Ironically it had nothing to do with religion, but instead, it was the timing of the holiday. Hams would have cured over the winter months, and therefore, would be ready to serve in the early spring.
EASTER LILLIES:
Easter lilies originated in Japan. Doesn’t that make sense? They first arrived in England in the late 18th century. The first lilies arrived in the United States after World War I. Americans were so smitten with their beauty that they quickly became popular here in the spring. And their transition from dormant bulbs to delicate flowers represents the beauty of new life.
EASTER EGGS:
There's evidence that Easter eggs originated from Medieval Europe. Therefore, Christians probably didn’t start the tradition of giving eggs. Eggs are a symbol of fertility and rebirth in many cultures around the world.
EASTER EGG HUNTS:
Easter egg hunts stem from a medieval children's game. A priest would give one hard boiled egg to one of the choir boys to pass amongst themselves until the clock struck midnight. Whoever was still holding the egg at midnight, got to eat it.
COLORED EGGS:
Oddly, no one knows why eggs were colored. Possibly to make them stand out from a plain uncooked egg?
GOOD FRIDAY IS ONLY RECOGNIZED IN 12 STATES:
Truly! Only 12 states in the US recognize
Good Friday, commemorating Jesus Christ's crucifixion.
I do hope you have a wonderful holiday whether you celebrate Easter, Passover, or the bunny himself!
