Look back over the Easter weekend and the days leading up to it and recall whether or not you entertained questions from the inquisitive child who wanted to know the how and the why of everything pertaining to the celebration. Whether it was your own child or one you serve in ministry, the Egg, the Bunny and the Cross are points of curiosity. You like many others may already know the historical origins of each or at least have a general idea. I believe there are still quite a few of us who perhaps raised a quizzical brow as questions came up. Here's a brief explanation of each. So next time before a question is asked, you can be prepared to ask them questions yourself. It's a great teachable moment.
Why is the EGG? the BUNNY? the CROSS celebrated at Easter?
All three are said to represent new life, and all three are celebrated during the arrival of spring or as we call it the Easter season. In truth they are not related at all. The egg and the bunny are known to have their roots in non-Christan traditions which have made their way into the Christian celebration of Christ's resurrection.
The egg and the bunny are said to have been introduced into American culture around the 17th century with the arrival of German immigrants in Pennsylvania. Over the years merchants fill our favorite shops with isles of candy bunnies, and baskets. Thus the reason for the association is with the season but not the biblical story.
From a religious perspective the practice of penitence and denying the eating of eggs and other foods during Lenten season is said to be celebrated at its end by the painting of eggs and giving them as gifts. It is only in the Scriptures do we find the story of the Cross and the sacrifice made upon it. We are told not only of Christ death but also his resurrection. We celebrate because He is alive!
All three are said to represent new life, and all three are celebrated during the arrival of spring or as we call it the Easter season. In truth they are not related at all. The egg and the bunny are known to have their roots in non-Christan traditions which have made their way into the Christian celebration of Christ's resurrection.
The egg and the bunny are said to have been introduced into American culture around the 17th century with the arrival of German immigrants in Pennsylvania. Over the years merchants fill our favorite shops with isles of candy bunnies, and baskets. Thus the reason for the association is with the season but not the biblical story.
From a religious perspective the practice of penitence and denying the eating of eggs and other foods during Lenten season is said to be celebrated at its end by the painting of eggs and giving them as gifts. It is only in the Scriptures do we find the story of the Cross and the sacrifice made upon it. We are told not only of Christ death but also his resurrection. We celebrate because He is alive!
:
Click here for more info on: History of Easter
Click here for more info on: History of Easter
Love this ! People place more value on the Easter Bunny than what's most important HIS RESURRECTION
ReplyDeleteGreat blog! I never knew the history of the egg and bunny. I agree, this would be a good teaching moment as students inquire. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDelete