What is Easter?

Easter is a holiday celebrated around the world each year. But where did it come from?

According to Webster's, the English word Easter is from the Old English eastre, which is similar to Old German and English words for east. It is used today to describe a religious feast commemorating the first-century resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth. Other languages use forms of the word "Pasch,"which derives from the Hebrew word for Passover, a Jewish feast underway at the time of Jesus' crucifixion, and which celebrates the Jews' deliverance from bondage in Egypt.

Easter was observed throughout the Christian world by the middle of the second century, indicating its importance to the early followers of Christ. References to the celebration date as far back as the year 115. From the beginning, Jesus' followers had gathered together on Sunday, rather than the Jewish Sabbath observance of rest and worship on Saturday. This was undoubtedly because Jesus' resurrection had occurred on that day.

There was some controversy over when to celebrate Easter, however. The Passover date varied according to the moon, and did not always fall on the first day of the week. By the third century, however, general practice was to celebrate on Sunday, and in the year 325, the Council of Nicea decreed Easter should be observed on the first Sunday after the first full moon of spring.

Spring festivals historically marked the arrival of new light and life after the dark of winter. Easter celebrations also recognized the new life and light that came in Jesus. Many symbols of spring life, such as baby chicks, eggs and rabbits, have become part of Easter celebrations. But the meaning behind these practices is often lost. Such a significant event--a resurrection from the dead--bears serious consideration. In the following pages, we will look into:

• The Historical Records
• The Physical Evidence, and
• A Personal Discovery