What Does the Bible Say About Easter?

 THE BIBLE'S ANSWER

The celebration of Easter is  not based on the Bible.  If you look into its history, though, you will see the true meaning of Easter-Its a tradition based on ancient fertility rites.  Consider the following: 

1. Name;  The Encyclopedia Britiannica says:  "The English name Easter is of uncertain origin; the Anglo-Saxon priest Venerable Bede inthe 8th century derived it from the Anglo-Saxon spring goddess Eastre."  Others link it to Astarte, the Phoenician fertility goddess who had the Babylonian counterpart Ishtar.

2. Hares, rabbits: These are symbols of fertility "handed down from the ancient ceremonial and symbolism of European and Middle Easter pagan spring festivals." Encyclopedia Britiannica.  

3. Eggs:  According to Funk and Wagnalls Standard Dictionary of Folklore, Mythology and Legend , the hunt for easter eggs, supposedly brought by the Easter rabbit,  "is not mere child's play, but the vestige of fertility rite."  Some cultures  believed that the decorated Easter egg  "could magically bring happiness, prosperity, health, and protection." - Traditioal Festivals.

Next time: Conclusion of What Does the Bible Say About Easter?

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