FAQ: Is Easter the same as Resurrection Day?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Easter the same as Resurrection Day?

Q: Is Easter the same as Resurrection Day?

A: The word “Easter” is often associated with the resurrection of Jesus Christ, but its origins trace back to the Anglo-Saxon goddess Eostre, representing spring and fertility. The festival honoring Eostre was celebrated around the vernal equinox. Pagan traditions like the Easter rabbit and decorated eggs symbolizing fertility and rebirth became part of this celebration. Over time, Easter merged with Christian traditions, but its roots in pagan rituals remained. Emperor Constantine established Easter as a Christian holiday in A.D. 325, blending pagan customs with Jesus’ resurrection, though they are fundamentally distinct.

The biblical Resurrection Day, also called the Day of Firstfruits, is observed according to Leviticus 23:4–14, occurring on the day after the first Sabbath following the Feast of Unleavened Bread. This day symbolizes Jesus’ resurrection, like the wave offering of the first grain in the Old Testament. It marks Jesus as the first to rise from the dead, as we can see in the following verses:

“When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week ...”

Mark 16:9

“But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the fristfruits of those who have fallen asleep.”

1 Corinthians 15:20

This celebration is distinct from Easter, which has pagan origins. Following the example of Jesus Christ, Christians should commemorate Resurrection Day by partaking in the bread of the resurrection to acknowledge Christ’s sacrifice and redemption (Lk 24:13-31).

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Is Easter the same as Resurrection Day?

Q: Is Easter the same as Resurrection Day?
A: The word “Easter” is often associated with the resurrection of Jesus Christ, but its origins trace back to the Anglo-Saxon goddess Eostre, representing spring and fertility.

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