What is Easter? Why do Christians Celebrate it?
by David K. on Apr.03, 2009, under FAQ, Faith, Follow
No matter where you are or what you call it, Easter celebrates the crucifixion and is align with Pesach. In fact, it was called Pesach by early Christians. The name for Easter in many cultures in Europe are similar to the word Pesah. For example :
- France – Paques
- Spain – Pascua
- Italy – Pasqua
- Albania – Pashke
- Greece – Pascha
- Norway – Paaske
- Holland – Pasen
- Sweden – Pask
Easter is the sacred celebration of Christ’s resurrection from the dead. It is the oldest and holiest Christian festival, the climax and center of the liturgical year, and the holy day to which all other holy days point. It is usually celebrated on the first Sunday after the full moon following the first day of Spring. This can be any Sunday between March 22 and April 25. It is the most sacred of all the Christian holidays or celebrations.
His return from death is called the Resurrection. According to the scriptures, Jesus tomb was empty three days after his death. His followers saw him and talked to him after this. Christians therefore believe that they too can receive new life after death. Easter is the celebration of this belief.
When is Easter and Why Does it Move?
Christ’s death and resurrection took place during Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. The gospel of John refers to Passover as the “Day of Preparation” and the Feast of Unleavened Bread as a “High Day Sabbath”. Since the ancient Hebrew calendar is based on twelve lunar months, which is mor eor less 354 days. There are other adjustments in modern times to make sure passover is in the spring, the result is that Passover always begins in the March/April timeframe but on a different day each year. Since Passover is moveable, Easter, which was originally based on Passover, is also moveable from a date perspective.
