Eggs As Easter Symbols In Many Countries
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by: Jeff Batson
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Word Count: 494
Date: Fri, 1 Apr 2011 Time: 5:48 AM
The egg has been used to symbolize rebirth and renewal in many cultures for thousands of years. It has become one of the most easily recognized of all the Easter symbols, but pre-dates Christianity as a token given during the vernal or spring equinox to celebrate new life after a harsh winter.
One of the earliest examples of eggs being used in this way is from Ancient Egypt. The Egyptians celebrate the feast of Sham El Naseem which literally means Spring Breeze. From the times of the Pharaohs brightly colored eggs were hung in Temples to celebrate the regeneration of life after the winter harvest. The small works of art were also eaten at picnics on the banks of the Nile during the festival which is now held on the first Monday following Coptic Easter.
In Norse mythology the Goddess of Spring "Eostre" or "Ostara" is credited with giving us both eggs and the Easter Bunny. The rabbit was one of her symbols of birth and fertility, rabbits being renowned for their abundant reproduction. The Venerable Bede, an 8th Century historian believed the word "Easter" originally referred to this Pagan Goddess of Spring.
Eggs have become a major part of the Easter Tradition, representing new life and the resurrection. The tradition of painting eggs goes way back before Christianity; in ancient times the Persians painted eggs for Nowrooz, their New Year celebration, which falls on the Spring equinox.
At the Jewish feast of Seder, a hard boiled egg which is placed in salted water symbolizes the Passover sacrifice offered in the Temple at Jerusalem. Another Orthodox tradition is the presenting of red colored eggs to friends while giving greetings for the season.
In many Slavic countries and Ukraine the folk traditions use brightly colored eggs decorated using a method called pysanka. This produces an intricate batik style which inspired Faberge to make his famous jeweled designs for the Russian Imperial Court. These are now famous throughout the world for their beauty and craftsmanship.
During the festivities many countries have treasure hunts using eggs and other tokens of the season. This is normally great fun for the children who get to keep the goodies that they find. In the UK, many people take part in competitions to see who can get their egg down a hill fastest without breaking it.
Bunnies, chicks, palms, hot cross buns, floral bonnets and wearing new clothes are all Easter symbols some of which stem from religious ideas others from secular or pagan traditions which have been incorporated into the Christian faith. The one thing that many have in common is the celebration of life beginning anew; the change of the season from dark winter to life giving warmth and sunshine; the time during which many animals give birth and the resurrection of Jesus Christ are all potent symbols of the circle of life beginning again.
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We have Easter symbols on our personalized stadium cups and koozies .
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