ALT-1 Why are Eggs Related to Easter Celebrations
Christians traditionally recognize Easter as a festival in honour and celebration of the atoning work of Jesus on the cross and His resurrection from death on the Sunday morning. Whilst the original Easter festivities and customs were pagan, they have been taken over by Christianity. A sacred meaning has been applied, which has transformed the festival into something of vital significance to Christians.
The fact that the festival and related traditions were originally pagan does not mean they have no rightful place in the Christian religion. On the contrary, I find it inspiring that 21st century Christianity has such a link to early civilization and that we are still finding meaning in those things that mattered so much to them - though in a whole new realm.
Actually, on reflection, I would have to say that it is all the more significant that Christianity and its essential message could transform pagan practices into something godly and rich in meaning for all mankind throughout the ages.
Of course, in these times a lot of people just eat chocolate eggs at Easter because they're a yummy tradition. Nevertheless, they do have deep symbolism for Christians. That's not to say we don't enjoy the chocolate treat for itself as well. I have no problem with the commercial side of Easter because, as long as our society is happy to retain these traditions, there is always the annual reminder of the all-important meaning behind them. Who knows how many individuals each Easter are prompted to reflect on the true message of this Christian festival and to embark on a spiritual journey that leads them to life-transforming faith in Jesus Christ?
The significance of Easter eggs is that they represent the new life a Christian has through faith in the saving work of Christ and His resurrection. What could symbolise new life more aptly than an egg? The eggs can come in various forms. Sometimes the real thing is used, with the contents being blown out through holes made with a needle and then decorating the egg shell. These, of course are merely decorations - as are some that you can buy commercially as well. There are others made of various sweet/candy products, including almond icing, as well. Then there are little plastic ones that are filled with tiny treats for children.
However, the chocolate egg remains the favourite. After all, most people love chocolate, so as long as there are an abundance of these traditional treats, there will always be plenty of people scrambling for them each year.
There is also symbolism in the fact that most Easter eggs have traditionally been hollow. These days, of course, the small solid eggs are popular too - and you can get eggs containing all sorts of decadent treats - such as marshmallow, caramel, nougat and various sweets/candy. However, it really is most appropriate to Christian symbolism if they are empty. This is because they also represent the empty tomb, which is one of the most significant symbols of the Christian faith.
Many people may well question what the Easter bunny has to do with the Christian message. Obviously bunnies don't lay eggs. Rabbits, however, have long been regarded as symbolizing fertility. So they certainly represent new life in that respect.
I do remember when I was a child, my mother would be more likely to buy me a chocolate hen for Easter rather than the bunny, for after all, it's chooks - not bunnies - that lay eggs. Still, I have no problem with the Easter bunny being part of a young child's pleasure in the Easter egg tradition. The main thing is that the real meaning of the Easter egg is imparted to them.
Of course in the northern hemisphere this whole theme of new life is so easy to develop and celebrate in a plethora of symbolic ways because Easter is in spring there. However, here in Australia, Easter is in autumn. That's something that many Americans and Europeans in particular never consider and the thought may come as a surprise to them.
I do think it must be especially lovely to be celebrating spring and Easter at the same time. The season certainly lends itself naturally to a celebration of new life in Christ. Indeed, many of the Easter celebrations and customs through the ages have also been essentially linked to the seasonal celebrations of new life in spring.
Nevertheless, the general theme is just as real to us who celebrate Easter in autumn - and of course, we have the full moon that's always been associated with the occasion too. Thankfully the message contained in simple symbolism in the Easter egg is a universal one which speaks to us of hope for the entire world in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, who gave His life for our salvation and rose again so that we too may live eternally with Him.
