Where Does the Name Easter Originate From?

Easter is a Christian holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is observed on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox, which usually falls between March 22 and April 25. While Easter is a significant event in the Christian calendar, the name Easter itself has pagan roots and is believed to have originated from the name of a goddess. In this article, we will explore the history and etymology of the name Easter.

The name Easter is believed to have originated from the name of a pagan goddess. The goddess, known as Eostre or Ostara, was worshipped by the Anglo-Saxons and other Germanic tribes. She was associated with the spring season and fertility. The festival of Eostre was celebrated during the spring equinox, which marked the beginning of spring and the lengthening of days. The festival was a time of renewal and rebirth, and it was marked by the exchange of gifts and the lighting of bonfires.

The Christian celebration of Easter has its roots in the Jewish holiday of Passover. According to the Bible, Jesus was crucified during the Jewish holiday of Passover, and his resurrection occurred three days later. The early Christians celebrated the resurrection of Jesus on the Sunday following Passover. Over time, the Christian celebration of Easter became separate from the Jewish holiday of Passover and took on its own traditions and customs.

The etymology of the name Easter is somewhat unclear. Some scholars believe that the name Easter is derived from the Old English word Ēastre, which is the name of the goddess Eostre. Others believe that the name Easter is derived from the Old High German word Ēostarun, which means dawn. The word Ēostarun is related to the Old Norse word āstr, which means east. The east was associated with the rising sun and the beginning of a new day, which may have been symbolic of the resurrection of Jesus.

In conclusion, the name Easter has pagan roots and is believed to have originated from the name of a goddess. However, the Christian celebration of Easter has its roots in the Jewish holiday of Passover and the resurrection of Jesus. The etymology of the name Easter is somewhat unclear, but it is likely that the name has multiple origins and meanings. Regardless of its origins, Easter remains an important holiday in the Christian calendar and a time of renewal and rebirth.