Understanding Easter Sunday: Beyond Tradition and Pagan Origins

Knowing the origins of Easter Sunday can shed light on its significance and how it differs from the Biblical Feast of First Fruits. Many practices and customs surrounding Easter are rooted in both biblical and pagan traditions, but the true meaning behind this holiday is often overshadowed by these elements.

Pagan and Biblical Beginnings of Easter

Easter, as we celebrate it today, is not of biblical origin but has a strong connection to pagan festivals. The name 'Easter' itself is believed to have originated from the Germanic goddess Eostre, associated with spring and fertility. While Easter Sunday has become a popular occasion for families to indulge in chocolate bunnies and Easter baskets, its roots lie in the Feast of First Fruits (also known as Hag Habikkurim in Hebrew).

The Feast of First Fruits (Hag Habikkurim)

While many Christians acknowledge Easter Sunday, the true biblical celebration should be the Feast of First Fruits. This feast, which is mentioned in the Bible, marks the beginning of the spring harvest and recognizes God's bounty.

Significance and Biblical References

The Feast of First Fruits is described in Leviticus 23:10 and Numbers 28:26. It was to be celebrated on the day after the weekly Sabbath during the Feast of Unleavened Bread, typically a Sunday. This means that the Feast of Firstfruits was observed on the first day of the week and for only one day.

Unique Features of the Feast of First Fruits

r tIt was to be observed for one day only. tIt was a day of first-fruits, where the first barley sheaf would be offered to God. tIt was a one-sheaf offering, symbolizing the entire harvest. tIt was offered on the day after the weekly Sabbath following Passover. tIt was an acknowledgment of God's bounty and the harvest's belonging to Him. tIt marked the beginning of the two-month spring harvest. r

Connection to Resurrection Sunday

Resurrection Sunday, which falls on the first day of the week after Passover, is not influenced by whether Easter falls on the same day or not. This first day, the first Sunday after Passover, is when the Feast of First Fruits was observed.

Relevance of the Feast of First Fruits

The Feast of First Fruits is not related to bunnies, eggs, or sunrise services. While these customs are prevalent, they add to the celebration rather than form its core. Sunrise services, in particular, are frowned upon by God as they have pagan origins as described in Ezekiel 8:15-16.

Historical Significance

The year of our Lord's atonement, He was laid in the ground on Wednesday night, Thursday night, Friday night, and Saturday night. Sunrise on Saturday marks the beginning of the first Sunday after Passover, which was Sunday that year. This event, known as Resurrection Sunday, is a critical part of the Christian faith and is not arbitrary, but based on biblical scripture.

Why Easter Is Not a Biblical or Christian Holy Day

While Easter Sunday has become a beloved and sometimes controversial holiday, it is important to understand that it is not a biblical or Christian holy day. Its origins and current practices often blend elements of different religious and cultural traditions. The true significance lies in the celebration of the Feast of First Fruits and the remembrance of Jesus's resurrection on the first day of the week following Passover.