In an attempt to Christianize Easter which began as a pagan holiday, is named for a Saxon goddess who was known by the names of Oestre or Eastre, and in Germany by the name of Ostara. She is a goddess of the dawn and the spring, and her name derives from words for dawn, the shining light arising from the east. Our words for the "female hormone" estrogen derives from her name.
Ostara was a fertility goddess. Bringing in the end of winter, with the days brighter and growing longer after the vernal equinox, Ostara had a passion for new life. Her presence was felt in the flowering of plants and the birth of babies, both animal and human. The rabbit (well known for its propensity for rapid reproduction) was her sacred animal.
Easter eggs and the Easter Bunny both were featured in the spring festivals of Ostara, which were initially held during the feasts of the goddess Ishtar Inanna. Eggs are obvious symbols of fertility, and the newborn chicks an adorable representation of new growth. Brightly colored eggs, chicks, and bunnies were all used at festival time to express appreciation for Ostara's gift of abundance.
According to history.com the egg is an ancient symbol of new life and has been associated with pagan festivals celebrating spring.
From a Christian perspective, Easter eggs are said to represent Jesus' emergence from the tomb and resurrection.
Courtesy: Source
Tags: nyc things to do with children esther queen candy filled plastic candy cane the lost world sir arthur conan doyle what muslim leader wants temple rebuilt lyrics to circe circe dot dot by jamie kennedy
