What is Easter and why do we celebrate it?

Easter is a Christian holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. It is considered the most important holiday in the Christian calendar.

The origin of the name "Easter" is uncertain, but it may have come from the Old English word "ēastre," which referred to a pagan festival celebrating the spring equinox. When Christianity spread to England, the celebration of Easter was combined with this pagan festival, which is why some Easter traditions, such as the use of eggs and rabbits, have non-Christian origins.

For Christians, Easter is a celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. According to the Bible, Jesus was crucified on a Friday, known as Good Friday, and rose from the dead on the third day, which is celebrated as Easter Sunday. The resurrection of Jesus is seen as a victory over death and a sign of hope for eternal life.

Easter is celebrated in various ways around the world, but common traditions include attending church services, participating in Easter egg hunts, and exchanging gifts of chocolate eggs and bunnies. It is also a time for family gatherings and feasting on traditional Easter foods, such as hot cross buns and roast lamb.