While all of these things are without doubt icons of Easter, the true meaning of this holiday is hidden behind the traditions and symbols we now enjoy.
Easter is observed among many different cultures and religions and is a social time for lots of communities.
In the northern hemisphere, were it was conceived, Easter coincides with spring, when new life is breathed into nature, flowers begin to blossom and the sun begins to shine.
Easter as we know it has its roots in ancient pagan festivals which honoured the victory of light (or of life) over darkness. The ancient Greeks celebrated the goddess Persephone returning to Earth from Hades, while the Romans commemorated the resurrection of Attis, a Phrygian god of vegetation, and a symbol of the fruits of the earth, which die in winter only to rise again in the spring. Interestingly, this god is very similar to Jesus, who returned to life after dying on the cross.
The symbols of Easter are associated with new life and revitalisation, in particular eggs, which have for centuries represented birth. Many cultures believe in a cosmic egg as the source of life, while the Ukrainians have a tradition of exchanging extravagent decorated eggs at Easter.
While there’s nothing better than foraging for chocolate eggs in the garden on Easter morning, many of us fail to remember the true meaning behind many of these more recent traditions.
As we wish you a happy Easter, we suggest that with every sweet mouthful of chocolate goodness, you think back to the origins of this tradition and appreciate how it has evolved over the years.
Auguri di Buona Pasqua a tutti!
