why are eggs associated with easter

Eggs are associated with Easter primarily because they symbolize fertility, rebirth, and new life, concepts that predate Christianity and were important in ancient springtime festivals. Early Christians adopted the egg as a symbol to represent the resurrection of Jesus Christ, linking the egg's hard shell to the sealed tomb and the cracking of the egg to Jesus rising from the dead. Additionally, during Lent, the 40-day period before Easter, Christians were traditionally prohibited from eating eggs, so the eggs laid during this time were often decorated and saved to be eaten on Easter as a celebration after fasting. The red dye used in some traditions symbolizes the blood of Christ shed during the crucifixion. This blend of pagan symbolism and Christian meaning helped make eggs a central part of Easter celebrations. The tradition of decorating Easter eggs has ancient origins and has been practiced in many cultures and Christian denominations for centuries, including Eastern Orthodox and Western churches. The Easter egg hunt and the introduction of chocolate eggs are more recent customs that build on these older symbolic traditions. Thus, the egg serves as a powerful symbol of both spring's renewal and the Christian belief in resurrection and new life.