Easter has origins linked to a pagan holiday that celebrated renewal and rebirth in early spring. It was associated with a pagan goddess of fertility and spring known as Ostara, Eostre, or Eastre, from whose name the word "Easter" is derived
. This pagan festival marked the spring equinox, symbolizing the end of winter and the rebirth of nature, with symbols like eggs and rabbits representing fertility and new life
. The Easter Bunny and colored eggs are traditions that trace back to Germanic pagan customs, where rabbits symbolized fertility due to their prolific breeding, and eggs were ancient fertility symbols
. The festival was later adapted by Christianity to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, with Easter becoming a central Christian holiday commemorating Jesus rising from the dead three days after his crucifixion
. While Easter's Christian meaning is distinct-focusing on resurrection and salvation-the timing and some customs have roots in earlier pagan spring celebrations
. The name "Easter" itself is believed to originate from the pagan goddess Eostre, as recorded by the 8th-century historian Bede, though some debate exists about the historical evidence for this goddess
. In summary, Easter is a Christian holiday with significant influences from a pagan spring festival honoring the goddess Eostre, symbolizing fertility, renewal, and rebirth
