The Easter Bunny and eggs both originated as ancient symbols of fertility, rebirth, and new life connected to spring celebrations long before Easter became a Christian holiday. Rabbits and hares, known for their prolific breeding, were symbols of fertility and were linked to pagan spring festivals including the worship of the goddess Eostre, the namesake of Easter. Eggs similarly symbolized new life and fertility and were used in various spring rituals. Christianity merged these pagan symbols of spring fertility and renewal with the religious celebration of Jesus Christ’s resurrection. Eggs came to represent the empty tomb of Jesus, symbolizing resurrection and new life. The Easter Bunny, introduced through German folklore in the 17th century, was said to bring decorated eggs as gifts, blending these traditions. This evolved into the modern Easter customs of egg hunts and chocolate eggs delivered by the Easter Bunny. Thus, the Easter Bunny and eggs together symbolize the themes of fertility, rebirth, and resurrection celebrated at Easter.
