Easter eggs are associated with Easter because they symbolize new life and resurrection. In pre-Christian and pagan traditions, eggs represented fertility and rebirth during springtime festivals. Early Christians adopted the egg as a symbol of Jesus Christ's resurrection, where the eggshell represents the sealed tomb and cracking the egg symbolizes Jesus rising from the dead. Additionally, during Lent, Christians were prohibited from eating eggs, so Easter marked a celebration involving eating and decorating eggs. Eggs were also dyed red in some traditions to signify the blood of Christ shed at the crucifixion.

Symbolic Roots

• Eggs were ancient symbols of new life, fertility, and magical power in various cultures long before Christianity.
• These ideas merged with Christian significance, where Easter eggs represent the empty tomb and resurrection of Jesus.

Christian Traditions

• Early Christians used eggs to symbolize resurrection, linking egg decoration with Easter celebrations.
• Eggs were often blessed during Easter vigil services and given to congregants.
• The red-dyed eggs in Eastern Orthodox traditions symbolize Jesus’ blood.

Practical and Cultural Aspects

• Eating eggs was forbidden during Lent, so Easter became the day to enjoy eggs.
• The tradition of egg decoration and Easter egg hunts developed alongside these religious meanings.
• In some cultures, eggs were gifts and part of Easter celebrations for centuries.

Thus, Easter eggs combine ancient fertility and spring renewal symbols with Christian meanings of resurrection and new life, becoming an integral part of Easter festivities.