Easter Sunday

March 31, Sunday

Easter Sunday
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Easter is the principal Christian holiday dedicated to the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, which, according to Christian belief, occurred on the third day after his crucifixion. According to the Gospels, after the crucifixion and burial of Christ on Friday, on the third day (Sunday), his disciples discovered that his tomb was empty and that Jesus had risen from the dead. This holiday symbolizes the victory of life over death, hope for eternal life, and the redemption of sins. It has a rich history and diverse traditions celebrated in various cultures.

History
The history of Easter is closely linked to the Jewish holiday of Passover, which commemorates the liberation of the Jewish people from Egyptian slavery. Jesus Christ was crucified during Passover, and his resurrection occurred shortly after this. Therefore, Christian Easter inherited many symbols and traditions from Passover.

Easter does not have a fixed date and is celebrated on the first Sunday after the full moon that follows the spring equinox (usually between March 22 and April 25). In Orthodox countries, the date of Easter may differ from that of Catholic and Protestant Easter, as it is calculated according to the Julian calendar, while Western Christians use the Gregorian calendar.

Traditions and rituals:
Easter is celebrated differently depending on cultures and local traditions.
In Eastern Christianity (Orthodoxy):

Easter Eggs. One of the main symbols of Easter is dyed eggs. In Orthodox countries, eggs are often painted red, symbolizing the blood of Christ. The eggs are blessed in church and then exchanged with wishes of joy and prosperity.

Kulichi and Paskha. In Russia, Ukraine, Greece, and other Orthodox countries, special dishes are prepared—kulichi (tall sweet breads) and paskha (cottage cheese desserts). These dishes symbolize abundance and the joy of life.

Processions. In many Orthodox countries, Easter is celebrated with processions—festive parades around churches with singing and icons, marking the resurrection of Christ.

In Western Christianity (Catholics and Protestants):

Easter Bunnies and Egg Hunts. In Western countries, such as the USA, Germany, and the UK, the Easter Bunny (a symbol of fertility) is a popular figure. Egg hunts are also held, where children search for hidden chocolate eggs in homes or outdoors, which has become part of the secular celebration.

Easter Dinner. In Europe and America, it is customary to host a dinner on Easter, serving dishes such as roasted lamb, vegetables, and various pies. In the UK, hot cross buns, which have a cross on the surface symbolizing the crucifixion, are traditionally prepared.

In Latin American countries, Easter is accompanied by colorful religious processions. For example, in Guatemala and Spain, during Holy Week (the last week before Easter), solemn processions with icons and statues of saints are held. This is a time of deep spiritual reflection.

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