Many Easter Traditions Origionated with the Rite of the Vernal Equinox

Not surprisingly, the Vernal Equinox - the recognized first day of Spring - has been a celebrated day of femininity and fertility for centuries. The ancient Germans and Saxons have a Goddess named Oestara, the Romans have Aphrodite and Venus. The list of feminine fertility Goddesses celebrated this time of year is extensive an covers the ancient world. When Christianity began to obtain a foothold in the ancient world - absorbing many of the resident Pagans - they recognized no one would convert if they had to abandon all of their own traditions and holidays. This is why so many pagan holidays and Christian holidays not only coincide on a calender but they also have the same practices - with slightly different beliefs behind them. If you break those traditions down, they actually make sense. I find it fascinating to examine what traditions have lasted through the centuries; although I find it sad that many people who practice them have no concept of the meaning behind them.

The Pagans believe the young God, born at Yule, develops through adolescence during this time - so that he may impregnate the Goddess at Beltaine (May 1). As a young man, he bursts through the forest - calling the animals out of hiding, full of exuberance and life. The Goddess is youthful as well, she calls the mothers to her - be they forest animals, livestock or human. If you discount the theology behind the beliefs it is easy to see where such beliefs came from. After the depressing hum-drum of a winter focused on the struggle to remain alive, the ancient people would be able to explore and play outside for a change, come the spring. These ancient peoples would no doubt have been like youths, excited to rediscover the land and celebrate Life.

Spring is a time of fertility. By the time of the Equinox - March 20 or 21 - the first hearty spring flowers are pushing their way up through the snow - patches of new grass may be found in spots of melting. The sun is gaining strength - lasting longer than the night, as well as warming the air and land. On the day of the Equinox night and day are equal in length, with the sun being perpendicular to the Equator.