Pascha-Easter
Pascha, more commonly known in the Western world as Easter, is the preeminent festival within the Christian liturgical year. It celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, an event which is central to Christian faith and theology. The term "Pascha" is derived from the Aramaic word for Passover, signifying the festival's roots in Jewish tradition.
Historical and Religious Significance
Easter is intrinsically linked to the Jewish Passover, as the Last Supper is thought to have been a Passover meal. The celebration of Easter as Pascha underscores the continuity between the Old Testament and the New Testament, with Christ's resurrection seen as fulfilling the prophecies contained within Jewish scripture.
Etymology and Variations
The name "Easter" is used predominantly in Western Christianity. It derives from the Old English word "Ēastre" or "Ēostre," which refers to a pagan festival celebrating the spring equinox. Conversely, "Pascha" reflects its Aramaic and Hebrew origins, linking it directly to the religious observance of Passover.
Liturgical Observances
Easter is preceded by Lent, a period of forty days of fasting, prayer, and penance, and Holy Week, which includes Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday. The celebration of Easter itself is marked by a joyous Easter Vigil service, which takes place on the night of Holy Saturday. Eastern Orthodox, Roman Catholic, and various Protestant Christian denominations participate in this observance.
In the Orthodox tradition, Pascha is celebrated with a midnight service that includes the Paschal Homily, a sermon attributed to John Chrysostom, which emphasizes the victory of life over death, and the rejoicing of Christ's resurrection.
Cultural Practices
Cultural practices associated with Easter vary widely across the world, reflecting different traditions and customs. In many countries, Easter eggs, which symbolize new life and rebirth, are decorated and exchanged. The Easter Bunny, a folkloric figure that delivers Easter eggs, is a popular symbol in Western culture.
Traditional foods, such as the Russian Paskha, a dish made primarily of curd cheese, sugar, and eggs, are prepared and consumed during the festival. In some Eastern European countries, kulich, a sweet bread, is baked and blessed.
Calculating the Date
The date of Easter varies annually, as it is determined by a lunisolar calendar similar to the Hebrew calendar. Easter Sunday falls on the first Sunday following the full moon on or after the vernal equinox. This method, known as the computus, ensures that Easter is celebrated between March 22 and April 25.