Easter is a joyous day about egg hunts, candy, and a Big Bunny that brings baskets full of goodies to our doorsteps… or so it is said. However, it has a much deeper meaning than the chocolate, plastic, or confetti eggs, for a biblical figure has risen, and this is no joke. Easter is very important to many and the following information will cover how different regions of the world go about their take on this holiday.
Easter in the Pacific
The pacific is filled with thousands of diverse islands, offering their own culture and traditions. According to Wycliffe.org, because of the Earth’s tilted axis, in New Zealand and Australia, mornings are celebrated with hot cross buns- a spiced, sweet bread, due to Easter taking place during Autumn. Another fact is that many people do not associate rabbits with Easter because in Australia, they are considered pests. Instead, they use the Bilby, a long-eared rabbit-like mammal, as their “Easter Mascot.”
Many people still long to experience the story of Jesus’ resurrection in their own language. According to Wycliffe.org in Vanuatu(Island in pacific), worshippers gather to reflect on Christ’s sacrifice. In the Solomon Islands, there is an innovative workshop that bridges the gap between oral communities and access to God’s word. With these efforts in place, the hope of deepening one’s faith can become a reality.
Africa: A Joyous Celebration
In Africa, churches associate Easter with bright colors and beautiful butterflies. Typically celebrated from Maundy Thursday, the day of the Lord’s last supper, to Resurrection Sunday. According to a journalist at Wycliffe.org, In Ethiopia, a holiday by the name of Fasika is celebrated. During this time, people fast from meat and animal products for 55 days. Breaking the fast on Easter day, where they have music and a dance break out.
From the vibrant colors to the days upon days of fasting, Christians across the continent rejoice in Christ’s victory over death. Yet countries such as Madagascar and Nigeria are not able to read the translated Bible in their native languages. However, as translations slowly start to spread, more and more people get to visualize the story of Jesus’ resurrection and connect to it in a personal and/or emotional way.
Asia: Easter traditions and rituals
While Easter is known as a time of reflection and joy, in Asia, Easter is recognized for its vibrant offers rather than religious observance. According to globaware.org, in the Philippines, “Salubong” is celebrated. This is a reenactment of the Virgin Mary’s meeting with Jesus when he rose. The scene consists of: Virgin Mary, singing, angel-costumed children, and, of course, Christ himself. This celebration brings both faith and enthusiasm together.
In Taiwan, with Easter not being celebrated very much, most of the festivities, such as parades and Sunday services, are located at churches. In the parade, colored hard-boiled eggs are served to people to represent the new life found in Jesus.
Europe: Welcoming Spring Equinox
While Easter is not as common in other continents, due to Catholicism being popular in the region, most European countries celebrate Easter in ways of tradition relevant to their country. In Greece, Easter is known as Páscha, and one annual tradition is Tsougrisma: The Greek Red Egg Easter Game. One player taps the egg on the side of the opponent’s egg; the player with the non-broken egg then taps the first striker’s egg. While doing so, the phrases “Christos Anesti” and “Alithos Anesti” are shouted. According to Getours.com, these words translate to “Christ has risen,” and “Indeed he has risen.” This symbolizes Christ’s rising from the tomb on Easter Sunday.
With the creation of decorated Easter trees, Germany takes the holiday to another level! Yes, according to Getours.com, Germans will actually decorate trees in lawns, yards, and around the park with colored eggs and ribbons. Children in grade school also get a three-week break for the holiday. And of course a staple in Germany is munching down on those delicious chocolatey eggs. What many people don’t know is that many countries in Europe soli celebrate Easter for its time frame. In fact, Russia, Germany, and Sweden celebrate Easter with a cozy bonfire to mark the end of Winter and welcome the coming of Spring.
Epilogue
After reading about Easter across the globe, it can truly make one realize how diversely it is celebrated. From the decorated trees in Europe to the celebrating parades in Asia. It means so much more than just bunnies and fuzzy feelings; it is about the resurrection of a man named Jesus.
Photo credit to: atlasobscura.com
