EGGS

Eggs represent the new life that’s symbolic of spring, which is when Easter occurs in the northern hemisphere.  Christians view eggs as a reminder of the resurrection of Jesus.  Colored eggs only are for children’s fun and have no Biblical meaning.

SPRING CHICKS

Spring chicks coming out of the eggs mimics Jesus Christ coming out of His tomb.  The resurrection of Christ is an allegory for rebirth and new life, which is aptly symbolized by spring chicks.

THE CRUCIFIX AND THE CROSS

The crucifix is symbolic of the crucifixion and the resurrection of Christ.  Christians believe that the cross symbolizes Christ’s victory over death.  Later, the cross officially was made the symbol of Christianity.

BUTTERFLY

The entire life cycle of a butterfly can symbolize Easter and is one of the most powerful symbols of the season.

THE LAMB

John refers to Jesus as the “Lamb of God,” so it is another important Easter symbol for Christians.  Jesus takes away the sins of the world.

EASTER BUNNY

The hare was a symbol of fertility among the ancient pagans. The spirit of rebirth associated with the rabbits, particularly in spring, also is reminiscent of the resurrection of Jesus from the tomb (see attached article).

EASTER LILIES

They symbolize the purity of Christ to Christians and are common decorations in churches and homes around the Easter holiday.

EASTER HAM

It is an old custom, handed down from pre-Christian times.  Hams are a traditional Easter dish from coast to coast.  Honey-baked hams are popular in today’s society.

PASKA

It is a simple cake baked on Easter by Christians as a sign of faith.

EASTER BREADS

For Christians, the resurrected Christ is called
“the bread of life.” The sweet bread is marked with a cross to help the bread rise and as a visible sign that the bread is “blessed.”

EASTER CANDY

Chocolate eggs symbolizes new life and Jesus’ resurrection. This tradition dates back to the 19th century.  More than 16 billion jelly beans are made globally each year. The most famous Easter candy today is the marshmallow Peep in various spring colors.

EASTER PARADE

They have been a part of Easter traditions since the mid-17th century. The elite class would stroll around the streets, wearing their Easter bonnets, and attending Easter services. The latter served as an ode to the parade’s history.

EASTER BONNETS

It also is a symbol of new life.  It was common for Christians to wear new clothes and new hats on Easter Sunday, while celebrating the new life of Jesus after His resurrection.

THE DOGWOOD TREE

It is believed that the cross on which Jesus was crucified was made from a dogwood tree. Dogwood blooms during the spring and are a living memory of the crucifix.  The tree symbolizes Christs’ crucifixion in many ways.  For example, the flower petals of the Dogwood flower represent the four crosses that nailed Christ to the cross.

Easter is celebrated in differing ways and manners across the globe and in DeKalb County.  Those celebrations feature many significant religious symbols and traditions that have withstood the test of time.