Ostara - From Pagan Bunnies to Holy Resurrections

What is Ostara? Commonly thought of as the origin of the Christian Easter, Ostara is the festival of the Spring Equinox, which typically falls on March 20th or 21st and marks the beginning of spring and the awakening of nature. It is named after the Germanic goddess Ostara or Eostre, who was associated with spring and new beginnings. The holiday is often celebrated with bonfires, decorating eggs, and honoring nature’s rebirth.

As Christianity spread through Northern Europe, Christian leaders aimed to make the new faith more relatable and appealing to pagan converts by aligning the resurrection of Jesus with the spring equinox celebrations. Over time, this fusion of traditions resulted in the modern Easter holiday we know today.

Symbols associated with Ostara include eggs, rabbits, hares, chicks, flowers, and soft pastel colors. These symbols represent fertility, renewal, and rebirth, which are the central themes of this holiday. Many deities around the world are associated with the Spring Equinox. Mithras from the Romans, Osiris from ancient Egypt, and Jesus Christ who all share the too familiar story of resurrection on the Spring Equinox. 

So as we gather around bonfires, decorate eggs, and welcome the blossoming of spring, let's remember the ancient roots of this joyous season and embrace the interconnectedness of all traditions, old and new. After all, whether we're chasing bunnies or celebrating the risen Christ, the essence of Ostara lives on, reminding us that hope springs eternal with each passing equinox.