Easter Symbols

Over the years, a number of symbols have attached themselves to the annual Easter celebration. This post is the first in a series explaining the various symbols and how the symbols came into being. This series will include the Easter bunny, Easter eggs, Easter candy, and the Easter parade.

Easter Bunny

Although the Bible does not mention the bunny rabbit, or indicate that rabbits were even on the Ark, this long-eared childhood favorite appears to little ones who behave throughout the year. The concept is similar to children admonished by their parents that Santa Claus will bring presents if they behave throughout the year.

Although the exact origins of the Easter bunny are unclear, this special rabbit has become an important symbol of the most important holiday for Christians.

It is believed that, because rabbits are an ancient symbol of fertility and new life, it is appropriate that the bunny appears at the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus and the anticipation of new life. It is also a symbol of the fertile springtime when the ground is tilled awaiting the planting of crops.

The Easter bunny arrives in America

Many people believe the first Easter bunny arrived in America during the 1700s when German immigrants arrived in Pennsylvania. They brought with them the tradition of a rabbet who could lay eggs. The German children built nests so that the rabbit could lay its colored eggs.

The custom became so popular it spread throughout the United States. Every year, on Easter morning, deliveries appeared including chocolates and many other types of candies and gifts. Over time, beautifully decorated Easter baskets replaced the nests.

In addition, children started leaving carrots for the bunny rabbit in case he got hungry hopping along the bunny trail, a tradition that mimicked the milk and cookies left for Santa Claus.

As children throughout the world await the arrival of the Easter bunny, there is an opportunity to provide an appropriate costume for the holiday. Amazon has cute bunny costumes that you can purchase by follow the link. There are a number of choices for all ages including adult costumes.

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