Easter, according to the Bible, is celebrated on the first day of the week—Sunday—marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ. While the exact word “Easter” doesn’t appear in most modern Bible translations, the event itself is clearly detailed across all four Gospels. Jesus was crucified on a Friday (Good Friday), buried before sunset, and rose again on Sunday morning, which is why Easter is always observed on a Sunday. Matthew 28:1 and Mark 16:2 both highlight this pivotal moment, making it the cornerstone of Christian faith and worship.
The actual date of Easter varies each year, based on a calculation established by the early church to align with the Jewish Passover and the lunar calendar. Despite the shifting date, the celebration remains deeply rooted in Scripture and Christian tradition, representing hope, renewal, and victory over death. Understanding how the Bible outlines the resurrection timeline not only deepens our grasp of Easter’s timing but also enhances our appreciation for its spiritual weight. Keep reading for a deeper dive into the rich history and theological significance behind Easter’s timing and celebration.
Easter is one of the most significant holidays in Christianity, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. However, many people wonder, “What day is Easter according to the Bible?” Let’s dive into the Scriptures and historical context to uncover the biblical foundation of Easter and its date.
Understanding the Biblical Timeline
The Bible provides a detailed timeline of the events leading up to and following Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
- The Last Supper: Jesus celebrated the Passover meal with His disciples, known as the Last Supper, on what is commonly thought to be Thursday evening (Mark 14:12-26). This meal occurred during the Jewish festival of Passover, which commemorates the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt.
- Crucifixion: Jesus was crucified the next day, which was Friday (often called Good Friday). According to Mark 15:25, Jesus was nailed to the cross at the third hour (around 9 a.m.), and He died at the ninth hour (around 3 p.m.).
- Burial: Jesus was buried quickly before the Sabbath began at sunset on Friday. The Bible notes that Joseph of Arimathea asked for Jesus’ body and laid it in a tomb (Mark 15:42-47).
- Resurrection: According to the Gospels, Jesus rose from the dead on the first day of the week, which is Sunday (Matthew 28:1-10, Mark 16:1-8, Luke 24:1-12, John 20:1-18). This event is the cornerstone of Christian faith and is celebrated as Easter.
The Biblical Day of Easter
From the timeline above, Easter is celebrated on the first Sunday following Jesus’ crucifixion. The Bible clearly states that Jesus rose on the first day of the week. For instance, Matthew 28:1 says, “After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb.”
This means Easter is always a Sunday, commemorating the day Jesus conquered death and rose from the grave.
Calculating the Date of Easter
The exact date of Easter varies each year, and this is where it can get a bit complex. The early church decided to align Easter with the Jewish Passover since the events of Jesus’ death and resurrection occurred during this time. Passover is based on the lunar calendar, which means it doesn’t fall on the same day each year according to the Gregorian calendar.
In 325 AD, the Council of Nicaea established that Easter would be celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox (around March 21). Therefore, Easter can fall anywhere between March 22 and April 25.
The Significance of Easter
Easter is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s the heart of the Christian faith. The Apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of the resurrection in 1 Corinthians 15:14, saying, “And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith.”
Celebrating Easter
The way Christians celebrate Easter can vary widely. Some common traditions include:
- Sunrise Services: Many churches hold early morning services to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection, symbolizing the women visiting the tomb at dawn.
- Easter Eggs: Eggs are a symbol of new life and resurrection. The tradition of decorating eggs dates back to early Christians in Mesopotamia.
- Feasting: After the fasting of Lent, Easter is often celebrated with a festive meal, reflecting the joy of the resurrection.
Easter in the Bible
The Bible doesn’t give a specific date for Easter, but it provides a detailed account of the events that led to its establishment. The connection to the Passover and the early Christian decisions on its calculation help us understand why Easter is celebrated when it is.
Conclusion
To sum up, Easter is always celebrated on a Sunday, the first day of the week, in accordance with the Bible’s account of Jesus’ resurrection. The exact date varies each year, determined by the lunar calendar and the vernal equinox. This celebration is a profound reminder of Jesus’ victory over death, offering hope and renewal to all believers.
Understanding the biblical and historical context of Easter helps us appreciate its significance and why it remains the most important celebration in the Christian calendar. As you reflect on Easter, remember the powerful words of Jesus in John 11:25, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.” This promise is the foundation of the Easter celebration and the Christian faith.
FAQs About Easter According to the Bible
Q1: What day is Easter according to the Bible?
A1: According to the Bible, Easter is celebrated on the first day of the week, which is Sunday. This is based on the accounts of Jesus’ resurrection found in the Gospels (Matthew 28:1, Mark 16:2, Luke 24:1, John 20:1).
Q2: Why does the date of Easter change every year?
A2: The date of Easter changes each year because it is based on the lunar calendar. Easter is celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox (around March 21). This means Easter can fall anywhere between March 22 and April 25.
Q3: How is the date of Easter determined?
A3: The date of Easter is determined by the ecclesiastical approximation of the March equinox. According to the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD, Easter is celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox.
Q4: What is the significance of Easter in Christianity?
A4: Easter is the most important celebration in Christianity as it commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. It signifies Jesus’ victory over death and His promise of eternal life to all who believe in Him (1 Corinthians 15:14).
Q5: Why is Easter always on a Sunday?
A5: Easter is always on a Sunday because, according to the Bible, Jesus rose from the dead on the first day of the week, which is Sunday (Matthew 28:1, Mark 16:2, Luke 24:1, John 20:1).
Q6: What is the connection between Easter and Passover?
A6: The connection between Easter and Passover lies in the timing of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection, which occurred during the Jewish festival of Passover. Early Christians aligned Easter with Passover, as Jesus’ Last Supper was a Passover meal.
Q7: What are some common Easter traditions?
A7: Common Easter traditions include sunrise services, Easter egg hunts, and festive meals. Sunrise services commemorate the early morning visit of the women to Jesus’ tomb. Easter eggs symbolize new life and resurrection, while festive meals celebrate the end of Lent and the joy of the resurrection.
Q8: Does the Bible mention Easter directly?
A8: The Bible doesn’t mention Easter by name. However, it provides a detailed account of the events surrounding Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection, which are the foundation of the Easter celebration.
Q9: How does the resurrection of Jesus impact Christian faith?
A9: The resurrection of Jesus is the cornerstone of Christian faith. As stated in 1 Corinthians 15:14, without the resurrection, Christian preaching and faith would be in vain. The resurrection demonstrates Jesus’ power over death and His promise of eternal life to believers.
Q10: How can I celebrate Easter in a meaningful way?
A10: You can celebrate Easter in a meaningful way by attending church services, reflecting on the resurrection’s significance, spending time with family and friends, and participating in traditions that remind you of Jesus’ sacrifice and victory over death. Reading and meditating on the resurrection accounts in the Gospels can also deepen your understanding and appreciation of this pivotal event.
